From the Principal

I wish to thank all our families for the support received this term. It has been a difficult time to navigate the ever-changing landscape.

This morning’s announcement by the State Government together with the Prime Minister's advice that “social isolation is our best weapon”, has prompted my decision to start school holidays for all students from Tuesday 25 March 2020.

Our staff will work from home to build online learning modules in anticipation of a possible transition to Distance Learning Mode (DLM) during term two.

A skeleton staff will be at the College to ensure maintenance and security continues.

Rest assured that the College is well placed if we need to transition to online learning. Parents, staff and students have all received guidelines if we progress to DLM.

During this time of Easter preparation, I wish every family a holy and prayerful break.

May these words from our Pope comfort us during our Lenten preparations in these challenging times.

We proclaim the resurrection of Christ when his light illuminates the dark moments of our life, and we can share that with others: when we know how to smile with those who smile and weep with those who weep; when we walk beside those who are sad and in danger of losing hope; when we recount our experience of faith with those who are searching for meaning and happiness.

With our attitude, with our witness, with our life, we say JESUS IS RISEN! Let us say it with all our soul. Pope Francis in Sacred Space

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Our students like all those across the country and the world are dealing with very unique and somewhat stressful times with the outbreak of COVID-19. As you are aware, schools in Victoria start Term 1 holidays on Tuesday 24 March. Students have been informed through their teachers and Level Coordinators how to prepare for a school closure.

Headspace has published advice on how to cope with stress and anxiety related to COVID-19 on its website. This information has been shared with students and gives you a good opportunity to speak with your children about their thoughts and concerns.

https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-cope-with-stress-related-to-covid-19/

Online safety is vital at this time and it is important to monitor your child’s access to the Internet. The eSafety Commissioner has provided some useful advice and tips.

https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/blog/covid-19-online-safety-kit-parents-and-carers

With so many people practising social distancing in the face of COVID-19, you can help your loved ones avoid social isolation by geting them established online.

Download the Get Started app for ideas on how to inspire your loved ones to get online.

eSafety have also put together a guide to help older Australians find access to reliable information, stay connected with friends and family and shop for essential items like food and medicine. https://beconnected.esafety.gov.au/quick-reads/coronavirus

When should I get help?

If you ever feel your child is unable to cope because of overwhelming or intense emotions, or if they have any thoughts of harming themselves, please ask for help immediately.

Our College counsellors and psychologists will still be available through their school email address if you need advice.

National 24/7 crisis services

Lifeline: 13 43 57 (13 HELP) or lifeline.org.au

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au

beyondblue: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au

Additional youth support services 

headspace: visit headspace.org.au to find your nearest centre or call eheadspace on 1800 650 890

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au

ReachOut: reachout.com.au

SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org

Speak to your local doctor or General Practitioner (GP) and help make a plan for their recovery. Or you can search for a health service and GP on healthdirect.

History excursion

Year 10 History students visited the Jewish Holocaust Centre in Elsternwick on 12 March.

At the centre students were able to meet a survivor of the Holocaust, hear his account of the tragedies that took place and then view the museum displays.

Students then visited the HMAS Castlemaine in Williamstown where they had a private tour of the vessel, a World War 2 Corvette.

The students had a wonderful day and were excellent ambassadors for the College receiving positive feedback from staff at both venues.

Ashlee Hughes 

History Teacher

We Are One

A newly installed artwork in the Learning Resource Centre titled Our Wall of Nations was designed to symbolise the diverse and inclusive nature of the College community.

Artist Christina Sage has kindly provided this description of her artwork:

"It symbolises our diverse and inclusive community. We are unique but made up of many types. The silhouettes endeavour to describe the diversity of our Elders and Ancestors but when we come to this community, we are united as one. 

Each of us should be able to find ourselves within the artwork. The landscape describes the open plains of our local Melton environment that the College was built on 40 years ago - the vibrancy of colour and the blank canvas of opportunity our community offers us to be part of."

Cultural Diversity Week

Cultural Diversity Week (21-29 March) began with Harmony Day on 21 March.

The Intercultural Student Committee designed two activities to connect with this year’s theme of Curiosity, Conversation and Community.

Student traced their hand on a piece of card, cut it out and coloured it in with the colours of the flag they identify with the most. Homerooms had discussions about why each student identified with their chosen flag and what they liked about that culture.

The Intercultural Student Committee will collect the hands and use them to create a display in Term 2.

The second activity involved students writing an answer to one of the following questions on a post-it note:

What are the benefits of cultural diversity and interculturalism? OR What does cultural diversity mean to you?

The students then stuck their post it notes to the display in the Resource Centre.

The Intercultural Student Committee will use these notes to develop one statement about what Cultural Diversity Week means to our school.

Project Compassion

It's been a busy term of fundraising for Project Compassion.

The Social Justice team ran three fundraisers across the College and the competitive spirit of students and teachers has helped raise money for this worthy cause.

Firstly we ran a homeroom competition that raised more than $1000. The winning homerooms were: 7 Catherine; 8 Reed (which had the highest total); 9 Parrwang; 9 Barnong; and 11 Catherine.  These homerooms will receive a slab of Coke in Term 2.

Some staff and students also decided to give something up for Lent and ask for sponsors using a GoFundMe campaign. The team raised $215 which will also be sent to Project Compassion.

The Acts of Kindness Project ran alongside these fundraisers. Students were given a piece of paper with an act of kindness on it each Monday morning in homeroom. They were encouraged to complete the task and report back to their homeroom teacher with what they did, who they did it for and how it made them feel.

Each homeroom had a chart for teachers to sign when a student discussed an act of kindness with them. The senior homeroom (Year 10, 11 and 12) with the most signatures on their chart by the end of the competition was 11C and the junior homeroom (Year 7, 8 and 9) was 7B. These two homerooms will receive a hot chip lunch in Term 2.

Handwriting skills

Handwriting is an important skill for students despite the increase in online learning.

Many students today are not developing good handwriting skills. Some argue this is because of the increased use of devices and though it appears we are moving more towards online programs, handwriting is an important skill that needs to be mastered.

Research shows when taking notes, students retain 60 per cent more of the work if it is handwritten rather than typed.

Additionally, students need to learn how to hold a pen to allow for lengthy writing time. Exams are completed by hand and in VCE, this means up to three hours of writing.

If a pen is held incorrectly, the student can experience discomfort and even pain. Ask your child if they write for a length of time, do they need to shake their hand after a little while? If so, they could be holding their pen incorrectly.

If they are not sure, ask them to write something for ten minutes. If they tire or their hand hurts and there is no underlying condition, chances are they need to improve their fine motor skills or pincer grip on the pen.

Left unaddressed, pencil grip problems can end up affecting a child’s academic performance at school. When children can see they’re not keeping up, it can lead to anxiety, frustration and low self- esteem, leading them to fall even further behind.

The most efficient way to hold a pencil is the dynamic tripod grasp (as pictured below) where the pencil is positioned between the thumb and index finger with the pencil resting on the middle finger.

Being able to hold a pencil correctly requires a child to have a range of foundation skills in place, so if your child isn’t using one of these pencil grips yet, some fine motor activities can help them develop the skills they need to hold their pencil the right way and write more easily. Sometimes, just trying different pens - thickness or weight, round or flat edged - can make a difference. No one size fits all.

Some tips on how to develop fine motor skills will be published in a future Newsletter.

Parents and Friends meeting

As a result of the early completion of Term 1, the Parents and Friends meeting scheduled for Wednesday 25 March has been cancelled.

Weekly Reflection

Our timely reflection and prayer today come from Bishop Mark Edwards, Auxiliary Bishop of Melbourne:

While the COVID-19 situation is concerning it is important to recognise that while this is a medical and a social event, it is also a spiritual event amidst which we can tend to the spiritual and pastoral needs of our people. One aspect of this is to pray with and for those who are suffering from COVID-19: as a result of being sick, by physical isolation, through anxiety, or in economic consequences. We also pray for those who have died and those who mourn them. As well, let us ask for success for our medical researchers and for wisdom for our governments.

Let us invoke the prayers of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, St Patrick, St Joseph, St Roch, St Eugene de Mazenod and St Mary of the Cross Mackillop at this time.

Mary, our Mother who always hears when we pray to her,

St Patrick, our Archdiocesan patron, whose feast we celebrate this week,

St Joseph, patron of the dying and patron of the Church, whose feast we celebrate this week,

St Roch, patron against plagues, 

St Eugene who was zealous in caring for those suffering during various plagues in his diocese,

St Mary of the Cross Mackillop, born in our city and our own saint.

From the Principal

In this Sunday's Gospel reading, we heard about Jesus stopping to talk with a Samaritan woman. The Samaritans and Jews did not generally mix. The Apostles on seeing the interaction wondered why Jesus was talking to this woman who was not only Samaritan but who had five husbands!

The interaction with Jesus resulted in the woman "putting her jar down" and rushing to tell others in the town that she had met the Messiah. In this Lenten period, what is it that we need to "put down"? Resentment, jealousy, prejudice, alcoholism, gambling? What is it that holds us back from experiencing the love of Christ?

As we prepare for Easter, in these unusual circumstances, let us remain vigilant in our preparations so that "if today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts".

Rite Journey

Last week I attended the second of two Rite Journey evenings. It was wonderful to see so many daughters and parents taking the time to talk about the things that really matter. Well done to our Year 9 team who arranged the evening.

Coronarvirus (COVID-19)

Our continued priority during the Coronavirus outbreak is the health and wellbeing of our students and staff. The advice of the Department of Health and Catholic Education Melbourne is closely monitored. The Leadership Team has developed a Risk Management Plan in three stages:

1.     Pre-Significant Outbreak

2.     High Levels of Infection

3.     Post Outbreak

Please be assured that the College is well equipped to manage any school closures if this becomes necessary.

Practice drill

To ensure all students can connect via our online learning systems, the College will conduct a "drill" of a full school closure tomorrow (Wednesday 18 March). All students will need a working device and will attend the College as usual.

Teaching staff will conduct a "drill" to demonstrate to students what is required in the event of a whole school closure. Parents are asked to ensure that laptops and IPads are fully functional to ensure learning continues.

School attendance

As parents, you have an essential role to play in assisting the College to contain an outbreak. 

• If a child is unwell with flu-like symptoms, please keep them home from school. It is unnecessary to ask teachers for schoolwork for ill children. Please allow them to rest and recover and we look forward to welcoming them back when they are well.
• Promote and explain the importance of good hygiene behaviours to your child.

There has been some question about whether it is safe for students to attend school. At this stage, students who are well are expected to attend school as usual.

The Chief Health Officer confirmed on Monday 16 March that preemptive school closures are not likely to be an effective public health intervention measure.

Considering that some estimations indicate the virus may not be contained for some months, it is not sustainable or practical to keep students who are well at home for fear of infection. The best teaching and learning occur with face to face teaching. While the College will provide alternatives in case of a school closure or required self-isolation, these options will never be as good as a classroom teacher.

Confirmed Coronavirus or self-isolation due to close contact with Coronavirus

If a student has a confirmed case of Coronavirus or has been in close contact with a confirmed case and is required to self-isolate, please contact the Year Level Coordinator who will arrange for online work to be sent from teachers.

Fake government letter

The College has been made aware that a fake government letter has been circulated to parents notifying them of the school's closure. This is not an official notification and should be ignored by parents. If a formal notice to close is received, I will notify parents immediately via CareMonkey.

Travel during the term break

Students who travel overseas during the upcoming holidays will now be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon return to Australia. Teaching staff will provide for a continuation of learning via SIMON and Teams.

This is a rapidly evolving space, with many first-time events. Attached below is information we have placed prominently around the College. It may also help you plan your response to the Coronavirus.

I encourage you to work closely with the College and please feel free to call if you need any further assistance.

Marlene Jorgensen

Principal

Health Flow Chart.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Students

How to cope with stress related to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Our students like all students across the country are dealing with unique and somewhat stressful times with the outbreak of the Coronavirus.

Some schools have already announced closures and debate continues about a statewide closure of schools.  

Headspace has published advice on how to cope with stress and anxiety related to the Coronavirus on its website. An excerpt is provided below. This information has been shared with students and gives you a good opportunity to speak with your children about their thoughts and concerns.

It can feel stressful and overwhelming during an event like the outbreak of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and we can all be affected differently. You might feel overwhelmed by the information, conversations and the increased levels of stress in your community. It can be hard to know what information to trust especially in a situation where things are changing so quickly. It can be helpful to keep up to date but it’s also okay to switch off from the 24 hour media cycle if this is getting too much.

During this time some things in your life may be affected by attempts to contain the spread of the virus. You may have been looking forward to a gig or a trip that’s been cancelled. You may be affected by school or your workplace temporarily closing. Or you may have a loved one who is directly affected by the virus.

It’s important to find the right level or type of support for you. And keep in mind that the type of support you may need can change as time passes. For many people staying connected to family and friends/loved ones is important.

The following information outlines things that might be helpful to manage any changes to daily life as a result of containment measures for COVID-19.

If you start to notice that you are experiencing these things, it is important to remember that these are normal reactions to a not normal time. During this time, it is important as best as possible to keep engaged with the activities that support your wellbeing. You might need to get creative in how you continue to do them.

When should I get help?

If you ever feel unable to cope because of overwhelming or intense emotions, or if you have any thoughts of harming yourself, then ask for help immediately.

National 24/7 crisis services

Lifeline: 13 43 57 (13 HELP) or lifeline.org.au

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au

beyondblue: 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au

Additional youth support services 

headspace: visit headspace.org.au to find your nearest centre or call eheadspace on 1800 650 890

Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au

ReachOut: reachout.com.au

SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org

Talk with a trusted adult, such as a parent, teacher, school counsellor or find out if there is a headspace centre near you.

Speak to your local doctor or General Practitioner (GP) and help make a plan for your recovery. Or you can search for a health service and GP on healthdirect.

To read more from headspace follow this link https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-cope-with-stress-related-to-covid-19/.

From the Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

We are embarking on very interesting times for learning and teaching as we grapple with the impact of Coronavirus.

Teaching staff are working to ensure students have access to the online platforms available in the College. These include SIMON Learning Areas and Microsoft Teams. Both platforms enable classwork to be provided and monitored so there is minimal disruption to student learning.

We ask parents to support this by discussing the importance of completing all classwork whether in a physical class space or a virtual one in the event of a school closure. Where Internet access is not available, hard copies of tasks will be provided.

The Executive Leadership Group has made a decision to cancel the upcoming Parent-Student-Teacher interviews (PSTIs) due to the size of the gathering. The interviews were scheduled to take place on Tuesday 24 and Thursday 26 March, the last week of term.

Teachers will email parents with any concerns they have about a student, particularly if ‘requested’ or ‘urgent’ has been ticked on the mid-semester report. Reports will be realeased on Tuesday 17 March. If you have a concern following release of your child's report, please email the relevant subject teacher.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

At this stage, the last day of Term 1 is Thursday 26 March. We will finish classes at the usual time of 3.20pm and bus services will operate as normal.

Term 2 will begin for all students on Tuesday14 April. This will be Day 2 of our timetable.

Bus timetables

Bacchus Marsh Coaches has provided the College with the most current bus timetables for your reference (see attachments below).

The information is currently correct but could be subject to change.

John Christie

Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 - Route 2106 Bacchus Marsh (via Underbank) - Melton bus timetable.pdf
2020 - Route 2104 Bacchus Marsh (via Hopetoun Park) - Melton bus timetable.pdf
2020 - Route 2103 Bacchus Marsh (via Golf Links) - Melton bus timetable.pdf
2020 - Route 2102 Bacchus Marsh (via Darley) - Melton bus timetable.pdf
2020 - Route 2100 Bacchus March (via Long Forest Rd) - Melton bus timetable.pdf

Student mentors make a difference

A dedicated group of Year 11 students have been recognised for their work as mentors to Year 7 students from migrant backgrounds.

The students completed Year 10 in 2019 while also volunteering for the Sidekicks Mentoring Program run by the Refugee Migrant Child Centre (RMCC) at the College.

RMCC is a not-for-profit organisation that is committed to helping children and youth from refugee and migrant backgrounds to thrive in school and life.

The students spent two hours a week helping their  Year 7 peers find their feet in their new school, as well as their new home. They provided educational, social and emotional support for the children through a wide range of activities.

Along the way, the students developed their leadership skills and made valuable connections to community and College networks.

Congratulations and thanks to Raheal Mengistu, Mariet Balebanga, Yenuli Dompeararchchi, Tayla Borg, Steve Teves, Aaron Cimera, Kartina Hartley, Gloria Halaka, Haley Spiteri and Kha Mi (Mel) On.

International Women’s Day

To celebrate International Women’s Day (8 March) the Social Justice team filmed staff and students answering questions related to this year’s theme of Each for Equal and asked them to strike the #EachforEqual pose. The short film will be shown at the final assembly of Term 1.

Here’s a preview of some of the responses from staff and students.

Who is a woman who has inspired you?

"My mum inspired me, she worked all her life to make sure that my brother and I had a good education and a good start." Marlene Jorgensen

"My mother of course, but I can't rant on forever about how great she is because I would be going on for an hour. Sarah J Mass, who is the author of the series Throne of Glass, (created) the character Celaena Sardothien (who) has really impacted my life and inspired me because she is willing to do anything for her friends and her family. That's just stuck (with) me and impacted my lifestyle." Ophelia Fernando (Year 9)

"It was always my mum who looked after me, my dad was always at work. She encouraged me to go to school, stay at school and do the best that I can and to go to university. No-one in my family had been to university before." Martin Attard

"A woman that inspires me would have to be my wife. She's done a lot of work on me and is inspirational to our family and a really strong independent woman who has changed the direction of my life." Jason Rowley

"The answer is going to be cliched because obviously it's my mum. My mum is my mother and my father and she has done everything for me and my four siblings." Wanwue Tarpeh (Year 10)

What is your message for women of the next generation?

"Don’t let anyone tell you that you can't do it because you're a girl. That's the message I consistently give to my daughter." Rob Blackley

"As Walt Disney said: Dare to dream. If you're really passionate about it you will get there." Claudia Russo

Whose role is it to fight for gender equality?

"I think everybody. I think we need everyone to pitch in." Martin Attard

"Both males and females, because it’s important to see both sides of the coin." Paul Llanes (College Captain)

Why are equal rights important to you?

"I don't believe we can have a just society if we don't have equal rights." Daniela Harrington

"I think that everyone, regardless of their gender should have the opportunity to fulfill their potential, really shine and contribute to society." Marlene Jorgensen

What does equality mean to you?

"Equality of outcome should not be the goal of social policy, rather we should be focusing on equality of opportunity. Unlike equality of outcome, equality of opportunity is supposed to be readily attainable without injustice." Clare Hume

"Equal means for me that everyone is treated equally. I have a lot of siblings at home and my mum always treats us equally." Charlie Boog (year 7)

World's Greatest Shave

Year 7 student Ronan Yacoub and teacher Stephen Orr shaved their heads last Friday to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation as part of the World’s Greatest Shave event.

A total of $266.50 was raised for Ronan’s cause as students and teachers paid to watch the pair shave their heads while others had their hair sprayed or glittered in their house colour by the Social Justice and Student Leadership teams.

House captains kept count of how many students coloured for a cure with Fitzgerald scoring 22 house points, Daffey 20 points, Reed 20 house points, Fitzgerald and Glasheen 16 points.

For more information or to donate please use the link below.

https://secure.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?registrationID=780033&langPref=en-CA

Year 9 Calling and Departure Ceremony

On Thursday night, we held our second Calling and Departure Ceremony for the young women in Year 9 as part of the rite of passage ceremonies that occur in Rite Journey.

The Rite Journey reinvents the traditional process of a Rite of Passage. It acknowledges an adolescent's transition from dependency to responsibility, from childhood to young adulthood. The ceremony is a symbol of this transformation.

Students were joined by parents, guardians or a significant adult in their lives at the ceremony. The adults wrote a letter to their child about how they valued them and the childhood mindsets and behaviours they would like them to let go of as they ventured into adulthood.

They also wrote about the adult mindsets and behaviours they would like to see them grow and develop.

Students responded with a gratitude letter to their significant adult, highlighting the many aspects of their relationship they are grateful for.

Once they exchanged these letters, they talked about what was written. This created an intimate atmosphere where adults and children were speaking freely to each other - there were lots of tears, laughter, conversation and hugs.

Students then wrote their childhood mindsets and behaviours on a piece of paper and their adult minsdets and behaviours onto a wooden leaf. Their Rite Journey teachers then called them by name to commence the ceremony. One by one, they were called to throw their old habits into a fire pit and then pinned their leaf to our “adult arch” walking through it into their new journey towards adulthood.

Each Rite Journey group and Rite Journey teacher had come up with their own way of embracing each other as they passed through the arch. This ranged from hugs to dance moves, to a variety of intricate handshakes.

It was a beautiful night that symbolised the journey the young women in Year 9 are going on this year

Rite Journey thanks

A very special thanks to all our parents, guardians and significant adults who joined us for the Rite Journey Calling and Departure Ceremony last week. Your support for the young women in your life, the College and the Rite Journey is very much appreciated.

Additionally, thank you to all the Gadal team and the female Rite Journey teachers for your involvement in the night, and for the mentoring journey you are embarking on with these young women.

Third win for Senior Girls Volleyball team

CRC Melton's Girls Senior Volleyball team came home champions last week with the school team scoring a third consecutive grand final win at the annual SACCSS tournament.

The girls were nervous going into the competition, feeling the pressure of wins by their predecessors for the last two years.

The tension showed in the first game, where uncharacteristic serving errors and poor communication resulted in a scrappy performance but at least a win. From there, the girls stepped up their game and were clinical in winning the next four games to advance to the finals.

The Semi Final was against St Monica’s, a consistently strong team. But the opposition were blown away right from the start by a powerful and dominant Melton team who produced a stunning display of team Volleyball to advance to the Grand Final against Marymede, a team with which Melton is establishing a very strong rivalry.

Both teams began a little cautiously, with Marymede notching up a handy lead halfway through the final. But from there, the consistency, power and teamwork of the Melton girls took over and they edged away to win a well-deserved third title in a row.

The clear difference between Melton and the other teams was the teamwork and game plan that the girls persisted with throughout. They shared the load and every player was trusted to make a valuable contribution.

The Girls Volleyball team members were Malia Amato, Chantal Bala, Alexandra Della-Rocca, Sarah Elander, Regina Laumata, Bagena Malua, Alyanna Manalili and Alla Rowley.

Congratulations to Bagena Malua who was named the Best Player of the Grand Final.

Senior Boys Volleyball team win tournament

CRC Melton’s Boys Senior Volleyball team were undefeated in their SACCSS tournament last week against some very strong competition.

From game one to the grand finals our players were up against some talented teams, which made it an enjoyable day of competitive volleyball.

We felt the pressure stepping onto the court, particularly in the semi-finals and grand finals, but were reassured by the fact we could always trust and rely on our teammates. The boys played outstanding volleyball, demonstrating advanced skills and natural talent. 

Our success could not have been achieved without the help of our coach Mr Dan Kelly. He was the glue that brought our team together, encouraging everyone and bringing out the best in all of us. We all thank him for being such a great coach.

Thanks also to all the schools that took part. We hope all the teams had as much fun as we did on the day. I was proud to be part of this team in my last year at CRC Melton and wish the boys the best of luck in the years to come.

The Boys Volleyball team members were Joel Grech, Xris Blakelock, Carlo Bonifacio, Lance Cacao, Sebastian Dingli, Cam Clayton, Jackson Giese, Paul Llanes, Jarryd Martin and Kai Tyrrell.

Harmony Day

CRC Melton students Clara Thour and College Captain Chantal Bala represented the school at the City of Melton Harmony Day celebrations on Saturday.

The girls, who were joined by Clara's sister Gloria, performed a combined African and hip hop dance at the event, held at Willows Historical Park.

Parents and Friends

The next meeting of the College Parents and Friends Association will be held on Wednesday 25 March from 7pm in the conference room.

Deputy Principal of Learning and Teaching Joanne Holmes will provide parents with an overview of the new College Strategic Improvement Plan, the goals teachers are setting to meet students' learning needs and the work of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Steering Committee.

All families are welcome and encouraged to become involved. The meetings provide an opportunity to meet other families, hear about what is going on at the College and have a say in new initiatives.

Italian tutorial sessions

Every Thursday at lunchtime, Italian tutorial and study sessions are available in B101 for students to practise their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.

Often the school environment may be the only opportunity for students to speak in Italian so please remind your child of this opportunity provided at school. Students may also complete their homework and seek help with their assessment tasks and Education Perfect Italian online activities. Please email me crusso@crcmelton.com.au if you have further queries.

Sacramental program

The College is exploring the possibility of offering sacramental preparation classes for any of its students yet to celebrate their Reconciliation, Holy Communion or Confirmation. It is likely the classes would be held after school, at lunchtime or a combination of both.

To gauge the interest in this program, which would be led in collaboration with Parish Priests, parents can email me at scoates@crcmelton.com.au with the name of their child and the sacrament(s) they wish to prepare for. Expressions of interest should be submitted by Tuesday 24 March.

Weekly Reflection

Loving God, Caring parent,

I am a child who so often turns my back on your love.

Please accept my small acts of sorrow today

and help to release me from the self-absorption that closes my heart to you.

As I journey through Lent,

let me remember the feast you have prepared for me in the resurrection

and let me be filled with thanks to you.

From the Principal

The Catholic Education Commission of Victoria Ltd (CECV) has been provided with new information regarding the emerging outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus).

As of 1 March, parents, guardians and carers should ensure that any child returning from mainland China (not including Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan) from 1 February, and from Iran from 1 March, is isolated at home and should not attend school until 14 days after they were last in mainland China or Iran. 

Families and students are reminded that everyone can protect against infections by practising good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene. Here are some tips that everyone can follow:

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue, or cough into your elbow.
• Dispose of the tissue into a bin and then wash your hands afterwards.
• Wash your hands regularly, after using the toilet and before eating.

Everyone can protect against infections by practising good hand hygiene and respiratory hygiene. (Source: Victorian Department of Education and Training)

You will find a simple guide to hand washing below.

Governance Consultation Meeting

Last week I attended a consultation meeting of Principals and Clergy. Participants were asked to give input on four Threshold Issues around the new Governance structures.

Threshold Issue 1: Catholicity

Threshold Issue 2: Governance, Leadership and Management.

Threshold Issue 3: Incorporation

Threshold Issue 4: Transfer of Assets and Liabilities 

A new Governance Model will take effect as of 1 January 2021.

Child Safety

Recent media attention around child safety issues reminds us all about the need to be diligent in this area.

Building a culture that recognises child safety as a priority is the cornerstone to protecting young people in our care. This is not a simple tick and flick mentality, but a genuine shared community responsibility to build, strengthen and maintain the safety of all children.

“Having a culture of child safety is more than having a set of policies and procedures in place. It's an attitude that is built into everyday thinking and practice within an organisation. It is the best defence against abuse.” (Source: Commission for Children and Young People)

There are 7 Child Safe Standards that organisations need to implement.

Standard 1: Governance and Leadership.

Standard 2: Clear Commitment to child safety

Standard 3: Code of Conduct

Standard 4: Human Resource Practices

Standard 5: Responding and Reporting

Standard 6: Risk Management and Mitigation

Standard 7: Empowering Children

At CRC Melton, the leadership team, staff and students work in partnership to maintain a strong Child Safe culture, particularly in regards to our most vulnerable students.

From the Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

Our Domain Leaders met this week to discuss the focus and organisation of our College learning and teaching documentation. VCE staff also had the opportunity to reflect on and evaluate the way we organise our assessment tasks.

It is wonderful to see the enthusiasm and passion teachers at the College have for learning and teaching as we work to improve and develop. Teachers are working on the Mid Semester reports and these will be available online to parents from Tuesday 17 March. 

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Evacuation Drill

We had an Evacuation Drill last Thursday as part of the College’s Emergency Management Plan. Students participated very well and followed all instructions. We intend to run a Lock Down Drill early next term.

Year 7 Camps

Our Year 7 students will participate in their camp program next week (March 16 to 20). All families should have completed their CareMonkey permission request by now. I am sure that as in previous years, all Year 7 students will thoroughly enjoy their camp experience.

Year 9 Calling and Departure Ceremony

On Thursday night, we held a Calling and Departure Ceremony for the young men in Year 9 as part of the rite of passage ceremonies that occur in Rite Journey.

The Rite Journey reinvents the traditional process of a Rite of Passage. It acknowledges an adolescent's transition from dependency to responsibility, from childhood to young adulthood. The ceremony is a symbol of this transformation. 

Students were joined by parents, guardians or a significant adult in their lives at the ceremony. The adults wrote a letter to their child about how they valued them and the childhood mindsets and behaviours they would like them to let go of as they ventured into adulthood.

They also wrote about the adult mindsets and behaviours they would like to see them grow and develop.

Students responded with a gratitude letter to their significant adult, highlighting the many aspects of their relationship they are grateful for.

Once they exchanged these letters, they talked about what was written. This created an intimate atmosphere where adults and children were speaking freely to each other - there were lots of tears, laughter, conversation and hugs.

Students then wrote their childhood mindsets and behaviours on a piece of paper and their adult minsdets and behaviours onto a wooden leaf. Their Rite Journey teachers then called them by name to commence the ceremony. One by one, they were called to throw their old habits into a fire pit and then pinned their leaf to our “adult arch” walking through it into their new journey towards adulthood.

It was a beautiful night that symbolised the journey the young men in Year 9 are going on this year.

Rite Journey thanks

A very special thanks to all our parents, guardians and significant adults who joined us for the Rite Journey Calling and Departure Ceremony last week. Your support for the young men in your life, the College and the Rite Journey is very much appreciated.

Additionally, thank you to all the Gadal team and the Rite Journey teachers for your involvement in the night and for the mentoring journey you are embarking on with these young men.

World’s Greatest Shave

A brave student and teacher will shave their heads to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation as part of a World’s Greatest Shave event this Friday.

Students can pay a cold coin donation to watch Ronan Yacoub (7A) and Stephen Orr shave off their locks in the Performing Arts Centre (PAC) at lunchtime.

The Social Justice and Student Leadership teams will be stationed outside the PAC for students who want to have their hair sprayed or glittered in their house colour for any donation, big or small.

All money raised from the shaves and hair spray stand will be donated to the Greatest Shave through Ronan’s official sponsorship page.

House captains will keep count of how many students get their hair coloured for a cure and this will be added to house points.

For more information or to sponsor Ronan please use the link below.

https://secure.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/registrant/FundraisingPage.aspx?registrationID=780033&langPref=en-CA

International Women’s Day

To celebrate International Women’s Day (8 March) the Social Justice team have filmed staff and students answering questions related to this year’s theme of Each for Equal and asked them to strike the #EachforEqual pose. The short film will be shown at the final assembly of Term 1.

Look out for a preview of some of the inspiring thoughts from staff and students in next week’s newsletter. 

This Thursday, the Social Justice team will host guest speaker Trinity Gathercole from the Health Promotion team at Djerriwarrh Health Services. Trinity’s presentation on the programs in Melton that support women experiencing violence and initiatives that promote women's health will be held at lunch time in the Performing Arts Centre foyer. All students are welcome.

University and TAFE visits

Year 11 students spent the day visiting universities and TAFE colleges last Friday to get a firsthand look at what tertiary study options could be available to them in two years’ time.

Groups of students and staff made the trip to LaTrobe University Bundoora, Federation University Ballarat (both TAFE and University campuses), and The Gordon Institute of TAFE and Deakin University Geelong.

During their visits, students were able to tour the amazing facilities including nursing simulation labs, moot courts, media and television studios and trade workshops. All agreed it was a valuable day out that provided some great ideas about where they want to be in 2022.

Parent Access Module update

The Parent Access Module (PAM) allows parents to access a variety of information about their child including student timetables, attendance, assessment marks and comments, due dates, and mid and end of semester reports.

There is also a host of other information available such as daily notices for students, sports results, presentations for parents from information evenings and a range of links from our Intranet.

Logging into PAM is done by opening the CRC Melton website, http://www.crcmelton.com.au, and moving your mouse over the Portals menu option across the top of the screen. You will be presented with a drop-down list from which you can select the Parent Portal option.

The PAM log on screen will be displayed and you then enter your PAM ID and password to access your PAM account.

If you have previously entered an email address to your PAM account and you haven’t verified it, you will see the message at the top of PAM home screen as displayed below.

All you need to do is to click on the "Click here" link to complete the verification process.

For the parents who have not recorded an email address, when you log into PAM you will see 3 lines in the top right corner of the screen. Click on the lines and select "My settings", which will present you with a panel to allow you to record an email address.

You will still need to Verify the email address as described above.

It is important to complete the verification process, because you will then be able to use your email address as your PAM login ID, rather than having to remember your PAM ID 6 digit number.

Also having your email address recorded enables the teachers to email you with matters concerning your child/children.

The College is planning an information session for parents who would like to learn more about how to use PAM. You can register your interest by emailing kmatthews@crcmelton.com.au

Sacramental Program

The College is exploring the possibility of offering sacramental preparation classes for any of its students yet to celebrate their Reconciliation, Holy Communion or Confirmation. It is likely the classes would be held after school, at lunchtime or a combination of both.

To gauge the interest in this program, which would be led in collaboration with Parish Priests, parents can email me at scoates@crcmelton.com.au with the name of their child and the sacrament(s) they wish to prepare for. Expressions of interest should be submitted by Tuesday 24 March.

Role-playing Club

Students are invited to join a new role-playing club that meets every second Tuesday (Day 7) upstairs in the Library from 1.25pm.

Described as drama, meets creative writing meets rolling a dice, the role-playing club is looking for players of all kinds – no experience is required.

The next session will be held on Tuesday 24 March. Students should bring an iPad or laptop with them.

Humanities study sessions

The Humanities Domain run a study session for students every Wednesday lunchtime in PA105.

All year levels are invited. Students can receive additional assistance on a task, complete homework or use the space for quiet study. They are welcome to bring their lunch.

Community Notices

St Dominic’s Twilight Market

St Dominic’s Primary School will hold its Twilight Market on Friday 20 March from 5pm to 8pm.

For more information see the attached flyer.

On TRACK school holiday program

A shout out to aspiring DJs, mixers, rappers, singers, beat makers and poets.  

ON TRACK is an exciting hands-on music program that will run during the school holidays to give students a rare opportunity to get up close with some of Australia’s leading Music DJs, Artists and Industry Specialists. No experience is needed - just a passion for music and eagerness to express yourself.

For more information see the attached flyer.

St Dominic's Twilight Market.jpg
On Track 8 School Holiday Program.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Father of my soul, Mother of my heart,

I know your love for me is limitless beyond imagining.

You care for me as a loving parent.

Through my smallest Lenten sacrifices,

help me to become less selfish and more aware of your ways.

Fan the flame of my desire to draw ever closer to you.

Guide me to seek your love.

From the Principal

Last week I had the pleasure of attending my first CRC Melton Parents and Friends meeting. I found the group incredibly welcoming and friendly and I was able to gain valuable insight from parents on various topics.

The Parents and Friends at CRC Melton is not a fundraising group. The purpose is to gain first-hand information about events and developments as they arise and act as a forum for parents to provide input into aspects of life at the College. It also gives them the opportunity to meet with parents from across the year levels.

I will be arranging a short presentation from a member of staff at the beginning of each meeting, commencing with Mrs Joanne Holmes, our inaugural Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching on Wednesday 25 March. Meetings are kept to one hour and I encourage and welcome all parents to attend whenever possible.

Project Compassion launch

On Tuesday I attended the official launch of Caritas Project Compassion.

This year's theme is Let's go further, Together. Archbishop Peter Comensoli spoke about the need to think locally but act globally. The short clip used to launch this year's campaign illustrated the power of education. The donations from Caritas allowed Shirley to become a health worker in her local village. This employment not only allows Shirley to provide for her family but also gave her dignity and hope.

During Lent, our Social Justice students are organising various fundraisers to support the work of Caritas. You will find more information about these in this week's newsletter. As we continue our Lenten reflections, let us stand in solidarity with the poor and support our students in their efforts to end world poverty.

From the Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

As we enter Week 5 of the learning and teaching cycle our students are developing their knowledge, understanding and skills in their subjects and electives. In the photos below, Unit 1 Biology students are exploring the process of diffusion and osmosis and relating this to many cell processes. Conducting experiments and learning the skills of analysing data is an important part of all science subjects.

Our teachers have constructed unit and topic plans and will continue to target writing and numeracy within the curriculum over the next four years as part of the College’s Action Plan for Learning and Teaching.

In a recent Year 11 assembly students were acknowledged for their Year 10 2019 academic excellence achievements and contribution to Homework Club. It is wonderful to see students at CRC managing their studies and commitments to volunteer work.

Following the successful completion of Year 12, and when applying for university or higher education, many institutes recognise the volunteer work students have undertaken in secondary school. 

This may provide added bonus, be part of the selection criteria or enable students to provide supporting evidence for scholarships and college residence programs. The personal reward received through volunteer work is immeasurable.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Child Safety

At CRC Melton, we are committed to be 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 examples of several College strategies used to keep students safe and to promote positive learning.

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

2. All teaching and learning support staff recently completed the Protecting Children – Mandatory and other Reporting Obligations eLearning module.

3. Our PROTECT: Identifying and Responding to Abuse – Reporting obligations school policy has been updated to include the Reporting Requirements – Reportable Allegations Involving the Head of Entity statement. The head of entity (the head of the school) is the person who is primarily responsible for decision-making for the school. In most primary schools and in diocesan secondary schools, this will generally be a parish priest. In other secondary schools (ie congregational), there may be other governance arrangements regarding the identity of the head of entity.

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.

From this year school counsellors and all people in religious ministry (ie clergy, deacons and religious brothers and sisters) are classified as mandatory reporters.

We have undertaken much work in this space and our school continues to reflect, review and improve on its child safety strategies. Wellbeing and child safety are everyone’s responsibility. All our child safety policies are available on the College website.

I recently attended a briefing on Information Sharing and Family Violence Reforms. The information enables professionals to improve support for children, young people and families so they get the help they need as early as possible. The aim is to prevent harm from occurring and to further promote the wellbeing and safety of children.

For the College to provide this support, it is important we have updated information about your children. This is particularly relevant if court orders are in place between parents.  A copy of these orders should be provided to the College.

Sports Carnival success

On Thursday 20 February the College held its Swimming and Multisport Carnival and despite the cooler weather, the competition was a success both in and out of the pool.

In its first year, the Multisport Carnival gave Year 9, 10 and 11 students the opportunity to choose between swimming, basketball, netball, volleyball or E-sports. The year 7, 8 and 12 students attended Melton Waves for the Swimming Carnival.

The rationale behind the change was to increase student engagement by providing more choice. Students were able to compete for their house and work as a team with students from other year levels. You will find summaries of each activity in this newsletter.

The students looked great in the newly designed house uniforms for basketball, netball and volleyball. As is tradition at the Swimming Carnival, Year 12 students dressed in costumes reflecting their house colours while our Year 7 and 8 students took part in competitive swimming and novelty events throughout the day.

Multisport Carnival - Swimming

The annual CRC Melton Swimming Carnival held at Melton Waves was filled with fun activities for students. Even though the weather wasn’t ideal for swimming, a big thanks to everyone who got into the water and participated.

While swimming events were held in the main pool, there were also novelty events that ran alongside. The VCAL class ran the obstacle course and staff and student leaders helped with the BBQ and face painting. The day was very successful and enjoyed by all staff and students.

The Year 12s had a great day and started their last swimming carnival with a parade in the morning where they were able to show off their costumes. They finished the carnival with a synchronised swimming performance for their house colour, which was won by Fitzgerald. Everyone did a fantastic job and it was great to see so many involved.

A big thankyou to all staff who helped run and supervise the day, senior leadership students who also helped with house organisation and to all the parents and families that came to help and support their children. A special thanks also to Mr Henneman for organising the day.

Finally, congratulations to Glasheen who were the Champions on the day. House MVPs will be announced at the next assembly.

Multisport Carnival – Volleyball and Netball

Volleyball

Students had a wonderful day of volleyball at Eagle Stadium in Werribee.

The teamwork, support, cooperation and sportsmanship among the players from mixed year levels was outstanding and made for a great competition.

Both boys and girls had four teams in their respective competitions, with one House Team represented in each competition (apart from the two Fitzgerald teams in the competition for girls).

The girls ladder saw Reed finish on top followed by Fitzgerald 1, Fitzgerald 2 and Daffey. The play-off for third place saw Daffey defeat Fitzgerald 2 by one point in a thrilling game.

The Grand Final was similarly exciting, with Fitzgerald 1 outlasting Reed to win 25 to 23.

The boys ladder saw Daffey finish first followed by Fitzgerald, Reed and Glasheen.  As with the girl’s competition, the boy’s finals were extremely close.

Reed defeated Glasheen by five points in the playoff for third place and Fitzgerald won the competition with a 25-23 win over Daffey.

Netball

Glasheen were the winners of the competitive netball tournament played at Eagle Stadium in Werribee.

Students from all houses took part in the social and competitive games. A special mention to Daffey, who fought hard to earn their place in the competitive grand final before becoming runners-up to Glasheen who dominated the court. Fitzgerald were the winners of the social tournament.

A highlight of the day was the Staff vs Student match with representatives from each House forming a team and taking on staff. There were some friendly disputes about who won the match but it was enjoyed by all.

Multisport Carnival – Basketball and E-Sports

Basketball

College basketballers took part in an exciting competition at Sheehan Stadium during the Multisport Carnival. All houses were well represented with some fielding two teams.

During the social basketball competition, students showed great sportsmanship with some playing extra games to make sure points were awarded for their house.

The competitive basketball teams looked the part wearing our newly designed house jerseys/singlets and the standard of play was outstanding with some games going into overtime.

Timothy Makuac’s dunk and Jackson Djatschenko’s block and powerful layup to set up victory in the last minutes of the boys’ grand final were among the highlights.

All Sheehan Stadium games attracted a good crowd, with teachers and students cheering their house team to victory.

The competitive girls’ basketball games showed it’s not always about winning points for your house, with many girls filling in for rival houses just to enjoy a game of basketball.

Overall winners were:

Social basketball - Grand Final 1: Daffey. Grand Final 2: Reed.

Girls competitive - Reed

Boys competitive - Fitzgerald

E-Sports tournament

There were games galore to engage and challenge students who took part in the E-Sports tournament.

The official tournament tested the skills of more serious students who had an interest in gaming. The winners on the day were the team from Reed who earned the most points and took out the grand final.

The competition was no less fierce among students who played board and card games that challenged their minds and promoted teamwork and conversation.

The carnival allowed many students to interact and cooperate between the year levels and they showed just as much spirit and enthusiasm as their sporting peers.

Year 8 camp

Our Year 8 camp would have to be described as an awesome, memorable, adventure-filled, action-packed experience.

Last week, all classes in the Year 8 cohort went to Surf Camp at Burnside in Anglesea.

Each class was at camp for two days and students participated in four activities including high ropes, a ten-metre high course with a zip line. It was a nerve racking but rewarding experience.

The second activity was the rockwall climb. Students climbed vertically, and while not as high as the ropes course, the challenge was to race your friend up the wall.

Stand-up paddle boarding was another activity and the highlight for many. It was fun trying to stay on our boards before playing games that involved trying to get others off of theirs.

In my opinion, surfing was easily the most memorable activity and the best part of the camp. It was quite challenging but once you got the hang of it, this activity lived up to our high expectations. The Go Ride A Wave instructors were very helpful and many students were able to stand up and catch a wave.

After dinner we all went on a peaceful night walk and the views of Anglesea, the sea and campsite at dusk were stunning. When we returned, each homerooms’ Class Captains for Semester 1 were announced and given a certificate before we settled in to watch a movie. 

Gadal Rite Journey ceremony

Year 9 students will begin their Rite Journey with a Calling and Departure Ceremony this week.

The Rite Journey reinvents the traditional process of a rite of passage. It acknowledges an adolescent's transition from dependency to responsibility, from childhood to young adulthood. The ceremony is a symbol of this transformation. 

The first ceremony for Year 9 boys will be held this Thursday 5 March from 7pm in the Gadal building. Girls will take part in their ceremony on Thursday 12 March from 7pm.

Parents/guardians are reminded to bring the letter they have written to their child, which they will present to them on the night. Due to the significance of this ceremony parents are also reminded that siblings should not attend.

Here is what to expect on the 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 contact me via email lhill@crcmelton.com.au or phone 8099 6000.

Project Compassion

This year’s Project Compassion campaign is underway at the College with a homeroom fundraising competition and an Acts of Kindness challenge among the ways to get involved.

Spanning the six weeks of Lent each year, Project Compassion is organised by Caritas Australia. Millions of Australians come together in solidarity with the world's poor throughout the fundraising campaign to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.

Last week I attended the Project Compassion launch at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs with College Principal Marlene Jorgensen and Social Justice student representatives Madlen Hill, Raheal Mengistu, Ophelia Fernando and Taya Wilken.

Motivated by what they heard, the students have come up with several fundraising and community service activities that will run over the coming weeks.

Each homeroom now has a Project Compassion box and students are encouraged to give generously. The class at each year level that raises the most money will win a slab of Coke.

To build on the theme of dignity and justice for all, the Acts of Kindness challenge calls on students to complete an act of kindness each week for another person in the school.

Homeroom teachers are keeping track of the acts of kindness completed by their students. The homeroom in Year 7 to 9 with the highest number of worthy acts will win a hot chip lunch. Senior students (Year 10 to 12) can win the same prize if their homeroom registers the most kind acts.

Staff and students are also looking for sponsors to support their Giving It Up for Lent initiative, the money from which will go to Project Compassion. For more information or to become a sponsor follow this link https://www.gofundme.com/f/giving-it-up-for-lent

2020 CRC Melton writing competition

Entries for the annual CRC Melton Writing Competition are now open.

Budding writers are encouraged to submit their stories and poems by 4.30pm on Thursday 23 April.

This year submissions must include all the following words – malice, slippery, hindsight and shameful.

The competition has a Junior category (Year 7 to 9) and a Senior category (Year 10 to 12). First prize in each category is a $50 Woodgrove Shopping Centre voucher. A $100 Woodgrove voucher will also be awarded to the best entry overall from any year level.

All stories and poems should be no more than 800 words, include a title and be submitted via email in Word format to Mr Cyril Fox cfox@crcmelton.com.au.

Competition ambassadors, students Chloe Downer and Nathan Furtado, have been visiting classrooms to promote the initiative.

Languages

It has been a busy term so far in the Languages Department. Our online Education Perfect program is up and running for students studying Italian and Indonesian. We have used this program since 2015 and students thoroughly enjoy it. It enables them to see what will be covered in upcoming classes and provides teachers with differentiation and extension strategies for their classes.

Please be mindful that students in Year 7 should only complete 30 minutes of Italian homework in Education Perfect each week.

Host families and Italy trip

At this stage we have 14 students who would like to visit our College for one week in July/August. If you are interested in hosting an Italian student, please email me crusso@crcmelton.com.au

Planning for the trip to Italy in November 2021 has begun and more information will be available next term. At this stage, we have 33 students interested. If your child would like to take part, please email me as soon as possible. An interview process will follow with priority given to students who are studying Italian.

Breakfast Club

CRC Melton’s Breakfast Club can help students start the day in a positive way with good food and some friendly conversation.

Held on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings by the Social Justice team, Breakfast Club is run by staff and fully funded and supported by St Vincent De Paul.

The menu includes toast, cereal, juice and occasional treats such as milo, crumpets or hot cross buns.

Breakfast Club is held in the food rooms from 8am to 8.35am. All students are welcome.

Shrove Tuesday pancakes

It was a great morning in the kitchen for Year 9 Food Studies students last week who made pancakes for Shrove Tuesday.

Traditionally, Shrove Tuesday (or Pancake Day as it has become known) represents the last day of feasting and celebration before the start of Lent.

The students enjoyed the lesson and happily shared what they made as a group.

Year 7s get creative

Year 7 students in Design and Technologies: Materials demonstrated a flair for the use of line, shape and colour when they were challenged think creatively while making identification tags. 

Students learnt to use a range of hand tools and then safely used the pedestal drill.

Sacramental program

The College is exploring the possibility of offering sacramental preparation classes for any of its students yet to celebrate their Reconciliation, Holy Communion or Confirmation. It is likely the classes would be held after school, at lunchtime or a combination of both.

To gauge the interest in this program, which would be led in collaboration with Parish Priests, parents can email me at scoates@crcmelton.com.au with the name of their child and the sacrament(s) they wish to prepare for. Expressions of interest should be submitted by Tuesday 24 March.

Weekly Reflection

Lord Jesus,

you called Zacchaeus by his name and enabled him to grow.

I ask you to enter my life in a new way this day

that I may grow in stature and wisdom and grace as the person you call me to be.

Inspire me to follow you more closely

and help me to live in such a way that I encourage others and bring life to them.

No one is small in your eyes; let no one be small in mine.

Amen.

From the Principal

Our Lenten Journey

This Wednesday is Ash Wednesday which marks the start of our Lenten journey towards Easter. As a child in my early faith, I saw Lent as a time of giving up lollies and understood little about its real significance. As I have grown in my faith, I now understand Lent to be a time of preparation. While fasting is still a part of my journey, instead of giving up I prefer to take up something extra - attend Mass mid-week, call my mum each day to say hello, pray a decade of the Rosary each morning or take time to offer a smile to students at the front gate.

This refection from Ann Rennie sums up our calling this Easter:

“It is a time for slowing down and reflecting, taking spiritual stock as we traverse these forty days of fasting, charity and prayer. It is a time for converting, repenting and forgiving, shaping ourselves up for immersion in the Easter story that is central to the Christian faith”.

May the journey prepare us for the joy of the approaching Easter story.

Opening Mass

“For where two or three meet in my name, I am there among them.” Matthew 18:20

The opening of Sheehan Stadium last year means the whole school is now able to gather in one space to celebrate Eucharist for the commencement of the academic school year.

This week Father Alexander took time from his busy schedule to celebrate with us and as always we are grateful for the support of our parish priests. Father’s rousing homily spoke of Emmanuel – God with us. He impressed upon us the importance of recognising Christ in every individual. This understanding then leads us to an obligation to treat all whom we encounter with respect and dignity.

Thank you to our students who demonstrated reverence and understood that during these celebrations our stadium becomes a sacred space.

Official opening of the Dinka Language School

Last Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending the official opening of the Dinka Language School. I am grateful to the leadership of Mark Sheehan, who in his vision for the school, was able to imagine a partnership with CRC Melton and the wider community.

The Dinka school, which operates each Saturday from the College Trade Training Centre, allows young people to maintain their mother language. This connection with culture builds confidence and identity, which is an important part of settling into a new country. It was wonderful to see the students dancing and taking such pride in their heritage. Thank you to Mollie Daphne and her team for the hard work that has gone into establishing this wonderful initiative.

Novel Coronavirus

New advice from the Australian and Victorian governments regarding the Novel Coronavirus is detailed below:

"All children who have travelled to Hubei Province of China, are advised to stay at home and avoid public settings, including attendance at schools and early learning centres, until 14 days after last being in Hubei province, China. This applies to any and all students even if they do not show any symptoms of the virus".

If you think your child is showing any relevant symptoms of the Novel Coronavirus, please call the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to discuss further actions on 1300 651 160.

This advice is also being provided to teachers and other school staff to ensure we mitigate any risks associated with the spread of the virus.

From the Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

As we work through week 4 of the learning cycle, students are beginning to prepare for or complete their first assessment tasks.

Many of our Unit 3 VCE students are undertaking School Assessed Coursework (SACs) and receiving feedback on the tasks. SAC marks are moderated against the General Achievement Task (GAT) and the external end-of-year exam through VCAA.

Parents are encouraged to use PAM regularly to check for overdue work tasks and access student results for assessment tasks including SACs.

Teachers provide students with feedback on their assessment. This may be in the form of an attached rubric, written comments on the task or as teacher feedback through the SIMON Learning Areas module. This feedback is about the task and areas for improvement. Acting on feedback from teachers allows students to move forward and become more independent learners. It also gives them the opportunity to reflect and think about their learning, a process known as metacognition.

The partnership between students, their teachers and parents is very important for successful outcomes and students are encouraged to talk to their teachers about the way they learn best. Teachers provide a range of learning strategies in the classroom for our junior students, with our senior students taking more ownership of their learning.

Parent, Student, Teacher Interviews (PSTIs) will take place in Week 8 on Tuesday 24 March from 4pm to 7pm and Thursday 26 March from 4pm to 8.30pm. More information will be provided in future newsletters.

From the Deputy Principal – Staff

Our Swimming and Multisport Carnival last week was a great success with student attendance and participation high. At the pool, special congratulations must go to our Year 12 students who led their respective Houses and put in a big effort to dress up for the day.

The addition of Basketball, Volleyball, Netball and e-Sports for students in Year 9 to 11 who chose not to swim was also well received. It was great to see so many students engaging in the competitions and we will review the event to make it even better in 2021. We welcome feedback from parents/guardians via email to Dean Henneman, Sports Coordinator dhenneman@crcmelton.com.au. Further results will be available in next week's newsletter.

Information Evenings

Thanks to all the parents/guardians who attended our Year 12 Information Evening. A reminder that presentations from the evening are available in the Parent Access Module (PAM).

Camps

Our Year 8 camp program is underway this week. This will be followed by Year 7 camps starting 16 March. Parents/guardians should have received CareMonkey information about both these activities.

Valid Myki cards

Students catching most Bacchus Marsh Coaches need a valid Myki card to travel. Not only does Myki data provide information to the Victorian Transport Commission on bus usage but ensures you pay the correct fee for your trip. The bus service is not free. Failing to use a valid Myki will mean:

1. The number of buses will be reduced because it appears they are not used or required;

2. Bus drivers will refuse travel to students.

We expect all students to have and use a valid Myki. If they do not, they will need to find another way to get to school.

New online literacy program - Education Perfect

Parents of students in Year 7 to 9 will have received a CareMonkey notification about a new online literacy program called Education Perfect that is being used extensively across English classes this year.

Education Perfect is an online learning tool that provides individualised learning plans for all students based on specific needs in spelling, punctuation, sentence structure, word types and language features.

There is also a wealth of curriculum-aligned content that can be used both in class and at home to supplement and support students’ understanding of the topics covered.  Students are welcome to explore and access the program whenever they feel they need additional support or clarification of a concept.

The resource has been successfully implemented in more than a thousand schools around the world, with notable impacts on student motivation and grades. Students gain points for every question they answer and can compete against their friends in a fun, educational and safe environment at their own pace.

Key features:

• Content has been built to follow the Australian curriculum and aligned specifically to the English Curriculum at Catholic Regional College, Melton.
• Teachers receive reports showing which areas of the curriculum students found most difficult, so they can tailor their teaching to areas needing attention.
• Enabling a "flipped classroom" – students can come to class familiar with the content, enabling teachers to spend more time on advanced topics.
• Differentiated learning – every student can be working on a different task according to their strengths and weaknesses and teachers can track their progress and achievement.

Parents are encouraged to check in with students to see how the program is being used and to explore the learning resources available. Further information can be found on the Education Perfect website https://epforlearning.com/ep-for-classroom/or through your child’s English teacher.

Parent Access Module (PAM)

All new families to the College will receive a letter with login in details to access the Parent Access Module (PAM) by the end of this week. Once logged into PAM, you can access the following information for your children enrolled at the college.

• Student timetable; Number of behavioural incidents; Attendance

• Marks and comments for assessment tasks

• Due dates and overdue work

• Assessment: Mid-Semester and End-Semester reports

You will also have access to daily notices for students, presentations for parents from information evenings and a range of links from our Intranet.

If you do not receive the letter by next week please contact me via email kmatthews@crcmelton.com.au

Vincit Melbourne Zoo Excursion

A visit by the Vincit class to the Melbourne Zoo last week has inspired students to come up with ways to make the College more environmentally friendly.

During their visit to the Zoo, students went behind the scenes to see how the facility recycles its water throughout the park. They also saw the different types of bins used to minimise waste and how compostable waste was redistributed around the park.

During a walk around the zoo, the class also saw a plastics display that highlighted its environmental impact and how people were trying to make a difference by reusing discarded materials.

The zoo is one of the most self-sufficient places in the world and here at CRC we are beginning to think about how we can use some of the same ideas. Look out for a change to bins inside and outside the classroom.  Together with the school’s environmental team the Vincit class will work on ways to clean up the school and make it rubbish-free.

New Australian citizens

Congratulations to the Eskander and Makkad families who last week became Australian citizens.

Noor Eskander (Year 9), Najeeb Eskander (Year 11) and Maribel Makkad (Year 7) and their families were excited and proud to take part in the citizenship ceremony.

The Makkard family arrived in 2013 from Syria after a difficult journey escaping war in their hometown of Aleppo and are very grateful for the support they have all received and the opportunities life in Australia has provided them. The College community wishes both families every success for their future.

Art classes

A group of students from Years 7-10 are taking part in weekly workshops in traditional drawing techniques. Last week students learned to draw still-life objects using professional lighting to help evoke a 3D aesthetic in their work. During the workshops, students will build a folio of work and skills that they can use in their art studies. 

Parents and Friends

A reminder that the first meeting of the College Parents and Friends Association will be held tomorrow evening (Wednesday 26/2) from 7pm in the conference room. All families are welcome and encouraged to become involved. The meetings are an opportunity to meet other families, hear about what is going on at the College and have a say in new initiatives.

Showjumper represents CRC Melton

Year 7 student Alice Summers represented CRC Melton at the Geelong Grammar School Show Jumping Day in Corio last Friday.

She and her horse Monty finished in tenth place in the Grand Prix event, out of field of 33 competitors.

The inter-school show jumping competition attracted riders from more than 40 schools.

Although the wet conditions meant Alice and Monty were unsuccessful in their first event, the Grand Prix event was held on the indoor arena where the pair just missed out on getting through to the final round. A great effort by Alice who proudly represented the College.

Bushfire fundraiser update

A grand total of $325.80 has been raised by College Environment Captain Maddison Fenton for Wildlife Victoria.

The fundraiser, to support Wildlife Victoria’s bushfire response, was organised last week by Maddison with the help of one of the College’s Social Justice captains Sophie Hine.

Maddison and Sophie sold ribbons at lunch times and organised face painting at last week’s College Swimming Carnival to raise money for the cause.

The money will be donated to Wildlife Victoria later this week.

Canteen update

Students can now order their canteen lunch online using the Ultimate Schools website. 

To set up an account visit http://ultimateschools.com.au/ and follow the prompts. Canteen staff are happy to answer any queries and brochures explaining the online ordering system are available from the canteen. Lunches can also be ordered by visiting the canteen in the morning or before the end of recess.

Canteen staff would like to thank everyone for their patience as they settle into their new space and trial different systems to make things more streamlined.

New food items on the menu include sushi which is now available from Tuesday to Friday.

A range of no-meat options will be served this Wednesday (Ash Wednesday) including Margherita pizza, pastizzis, toasted sandwiches and focaccias, wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce, vegetable spring rolls and sushi.

Message from the Department of Education Skills and Employment

http:llwww.abs.gov.au/websitedbs/D3310114.nsf/4a256353001af3ed4b2562bb00121564/9099c77cb979d5S Sea258198001b27 a0/$FlLE/MADIP%20iPIA 2018.pdf.

The department may, from time to time, carry out audits of school submissions. In the event of an audit, contracted auditors may seek to compare a school's statement of addresses with student enrolment information held by the school. These contractors will not use the information for any other purpose.

The department may also be required to disclose your personal information to its service providers for the purposes of the provision of information and communications technology (ICT) support services to the department.

What do you need to do?

You are not required to do anything. Your school is responsible for providing the requested details to the department, however, you may wish to ensure that your school has the most up-to-date and correct details for your family. 

Contacts for further information

If you have any further questions regarding the collection, you can contact the department by:

• Email: seshelpdesk@dese.gov.au
• Phone (free call): SES helpdesk on 1800 677 027 (Option 4)

The department's privacy policy is available on the department's website at www.dese.gov.au. The privacy policy contains information about:

• how individuals can access and seek correction of the personal information held by the department;
• how complaints about breaches of the Privacy Act 1988(Cth) can be made; and
• how the department will deal with these complaints.

Community Notices

School Crossing Supervisor awards

Nominations are now open for the 2019/2020 School Crossing Supervisor of the Year Award. For more information on how to nominate your favourite Lollipop person see the attached flyer.

Footballers and netballers wanted

Eynesbury Football Club is looking for football and netball players in various age categories for the coming season. Registrations are now open. See the attached flyer for more information.

Eynesbury Football and Netball 2020.pdf
SCS of the Year Award.doc

Weekly Reflection

Weekly Reflection

Lord Jesus, teach me to be generous.

Teach me to serve you as you deserve,

To give and not to count the cost,

To fight and not to heed the wounds,

To toil and not to seek for rest,

To labour and not to seek reward,

Except that of knowing that I do your will.

Amen.

(St Ignatius Loyola)

From the Principal

Last Sunday I attended mass at St Catherine’s in Melton with the College Leadership Team. We were warmly welcomed by Father Michael and given a blessing to start the 2020 school year. We also each received a Holding Cross made of olive wood by the persecuted Christians of Israel. The message on the Holding Cross reads: “The Holding Cross, fitting comfortably into our hand can bring hope and peace in the midst of suffering in the assurance that we are not alone”.

This assurance that we are not alone is comforting and reminds us that both school and parish are part of the wider universal Church. Both are part of God’s mission and both strive to bring the good news of the Gospel to all they encounter. As a new leader in a Catholic school, I value the support of the parish as I enact my responsibilities of leading a community of faith.

Master plan

This week, together with our Business Manager, I held interviews with several architectural firms in order to engage one for our next master plan. The successful firm was Y2. Matt Dwyer from Y2 will now work with the College community, staff, students and parents to determine the needs of the school over the next five years and beyond. A master plan provides a blueprint for future development at the College and responds to the values and mission of the school.

 The master plan will include:

• Modern Pedagogy, to provide opportunity for growth in every student across a range of needs
• Sustainability
• Child Safety
• Collaboration

Year 7 Information Evening

Thank you to parents who were able to make it to our Year 7 Information Evening. It was a pleasure to meet many of you and I look forward to future events. Parent involvement in a student’s education leads to improved educational outcomes. Your willingness to take the time to meet teachers and learn about the programs offered at the College sends a strong message to your children about the value you place on their education. Our guest speaker presented some of the materials that will be delivered to our Year 7 students whilst on camp. This will be reinforced in classes when students return from camp. Having parents and the school both on the same page will strengthen the lessons taught and help students develop the skills required for future academic success. Thank you to Year 7 Coordinator Rebecca Spiteri for planning the evening. 

From the Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

The 2020 school year is off to a good start with learning occurring in all classrooms. At the Year 7 Information evening last week, Brad Felstead presented on the Secrets of Study Success including note taking, organisational skills and prioritising. As an audience we experienced some of the recommended strategies for success and the students will receive the study skills presentation this term.

On Monday John Hattie, Professor of Education, Director of the Melbourne Education Research Centre and author of Visible Learning, presented to a range of educators on the topic of his research - Visible Teaching, Visible Learning.

He suggested parents and guardians rephrase the question ‘what did you do today’ to ‘what was the challenge and what was the struggle in the classroom today?’ This rich dialogue can help students reflect on their learning and identify the support they need in the next class.

Homework Club

Homework Club continues this year on Wednesday from 3.30 - 4.30pm in the Resource Centre (formerly library). For students in Year 7 to 9, Mathematics tutorials will begin on Thursday at lunchtime. Mathematics teachers and student mentors from Year 10 and 11 will be available to provide learning support in the Resource Centre. This is a great initiative and I encourage parents to chat to their child if they feel they would benefit from this extra support. Learning is a partnership between the teacher, the student and their parents/guardians. Positive conversations at home about learning will support the active learning and teaching taking part in our classrooms.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Online Safety

An app called Yubo has been brought to our attention by students and we would like to make parents aware of what it involves. It is pleasing that students have come forward to make us aware of the dangers.

The app, formerly known as Yellow, has been rebranded presumably to distract from its reputation as “Tinder for kids”. Yubo is aimed at young people aged 13 to 17 who are Snapchat users and encourages them to meet “friends” in their area. However, it could equally be used to allow predators to pose as teens and lure children to meet them in person. Like Tinder, the app allows teens and kids to swipe left and right depending on whether they want to connect with strangers or not.

What makes Yubo so concerning is that it embodies one of the most dangerous aspects of social media - it allows teens to easily meet people (strangers) without their parents knowing. If that is not dangerous enough, Yubo matches you with another person geographically near you, facilitating face-to-face meetings.

More information about this app and many others can be found on the eSafety Commissioner website https://www.esafety.gov.au/ The site also provides advice on how to have the conversation with your child.

Uniform

Students are required to wear black leather lace-up school shoes. Boots or black runners are not acceptable.

All students are required to wear their full school uniform to our Opening Mass this Wednesday. Any students not wearing the correct uniform will receive an automatic after-school detention on Thursday.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Information Evenings

The Year 12 Information evening will be held tomorrow (Wednesday 19 February) in the Performing Arts Centre at 7pm. After an initial briefing, families will attend separate sessions being held for our VCAL and VCE students.

Year 9 – 12 Subject Changes

All Year 9 to 12 students should have completed any necessary changes to their subjects and no more will be permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances. Year 9 and 10 students will be able to enquire about changes to their Semester 2 electives closer to the start of Term 3.

Opening School Mass

The Opening School Mass will be celebrated in the Sheehan Stadium tomorrow, Wednesday 19 February at 12pm. Parents are warmly invited. Please email scoates@crcmelton.com.au if you would like to attend so adequate seating can be provided.

Friday morning mass

For the foreseeable future, the 8am mass held in the Chapel on Fridays will not be celebrated.

Year 7 2022 Enrolment

The enrolment process for Year 7 2022 is now open and will close on Friday 21st August 2020. Enrolment packs will be delivered to all Year 5 students in our feeder Catholic primary schools and will be available on request to parents from Catholic parishes and other school settings.

Parents and Friends

Families are welcome and encouraged to become involved in the College community through the Parents and Friends Association. Our first meeting for 2020 is on Wednesday 26 February at 7pm in the Conference room. The meetings are an opportunity to meet other families, hear about what is going on at the College and have a say in new initiatives.

Swimming and Multisport Carnival

The College Multisport Carnival and annual Swimming Carnival will be held this Thursday 20 February.

By now you will have received a CareMonkey permission request with information about the sport your child will be taking part in and which venue they need to attend.

Swimming Carnival

The Swimming Carnival involves all Year 7, 8 and 12 students and will be held at Melton Waves Leisure Centre. Year 9, 10 and 11 students who have selected to take part in the Swimming Carnival will also attend Melton Waves.

All school buses will drop off students at normal times and pick up as usual at the end of the day. These students will be shuttled to and from Melton Waves by bus.

Students who do not travel to school by bus are required to be at Melton Waves by 8.45am to meet with their homeroom and have their name marked off. They will be dismissed from Melton Waves at 2.45pm.

Students are to wear full PE uniform and Year 12 students are permitted to wear appropriate costumes in their team colours. If students are not swimming, they should wear their school PE polo shirt and hat. Sun cream will be provided on the day at various locations. St John’s Ambulance will also attend to provide First Aid if required. 

A sausage sizzle has been organised to raise money for College charities. None of the internal café facilities will be accessible to students. No fast food is to be delivered to students at the venue and as per our school policy, any fast food brought into the venue will be confiscated by staff.

The Swimming Carnival is a calendared event and therefore full attendance is expected. We have tried to include a range of alternative activities to cater for students who are not confident in their swimming ability and hope that this will enable everyone to enjoy the day.

Students will compete to accrue points for their house and individual medals that recognise “house spirit” will be awarded by house captains to one student from each house.

Immediate family are welcome to attend the carnival and must sign in at the gate.

Multisport Carnival – Sheehan Stadium

The Multisport Carnival at Sheehan Stadium involves students from Year 9, 10 and 11 who have chosen to take part in a Basketball E-Sports tournament.

Students will compete to accrue points for their house. Individual medals will be awarded to winning teams in the competitive division.

All students should come to school as normal and will be dismissed at 2.45pm. They should wear their full PE uniform and bring suitable clothing for their sport (ie basketball shorts). Playing jerseys will be provided to students in the competitive division. As some games will be played on outdoor courts, it is recommended that students bring a hat.

If students are not competing, they should wear their school PE polo shirt and their hat. Sun cream will be provided on the day at various locations and St John’s Ambulance will attend to provide first aid in the case of injury.  

A sausage sizzle has been organised to raise money for College charities. The canteen will not be open on the day so students should bring a drink bottle, lunch and snacks. No fast food is to be delivered to students at the College and as per our school policy, any fast food brought into the venue will be confiscated by staff.

Immediate family are welcome to attend the Multisport Carnival and must sign in at the front of Sheehan Stadium.

Multisport Carnival – Eagle Stadium

The Multisport Carnival at Eagle Stadium in Werribee involves students from Year 9, 10 and 11 who have chosen to take part in a one-day Volleyball or Netball tournament.

Students will compete to accrue points for their house. Individual medals will be awarded to winning teams in the competitive division.

Students should arrive at school by 8.45am and will be transported by bus to and from Eagle Stadium. They will arrive back at the College by 2pm and will be dismissed or supervised if they need to stay until 3.20pm.

Students should wear their full PE uniform and bring suitable clothing for their sport. Playing jerseys will be provided to students in the competitive division.

Lunch, snacks and water bottles should be brought from home. No fast food is to be delivered to students at the venue and as per our school policy, any fast food brought into the venue will be confiscated by staff.

If you have any questions about the Swimming or Multisport carnivals, please contact the College on 8099 6000.

New awards for Year 8 students

Recognising and celebrating the achievements of Year 8 students whose actions often go unnoticed is the aim of a new awards initiative introduced at CRC Melton this year.

Each term, three students from each homeroom will receive a Domestique Award. Domestique is a cycling term - the domestique is a rider who works for the benefit of his or her team and leader, rather than trying to win the race.  For example, they give up their bike for the leader when theirs is broken or carry their teammates' water.

The awards aim to highlight positive student achievements and contributions in three categories – Empathy, Community and Endeavour.

The Domestique Empathy Award will recognise students who have demonstrated respect and support to peers and teachers online and in-person.

The Domestique Community Award will recognise students who demonstrate community spirit in our school and the wider community.

The Domestique Endeavour Award will recognise students who have strived to achieve their best and/or have supported others to improve.

Subject and homeroom teachers and students will submit nominations for each of the categories. Students will then vote, and awards will be presented at the end of each term.

Debutante balls

Parents are reminded that external Debutante balls are not considered a school activity. A student who is absent because of this activity will have this recorded against their attendance. As outlined in the VCE/VCAL Handbook, students are required to contact their subject teachers for work missed due to any absence. 

Maths mentoring program

A group of 15 senior students are volunteering to help their younger peers with maths at lunch time on Thursdays.

Maths can be a difficult subject to master, especially when students attempt work at home with little or no help available.

Students in Year 7, 8 and 9 who need extra help with their maths homework, clarification on a specific concept or simply want a quiet place to complete their work are invited to come along and meet with our knowledgeable and supportive senior students.

Thanks to Carlo Bonifacio, Lance Cacao, Gloria Halaka, Grace Holt, Andria Jojo, Bagena Malual, Alyanna Manalli, Solomon Miesen, Isaac Peranuma, Natasha Pereria, Lucy Taylor, Steve Teves, Abby Timms, Benjamin Trethowan and Bonnie Wilkie for generously giving up their time to assist our younger students.

Any queries can be emailed to dnguyen@crcmelton.com.au

Valentine’s Day performance

A group of talented College musicians and vocalists performed at the Melton Library last Friday as part of Valentine’s Day celebrations. The 11 students from Year 9-12 auditioned last year and performed for Melton Library visitors and parents who came along on the day.

Bushfire fundraiser

A fundraiser to support Wildlife Victoria’s bushfire response was organised last week by College Environment Captain Maddison Fenton with the help of one of the College’s Social Justice captains Sophie Hine.

Supported by Social Justice coordinator Clare Hume, Maddison (pictured right) and Sophie devoted their recess and lunch times to selling ribbons to raise money for the cause.

For those who missed out on donating, boxes have been placed in the canteen and office. To further boost their tally, the students have organised a face painting fundraiser for this week’s Swimming Carnival. All gold coin donations will also go to Wildlife Victoria.

Uniform shop

Parents are reminded that the new address for Academy Uniforms is 10/85 Mr Derrimut Road, Deer Park. Phone: 03 8385 9111.

Opening hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm and Saturday 9am-12pm. There is no longer a uniform shop on site at CRC Sydenham.

Camps Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF)

To find out more about financial assistance for camps, sports and excursions please see the attached flyer.

CSEF information 2020.pdf

Community Notices

Volleyschool returns for 2020

Western Region Volleyball’s Volleyschool will begin this week and is open to students who would like to learn about the game or improve their skills with the aim of participating in Premier League volleyball teams.

The training program will be held every Thursday from 4pm in Sheehan Stadium and is run by State League Coach Sean Dolan.

To join or find out more follow this link https://www.westernregionvolleyball.com.au/junior-programs/

Youth Festival

Rise – Home Awaits is a one-day event for young people seeking to deepen their connection with Christ and celebrate their faith. The event is open to secondary school students and young people up to the age of 25.

Featuring a festival-like atmosphere, the day will include opportunities for young people to experience the arts, live music, prayer, social time, and workshops based on a variety of topics.

Rise – Home Awaits will be held on Saturday 21 March from 10am to 6pm at Emmaus College, 503 Springvale Rd, Vermont South. Guests and speakers will include Fr Rob Galea, Justine Cumbo, Archbishop Peter Comensoli and Bishop Mark Edwards. Early bird tickets are available now for $20 per person. See the attached flyer for how to register.

Please note CRC Melton is not sending a group to this event.

Western Bulldogs players visit

Western Bulldogs players will visit the Melton Recreation Reserve on Monday 24 February from 2-3pm. Join them for a kick, autograph signing and a chat. For more information see the attached flyer.

Sons of the West program

Enrolments are now open for the ever popular and highly successful Sons of the West program.

Sons of the West is a free 10-week program aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of men aged 18 and over.

It includes a one-hour presentation by specialist health organisations relating to men's health followed by one hour of exercise catering for all abilities. This year’s topics include mental health, prostate cancer awareness, exploring diversity, nutrition and cooking.

For more information contact Catrice Lumley, Melton City Council Community Activation & Learning Officer at Melton City Council on 9747 7272 or follow the link below.

 Koorie Family Fun Day

See attachment below

Rise 2020.pdf
Koorie Family Fun Day 2020.pdf
Sons of the West.pdf
Western Bulldogs player afternoon.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Lord of all people of faith and goodwill,

Bless the rich quilt of different cultures and creeds that makes up the peoples of this ancient land.

Bless our differences and the things we have in common.

 Let us respect each other’s ways to God.

Let us build a future together where we revere and respect others’ faiths, creeds and traditions while

We live our own journey to God.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

(Ann Rennie)

From the Principal

This week saw all students from Year 7- 12 return to school. In our opening assembly, I spoke about the value of education. I impressed on students the importance of making the most of every opportunity that our College presents and the need for consistent hard work to achieve their goals.

I met one such student who is making the most of opportunities this week – Achai Yel, from our Year 11 cohort attended a Melbourne Victory Soccer Clinic during the January holidays. As a result, Achai is now engaged with the club to set up for games and warm up with the younger children down at AAMI Park.

I also had the pleasure of signing off on an application for a young man, Jackson Wright, to attend the School Sports Victorian Triathalon competition in Hervey Bay. We wish Jackson all the best and hope that he goes on to further titles.

These two are a small sample of the many community partnerships that CRC Melton has nurtured over the years. I hope to continue to build on these relationships and develop the College into an “outward-facing school”.

“The term ‘outward-facing school’ invites school communities to ‘lookout’ beyond the school gate and recognise their larger role in the community. Through engagement in authentic partnerships with families and the community, the outward-facing school can explore learning in all its possibilities and contribute to the entire community’s capacity to learn (Goodfellow, 2008; Leithwood, Harris & Strauss, 2010).”

Every day matters

I have already received many emails from parents requesting leave for students during the school term. Family emergencies, funerals and special circumstances may require leave, but I would urge parents and guardians not to arrange holidays as far as possible during the school term.

Absence from school results in quantifiable lost learning time and opportunities. Non-attendance disrupts carefully sequenced lessons planned by our staff. Mr Blackley outlined the College Policy on absences in last weeks newsletter. Please take the time to read it carefully.

Year 9 RITE Journey

It was wonderful to meet the families of Year 9 students on Thursday night at our Year 9 Rite Journey evening.

There is considerable evidence that the Year 9 year is one in which young adolescents feel the most disengaged. Much has changed in our world since we were children. There was no social media and telephones were in the middle of the lounge where all could hear the conversation. Families sat together each night for dinner and discussed their day, politics and the events of the world.

We cannot halt progress but as parents we often feel ill-prepared to navigate the vastly different world in which our sons and daughters are growing. The RITE Journey is a program designed to help young people move from childhood to adulthood. It develops resilience and critical examination of the messages portrayed in the media. It builds respect and empathy for others and provides students with a significant other to journey with them through this in-between year.

I thank Lauren Hill, Jason Rowley and Meryem McLeod, together with the Rite Journey teachers who will run the program in 2020.

From the Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

As the new inaugural Deputy Principal of Learning and Teaching at the College, I would like to thank the community - staff, students and parents - who have made me very welcome. I am excited about working with the various learning teams and continuing to build on the foundations of learning and teaching that are taking place in CRC Melton.

As a committed and passionate learner, I value the support provided by our parents, guardians and community as we educate our students in faith, developing their knowledge, skills and personal attributes.

Today was a celebration of this success with the 2019 VCE/VET/VCAL Community and Leadership Awards.

The College’s mission statement includes the following: We encourage personal excellence, self-discipline and a sense of responsibility which is displayed in our respect and concern for the wellbeing of all.

This was evident with the range of awards presented by our Principal, Mrs Marlene Jorgensen. We will continue to celebrate the learning and teaching that occurs in all classes this year with articles, photos and recognition of students’ achievements.

The Year 7-10 REED program will continue in 2020 with our students commencing their reading last week. All students and teachers will be reading for fifteen minutes at the beginning of Period 2 from Monday to Wednesday and Friday. Many studies highlight the benefits to writing, comprehension, grammar and creativity from reading regularly and from a wide range of genres. Further information on the program is available from our Literacy Coordinator, Ms Victoria Moore vmoore@crcmelton.com.au.

Joanne Holmes

Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

Award winner.pdf
DUX Speech.pdf
2019 Awards.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Student Wellbeing 

Several resources are available to schools and parents to support students to be resilient, responsible and respectful adults. Two valuable sites are listed below.

www.esafety.gov.au

This resource 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 we can provide support and guidance. 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 mobile phones. Phone users are enticed to contact a user named "Momo", after which they receive graphic threats and are instructed to perform a series of dangerous tasks.

www.studentwellbeinghub.edu.au

This resource supports students, parents and teachers to create a learning environment that promotes student wellbeing and the development of respectful relationships.

Uniform

Some students are wearing black runners as school shoes with their school uniform. This is not permitted. All students must wear black leather school shoes.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Term 1 classes are now in full swing with much activity in and out the classroom.

Our annual Swimming Carnival will be held at Melton Waves next Thursday 20 February. Please read information sent home via CareMonkey as arrangements are different this year. The carnival is compulsory for all Year 7, Year 8 and Year 12 students. Students in Years 9-11 have either chosen to compete in the swim carnival or be involved in a MutliSports program at school and Eagle Stadium in Werribee. Bus travellers will be dropped off and picked up from school at normal times. They will then be taken to either Melton Waves or Werribee. Local students will make their own way to either Melton Waves or school. Students may be dismissed at earlier times. Next week’s newsletter will contain more details about the day.

Information Evenings

The Year 7 Information Evening will be held this Thursday 13 February in Sheehan Stadium from 7pm. Families may arrive from 6.30pm if they wish to meet with Homeroom teachers. Please enter via gate 2.

The Year 12 Information Evening is on Wednesday 19 February at 7pm. This will be followed by separate sessions for our VCAL and VCE Students. Please enter via gate 6.

Year 9 – 12 Subject Changes

Year 11 and 12 students should have completed any necessary subject changes. No further more changes will be permitted unless there are exceptional circumstances. Year 9 and 10 students will be able to enquire about changes to their electives this week only. 

Buses

Priority goes to students who need to use the bus services both mornings and afternoons. Year 7s and 12s board first, followed by other year levels. Please note that if students do not act in an appropriate manner while waiting, boarding or on the buses they will be suspended from the bus and families will need to arrange other ways of getting to and from school. This is a common practice on school bus operations.

From the Religious Education and Faith Development Coordinator

Opening School Mass

The Opening School Mass will be celebrated in the Sheehan Stadium on Wednesday 19 February at 12pm. Parents are warmly invited. Please email scoates@crcmelton.com.au if you would like to attend so adequate seating can be provided.

Community Notices

Victorian Energy Compare Information Sessions

Melton City Council is running a series of information sessions to help residents learn how to reduce their energy consumption to save money, better understand their electricity bills, use the

Victorian Energy Compare Website and learn about the $50 Power Saving Bonus.

You can find more information by following this link.

(Attachment in emails)

Catrice Lumley

Community Activation and Learning Officer, Melton City Council

New playgroup for young parents

In partnership with Mackillop Family Services, headspace Melton is running a playgroup for young parents aged 18 to 25 every Friday of Term 1 from 9.30am to 11.30am at Melton Health and Community Services Hub. For more information contact Candice Coles on 0419 304 934 or email Candice.coles@mackillop.org.au

You can find out more information by following this link.

2020 Vic Energy Compare Sessions.pdf
hsm_mackillop_Play_Flyer.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 to the 2020 academic year and welcome to the next decade! My name is Mrs Marlene Jorgensen and it is an honour and a privilege to take up the position of Principal of Catholic Regional College, Melton.

This year the College will celebrate 40 years of providing outstanding education for the students of the western suburbs of Melbourne. I take this opportunity to thank my predecessor – Mark Sheehan who has enacted significant success for the College during his eleven years of service and has left the College in a strong position to move forward into this new decade.

I look forward to building on the strong foundations built over the past 40 years and to adding my own skills and talents in the service of Catholic Education in the Melton Region.

The Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for young Australians was published in 2008 but the two goals still resonate strongly with my educational philosophy.

Goal 1 - Australian schooling promotes equity and excellence.

Goal 2 - All young Australians become successful learners, confident and creative individuals and active and informed citizens.

As Principal my aim will be to achieve these two goals by developing in our students’ skills in the four C’s:

• Collaboration
• Creativity
• Critical Thinking
• Communication

In our Catholic context I would add Catholicity – we aspire to encourage a curiosity in young people to deepen their faith and commit to activities that promote faith in action.

Last week’s second reading from Corinthians highlights the many gifts that each are given.

St Paul tells us that:

“there are a variety of gifts, but the same spirit and a variety of services but the same Lord”. 1 Corinthians 12

My role as Principal is to encourage and harness the gifts of all at Catholic Regional College Melton in order to achieve successful educational outcomes for each of the students in our care.

A recent example of the giftedness of our staff are those involved with the Dinka Ethnic School of Victoria Inc. Towards the end of 2019, the College received notification that this innovative program has received accreditation. Maintenance of language is an important ingredient in valuing culture and building identity. For those who have come to our multicultural Australia from overseas, the ability to maintain a mother language promotes self-esteem and encourages parent participation in education. The Dinka School will have an official opening on 22nd February. We thank Mollie Daphne and her team for their dedication and creativity in establishing this wonderful resource for our community.  

I look forward to meeting parents and guardians in person and encourage all to attend our upcoming Year 12, Year 9 and Year 7 Information Evenings.

Opening School Mass

Parents are warmly invited to attend the Opening School Mass in the Sheehan Stadium on Wednesday 19th February at Midday. Please email scoates@crcmelton.com.au if you would like to attend so that adequate seating can be provided.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Welcome back to the 2020 school year and congratulations to our students, who have settled in well to their classes. 

Staff

We welcome the following new staff members to our community:

• Mrs Joanne Holmes – Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching, Biology
• Mrs Kylie Nicholl – Food Technology Assistant
• Mr Bi Wei – Mathematics
• Ms Jessica Attard – Food Technology, Science
• Ms Jessica Mazur – Food Technology, VCAL
• Dr Romila Gopalan – Mathematics, Chemistry
• Ms Alexandra Belcastro – English, Humanities
• Mr Lawry Borgelt – Wood Technology
• Ms Mikaela Hurst – Health and PE
• Ms Stephanie Kljajic - English
• Ms Annika Miesen – Outdoor Education, Health & PE
• Mrs Robin Panousieris – Wood Technology
• Ms Emma van Wees – English, VCAL
• Mrs Alessandra Vono – Italian, Humanities
• Miss Ebony Handford – Arts Trainee
• Mr Jonah Grech – Sports Trainee
• Mrs Rachel Casey – Student Support
• Mr Gavin Haughton – IT Manager
• Mr Travis Pearce – Maintenance
• Ms Cheryl Kohek – Communications Support Officer
• Mrs Tracey Blacka – Student Reception

We also welcome back Mrs Emily Galofaro from family leave.

Transport

With only two disabled parking bays we ask that families give priority to those students who need the close access and request that only parents/guardians dropping off or picking up students with disabilities/injuries use these places.

As the entire area is so busy families should also drive slowly and carefully through the area.

Also, 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 to see if any changes are needed. Please notify us with any concerns.

Information Evenings

Year 9 - Thursday 6th February at 7pm in GADAL

Year 7 - Thursday 13th February at 6:30pm in Sheehan Stadium

Subject Changes

All Year 9-12 students undertook a thorough selection process last year and VCE students completed Jumpstart. VCE students must see Mrs Dickson before any changes will be authorised. No changes will be made after the first week of school unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Changes to electives for Year 9 and 10 students will need to be completed by next week via an email to myself. Changes for semester two electives at Year 9 and 10 will be considered closer to the start of Term 3.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

On behalf of the Student Wellbeing team and Year Level Coordinators, I would like to welcome all students and their families to the 2020 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 2020 

Our theme for this year is Empathy which we started working on two years ago when we engaged the Resilience Project Team. At our opening school assembly on Monday I spoke to the students about what it meant to be empathic and how they could show empathy. I suggested to them that practicing empathy was a key ingredient to becoming the best person they can be. Ways to be empathetic can include: 

• Listening to someone rather than trying to talk to them 
• Asking someone how they are feeling if you think there is something wrong 
• Learning about people from different backgrounds and cultures 
• Showing concern and care for others 
• Paying attention to the needs of others 
• Getting to know someone better instead of judging them 
• Never looking down on anybody unless you’re helping them up
• To treat others, the way you want to treated 

Student Expectations and Behaviour 

As a Catholic Community we respect the dignity of all. Part of living in community requires a clear understanding of the rights and responsibilities of all in maintaining a harmonious environment where all can flourish. 

The role of educating a child is a joint responsibility between parents and schools, it is partnerships that endeavours to see the child flourish, grow and reach their full potential.  An important part of this education is setting guidelines and boundaries of behaviour. As a College we wish to make clear our expectations and involvement by parents, guardians and students.  

You would have received a CareMonkey message of a parent agreement earlier this week. It outlined requirements of ongoing enrolment from the commencement of the 2020 school year. All students were also given a student compliance contract setting out our expectations. Students are required to sign the document and return it to their homeroom teachers by the end of this week. The conditions and our expectations are not unreasonable or draconian and by making them clear we believe students will have greater ownership of their behaviour.    

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. We do acknowledge 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.   

Acceptable Use of Mobile Phones 

• Students are not permitted to use their phones at school between homeroom and 3:20pm. Phones must be kept in their lockers throughout these times, this includes recess and lunchtimes.  
• 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).  
• Non-observance or breaches of these rules will result in the mobile phone being confiscated for the day. They can be 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/guardian collection of the phone from the College Office. 
• 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. 
• 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. It is possible for this to occur in the presence of their Year Level Coordinator or a Deputy Principal. Any arrangements to leave school must be made through the College Office.  

Summer School Uniform

It is pleasing to see the students wearing the correct school uniform. The College has a set school uniform policy and students are expected to wear it correctly. Uniforms are to be kept clean, pressed and mended, school shoes must be leather, kept clean and polished. More details can be found in the student diary regarding the uniform and grooming requirements for students. It was made clear to students what is permitted at their year level assemblies this week. We look forward to your support in ensuring your son/daughter is in the correct uniform and neatly groomed. No piercings are permitted, other than ear piercings. Penalties will be issued to students if they are wearing the incorrect uniform. If a student is consistently not wearing the correct uniform, they will be sent home and will remain home until the issue is rectified.  

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

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

Students absent on holiday during regular school term:  

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

It is not advisable that VCE students are absent from during school for extended periods during the school term.

These absences may have a detrimental effect in subject areas where sequential learning is important.  

Attendance at College Events  

The College schedules a number of religious, sporting and cultural events during the course of each school year e.g. Celebration Day, College Swimming and Athletic Carnivals. These days provide important opportunities for the growth and development of individual students and are critical for the development and celebration of community. Normal classes do not run on these days and the events are an integral part of the education of each student enrolled at Catholic Regional College. All students must attend all College events as a condition of their enrolment. Student absences will be monitored and non-attendance will inform the re-enrolment process.

From the Religious Education & Faith Development Coordinator

Staff Liturgy

Late last week the staff gathered in prayer to begin the year’s faith journey. The special liturgy was held in the Performing Arts Centre with a focus on welcoming new colleagues and praying for our students and their year ahead.

Community Services Trainee Opportunity

Future Connect is currently looking to recruit a Community Services Trainee. Ideally, they are seeking a recent school leaver who lives in Melton or Brimbank with an interest in the youth and/or community sectors.

You can find more information by following this link.

Deirdre Hardy

Executive Officer, Future Connect

CS Trainee.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Advent begins

Advent is the first season of the Church year where we prepare ourselves to celebrate the wonderful feast of Christmas.

A reading from the first letter of St Paul to the Thessalonians:

May the Lord be generous in increasing your love and make you love one another and the whole human race as much as we love you. And may he so confirm your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless in the sight of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus Christ comes with all his saints.

Lord, we are so often overwhelmed by the busyness of this time of year.

O come Emmanuel, come into our hearts and show us by your light the beauty of your way of love. We are your people, Lord, and we are waiting for your return.

Come Lord Jesus.

From the Principal

Farewell

As this is my final column as Principal of CRC Melton, I take this opportunity to acknowledge the many people who have supported me and made my job over the past 11 years so rewarding.

My Deputy Principals - Joanne de Bono (2009-11), Rob Blackley and John Christie.

Leadership Team members - Kerrie-Ann Mathews, Shaun Coates, Narelle Layton, Robyn Sullivan, and Kay Sawyer.

In the Financial department - Kaye Kennedy and Michael Testa have showed great Leadership.

All Staff who have contributed in their own way over the journey, it was pleasing to see so many former staff present for my Farewell Concert on 8th November.

Jenny Machado, President of the Parents and Friends and her committee.

College Captains, past and present, especially Julien Johnson, Jack Doyle, Evana and Annika Miesen, Dylan Hassan and Tegan Lafranchi who were present on the 8th of November.

Thanks to all in the CRC Community who have sent cards, messages and gifts, they have been much appreciated!

It's been a privilege to have led CRC Melton for the past 11 years, during a time when the school expanded to Year 12, and developed programs and resources to cater for a burgeoning student enrolment. It's time to pass the baton onto Marlene Jorgenson, and I am sure that your support for the new Principal will be as fulsome as it was for me.

Staff Farewells

It’s a time of transition at CRC Melton as we say farewell to the following staff who are leaving us at the end of this school year:

Terry Quinn (1990), Alistair Bloom (1993), Kay Sawyer (2007), Rebecca Carey (2008), Amy Goldby (2009), Robyn Sullivan (2010), Silvana Nuspan (2012), Yvonne Wood (2013), Andrew Scarlett (2013), Colleen Pope (2015), Janince Freeman (2016), Phillip Beadsmoore (2017), Daniel Attard (2018) and Robert Dutt (2018). I would also like to mention our trainees Olivia Rabottini and Nadia Blanco.

While our staff will farewell colleagues in their own way next week, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of five long serving staff members:

Terry Quinn commenced at CRC in 1990. A passionate and engaging Teacher of Science and Technology. A wise Counsellor to hundreds of students over three decades. A well respected colleague to a generation of staff. Best wishes for your retirement, Terry.

Alistair Bloom who commenced at CRC in 1993. An outstanding Teacher of VCE English and Literature. A Year 12 Coordinator, IT Network Leader, Leadership team member. A loyal and committed teacher, leader and mentor to a generation of students and staff. Alistair has taken up an appointment at Sacred Heart College, Kyneton in 2020, and we wish him all the best.

Rebecca Carey commenced at CRC in 2008 as the Student Services Coordinator leading a small team offering support to students with special learning needs. The title now is Learning Diversity Coordinator, and now we have two LDCs supporting over 100 students. Rebecca is moving back to Queensland in 2020, and while she will be sorely missed, scores of students and parents who were supported by her over the past 12 years will fondly remember her advocacy, care and professionalism.

Kay Sawyer commenced at CRC in 2007 as the Director of Studies. In that key Leadership role, she led staff with great energy through the challenging process of being prepared for the introduction of Years 11 and 12. Kay has been an expert teacher of VCE English and Literature, and RE over four decades in Catholic schools in the North-West. She is now making the transition to retirement, and devoting more time with family, in particular her two grandchildren. Best wishes Kay.

Robyn Sullivan also brought a lot of teaching experience with her when she commenced at CRC in 2011. Robyn taught English with great passion and held Leadership roles at CRC St Albans and St Bernard’s College, Essendon. She was Director of Learning and a valued member of the Leadership team here at Melton from 2012-2014. Robyn is now making a transition in her life, as she spends more time with family, especially her grandchildren. Best wishes Robyn.

Christmas Reflection

The Season of Advent is a time when we can focus on the important things in our lives, our family and friends, people less fortunate than ourselves in particular those affected by financial and job security, medical and mental health issues, homelessness and separation from family. For those people for whom Christmas is a lonely or stressful time, we offer our thoughts and our prayers that they too may find some peace at this time of the year. We hope and pray that all in our community will be able to use the Christmas break to spend some valuable time with their families.

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

God Bless.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Years 7-9 End of Year Arrangements

Tuesday 3rd December will be the final day at CRC for the Year 9 students before they attend Melbourne Experience in the final three days of the school year. They will be dismissed from the city on Friday 6th December.

The final day for Years 7 & 8 students is Friday 6th December. It is a normal school day therefore students are required to attend. The students will celebrate with a Year Level Mass, Year Level Assembly to recognise student achievements, homeroom assemblies and finish with a BBQ.  Lunch will be provided for the students. Please do not allow your son or daughter to stay home on Friday on the pretense they are doing nothing and it being a waste of time coming in to school.  The students will be permitted to wear their PE uniform and will be dismissed at 1.30pm.  For those students not able to get picked up or make their way home because of bus travelling arrangements, the school will be providing supervision until 3:20pm. 

College Awards Night

Our College Awards evening takes place this Wednesday, 4th December in Sheehan Stadium. Students nominated for an award are to be in the Formal College Uniform (Full Winter Uniform) and arrive at 6:30pm.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Buses

On Friday, the 3 Bacchus Marsh Coach buses that only go to and from CRC Melton have been adjusted to a 1:30pm departure. Other services that go from Melton to Bacchus Marsh via the Bacchus Marsh Grammar or Melton Secondary College will be running to the normal school timetable on this day. Students will be accommodated at school until then, but parents may wish to make other arrangements for students to get home. Town buses (SITA) will not pick up here after school. Parents are again encouraged to make other arrangements or arrange an earlier pick-up where possible.

2020 Start Dates

Year 7 students will begin the year with an Orientation Day on Friday, 31st January, with all Years 7 to 12 classes starting on Monday, 3rd February.

Old Phone Number

Please note, the old College phone number (03) 9743 6522 has now been disconnected. Please phone (03) 8099 6000 to contact the College office.

As this is our last newsletter for 2019, I would like to wish all families a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. I thank you for your support in 2019 and look forward to a successful 2020 with you.

Holiday Music Program

We are incredibly excited to present a day that brings students together through the community experience of dance, drumming and of course a DJ!

See attached flyer for registration details.

OT7SchoolHolidayMusicProgramFRIDAY@02.12.19.pdf

Weekly Reflection

All-powerful God, increase our strength of will for doing good that Christ may find an eager welcome at his coming and call us to his side in the kingdom of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit one God, forever and ever.

Amen.

From the Principal

College Awards Night

This time of the year we look forward to our final formal gathering as a school community, being the 2019 College Awards Evening, to be held in the Sheehan Stadium, at the College.

All parents and guardians are welcome to attend this major College event.

Western Edge Cluster VET Schools Award

Congratulations to Bianca Mifsud who received the Teacher Excellence Award at the Western Edge Cluster VET Schools Award. This is a wonderful achievement.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

Years 11 and 12 subjects need to be finalised by the end of the Jumpstart period, to ensure students have access to the holiday homework that needs to be completed before students start classes next year.

Term 4 Key Dates

VCE Years 11 and 12 2020 Jumpstart runs until Friday, 29th November. Our Years 10 and 11 Farewell Mass takes place in the afternoon, which is followed by a BBQ.

VCAL 2020 Jumpstart (Foundation, Intermediate & Senior) will operate from this Wednesday, 27th November (when all students undertake their 2020 VET induction) until Friday, 29th November. Attendance at Jumpstart is compulsory and will go towards 2020 VCAL attendance. During Jumpstart students will be working through outcomes and will require their computer device, etc. Students are required to be in full summer uniform, not sports uniform.

Years 7-9 Finish Dates

Year 9 students will also participate in our Farewell Mass this Friday, 29th November. Year 9 students will finish formal classes on Tuesday, 3rd December and then are involved with City Experience activities until Friday, 6th December. Years 7 and 8 students finish classes on Thursday, 5th December with a special last day program on Friday, 6th December concluding at 1:30pm.

Western Edge Cluster Vocational Education and Training (VET) Awards

The Western Edge Cluster Vocational Education and Training (VET) Awards where held on Tuesday 19th 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.

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

Congratulations to Jesse Macpherson who was awarded the Principal's Award for being exemplar in attitude, behaviour as well as being committed to completing her studies to the best of her abilities in Community Services.

Congratulations to students that excelled in their chosen vocational field.

They are as follows:

Applied Fashion

Outstanding Award - Year 2: McAyla Duarte

Community Services

Endeavour Award - Year 1: Monica Awad

Engineering

Outstanding Award – Year 1: Xavier Morris

Health Services Assistance

Most Improved Award - Year 1: Hayley Downie

Endeavour Award - Year 2: Josephine Mwaka

Salon Assistant

Outstanding Award – Year 1: Brylee Battye

Sports News

Year 8 Premier League

Congratulations to our Year 8 Boys Basketball team for defeating St Monica’s 46 – 34 in the Premier League Grand Final. The game was played to a very high standard against quality opposition. Thanks to all Premier League coaches for the time and effort this term. 

SACCSS Awards Lunch

On Thursday 28th November, I will be taking around 15 students to Caroline Chisholm Catholic College for the annual SACCSS Awards Lunch. This afternoon recognises the contributions of students to SACCSS sport throughout the year. We will be leaving at 11am and expect to be back to school for normal dismissal. The students involved have been emailed, along with a permission slip sent through CareMonkey last week.

Garden Lovers Wanted!

Calling parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts that love spending time working in the garden! The vegetable garden has been a little neglected over the past couple of weeks and the weeds have taken over so we need your help to get it cleared and ready for next year. We are in need of approximately 4 volunteers next Tuesday 3rd December from 9:30am–1:00pm. Morning tea and lunch will be provided. We also have gloves, knee pads and little shovels so there is no need to bring anything - just yourself and a love of gardening.

If you are able to help please email me on mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au or ring the school office. Thank you in anticipation of your support.

Holiday Reading

Now is the time to catch up on all of those good books you were too busy to read during the school year.

Still too busy? Why not listen to an audiobook as you travel around over summer.

Just click on this link, Wheelers eBooks, browse the collection (note the earphone symbol which designates an audiobook), login using your College username and password and enjoy listening to or reading your favourite books.

Or get adventurous and try reading a different genre or author. Take the time to explore the many reading options available. You might surprise yourself!

Canteen News

We’re very excited to be in our new canteen space and are looking forward to changing our menu items next year. Thank you to all students and staff for their patience as we have settled into our fabulous new work environment.

For the last couple of weeks of term we will be trialling and assessing a few different ways of doing things so that we can deliver our delicious food to students and staff quickly and efficiently. Please be patient with us while we do this, some things we try will work well and others won’t and we will have to try something new.

If you have any feedback (positive or constructive), please feel free to pass it onto Mr Blackley and we will assess all feedback.

We are still using the online ordering system and will continue to do so next year but we also now have EFTPOS facilities, to make managing your hunger just that little bit easier for you!

Thank you to all for your continued support this year. We wish you all happy and safe holidays and look forward to welcoming you back in 2020.

Brett Collison's Farewell

Brett Collison, Principal of St Dominic's Primary School, Melton is leaving at the end of the year. Please join the Melton Community at a Farewell Picnic on Wednesday 4th December.

Further details on flyer attached.

Picnic Flyer.pdf - updated.pdf

Weekly Reflection

A Prayer For Rest

Jesus, I am tired. My mind is frazzled, my hands are full, and my emotions are reeling with all the things I have to do. Help me to come to You in the middle of the overwhelm. Remind me of Your ever-present help in my times of need. Show me how to rest in You. Reveal to me both the beauty in the work and in the rest. Calm my anxious thoughts and encourage my heart with Your nearness. Instruct me in Your ways. Bring productivity and contentment out of the peace and comfort I find. Settle me in Your truth and in Your love. Amen.

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you his peace at all times and in every situation.

~ 2 Thessalonians 3:16

From the Principal

Learning Resource Centre

It was pleasing to see the positive student and staff reaction to using this new resource which opened on Monday.

While the official opening will happen next year, parents/guardians may be interested in the symbolism of the sculpture at the entrance to the Learning Resource Centre.

The sculpture, created by Chris Sage, depicts the human hands holding open the Book of Wisdom.

It provides an insight to the purpose of the Learning Resource Centre as a place where people can meet and have worlds opened to them through the sharing of knowledge.

The Book of Wisdom has been used in the imagery further referencing the Bible as the constant source of our Christian Story. Books have traditionally been a source where one can gain information, get lost in the fantasy, enjoy time reflecting on stories, as well as analysing and sharing beliefs through different genres.

The Books in the sculpture outside the Learning Resource Centre are well worn and loved, referencing relationships of humans with the written word.

Sports News

Year 8 Premier League

Our Cricket and Netball teams battled well in their Semi Finals on Thursday 14th November, but were both beaten by stronger sides on the day. Congratulations to our Boys Basketball team for winning their semi-final! They will now face St Monica’s College in the Grand Final at Sheehan Stadium starting at 1:30pm. Parents and guardians are most welcome to attend. Please sign in at the front office and then make your way to Sheehan Stadium by 1:15pm.

Results

Boys Basketball: CRC Melton 66 def Salesian College 23

Netball: Salesian College 36 def CRC Melton 18

Cricket: Salesian College 1/57 def CRC Melton 7/55

CRC Sports Awards Night

Students who have performed well in SACCSS Carnivals and Premier League are invited to the Sports Awards Night held in the PAC on Tuesday 26th November. In order to assist with organising the evening, please RSVP by Friday 22nd November via CareMonkey and be sure to include the number of guests attending on the night. A light supper will be provided at 6:30pm with Presentations beginning at 7:00pm.

Formal invitations will be handed out to students this week. Full school Summer uniform is to be worn.

Olympic Change-Maker Award

Congratulations to Jack O'Rourke on receiving the prestigeous 2019 Australian Olympic Change-Maker Award.

The award recognises students who are demonstrating the Olympic spirit through leadership and driving positive change in their communities.

Weekly Reflection

St Francis Prayer

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love; For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; it is in dying that we are born again to eternal life.

From the Principal's Office

Mark Sheehan’s Farewell

Community Farewell

Mr Mark Sheehan began his journey as Principal at Catholic Regional College Melton in 2009. Last Friday evening, our community gathered in the Mackillop Performing Arts Centre to farewell Mark and acknowledge all that he has done for our College and to celebrate 10 years of his dedication, service and leadership.

We would like to thank the following students who displayed their exceptional musical talents for the gathering:

Nicole Merceica, Briannah Mungcal, Cooper Brown, Shannon Tuilaepa, Regina Laumata, Heidi Pardinas, Joel Grech and Patrick Leveridge.

Additionally, Michelle Moeser sang "Pie Jesu" accompanied by Amy Bandeira playing on the new Baby Grand Piano.

Former staff present included: Emma Brown, Phil Brown, Rob de Wit, Peter Drew, Chantelle Gauci, Stephen Goldby, Susan Henry, Karen Hunter, John McCann and Michael McGonegal.

Thank you to all those who attended the evening, it is one that was thoroughly enjoyed by many.

2019 Annual Archdiocesan Celebration of Principalship

Mark’s service as Principal was celebrated at this year’s Annual Archdiocesan Celebration of Principalship held at St Patrick’s Cathedral on 30th October. Please  see the attached photo of Mark with Most Reverend Peter A Comrnsoli DD, Archbishop of Melbourne.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

As stated in last newsletter, current Years 7-11 students have all received their 2020 initial confirmation letters. Any change requests need to be finalised by the end of this week so that booklists and levies can be finalised.

Congratulations to all our Years 7–8 students for the way they approached their formal Timed Assessment Tasks (TATs) 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

All Year 10 and Year 11 students are now in our Semester 2 Exam period that runs until Tuesday, 19th November. Students are only required at school when they have exams.

All returning students will then be involved in Jumpstart classes for 2020. Individual Jumpstart timetables were given to all students last week.

Asthma Awareness

A reminder to all families that November & December are critical months in terms of Thunderstorm Asthma events. All students that they experience Asthma need to ensure that carry their Asthma puffers with them at all times (not left in lockers or at home). We are undertaking 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 reference:

Jumpstart

VCE Year 12 2020 Jumpstart runs from Wednesday, 20th November – Friday, 29th November. Our Year 11 Farewell Mass takes place that Friday afternoon.

VCE Year 11 2020 Jumpstart runs concurrent with the Year 12 from Wednesday, 20th November – Friday, 29th November. The Year 10 Farewell Prayer Service is also that afternoon.

All students undertaking VCE Jumpstart have received individual timetables.

2020 VCAL Jumpstart

VCAL 2020 Jumpstart (Foundation, Intermediate & Senior) will operate from Wednesday, 27th November (when all students will undertake their 2020 VET Induction) until Friday, 29th November. Attendance at Jumpstart is compulsory and will go towards 2020 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.

Years 7-9 Finishing Dates

Year 9 students finish classes on Tuesday, 3rd December and then are involved with City Experience activities until Friday, 6th December. Years 7 & 8 students finish classes on Thursday, 5th December with a special last day program on Friday, 6th December.

College Awards Evening

The College Awards Evening will take place on Wednesday, 4th December in the Sheehan Stadium. More information to follow.

End of Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake exams beginning Tuesday, 12th November.  Elective exams will take place in normally scheduled class times. Exams in Mathematics, English, Science, and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre as per attachment.

Years 10 & 11

Years 10 and 11 exams will run from Monday, 11th November to Tuesday, 19th November. Students are only required at school when they have exams.

All returning students will then be involved in Jumpstart classes for 2020.

The exam schedule for Years 10 and 11 students is attached.

Sports News

Year 8 Premier League

The Year 8 Premier League home and away rounds came to an end on Thursday 31^st October. All teams competed well with Netball and Cricket finishing 2^nd in their pool and Boys Basketball finishing on top. These teams will play cross over finals against Salesian College this Thursday 14^th November, with the winning teams progressing to the Grand Final. Parents are welcome to attend, please see venues and times below:

All Schools Athletics

On Sunday 27^th October, Bridie Shanahan (7O), Danielle Ide (8O) and Solomon Miesen (10R) represented the College at the All Schools Athletics Carnival held in Doncaster. It is not always possible to send staff to these events, but we really appreciate the support of parents in making this happen. Thanks to Gina Vasquez, Kirstie Shanahan and Paul Miesen for their help in coordinating our team.

Interschool Dressage and Showjumping day

Grace Aldred (8B) and Hayley Fino (8D) participated in the Interschool Dressage and Showjumping Day at Elcho Park on Friday 18th October. Thanks to Therese Aldred and Jason Fino for allowing this to happen for students at CRC Melton. There will be more opportunities for students to represent the College in Equestrian events next year.  

CRC Sports Awards Night

Our Sports Awards Night will be held on Tuesday 26th November in the PAC. Students who are involved will be given an invitation to this event this week. Stay tuned!

Garden to Plate Initiative

This year a new initiative was started – GARDEN TO PLATE – involving the Work Related Skills VCAL class. Their task was to plant and grow fruits and vegetables for use in their cooking class while investigating topics such as; Work Health and Safety, Communication, Teamwork and Employability skills. The students grew and cooked bok choy, rainbow chard, carrots, snow peas, lettuces, bottled olives and prepared sweet treats with lemons and passionfruit. They also potted up plants for the Mothers' and Fathers' Day stalls. Overall, it was a very successful new program.

Exam Anxiety

As we come to exam time and nearing the end of the year, a number of our autistic students may become overloaded and overwhelmed with all that is happening. I saw this picture on social media and it beautifully illustrates the approach that is necessary to support them if/when they shutdown.

Weekly Reflection

May God bless us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that we may live deep within our hearts. 

ALL: We are called to love.

May God bless us with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that we may work for economic justice for all people.

ALL: We are called to be just.

May God bless us with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, hunger, homelessness and rejection, so that we may reach out our hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy.

ALL: We are called to compassionate action.

And may God bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in the world so that we can do what others claim cannot be done.

ALL: We are called to serve the poor.

Amen.

From the Principal

Basketball Tournament

It was terrific today to see the Grade 5 and 6 students from St Anthony's, St Bernard's, St Catherine's and St Dominic's playing Basketball in our new Stadium.

Special thanks to our Year 10 Vincit class who along with Kerrie Ann Matthews and Natalie Bourke coordinated the event.

VCAA Exams

Best wishes to our Year 12 VCE English students who are lining up for their first major exam tomorrow.

Parents and Friends Meeting

There will be a Parents & Friends meeting Wednesday 30th October at 7:00pm - all are welcome. All who attend tomorrow night will be given a special tour of our new Student Resource Centre.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Summer Uniform

After Melbourne Cup, all students need to be in summer uniform, which is published in the school diary and was in a recent newsletter. Students do not need to wear their blazer to school unless they are wearing their school jumper. The requirements for the wearing of PE uniform is also very clear. Students are required to wear CRC sport socks, not black or other brand socks. If your child is not able to wear the correct uniform, please provide a note explaining as to the reason.

Bike Safety

Some students who are riding bikes to school are choosing to not wear a bike helmet. For their own safety and considering the amount of traffic around the school, it is important to wear a bike helmet when riding their bikes. 

eSafety Commissioner

The eSafety Commissioner has refreshed their esafety.gov.au website, a comprehensive, dynamic and interactive online safety hub for Australians. It is an invaluable website.

They have spent the last 18 months working alongside various experts to create, refresh and streamline eSafety’s content, so it’s right for schools, parents and young people. Every page has been updated with tailored advice, resources and support to ensure the experience online is an empowering and positive one. The parent safety guide is a good place to start, it provides a range of practical tips and advice on what to do if things go wrong.  Check out their site https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents.

Year 12 Student Achievement

Congratulations to Year 12 student Sarah Clewer who was recently announced as the winner of the Girl Guides Victoria Guildings’s Peak Achievement, the Queen’s Guide Award. This is the highest award that can be earned by youth members of Girl guides Victoria.

Sarah has won this award because she attained a wide range of knowledge and skills and developed a high degree of initiative, self motivation, responsibility and reliability. Sarah will be presented the award by the The Governor of Victoria, The Honourable Linda Dessau at Government House early next year.

Congratulations Sarah, a wonderful honour and achievement.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

Current Year 9 students will be interviewed this week to finalise their Year 10 electives for 2020 and once completed current Year 8 students will then be followed up for their Year 9 electives.

VCAA Exams

We wish our Year 12s well as many commence their VCAA exams from Wednesday, 30th October until Wednesday, 20th November. As already communicated by Carissa Lock (VCE Coordinator) and Emma Wright (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.

Melbourne Cup Day

Tuesday, 5th November is Melbourne Cup Public Holiday. The College has a mid-term break on Monday, 4th November, however VCAA exams will still operate that day.

End of Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

Years 7 & 8

Apart from Timed Assessment Tasks that will operate in normal class times, all Years 7 and 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 or Osma Exam Centre starting Wednesday 6th November and take the place of the normally timetabled class. Please see timetable attachment.

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake exams beginning Monday, 11th November. Elective exams will take place in normally scheduled class times. Exams in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre. Please see timetable attachment.

Years 10 & 11

Years 10 and 11 students will finish formal classes on Friday, 8th November. Years 10 and 11 exams will then run from Monday, 11th November to Tuesday, 19th November. Students are only required at school when they have exams. All returning students will then be involved in Jumpstart classes for 2020. The exam schedule for Years 10 and 11 students is attached.

All Saints Day and All Souls Day Mass

Friday, 1st November is All Saints Day. Mass will be celebrated at 8:00am in the school Chapel, all are welcome.

Also, that morning we will hold our CRC Community Memorial outside the Chapel, adjacent to the memorial garden, beginning promptly at 8:30am. This annual service is in memory of members of CRC Melton’s community who have passed away. Members of the school community are also welcome to join us at this service.

LOTE News

Year 8 Italian Incursion

The Year 8 students have been studying the unit of Animals in Italian. One of their assessments was to create a creative animal book suitable for primary school students. We were so proud of the work the Year 8s produced we decided to give them the opportunity to share it with the students of St Catherine’s of Siena. We had a range of different Grades 2, 3 and Grade 5 students come to our Italian classes. The students shared their animal books teaching the primary school students lots of Italian words. It was great to see our students being great role models and engaging with the students. Afterwards they even danced to the chicken dance song, “Il Ballo Del Qua Qua” together which was lots of fun! Both the Year 8 students and primary school students had a fantastic time and enjoyed having this opportunity together. We would like to thank Kirsty Moore, the School Community Leader, from St Catherine's of Siena Primary School who liaised with us and helped organise this incursion, which we hope to make a tradition every year with our Year 8 students. We congratulate our Year 8 students on the fantastic efforts and here is what some students had to say:

"In Italian we have been working on creating our own picture story books for primary school kids. We had an amazing opportunity to read it to the Grade 3s. On the day it was amazing being able to read our books to the kids. We really enjoyed talking to them and dancing with them." - Georgina Bertias (8D)

"I was really delighted when I found out that I was going to read to St Catherine’s Grade 2s. After I read my animal book we all came together and did the Italian chicken dance. Later we took them outside and had a terrific fruit platter made by the canteen. They learnt so many new words and I enjoyed having them at our school." - Amber Sciberras (8O)

"The Year 8s of Catholic Regional College really enjoyed the visit we had by the Grade 2s from St Catherine’s. We really learned a lot from them and they really learned a lot from us. We were really happy because we got the time to spend with the students and teach them some Italian. And by the looks of it, they are all superstars in Italian. On behalf of the Year 8s, thank you for coming and ciao." - Bilombele Alumbulwa (8O)

We all had a really good time and enjoyed participating in activities with the younger students. After they arrived, we spent some time reading the Grade 3s the picture story books we have been working on in class for the past couple of weeks. After we read, and danced, we sat outside talking to all of the pupils. It was lots of fun and I hope we experience a similar event in the near future. Thanks to Mrs. Russo for allowing us to be part of this educational adventure." - Amaya Cousins - (8A)

Weekly Reflection

Graduation marks a remarkable day in the chapter of a young person’s life. It is not only the culmination of many years of study, but is a coming-of-age, a moment when the person is no longer a child and is now a fully-fledged adult.
We keep in our prayers our Year 12s who last Friday celebrated their graduation.

Graduation Prayer

Father, we thank You so much for our time here together
For all the friends we have made
For all the days of laughter and fun
And for all the times of great discovery and learning.
We thank You for all who have given of their energy and skill
So that we can graduate today.
Our teachers and mentors
Our family and loved ones
We thank You for them and give them all to You in prayer.

As this chapter on our lives closes, so a new one begins.
We present ourselves like an open book before You.
Come and scribe Your words of life into our lives -
Fill our minds with Your thoughts
Fill our bodies with Your strength
Fill our hearts with Your dreams
That we might eternally love and serve You
This day and every day.

We ask all this in the glorious name of Jesus
Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit
World without end.

Amen.

From the Principal

Farewell to our Year 12s

On Friday 18th October, Year 12 students enjoyed their final day of College events before settling down to study for their VCE exams and/or embarking on their future career pathways. Friday’s farewell commenced with an early breakfast at school put on by their teachers and followed by a student parade around the College. Students then returned to Padua for a year level assembly and some amusing games and activities with their homeroom teachers before being dismissed for the final time at the College. The Year 12 team provided the opportunity for the students to enjoy some time together as a cohort as well as the opportunity to reflect on their journey.  

On Friday night, staff along with students and their families farewelled Year 12 students at the 2019 Graduation Ceremony held in the Sheehan Stadium. Year 12 students were presented on stage and were recognised in front of their family and peers. Congratulations to all of our Year 12 students who have now finished their Secondary Education and are about to embark on their next adventures. We are extremely proud of the award recipients and of each and every student who has completed this educational milestone. Year 12 students should be very proud of themselves. I thank them for their Leadership; they have been great ambassadors and role models.

Year 12 Award Recipients:
Community Award: Evana Miesen
Abbi Rogers Award: Nicole Portelli
School Spirit Awards: Swen Anthony and Cassandra Nguyen
Peer Awards: Crizel Vanguardia and Chantelle Bird

"Excellence in History Education by a Secondary Teacher" Award - History Teacher Association of Victoria (HTAV)

Recently one of our teachers, Ms. Carissa Lock, was awarded the "Excellence in History Education by a Secondary Teacher" Award. The HTAV Awards Panel, consisting of two volunteer Board members, two individual members, the Executive Council and Rosalie Triolo - Senior Lecturer of History Education at Monash University were the judges of this award.

Carissa was a well-deserving recipient of this award. We are fortunate to have her as part of our school community. Many of your children will have been taught by Carissa over the years and it would be wonderful for you to have a chat with your child about their time in a History or Humanities class with Ms. Lock.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

Current Year 9 students will be interviewed this week to finalise their Year 10 electives for 2020 and once completed current Year 8 students will then be followed up for their Year 9 electives.

Year 12s

What 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 like to compliment our Year 12 students and thank Ms Wright, Ms Lock and Mr Coates along with our Year 12 Homeroom Teachers for our Farewell Morning and Graduation Mass. The Mass was a lovely service led by Father Patrick. The formal presentations ran smoothly and both our 2019 and 2020 College Captains spoke admirably. I hope all families enjoyed the opportunity to share the experience with their child along with joining teachers and friends for supper.

Year 12 VCE students are now on SWOTVAC until Tuesday, 29th October. VCAA exams begin on Wednesday, 30th October until Wednesday, 20th November.

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

Melbourne Cup Day

Tuesday, 5th November is Melbourne Cup Public Holiday.  The College has a mid-term break on Monday, 4th November, however VCAA exams will still operate that day.

End of Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

Years 7 & 8

Apart from Timed Assessment Tasks that will operate in normal class times, all Years 7 and 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 or Osma Exam Centre starting Wednesday 6th November and take the place of the normally timetabled class. Please see timetable attachment.

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake exams beginning Monday, 11th November. Elective exams will take place in normally scheduled class times. Exams in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre. Please see timetable attachment.

Years 10 & 11

Years 10 and 11 students will finish formal classes on Friday, 8th November. Years 10 and 11 exams will then run from Monday, 11th November to Tuesday, 19th November. Students are only required at school when they have exams. All returning students will then be involved in Jumpstart classes for 2020. The exam schedule for Years 10 and 11 students is attached.

Casual Clothes Day

Friday 25th October is an optional casual clothes day for students.

The day is being used to raise funds for our group of 33 students and staff who are heading to Perth along with thousands of others to take part in the Australian Catholic Youth Forum in early December.

Our group of pilgrims has been preparing for months under the guidance of staff led by Sr Mary Sarah, and have also met with students of other schools undertaking the same Faith journey.

Students who wear casual clothes in support on Friday are asked for a $2 donation.

Casual Clothes Day Poster.pdf

Year 11 Physics Excursion

On Tuesday 15th October, the Year 11 Physics class went on an excursion to O’Brien Icehouse at Docklands, where they participated in Curling.

Curling is a sport in which players slide stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area which is segmented into four concentric circles.

The day concluded with three laps around the track at Ace Karts in Albion. The students were required to gather data and calculate the speed of the stones and go karts using the formula for speed s=d/t. 

LOTE News

Year 9 Italian VET Studies

The Year 9 Italian students have just finished a VET unit on learning how to write and respond to invitations in Italian. To conclude the unit the students worked together to write an invitation to the other Year 9 class and invited them to a 'themed' class  party. They had to specify the time, location, if there was a theme, what and what not to bring and what they were required to wear on the day. The students organised activities and props as well as snacks and the lunch itself. Following the first party, the other Italian class reciprocated and held another party to say thank you. It was a fantastic experience and it was wonderful to see our students using the Italian language in a positive and enjoyable way.

In Year 9 VET Italian we have been studying how to write invitations in Italian and respond. For that unit we invited the other Italian class to lunch. We had organised for pizzas to be delivered to school, as well as food and drinks to be brought by the hosting class. We played some Italian games such as tombola(bingo), we had a photobooth, we played stick Sicily on the map of Italy, we played Jenga, and we even had a piñata. Before we knew it, lunch was over. All I can say, is that it was really fun. - Lilly Portelli (9C)

Ms. Michelle Montalti & Ms. Louise Crocitti - Italian Teachers

VCE Languages Classes

We salute our Year 12 Italian and Indonesian students who have finished their VCE Languages classes last week. All the best to Sarah Clewer, Adelaide Hansen and Dylan Hassan who sat their Oral Examinations today. We wish them all the best for their future endeavours.

Rockbank Rams FC

The Rockbank Football Sporting Club are recruiting for the upcoming 2020 Season.

Football

Seniors, Reserves and Under 19.5’s Men

Open Age Women

Netball

Open Age Women

Based at the  Ian Cowie Reserve—Westcott Parade Rockbank

For more information refer to the website: www.rockbankfsc.com.au or email footballoperations@rockbankfsc.com.au or call Gavin Sporle 0450 947 109.

Matt Embling

WesternRamsSStake 2.png

Weekly Reflection

Peter addressed Cornelius and his household:

‘The truth I have now come to realise,’ he said, ‘is that God does not have favourites, but that anybody of any nationality who fears God and does what is right is acceptable to him.

It is true, God sent his word to the people of Israel, and it was to them that the good news of peace was brought by Jesus Christ - but Jesus Christ is Lord of all men, and he has ordered us to proclaim this to his people and to tell them that God has appointed him to judge everyone, alive or dead. It is to him that all the prophets bear this witness: that all who believe in Jesus will have their sins forgiven through his name.’

-Acts of the Apostles

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 18th October
2.       Graduation Mass in Sheehan Stadium on Friday 18th October at 7pm
3.       Valedictory Dinner on Friday 22nd November at Ultima Receptions

I look forward to this exciting time for the College.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2020 Subject Selections

Thanks to all families in supporting their students with their 2020 subject selections. Initial Year 11 subject allocations will be sent home this week and changes will need to be finalised by Friday 25th of October. Families need only to return forms to the Office if requesting a change. Please note that only students whose families have completed 2020 re-enrolment and 2019 levy payments will be given their confirmation letter.

Current Year 9 students will be interviewed over the coming weeks to finalise their Year 10 electives for 2020. Once this has been completed, Year 8 students will be followed up for their Year 9 electives.

Year 12 Farewell

This Thursday, 17th of October is the last day of formal Year 12 classes. On Friday, 18th of October, we look forward to our annual Year 12 Farewell Breakfast and Dress-up. Later that evening, we will hold our Year 12 Graduation Mass. VCE students then begin SWATVAC until Tuesday 29th of October; with VCAA Exams beginning on Wednesday 30th of October.

A Soup-er Effort

"It’s amazing how one night helping those in need can change the way you view certain things in life. It’s such an awesome feeling knowing you’ve helped make a change in someone’s day and watch their face light up from giving something as small as a toothbrush."

On Friday evening, Year 12 students Adelaide Hansen, Georgia Campbell, Bryanna Hickey, Dylan Hassan, Shanae Galakos and Alaina Craig accompanied by Nerida Thurn went out on the last St Vincent de Paul Street Retreat for the year. The night was an eye opening one, where students learnt about the scope of the Vinnie's Soup Van, had the opportunity to speak with seasoned "vannies" and most importantly lend an ear, a hand or offer food and toiletries to those experiencing homelessness in and around Melbourne. 

The dedication of the Year 12 students and staff this year to the Soup Van experience has been incredible. Each group of students has learnt something about themselves, as well as the stories of people they have served, and selflessly gave their time despite the rigours of senior school. The thoughts and learnings of the final group to experience Soup Van are below:

"I wasn’t really sure what to expect or what I was expecting before the night, but it was honestly one of the most rewarding experiences. The impact that helping someone or even just talking to them has, just puts things into perspective and changes the way that I see things." 

"It was a very eye opening experience that I will never forget."

"To meet and supply goods to the homeless was extremely enlightening." 

"It was an experience you cannot describe. It makes you so grateful and privileged for the life you live."

"This experience really impacted the way I view society, and how lucky I am for the things I take for granted."

This year's groups have been receptive, engaged and respectful with glowing reports from "vannies" regarding their conduct. Well done Soup Van team!

Squash & Racquetball GO! Program

Keen for your child to try something new? Get into Squash & Racquetball GO! this term.

What: Squash & Racquetball GO! 6-week junior program

Cost: $8 per person

Where: Squash Logic Melton

Who: 12-17yr olds 

When: Tuesday 15th October at 5:30pm

Our program, Squash & Racquetball GO! is for teens aged 12-17 and is all about learning the basic skills of squash whilst having fun!

Run by our qualified coaches, your child will build confidence in new skills and get active in a safe environment. Squash and racquetball are sports that can be played for life and assist with the development of skills needed in other areas of physical activity; hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, agility and special awareness.

Check out our website at https://mailchi.mp/squashvic/go_melton

And our Instagram page @squash_racquetball_go

Weekly Reflection

A Prayer to Begin a New Term

We are created in the image and likeness of God.

Filled with the divine presence, may we always reflect the face of Christ to the world.

May our hidden selves grow strong in Christ.

May our lives be planted in love and built on love, so that every decision may be patterned on the mind of Christ.

May we grow in all ways into Christ.

May we see with the eyes of faith and reach out with the compassion of Christ to those who are troubled or in need.

May Christ live in our hearts through faith.

Out of his infinite glory, may he give you the power through his Spirit for your hidden self to grow strong, so that Christ may live in your hearts through faith, and then, planted in love and built on love, you will, with all the saints have strength to grasp the breadth and the length, the height and the depth; until, knowing the love of Christ, which is beyond all knowledge, you are filled with the utter fullness of God.

(Eph 3:14–19)

From the Principal

College Uniform Shop

As of Thursday 31st October, Uniform Shops at CRC Melton and Sydenham sites will no longer operate. Thomastown store will no longer stock CRC uniform.

Effective Wednesday 6th November, uniform can be purchased in store at Academy Uniforms, Deer Park. Families are welcome to visit Academy Uniforms Deer Park at 10/85 Mt Derrimut Rd, Deer Park during the following times: 

Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm, Saturday: 9am - 12pm

Please check Academy Uniforms' website closer to this date for their new phone number.

Three additional times for uniform fittings have been scheduled for Year 7, 2020 families: Monday 25th, Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th November between 3pm - 7pm.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

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 week. 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 Term 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.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Welcome back to all students and families for the start of Term 4.

2020 Subject Selections

Thanks to all families in supporting their students in their 2020 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 to only return forms to the Office if requesting a change.

Current Years 9 and 10 students will be interviewed over the next weeks to finalise their Year 10/11 electives for 2020. Once completed 2020 Year 10 and Year 11 initial 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.

Music Performance and Awards Evening

On Thursday 10th October, the College will be hosting the 2019 Music Performance and Awards Evening. Parents and friends are invited to attend and enjoy performances from our instrumental, ensemble and classroom music students, who have been working all year to put together a repertoire of high quality pieces.

The event is free of charge, starting at 7:00pm in the PAC. All are welcome.

Woolworths Earn and Learn 2019

Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s collection of Woolworths Earn and Learn Stickers. The school has been able to provide a bounty of items to enhance lunchtime activities across a number of faculties.

Lunchtime Art Club

• Poster paints
• Modelling clay
• Water colours
• Coloured pencils
• Brushes
• Oil pastels

Humanities Dept. – NAIDOC Week 2020

• Wooden shapes to paint (Australia, handprints and native animals)
• Paint will be shared with Art Club

Library Lunchtime Activities

• Board games
• Playing cards
• Markers and coloured pencils
• Mini cleaning cloths for white boards

Weekly Reflection

“Jesus is calling you to be a disciple with a mission!

Today, in the light of the Word of God that we have heard, what is the Lord saying to us?

Three simple ideas: Go, do not be afraid, and serve.”

- Pope Francis to pilgrims at World Youth Day in Brazil

From the Principal

College Uniform Shop

As of Thursday 31st October, Uniform Shops at CRC Melton and Sydenham sites will no longer operate. Thomastown store will no longer stock CRC uniform.

Effective Wednesday 6th November, uniform can be purchased in store at Academy Uniforms, Deer Park. Families are welcome to visit Academy Uniforms Deer Park at 10/85 Mt Derrimut Rd, Deer Park during the following times: 

Monday to Friday: 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12noon

Please check Academy Uniforms' website closer to this date for their new phone number.

Three additional times for uniform fittings have been scheduled for Year 7, 2020 families: Monday 25th, Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th November between 3pm - 7pm.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Parent Student Teacher Interviews

PSTIs will take place after school this Tuesday, 17th September and Thursday, 19th September between 4:00pm and 7:00pm. Interviews are linked to the Term 3 Interim Reports that are now available. Interview bookings are now closed for tonight, but will reopen tonight after 7:00pm for Thursday bookings.

Interim Reports are now available through our Parent Portal. If you have any difficulty accessing the Parent Portal, please email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au. As part of the report, a recommendation on attendance is noted. These 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 

End of Term

Friday 20th September is the last day of Term 3. Normal classes will operate with the day finishing at 2:30pm. Bacchus Marsh Coaches buses will be available for early pickup however, local Sita Town buses will operate at normal times. 

Term 4

Please note that only Year 12 students undertaking practice exams are required at school on Monday, 7th October, as it is a Staff Professional Learning Day. All other Year Level classes begin on Tuesday, 8th October which is Day 2 of our timetable. 

2020 Year 12 Subject Selections

Year 11 students and families should note that 2020 Year 12 VCE Subject allocations sheets will be distributed to all Year 11s this week. Please note that Year 11 students will only receive their sheets if 2020 re-enrolment and outstanding subject levies are finalised.

Year 10 students will receive their 2020 Year 11 VCE Subject allocations in the first weeks of Term 4, subject to re-enrolment and levy payments.

Human Rights Summit

On Friday 6th September, a group of 10 students from Years 11 and 12 attended the Youth for Human Rights Summit at the Darebin Arts and Entertainment Centre.

Students participated in many workshops and heard from many inspiring people about adversity in childhood and their successes now. The students were involved in many activities such as a virtual reality workshop, which ran a 15 minute program about the life of one Indigenous man and the world around him, and students were able to visit this world in order to gain full understanding of what is like to live like an Indigenous person in Australia. Some students also attended the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, where they learned about ‘child soldiers’ and how it impacts their childhood and violates their rights. We obtained knowledge about rights we didn’t know we as children have, rights that anyone under the age of 18 has in every nation and that these rights are being violated every day all over the world.

The main idea of the day was that people must make a change for children whose rights are being violated and that people must advocate making a change for the children who can’t make a change themselves. Overall, it was a day filled with fun, facts and fulfilment in an area not many of us knew about. It was a day not to forget, and everybody took a piece of the day back to school with them.

St Vincent de Paul Soup Van

On Friday 13th September, Karina and I accompanied Year 12 students Swen Anthony, Terrence Arambulo, Liam Baker, Angelica Bautista, Cassandra Nguyen and Jack O'Rourke to volunteer at the St Vincent de Paul Soup Van, on the Fitzroy run.

Last year, Soup Van volunteers provided more than 97,600 meals to people living rough throughout the Melbourne CBD, Fitzroy, East Melbourne, Queen Victoria Market and South Melbourne. 495 volunteers on the Fitzroy Soup Van assist 240 people every night of the year.

We met at the North Melbourne office and started the night with a prayer. We were then inducted and were told what to expect on the night. Our team sorted through donations of toiletries and clothing then went out on our first visit to a park nearby. Throughout the evening, we assisted in handing out donations, serving food and drinks and were a listening ear to people who needed a friend.

Overall, it was a very rewarding experience. The message we received from St Vinnies was not to feel that we need to end all homelessness, but to be proud that we are doing something to help those in need. We left the city feeling grateful for all that we have, for our home and for our families.

"Attending the Fitzroy Soup Van with the St Vincent de Paul Society was a humbling and eye-opening experience. It was amazing to be able to have a conversation and form friendships with both members of the team, as well as those we had encountered at every stop. It is often so easy to take what we have for granted and this opportunity allowed for us to reflect upon how blessed we all are. I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to take part in the Soup Van, to do so." - Angelica Bautista

Junior Arts Exhibition

On Wednesday the 11th of September, the College held this year's Junior Arts Exhibition in the PAC. Artworks from Years 7 to 10 were on display with students and families coming along to view the amazing talent we have in the Arts at the Junior levels. The afternoon started with our College ensemble, led by Ms Bandeira, singing a couple of songs beautifully, adding to the mood and success of the exhibition. We then had an Australian artist, Ms Elizabeth Sullivan, officially open the exhibition by saying a few words of admiration about our College and the Arts. Elizabeth admired the works on display, commending both students and staff for such amazing works. Thank you to all those who participated in the success of the Junior Arts Exhibition, in particular our students participating, Mrs Amy Rowley and the Arts faculty.

Languages News

Italian Afternoon

What an afternoon was had! On Monday 26th September we ate delectable pizza and indulged in delicious gelato as well. We were fortunate to view a very entertaining show called 'Mission Gnocchi'. We were taught in a hilarious manner how to make an Italian signature dish: Gnocchi alla Panna. Mario and Pasquale, the two characters, were extremely funny and made students laugh non-stop for an hour. We hope to see a similar Italian show in the future.

Volleyschool Free Trial

With many students at School on Thursday for Parent Student Teacher interviews, Western Region Volleyball have extended an invitation to all students and family members to come and have a go at Volleyschool.

Training is from 4.00pm until 5.30pm. To participate, you are required to wear appropriate footwear on the court. All are welcome!

Melton Youth - FREE School Holiday Activities

With less than a week to go until the September School Holidays, Melton Council Young Communities has a variety of FREE activities to keep students busy over the break.

Recreational activities such as 3v3 Basketball Competition, Fishing, RampFest Indoor Skate Park, Arts and more are available!

Attached is a Flyer and Registration Form for more information.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Melton City Council.

Stephanie Serret

Youth Development & Support Officer | Melton City Council

Free SHA - Registration Form.pdf
3v3 Basketball Tournament - Flyer.pdf
Flyer - September FREE School Holiday Activities.pdf

Weekly Reflection

‘St Patrick’s Breastplate’

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.

From the Principal

Mental Health Week

With Mental Health Week being the focus this week, our Student Leaders have organised some activities on Thursday.

RU OK Day - Mr Blackley has provided more information below on this worthy cause.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

RU OK Day

Throughout this year, Senior Student Leaders have had a focus on mental wellbeing, promoting and encouraging all students to be aware of their mental wellbeing. This continues this week with the promotion of RU OK Day on Thursday and supports our ongoing work with the Resilience Project, Reach Out, Batyr, Headspace and Be You.

RU OK Day is the national day of action dedicated to reminding everyone that every day is the day to ask, “Are you ok?” and support those struggling with life's ups and down. This year they want everyone to Trust the Signs, Trust your Gut & Ask RU OK? They have developed four conversation steps to help you navigate a conversation with someone you’re worried about. These are-https://www.ruok.org.au/how-to-ask

1. Ask
2. Listen
3. Encourage Action
4. Check in

Talk to your son or daughter about what happened at school on Thursday and check out the links above.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews take place after school next week, on Tuesday, 17th September and Thursday 19th September between 4:00pm and 7:00pm. Interviews are linked to the Term 3 Interim Reports that are now available.

Interim Reports are now available through our Parent Portal. If you have any difficulty accessing the Parent Portal, please email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au. As part of the report, a recommendation on attendance is noted. These 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, 16th - 20th September.

End of Term

Friday 20th September is the last day of Term 3. Normal classes will operate with the day finishing at 2:30pm. Bacchus Marsh Coaches buses will be available for early pickup however, local Sita Town buses will operate at normal times.

Town Buses

Families are reminded that whilst in College uniform to and from school our students are subject to our College behavioural expectations. If using a Town bus, they are expected to offer their seats to adults (who pay full fare), in particular elderly people or parents with children.

Volleyball Victoria Junior Open

Languages News

It is with great pleasure that I announce Ashley Scicluna, the successful recipient of winning third prize of the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition at the University of Melbourne. Ashley received her trophy and prize on Friday 6th September amongst a crowd of 400 people. Ashley competed against 3,000 students and we are so proud of her relentless efforts. Ashley chose a verse from the Purgatory section of Dante Alighieri’s works. The poem was challenging but Ashley rose to the occasion and strove to do her very best. In the end, Ashley recited the poem and thoroughly impressed the judges. She surpassed her expectations and took a leap of faith. Ashley is certainly a role model for all the students at CRC Melton.

Auguri Ashley! Bravissima!

Sports News

AFL – Runnalls Cup Tradition

Every year, our College plays an AFL match against CRC Sydenham in the Runnalls Cup, a match honouring Mr. Bruce Runnals. Bruce was a Deputy Principal at our College and was Principal at CRC Sydenham. Bruce was a great man who had such a positive impact on many staff and students. He passed away from cancer. Every year we unite as Colleges to play the match. This year we decided to introduce a Senior Girls Match. It was a fantastic day enjoyed by all the students and staff. We had Bruce’s wife Anne Runnalls attend and present the trophies. Students really appreciated having her there. It was a day that had a real community feel, with the great weather being a bonus. Both matches were extremely close, and it was a continuous battle to try and hit the front. Our boys got over the line with a win 93-86. Unfortunately our girls match had to be called off during the 2nd quarter due to an injury.  You can see the sportsmanship, joy and happiness between both teams and Anne.

Ballarat Chess Tournament

On Monday 9th September, two of our chess coaches, Mr. Orr and Mr. Tammaro, took a group of students to Ballarat Grammar to compete in the Kids Unlimited Interschool Chess Tournament. It was a great opportunity for our students to compete against a range of different schools outside of the SACCSS association. Students had a great day and learnt a lot from other students’ skills and moves. Our stand out players were Jarryd Martin, Josh Djie Spiteri & Solomon Miesen. Well done to all competitors on the day. Chess Club will continue to run every Thursday at lunchtime.

Year 9 Girls Volleyball Grand Final

Today our Year 9 girls made the trip out to Marymede to participate in the Volleyball Grand Final. It was an extremely tough battle for our girls and some sets were only lost by a few points. Unfortunately we lost 1 set to Maryemede's 3. Every season we have Marymede and CRC Melton displaying the very best skills and techniques within the competition but of course there can only be one winner. We are so proud of the girls making the Grand Final and wish them every success in all their future volleyball endeavours within the College.

WheelTalk - Disability in Sport

Our Year 11 VCE PE students were lucky enough to be active participants in WheelTalk at Sheehan Stadium this week.

WheelTalk is an interactive program that encourages students to think about diversity, acceptance and disability – with a primary focus on inclusion.

Presented by Victorians with disability who are actively involved in sport and recreation, WheelTalk combines unique stories of lived disability with the opportunity to play up to an hour of wheelchair basketball. CRC Melton has enjoyed a long standing relationship with Wheeltalk and will continue to support this important charity in the future.

Soup Van

Terry Quinn, Kim Lillington and I accompanied Year 12 students Bitanya Tilahun, Maria Arbizu-Duranand Fiona Lien into the city to take part in the Fitzroy soup vans via the St Vincent de Paul Society.

Below are comments made by each of these students about the experience:

"It’s a really nice feeling, being able to lend a helping hand and put a smile on someone’s face."

“Never see a need and do nothing about it. A little goes a long way is so true when you see your simple actions lighten up another person's world".

"I wasn’t really sure of what to expect when hopping off the van at the first stop but the charisma and happiness that radiated from everyone there was very fulfilling. I definitely am more than thankful for this night and look forward to volunteering again."

Maths Games Day Success!

A huge congratulations to our two Year 11 teams who came 6th and 11th out of 23 teams at RMIT last week. This was an outstanding effort given that it is the first year that our school has had a team at this level (Year 11/12). Well done to Blake Camilleri, Peter Halaka, Paul Llanes, Jarryd Martin, Damien Pendleton, Marius Prundus, Kai Tyrrell and Amelia Cameron.

Last week we saw two teams of students from Year 7 go to Overnewton Anglican Community College, and from Year 10, go to Trinity Grammar School in Kew, to represent CRC Melton at the annual MAV Maths Games Day.

• Year 10 students competed against around 100 school teams and placed 48th and 74th
• Year 9 students competed against 42 school teams and placed 27th and 36th
• Year 8 students competed against 96 school teams and placed 75th and 94th
• Year 7 students competed against 44 school teams and placed 19th and 43rd

“I was able to use my maths skills to compete with other students from schools around Victoria. We did a variety of activities, which required a lot of brain power. It was kind of tricky, but one of my favourite parts from this experience was working as a team, because teamwork makes the dream work! Unfortunately, we didn’t make the top three but I still had fun.” - Shayne Manalili

“I enjoyed the teamwork and how everyone worked together to find an answer. And when we and another school helped each other on the origami task.” - William Anthony

“The things that I liked about Maths Day, was that you got to spend time with some people who most of the time you wouldn’t. I made some good mates out of it. I also liked the fact that it was extremely challenging. I was stuck on so many questions, I had to really take my time and think. It was actually just a really good day." - Lincoln Braszell

“At the maths competition, I enjoyed working as a team and learning new maths skills. It was also a good opportunity to make friends and a great experience.” - Ryan Cassar

Melton Youth - FREE School Holiday Activities

With 2 weeks to go until the September School Holidays, Melton Council Young Communities has a variety of FREE activities to keep students busy over the break.

Recreational activities such as 3v3 Basketball Competition, Fishing, RampFest Indoor Skate Park, Arts and more are available!

Attached is a Flyer and Registration Form for more information.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Melton City Council.

Stephanie Serret

Youth Development & Support Officer | Melton City Council

Free SHA - Registration Form.pdf
3v3 Basketball Tournament - Flyer.pdf
Flyer - September FREE School Holiday Activities.pdf

Weekly Reflection

World Day of Prayer for Creation -1st September

Pope Francis wrote the following in a letter to Cardinals Turkson and Koch.

‘We need always to keep in mind that, for believers in Jesus Christ, the Word of God who became man for our sake, “the life of the spirit is not dissociated from the body or from nature or from worldly realities, but lived in and with them, in communion with all that surrounds us”. The ecological crisis thus summons us to a profound spiritual conversion: Christians are called to “an ecological conversion whereby the effects of their encounter with Jesus Christ become evident in their relationship with the world around them”.  - Laudato Si’, 216-217

Prayers of Intercession

All provident God, your care has given us food from the earth; grant that the crops we harvest may sustain us in body and help us to grow in spirit, we pray to the Lord. Lord Hear our Prayer.

You feed the birds of the air and clothe the lilies of the field; teach us to seek first your kingship over us and teach us your way of holiness, we pray to the Lord. Lord Hear our Prayer.

Through Jesus Christ you have made the world abound in works of holiness; grant that, living in him, we may share in his fullness and life and bear much fruit, we pray to the Lord. Lord Hear our Prayer.

In the Eucharist you have taken up the fruits of our hands as signs of the mystery of faith; grant that the gifts we bring to be consecrated at your son’s table may work for the continuing good of the Church’s life, we pray to the Lord. Lord Hear our Prayer.

You planned that all your children should share in the goods of your creation; grant that all those who are in need may come to enjoy an untroubled life and to glorify you and praise your holy name, we pray to the Lord. Lord Hear our Prayer.

From the Principal

Today was wonderful, sunny day where CRC Melton held its inaugural Annual Celebration Day Mass and activities. On this day we celebrate our identity and Catholic values - it is about ‘who we are’ and it's important we celebrate the Eucharist today as a school community. This is our 39th year as a College, so we are already looking forward to and planning our 40th Anniversary next year.

For our activities today, the emphasis is centred around gratitude for what we have and we are displaying empathy for those who have less than ourselves. We are raising awareness and funds for the following community partners:

• Brother Beausang: our sister school in Kenya
• Fight MND: established in 2014 with the purpose of finding effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Motor Neurone Disease
• RU OK: a suicide prevention charity that aims to start life-changing conversations and create a more connected world
• Open the Door Foundation: supporting Indigenous students through schooling

2020 College Captains

Congratulations to Chantal Bala and Paul Llanes who were announced 2020 College Captains at this morning’s Celebration Day Mass.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 VCE Subjects

Please note that due to low student numbers, Year 11 Australian & Global Politics, Geography and Dance will not run. VCE subject blockings are progressing and students will be advised of their initial allocations in the coming weeks.

2020 Year 9 Subject Selections

Year 8 students and families please note that 2020 Year 9 elective choices are due to Homeroom Teachers on Thursday, 5th September. After this date, Web Preferences will close and students will have to submit hard copies only. These later applications will not be included in the first round of elective allocations.

Parent Student Teacher Interviews

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews will take place after school on Tuesday, 17th September between 4pm–7pm and Thursday, 19th September between 4pm–7pm. The interviews 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

Friday, 20th September is the last day of Term 3. Normal classes will operate with the day finishing at 2:30pm. Bacchus Marsh Coaches buses will be available for early pickup however, local Sita Town buses will operate at normal times.

Road Safety

Yesterday afternoon there was a vehicle accident involving a CRC Melton parent. I remind all families of the need for vigilant and safe driving around the school, especially at our busy pick-up and drop-off times.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

eSafety

Next Monday, 9th of September, we will be hosting an information workshop for Dinka families through the Cyber Parent Safety App produced by the Australian Multicultural Foundation. This will be held in the Library from 4:30-5:30pm. If parents are interested contact our EAL Coordinator Mollie Daphne or Parent Cultural Officer Abraham Jongroor.

See the following links for more information about the site:

http://amf.net.au/cyberparent/english/main/index.html

https://www.sbs.com.au/news/cyber-bullying-radicalisation-internet-safety-new-app-helps-migrant-parents-spot-dangers-children-face-online

Holiday Program - Melbourne Victory

Melbourne Victory is holding a school holiday program second week of Term 3 holidays aimed at keeping students engaged and connected to education. If your child is interested, they can speak with Simma Maniel in our cultural office. See attached flyer for more information. Students can also complete the online expression of interest form (link on flyer).

If students are accepted into the program, they will receive further information in the week before the end of school term.

Resilience Project

As part of our ongoing connection with The Resilience Project team, they have put together a podcast which is all about how perfectly imperfect we all are. When we share our struggles with each other, we start to realise that everyone, no matter how successful, has something they are battling with. 

Hugh van Cuylenburg, founder of The Resilience Project chats to a variety of interesting people who are willing to make themselves vulnerable, by sharing their own struggles and imperfections. Hugh and good friend Ryan Shelton then discuss some valuable take aways we can all apply to our own imperfect lives.

Their guests include Musician Missy Higgins, AFL star Jack Watts, TV host Georgie Gardner, Entrepreneur Erin Deering and Comedian, Writer and Producer Ryan Shelton. The first two episodes are now available on Apple and Spotify.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal - Students

CMUN0019-MVFC School Holiday Program Term 3_Email.pdf

Maths Games Day

Last week we saw two teams of students from Year 9 go to Williamstown High School to represent CRC Melton at the annual MAV Maths Games Day. This week, two Year 11/12 go to RMIT and the Year 8 teams go to Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School also to participate 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 classroom 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 8 teams - Riley Williams, David Balila, Issy Srnec, Georgina Bertsias, Adorrina Jeevakenthiran, Ophelia Fernando, Ashik Varghese, Rafael Vadivelan.

Year 9 teams - Lucy Taylor, Andria Jojo, Daniel Monitto, Darcy Makin, Ellie Martin, Jayavi Meemaduma, Xavier Millan, James Bertsias.

Year 11/12 teams - Blake Camilleri, Peter Halaka, Paul Llanes, Jarryd Martin, Damien Pendleton, Marius Prundus, Kai Tyrrell, Amelia Cameron.

Accompanying teachers were Georgina Solano, Ian Box and Silvana Nuspan.

Our Year 8 students competed against 53 school teams and were amongst 400 students.

All teams came around middle of the field. Below is a photo from the students at Penleigh and Essendon Grammar.

“I am so overjoyed, thrilled, and fortunate enough to have had the honour to have been invited and to go to the Year 8 Maths Games with Mrs Nuspan, Adorrina, Ashik, David, Georgina, Isabel, Rafael and Riley. At this extraordinary, hectic, fun, and challenging event, it gave me the opportunity to socialise with students from the other schools and to work as a team with my school mates. I learnt that if you don’t know the answer to a question it is not the end of the world, because you can just ask your fellow school mates if they know the answer. If you say you don’t know how to solve the problem, it doesn’t mean you are unintelligent, brainless or the only one that doesn't know, because you don't know for sure if you are the only individual that doesn't know how to solve the problem, there can be other students who also have no idea on how to get the correct answer. It just goes to show that you are human, that you are not a computer or a robot that knows all the answers. I had such a stupendous, hilarious, awesome, and a magnificent time at the Year 8 Maths Games, and I would love to do it again in Year 9.” - Ophelia Fernando, Student

Sports News

Year 9 Premier League

We had 4 of our Year 9 teams progress to the semi finals, it was an extremely tough and competitive day for our teams. Our Girls Volleyball team won which will now see them play Marymede in the Grand Final next week. Our Girls Netball and Boys AFL were defeated against Salesian College and our Boys Basketball were defeated by Penola. Congratulations to our teams for making the finals. We wish our Volleyball team the best of luck for their Grand Final.

SACCSS Athletics

Yesterday we took close to 80 students to Lakeside Stadium to compete in the annual Athletics Carnival against the other SACCSS Schools. It was a perfect sunny day with minimal wind which gave our students the ideal conditions for their events. We had so many great individual and team achievements throughout the day, easily one of our best performances as a school. The students were so positive and the encourgament and sportsmanship shown was outstanding. Students should all be very proud of their efforts.

It is impossible to acknowledge all the fantastic achievements as every student did so well and competed greatly. It was a sensational day that was enjoyed by all staff and students, we were also lucky enough to have Mr. Sheehan present some of our ribbons and placings.

Overall it was an extremely successful day, we won all aggregate overalls and had 5 age group champions for the day. Major awards for the day are as follows. A link to the full report of all events and placings will be available next week in the newsletter.

Age Group Champions

U13s - Jonas Cukavac

U14s - Jackson Djatschenko 

U16s - Maddie Djatschenko

17-20 - Montana Djatschenko

17-20 - Luke Heaney

Overall Results

Junior Girls 2nd

Junior Boys 1st

Inter Girls 1st

Inter Boys 2nd

Senior Girls 1st

Senior Boys 2nd

Aggregate Results

Juniors 1st

Intermediates 1st

Seniors 1st

Squash Logic

Want to try a new sport?  It's indoors and fun to play.  Come and try squash at Squash Logic in Melton next to Mick's Jump and Play.

See attached flyer for more information.

The Melton City Council Teenage Holiday Program

The Melton City Council Teenage Holiday Program will be running from 23 September – 4 October, 2019.

Bookings open at 10:30am Wednesday 4th September, 2019. Bookings will only be accepted online melton.vic.gov.au/thp. Please note the booking system is now online and customers are no longer able to call customer service to make bookings.

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 day of booking.

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 the flyer for more information. If you have any questions regarding the Teenage Holiday Program, please don’t hesitate to contact Jaime Villareal at Melton City Council on 9747 5382.

Jaime Villareal

Youth Development Officer | Melton City Council

September Flyer 2019.pdf

Weekly Reflection

As we travel on our life’s way, along many paths, over many bridges do we travel alone?

What do we value? What or who can be our compass?

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Jesus is gentle and humble of heart...let him be your compass.

From the Principal

Catholic Regional College, Cobblebank

Catholic Education Melbourne is undertaking a preliminary planning and project feasibility concept for a future secondary college at Alfred Road, Cobblebank. Residential development in the broader Melton area continues to put enrolment pressure on Catholic secondary provision and, while there remains sufficient capacity at Melton CRC in the short term, a longer term solution is required to provide sufficient places for future Year 7 secondary demand. A local planning group was recently established to guide the process and provide input in this early stage. The local group will continue to provide significant input throughout the project.

Land for the future secondary college is purchased and the Alfred Road location is in close proximity to the future railway station, which is currently under construction, and is accessible to the future town centre and Melton City Council recreation reserves. There are challenges to provide servicing to the site but Catholic Education Melbourne continues to work with developers and other stakeholders to ensure the future site is serviced to allow for the new secondary college to open in 2023.

Parents & Friends

There will be a Parents & Friends meeting Wednesday 28th August at 7:00pm - all are welcome.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

Years 10–12 2020 Subject Selections have closed and we are in the process of determining blockings and what subjects will operate in 2020. Families will receive confirmation of subjects this term.

Year 8 students and families please note that information and selection guides for their 2020 Year 9 electives will be distributed tonight at our Year 9, 2020 Information evening.

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews will take place after school on Tuesday, 17th September between 4pm–7pm and Thursday, 19th September between 4pm–7pm. The interviews 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

Friday, 20th September is the last day of Term 3. Normal classes will operate with the day finishing at 2:30pm. Bacchus Marsh Coaches buses will be available for early pickup however, local Sita Town buses will operate at normal times.

Student Leadership News

Respectful Relationship Student Voice Forum

On Thursday 22nd August, a group of student leaders attended the Respectful Relationship Student Voice Forum. The forum was attended by a group of schools in the Melton City Council area with a focus on building student leadership and voice in respectful relationships, which is key in creating positive environments for learning in schools. The conference focused on bystander action and the process of intervention, empowering students in decision making and leadership. Throughout the day students participated in a range of role plays and group discussions to plan and implement student action in improving positive bystander action in schools through the 4 model intervention. It was a great day for the students who hope to inspire others to enact change within the school.

Celebration Day

On Tuesday 3rd of September, CRC will be holding its annual Celebration Day. Students will begin the day with mass in the Sheehan Stadium before participating in a range of fun games and activities to help raise funds for our chosen charities.

Celebration Day is an annual event where we celebrate being part of the CRC Federation and acknowledge our faith by raising money for our chosen charities. This year the funds raised will be shared between;

• Brother Beausang; our sister school in Kenya
• Fight MND: established in 2014 with the purpose of finding effective treatments and ultimately a cure for Motor Neurone Disease
• RU OK: a suicide prevention charity that aims to start life-changing conversations and create a more connected world

To find out more about these charities please click the links below:

https://fightmnd.org.au/

https://www.ruok.org.au/

From this week, early bird wristbands will be on sale for $10 at lunchtime to students outside the front of the library.  They will then be on sale for $15 the week of Celebration Day and on Celebration Day from 10:30am-11:30am.  These wristbands will entitle the students to unlimited rides, bubble soccer and laser tag.

This year we have four main attractions and rides:

• The Cha Cha - A carnival ride in which suspended riders spinning in cars experience centrifugal force, while spinning on two separate axes.
• The Meltdown - An inflatable mechanical wipeout game which challenges 8 contestants on their ability to jump and dodge the rotating arm.
• Bubble Soccer - Students wear a giant inflatable bubble as they compete in a game of soccer
• Laser Tag - Students participate in an outdoor game of laser tag. This revolutionary new non-gun laser tag system straps onto the wrist and allows quick and easy gaming anywhere.

Other activities include:

• Talent Show – Students showcase their talents and are in the chance to win one of 3 Woodgrove vouchers.
• Photobooth - Take a photo with a group of friends in our photo booth to remember the day.
• Dodgeball Competition - Junior and Senior house competitions will be held in the hall.
• Lan Party – The computer labs will be open for students to compete in a range of board, video and other games.

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

We would like parents/guardians to be aware that some of the rides and activities may not be suitable for students with asthma, heart conditions, epilepsy, anxiety, vertigo and low blood pressure.

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

Sports News

Year 9 Premier League

Tuesday 20th August saw our Year 9s play their final round of the Premier League season before finals. The Girls Volleyball team finished their season undefeated. Out of 8 teams we have 4 teams heading into the semi-finals. Congratulations to our Girls Volleyball, Girls Netball, Boys AFL and Boys Basketball. We wish the teams all the best during upcoming finals. Results from Round 5 vs Emmanuel are below:

• Girls Volleyball Won 3-1
• Girls Netball Won 36-19
• Boys AFL Won 95-32
• Boys Volleyball Lost 0-3
• Girls Soccer Lost 0-2
• Boys Soccer Lost 0-3
• Girls Basketball Lost 25-56
• Boys Basketball Lost 42-46

Student News

Last week, Lucy Taylor (Year 9) was awarded the U15 Senior Netball Best & Fairest player in the whole Ballarat Football and Netball League. Lucy is co-captain of the U15 Seniors at Bacchus Marsh Cobras and also plays in our Year 9 Premier League team. Congratulations Lucy, we wish you well in all your future netball endeavours.

Senior Hockey Team

On Thursday 22nd August, Kaylee Jones and Claudia Russo had the pleasure of watching our Senior Hockey Team place third in the SACCSS Girls Hockey Competition. Thank you to the Years 10, 11 and 12 girls who displayed great sportsmanship, talent and enthusiasm. Well done girls on a successful day out.

Father's Day Stall

This year our Father’s Day stall is being run by our very own Foundation VCAL classes. Students are welcome to come to G141 this Thursday at recess and lunchtime to purchase gifts for the special men in their life. We have a range of sweet treats, books, plants, ties, car wash items, pens, etc. Prices range between $1.00-$10.00 to suit a range of budgets. We hope to see you there.

Weekly Reflection

I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I shall give is my flesh, for the life of the world.  (John 6:51)

Give bread, Lord, to those who are hungry, give hunger for yourself to those who have bread, for you alone, Lord, can satisfy our desire:

Jesus Christ, bread of life, we pray to you.

Give strength to those who are weak, give humility to the powerful, for your alone, Lord, are our strength:

Jesus Christ, bread of life, we pray to you.

Give faith to those who are in doubt, give doubt to those who believe they possess you, for you alone, Lord, are the truth:

Jesus Christ, bread of life, we pray to you.

Give confidence to those who live in fear, inspire wonder in those who feel apathy, for you alone, Lord, support our hope:

Jesus Christ, bread of life, we pray to you.

Give light to those who are searching for you, preserve in your love all who pray with faith in you, for you alone, Lord, can fulfil our love:

Jesus Christ, bread of life, we pray to you.

From the Principal

Year 7, 2021 Enrolments

A reminder enrolment applications for Year 7, 2021 are due by this Friday. All families who apply are required to make an appointment with their Parish Priest.

Re-enrolment 2020

This week, families will receive information regarding re-enrolment for 2020. This process enables the College to comply with a CEO requirement regarding enrolment data which is due in Term 4. The enrolment prediction for the 2020 school year will influence the recurrent funding for the College. Families are required to complete this process no later than Friday, 30th August.

Parents & Friends

There will be a Parents & Friends meeting Wednesday 28th August at 7:00pm - all are welcome.

School Improvement

In 2019, our school is participating in Catholic Education Melbourne School Improvement Surveys (CEMSIS). CEMSIS is an annual process where schools listen to the thoughts and feelings students, families and staff have about how their school can improve. These surveys help inform the ongoing improvement of schools across the Archdiocese of Melbourne.

One of the main goals of the family survey is to identify the strengths and areas for improvement in our school.  CEMSIS data benefits everyone within our school and provides valuable community insights on areas that each school can focus on. Our school believes it is important to encourage families to have a voice and contribute to shaping the ongoing improvement of the school. 

The survey is completed online and can be accessed from Monday 2nd September and needs to be completed by Friday 20th September. Families will be randomly selected to participate in this survey. If you would like to complete the survey, please contact Kerrie-Ann Matthews at kmatthews@crcmelton.com.au.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

Year 9 students must submit their Year 10 2020 final selection page (from Selection Guide) and a copy of their Web Preferences receipt to their Homeroom teacher by Thursday, 22nd August.

Year 8 students and families, please note that information and selection guides for their 2020 Year 9 electives will be distributed on the 27th of August at the Year 9 2020 information evening.

College Athletics Carnival

Unfortunately, our Athletics Carnival was again cancelled last Friday due to unsuitable weather conditions. Although we make every attempt for such days to operate, we will always err on the side of safety for students (competitors and spectators), parents/guardians and staff. Due to the SACCSS Athletics being held on the 2nd of September, there is no other suitable date for the event to be rescheduled.

Staff Service Day

Friday, 23rd August is the College’s Staff Service Day. The College will be closed for staff to undertake various social justice activities. No students will be required at school.

Vietnam Veterans Day

On Sunday the 18th of August a group of student leaders attended the Vietnam Veterans Day Memorial service in Melton, which marked the 53rd anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan. Student leaders, Chantal Bala, Evana Miesen, Ben Martin and Ann Praveen John laid wreaths to honour, remember and commemorate all those who served in Vietnam, including the 521 Australians who died and more than 3000 people who were wounded, injured or became ill as a result of the conflict and those who still carry the physical and emotional scars of their service as well as the families that have stood by them. Lest we Forget.

OutLoud Poetry Competition

On Wednesday the 14th of August, Samuel Gordon, Nathan Furtado and Riley Williams represented the College at the OutLoud Secondary Schools Eco!Slam spoken word poetry competition. The students wrote, choreographed and performed an original poem and competed against schools from all over Victoria.  The students excelled on the day and, while narrowly missing a place in the final, received an honourable mention, great feedback from the judges and thunderous applause from the audience.

Sports News

Year 9 Premier League

Mackillop College were strong and competitive against all of our teams during round 4 of the premier league season. It was great to see such a high level of competition between us and the energy amongst the students was fantastic. We ended up with an even sweep with 4 wins and 4 losses. Our Boys Basketball and Girls Volleyball teams remain undefeated heading into the last round against Emmanuel. Hopefully we all finish the season off strong and get as many teams as possible making finals. Results from Round 4 vs Mackillop are below:

• Girls Volleyball Won 3-0
• Boys Volleyball Won 3-1
• Boys Basketball Won 34-31
• Girls Soccer Won 6-1
• Girls Basketball Lost 4-106
• Boys Soccer Lost 0-2
• Girls Netball Lost 8-49
• Boys AFL Lost 27-64

Falcon Rebels Basketball Association

See attached information from Falcon Rebels Basketball Team Association who are seeking new players for their team. Please contact the club directly at falconrebelsbasketball@hotmail.com for more information.

Weekly Reflection

Prayer for the Assumption of Mary (15th August)

Father in heaven,
all creation rightly gives you praise,
for all life and all holiness come from you.
In the plan of your wisdom
she who bore the Christ in her womb
was raised body and soul in glory to be with him in heaven.
May we follow her example in reflecting your holiness
and join in her hymn of endless love and praise.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

From the Principal

Petition to Fix Bulmans Road

Population growth in the Melton West/Harkness area continues to increase and we wish to express our concern regarding the current situation with Bulmans Road to the Melton City Council. The Parish of Melton believe Bulmans Road poses a great risk to safety within the area and there are grave safety concerns for our school and Church communities, residents within the area and road users that utilise the road. As a community, we believe that the current situation is unsustainable and requires immediate acknowledgement and rectification before a serious accident occurs. The increased traffic in the area has seen it become extremely dangerous during school pick up and drop off times, Mass times or during events held at either St Catherine of Siena Primary School, St Catherine of Siena Church or Catholic Regional College Melton as well as the park situated near the Primary school. Rectification is required to enable the efficient movement of people in the area at all times of the day and night. We are extremely concerned of the risk posed to young children and their families in the area. They are at risk of being hurt by the continued neglect of this essential thoroughfare. Increased lighting in the area as well as appropriate planning needs to be established to ensure the safety of residents, rate payers and road users alike.

We are asking the School community to sign the petition to Melton City Council to undertake a Design and Construction works programme in the Council’s 2020-2021 Budget for the widening of Bulmans Road including but not limited to a service lane and indented car parking from Lake View Terrace to Sovereign Boulevard.  We need 5000 signatures for this to be presented to the Council.  Please take the time to show your support by signing the petition. Copies of the petition can be found at:

• CRC Melton Reception
• Melton Parish Office – 10 Unitt Street, Melton
• St Catherine of Siena Church, Melton West
• St Catherine of Siena Scool Reception
• St Dominics School Reception

Thank you in advance for your assistance in making our community safer.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Subject Selections

Year 11 and 12 2020 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.  Late selections can now only be submitted by paper and may result in subject preferences being missed. Students will be given their initial allocations later in the term. VCAL students will be notified regarding their application.

Year 9 students must submit their Year 10 2020 final selection page (from Selection Guide) and a copy of their Web Preferences receipt with their Homeroom teacher by Thursday, 22nd August.

Year 8 students and families, please note that information and selection guides for their 2020 Year 9 electives will be distributed on the 27th August at the Year 9 2020 information evening.

College Athletics Carnival

Our Athletics carnival is scheduled for this Friday, 16th August. Currently the weather forecast is positive. We will assess the venue conditions and latest weather forecast on Wednesday and inform all families of any change.

Staff Service Day

Friday, 23rd August is the College’s Staff Service Day. The College will be closed this day for staff to undertake various social justice activities. No students will be required at school.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Collecting your child early

For early collection of your child, please ensure that you write a note in their diary stating the date and time your child is to be collected from Reception. It is your child’s responsibility to show this note to their teacher and then make their way to Reception.

Year 7 2021 Enrolments & 2020 Re-enrolment Process

Year 7, 2021 Enrolments

Enrolment applications for Year 7, 2021 are due by Friday 23rd August. All families who apply are required to make an appointment with their Parish Priest.

Re-enrolment 2020

During Term 3 a formal re-enrolment process will take place. This process enables the College to comply with a CEO requirement regarding enrolment data which is due in Term 4.  The enrolment prediction for the 2020 school year will influence the recurrent funding for the College.

To ensure you do not jeopardise your child’s re-enrolment we would appreciate all fee payments being brought up to date.

Sports News

SACCSS Junior Hockey

On Monday 5th August, a number of Year 7 and 8 girls participated in the SACCSS Junior Hockey Tournament. Students were competitive and drew 2 games out of three. Congratulations on a great day.

Athletics Carnival

Our School Athletics Carnival will take place this Friday August 16^th at Bridge Road Athletics Track. All students are expected to be at the College by 8:30am or if you are dropping your children off at the track they need to be there by 9am. We remind students to dress accordingly, full school sports uniform is required. We suggest students wear the rugby jumper and the sports jacket, blankets will be allowed in the house areas. We will have food options available to students and there will also be a hot drink van. Prices are as follows:

• Lolly bags $1
• Drinks $1
• Sausages $2
• Veggie Burgers $2
• Chips & Gravy $4
• Combo (sausage or vegie burger and chips) $5

Year 9 Premier League

Round 3 took place on Tuesday 6th August where we had a home game against Caroline Chisholm College. We had 5 wins from our teams but unfortunately our Boys Soccer & Boys Volleyball wete beaten. Our next round will be against MacKillop which we expect to be a great challenge for the students. Results are as follows:

• Girls Netball Won 43-6
• Girls Basketball Won 22-14
• Boys Basketball Won 47-20
• Girls Volleyball Won 3-0
• Girls Soccer Won 3-1
• Boys Volleyball Lost 2-3
• Boys Soccer Lost 2-6

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 joining with 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.

(Feast of Mary of the Cross is Thursday 8th August)

From the Principal

Winter Sleepout

Congratulations to our Social Justice team who organised our annual Winter Sleepout last Friday. With a variety of guest speakers, all students and staff who stayed had an insightful experience into the lives of people less fortunate than us.

Dinka Language School

On the weekend, we had our Dinka Language School classes continuing. Great to see so many of the local Sudanese community participating in this venture.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

2019 African Student Conference

CRC hosted the 2019 African Student Conference at the end of last term with the theme of Building Resilience and Leadership of Young people through Collaborative support and platform. Over 150 students attended from a number of schools across the North West Metro region to listen, participate and ask questions from a wide cross section of speakers from government, business, law, music, tertiary institutions and sporting organisations.

In the morning a number of speakers addressed the audience, they included the City of Melton Mayor Bob Turner, Victoria State Member for Melton, Stephen McGhie, Dr Charles Mphande Victoria University, and Victoria Multicultural Commissioner Sisay Dinku.

We also had the opportunity to listen to the inspirational author and poet Florence Chol, hip hop musician Kron and watch dancing from students and an African women’s group. Representatives from a variety of organisations were also present to provide information and advice.

A highlight was the opportunity to hear from young African men and women who have gone on to be successful in their chosen field of business, entertainment, government and sport. We heard of their challenges and the importance to have a goal and worked hard to achieving that goal.

After lunch we attended workshops on youth leadership, health, legal and human rights and careers. The conference was a great opportunity to celebrate their cultural identity and learn from the achievements of others.

eSafety - The Hunting

A new SBS drama The Hunting premiered on 1st August. It is a four-part drama which explores the experiences of teenagers as they traverse the complexities of relationships, identity and sexuality via technology.

It follows the lives of four young Australians, their teachers and families throughout the lead up, revelation and aftermath of a nude teen photo scandal, the timely series aims to promote discussion and awareness to enable positive experiences for young people online.

Young people are increasingly exploring their sexuality online, with 26 per cent of teens having sent a nude or sexual image or video of themselves to someone else - Mitchell, Patrick, Heywood, Blackman and Pitts. National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health, Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University. 

Further research from the eSafety Commissioner (eSafety) reveals one in 10 Australians have experienced image-based abuse (IBA). This includes intimate, nude or sexual images that are sent without the consent of those featured. Intimate images may also include images or videos that have been altered (i.e. Photoshopped), or that depict a person without attire of religious or cultural significance which they would normally wear in public. 

For every victim, the experience is different, but often it causes anger, depression, anxiety and feelings of humiliation, and affects their families, social relationships, and overall wellbeing.

Experts suggest conversations about online safety should start in the home, as soon as we hand over devices to children, and be reinforced through their educational journey.  The images are taken and shared in the privacy of their own home with the fall out at school. Here at CRC we work with Project Rockit, Victoria Police and the eSafety Commissioner educating the students of the dangers and implications of sharing such images.

In partnership with the eSafety Commissioner, SBS has created discussion guides for teachers, families and carers around cyberbullying and image sharing, to promote safe and positive experiences online. https://www.sbs.com.au/learn/the-hunting?cx_cid=sbslearn:pur:edm:19

Victoria Police Careers Evening

The College is hosting a Victorian Police Careers information evening on Wednesday 28th August between 6:00pm and 8pm in the Performing Arts Centre. The evening is open to the community and relevant to students and members of the public who are thinking of a career with Victoria Police. See the attached flyer for registration details.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal (Students)

Melton Information Session Flyer.pdf

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2020 Subject Selections

Year 10 and 11 students need to finalise their 2020 Subject Selections by submitting their Final Selection page (from Selection Guide) and a copy of their Web Preferences receipt to their Homeroom teacher by Friday, 9th August. Year 9 parents/guardians are invited to join us tomorrow night, Wednesday 7th August for our Year 10 2020 Information Evening in the PAC. On Thursday, we hold our annual VTAC Information evening for our current Year 12's and families. This evening has proved highly valuable to parents and students in selecting their Tertiary preferences for the following year.

Intercultural Cities Symposium

“We always made it about creating multicultural communities. We have achieved that but that's simply no longer enough. People are unfortunately not interacting, these communities are not socially involved with one another, that's not happening organically so we have to step in and build those connections.” - Irena Guidikova.

On the 31st of July, a collective group of Year 11 and 12 girls attended the Intercultural Cities Australasia Symposium 2019.

At this symposium, we learnt that our city council is actively seeking help with the issue of modern integration in our communities in Australia. Multiculturalism is a term which describes the cultural and ethnic diversity of our current Australia which is, and will remain, a multicultural society.

Lack of social integration for all the different groups in society including gender, age, culture and abilities can create bigger issues such as ignorance due to the lack of understanding of one other.

Melton City Council had partnered with the Council of Europe after their successes integrating their own communities in Europe. This symposium informed us that our local government is indeed working on a plausible project that, if done correctly, will create one of the most positive changes in the Western suburbs and hopefully Australia in future years.

Melton City Council has made it their mission to integrate their communities by embracing diversity with the launch of the Melton City Council Intercultural Plan 2017–2021. They are the pioneers of integration being used as a solution in Australia. The Council has applied a successful model from the Council of Europe after witnessing their successes in many European Cities such as in Dortmunt (Germany), Genoa (Italy), Lisbon (Portugal) and many more.

The Australian Government has identified three dimensions of multicultural policy as:

• cultural identity - the right of all Australians, within carefully defined limits, to express and share their individual cultural heritage, including their language and religion.
• social justice - the right of all Australians to equality of treatment and opportunity, and the removal of barriers of race, ethnicity, culture, religion, language, gender or place of birth.
• economic efficiency - the need to maintain, develop and utilise effectively the skills and talents of all Australians, regardless of background.

The Council of Europe and Melton City Council ultimately want to eliminate the barriers created by our cultural and social differences and instead embrace and build up our cities with them.

Irena Guidikova Head of Inclusion and Anti-Discrimination Programmes at the Council of Europe spoke about the amazing benefits of intercultural cities that research has uncovered.

Some examples being more productive involvement of all citizens in all aspects of community life, higher levels of general happiness within a city, better problem-solving skills in corporate situations and more.

Putting aside differences and coming together is what interculturalism is all about and it can be our biggest strength.

Sport News

School Athletics Carnival

The College is holding its Annual Athletics Day on Friday, August16th at Bridge Road Athletics Track in Atherstone. Parents/Guardians are welcome to come along and support on the day. We look forward to it being a great day for all of our students to enjoy. For any enquiries, please email me at jsyme@crcmelton.com.au or refer to your CareMonkey notification.

Year 9 Premier League

Tuesday, 30th July saw the Year 9s compete in their second round of Premier League against Caroline Chisholm Catholic College. It was a very successful day for our teams. So far our Girls Netball, Boys AFL and Boys Basketball are all looking impressive with 2 wins heading into the third round next week against CRC St. Albans. Please see the results from round 2 below:

Won Girls Netball 68-3

Won Boys AFL-61-20

Won Girls Soccer 9-0

Won Boys Soccer 7-0

Won Girls Volleyball 3-1

Won Boys Basketball 59-54

Draw Girls Basketball 24-24

Lost Boys Volleyball 0-3

SACCSS Junior Hockey

Yesterday we took our Girls Hockey Team to Essendon and our Boys Hockey Team to Footscray to participate in the SACCSS one day tournament. It was a fun, competitive and exciting day for our students especially for our Year 7s being their first Hockey tournament. It was also another great achievement by our students in regard to their hard work and dedication. It has been many years since CRC Melton entered hockey teams into the SACCSS Competition, so congratulations to all students and staff who made it possible this year.

Languages News

The College welcomed Raffaele Franzese from FrasiWorld on Friday who would like to engage in an exchange program with us from 2021. FrasiWorld are also affiliated with our Italian sister school, Convitto Nazionale Paolo Diacono.

We are planning a trip to Italy in 2021. With limited places remaining, please contact me via email at crusso@crcmelton.com.au if you would like your son or daughter to attend.

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

Little Shop of Horrors

What a fantastic production we enjoyed last week. The Little Shop of Horrors had everything from outstanding acting, singing, dancing and even a live band. The costumes (so many shades of green), props and lighting were first class, and families who had seen many productions over the years commented it was again one of the best performances ever! The joy on the students’ faces as they performed and gathered afterwards ensured it was all worthwhile.

Special thanks to Production Leaders Jessica Chelotti, Amy Rowley, Ashlee Hughes, Amy Bandeira, Dan Askew and the rest of the Production crew for putting such a fabulous show together.

Premier League

We wish our Year 9 Premier League teams all the best in the next round of their Sports competitions tomorrow.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2020 Subject Selections

Year 10 and 11 students need to finalise their 2020 Subject Selections with their Final Selection page (from Selection Guide) with a copy of their Web Preferences receiptby Friday, 9th August. This Wednesday, we are holding Year 11 2020 Subject Selection Family interviews. I look forward to seeing many families there. 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 be notified of their application success or not.

Next week has two major evening events. Year 9 students and parents/guardians are invited to join us next Wednesday, 7th August for our Year 10 2020 Information Evening. I strongly encourage all families to attend as the Year 10 Elective selection process has changed from previous years. On Thursday 8th August, we hold our annual VTAC Information evening for our current Year 12s and families. This evening has proved highly valuable to parents and students in selecting their tertiary preferences for the following year.

Year 7, 2021 Enrolments

Enrolment applications for Year 7, 2021 are due by Friday 23rd August. All families who apply are required to make an appointment with their Parish Priest.

NAIDOC Week

Last week our school celebrated NAIDOC week (officially held over the school holidays) which in part acknowledges the successes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. At CRC Melton students were encouraged to participate in a variety of ways. Each morning students reflected during homeroom and participated in a homeroom challenge where they were required to recognise the faces of around 40 significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Each homeroom displayed the NAIDOC theme poster and were encouraged to talk about the history of this week. During lunchtime students could participate in Indigenous games or attend Art club and complete an art activity. The library displayed Year 7 Humanities work from their Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander History unit and the library also provided a selection of books to read, movies to watch and decorated the library entrance in the theme of this year's NAIDOC week – Voice, Treaty, Truth. We also hung our welcome banner made by past VCAL students which always takes pride of place during these significant weeks. Staff, special guests and our student FIRE Carriers (Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education) attended a morning tea where our Local Member of Parliament Mr Steve McGhie was in attendance. He was very positive and encouraged our student FIRE Carriers to continue in their efforts to promote education within our school community.

Sports News

Athletics Day

The College Annual Athletics Carnival will be held on Friday 16th August. Please ensure you have read and accepted the CareMonkey notification by Friday 2nd August. The carnival will be held at Bridge Road Athletics Track, Atherstone.

Please contact me with any questions at jsyme@crcmelton.com.au

Premier League

On Tuesday 23rd August our Year 9s began their premier league playing against CRC Caroline Springs. After weeks of training our students were very excited to put their skills to the test and play in their first match of the season. It was a successful day out with 5 wins from 8 games, and a few very close and unlucky losses. Our boys’ basketball team were trailing for the entire game and in the last few minutes hit the front and won the game by 3 points, a great display of determination and hard work by our year 9 basketball boys. This week we play Caroline Chisholm. Be sure to read next week’s newsletter for more sport updates.

Scores from round 1 are below

Won Boys AFL 67-53

Won Girls Netball 34-23

Won Boys Volleyball 3-0

Won Girls Volleyball 3-1

Won Boys Basketball 53-50

Lost Girls Basketball 24-50

Lost Boys Soccer 2-4

Lost Girls Soccer 1-4

Library News

Sarah Clewer of Year 12 has written a novel: A Spell for an Eye

If you were fated to become a 'Saviour' to a planet and chosen by a meteor programmed to find help, what would you do?

At only four years old, Celeste Teal and her best friend, Miranda, were struck by a meteor. Both girls developed mysterious powers after the accident, with Celeste gaining ice powers, and Miranda the ability to control water. Five years later, Celeste's parents die and she is torn away from Miranda and forced to attend a strict boarding school in Antarctica. Over the years, her powers advance, and she is eventually reunited with Miranda. They both soon discover a third victim of the meteor strike - Vanessa, a girl with the ability to wield fire.

After an attack with an old enemy in the caves of Antarctica, the trio discover an ancient written legend composed and kept in the archives of six planets within the solar system. As well as attempting to learn their place in the legend, they must gain each other's trust in order to combine their powers to defeat foes and win over the evil that has taken Antarctica and threatens the world.

During this journey, Celeste meets a mysterious admirer who appears to know everything about her, including her parents' deaths. Is he a friend, or is he after something? And why does he always disappear before Celeste can talk to him?

Should you wish to purchase a copy of Sarah’s book, please pay $20 to the College to pre-order. Orders will be accepted until Friday, 2nd August. Payment can be made by cash or credit card at the Office.

On this date, the College will purchase the number of ordered copies and distribute to purchasers on delivery from the publisher.

We congratulate Sarah on her fine achievement and wish her well in her future endeavours as an author.

Djerriwarrh Health Services News

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day event will be held at Melton Community Hall on Saturday 3rd August. See attached flyer for more information.

Charry Owens

Project Coordinator - Koolin Balit Babaneek Booboop Early Years Project

Aboriginal Children's Day (Western Metro- Final).pdf

Weekly Reflection

Aboriginal Our Father

You are Our Father, you live in heaven

We talk to you, Father you are good

We believe your Word Father
We your children, give us bread today

We have done wrong, we are sorry
Help us Father not to sin again

Others have done wrong to us
And we are sorry for them, Father today

Stop us from doing wrong, Father
Save us all from the evil one

You are Our Father, you live in heaven
We talk to you, Father you are good

The Lord's Prayer from the "Missa Kimberley"

From the Principal

What a first week back for Term 3! We have seen rehearsals with staff and students working together over long hours to produce another fantastic College Production, and our College Assembly was led by our College Captains where we recognised students with School Spirit awards, heard from one of our student ‘Fire Carriers’ and promoted our upcoming Winter Sleep Out. 

Best wishes to our Production team and students. I am looking forward to seeing this year's Little Shop of Horrors performance. We also wish our Year 9 Premier League students the best of luck in the first round of their Sports competitions which begin tomorrow.

2020 Subject Selections

Thanks to all families who attended last week's 2020 Year 11 Subject Selection Information Evening. There was a great turnout and the quality of the presentations and information was a tribute to Ms Layton (Director of Learning), Mrs Dickson (Pathways Coordinator), Ms Lock and Mrs Mifsud (our VCE and VCAL Coordinators), and the other Faculty leaders who attended. The next part of the VCE selection process involves student and parent/guardian interviews on Wednesday, 31st July.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

School Spirit Awards

Year 7

Noma Masuku - Noma is a student who is always friendly, optimistic, helpful and studious. She is a selfless, caring, respectful and encouraging member of 7R and is always looking for new ways to improve her work. She is courteous to staff and her peers. Her kindness, compassion and willingness to help others are qualities that should be admired.

Jack Kontostergios - Jack is a conscientious and hard-working student. He is a positive and motivated member of 7A, showing initiative, working hard in all subjects and contributing positively to classroom discussions. He is personable and has established good relationships with both his teachers and his peers and is a positive role model for other students.

Year 8

Riley Williams - Riley has been described by a number of his teachers as an individual who is very respectful to all teachers. He is supportive to his classmates and friends, completes all tasks and activities to the best of his ability as well as demonstrating exceptional behaviour. Riley gets involved in many of the opportunities available at CRC Melton. Two examples of this were the Project Rockit Digital Ambassadors workshop and the 2019 Ration Challenge.

Taya Wilken - Taya has been nominated by a number of teachers. Over the course of Semester 1, she displayed a strong work ethic across all subjects, achieving fantastic results as well as exhibiting great respect for all of her teachers and peers. Also, a valued member of 8M, she has been described as a mature, polite, hardworking and friendly person. 

Year 9

Caleb Braszell - Caleb consistently demonstrates our school’s values and displays natural positive behaviours in everything that he does. His attitude and optimism make a difference to his peers and to his teaching staff. Caleb dedicates himself to his learning and to any activity that he participates in. His energy is motivating and his work ethics are admirable.

Abuk Chol - Abuk intervened into a situation that required maturity and calmness. She showed exemplary leadership by ‘speaking up,’ during this event. Abuk spoke up and this had a significant impact. Her maturity was commendable and she role modelled to other students the importance of not being a bystander.

Year 10

Haley Spiteri - Haley is a valued member of the cohort who consistently presents a positive attitude and willingness to assist where needed. The character and integrity she demonstrates, embodies the College ethos as attested by her teachers who note the happy demeanour she presents within the classroom. Her diligent approach towards her studies has enabled her to achieve some excellent results through the first half of the school year. Haley received glowing reports regarding her work experience.

Ben Trethowan - Ben is a student who consistently displays a desire and aptitude to learn. His teachers testify that this dedication has enabled him to form excellent work habits that will hold him in good stead throughout VCE. During his week of work experience, he represented himself and the College immensely well, and was provided with glowing reports. The positivity this student displays is evident through his cheerful interactions with his teachers, and his genuine and often light-hearted connection with his peers and friends.

Year 11

Briannah Mungcal - Briannah is an active participant in the extra-curricular activities offered here at the College. She is in ensemble and has one of the lead roles in this year’s school production - The Little Shop of Horrors. Briannah is often called up to sing the Australian National Anthem at every assembly and does so diligently and with conviction. Briannah has demonstrated positive leadership skills by always being supportive of her peers in classroom situations. She always comes to class with a positive attitude and puts in 110% effort. Briannah is an exceptional example of positive time management with the memorising of script lines and maintaining a high level of work ethic in her school work. 

Ngong Achiek - Ngong works quietly but hard in his classes. He has been commended for respecting others' learning environments and is motivated to working to the best of his ability, consistently completing his work to a very high standard. Ngong has been recognised for being a likeable character who is always respectful, polite and courteous to both his peers and teachers. He is a very positive student and always has a smile on his face. 

Year 12

Tahlia Wheadon - Tahlia received the award due to her supporting and caring nature towards her peers. She is always willing to participate in class discussions and ensure that what needs to be said is done so in a courteous manner. Tahlia is very helpful in homeroom assisting with what is asked of her to do. Tahlia is demonstrating to all her teachers how hard she is working in Year 12 and it has not gone unnoticed.

Caleb Bastiaan - Caleb lives out his Catholic values by the way he interacts with others and supports those around him. He is working hard across all subjects. Despite some difficulties he keeps up, he asks questions and is always pleasant. He is generous with his time, helping others where he can and is always a pleasure in terms of his manner.

College Captain Report - Mental Health and Wellbeing

As highlighted at the beginning of the year, one of our primary focuses is the advocating of mental health and wellbeing. Since then, we have organised for a range of different organisations to come to our school to present to our students. One of these was the Batyr organisation, created and driven by young people, for young people. This organisation spoke to Years 9-12 and gives a voice to the elephant in the room. In addition, Headspace came to speak to Year 12 and provided them with strategies to deal with the challenges they may be facing mentally.

Student Leadership introduced the mental health Push Up challenge, which we are in the process of completing. This challenge involves completing 3128 push ups representing the number of deaths due to mental health in 2017. We are also very pleased to say that our small group has raised $790 in which all proceeds go towards Headspace which will help young people get back on track and strengthen their ability to manage their mental health in the future.

Although we are proud of what has been achieved throughout Semester 1, we are determined to keep providing more opportunities for you to better your mental health in Semester 2. In September, CRC Melton will be hosting its own Mental Health week where we will promote Mental Health through a range of activities and RUOK day.

We are very excited for what lays ahead for the semester, and we encourage that even though RUOK day is only one day that you continue to ask yourself and those around you RUOK? Because remember, it is okay to not be okay and asking for help is not weak- it is strength. We are eager to be moving forward with this project and urge you all to get involved.

- Evana Miesen and Dylan Hassan

Facebook Design Jam

Last Tuesday, two of our Year 9 students Nathan Furtado and Sara Mantilla Mesa travelled to Facebook Head Office in Sydney to participate in the Design Jam program. This came about as a result of the work we did with the Project Rockit team last term. Project Rockit teamed up with Facebook to give Digital Ambassadors a really special opportunity to have their voices heard. Nathan and Sara had the unique opportunity to work with 20 students across Australia and New Zealand. They had the opportunity to share their perspectives and experiences before rolling up their sleeves and creating their own apps to help young people engage safely online. 

The event was opened by Office of the eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, and included representatives from Google, Instagram, Beyond Blue and more. Students pitched their ideas to Antigone Davis, Facebook's Global Head of Safety. CO-CEO of Project Rockit, Rosie Thomas said this was a room of some pretty powerful people who have a genuine ability to influence positive change in this space.

As Nathan noted, "Sara and I were able to help design apps and work with coordinators from TTC Labs, Facebook and YouTube as well as the e-safety commissioner and even a graphic designer from California who designs app interfaces. We got to design various fictional apps and incorporated the safety features we wanted to see in real apps. It was great meeting students and industry leaders from across the country. I thank the school for this wonderful opportunity to represent our College."

Mia Garlick, Director of Policy Australia New Zealand, Facebook and Instagram acknowledged their work and importance of their role by saying:

“We were thrilled with everyone’s insights, thoughtful questions and considered pitches to ensure the safe use of our products and services by young people.

The outcomes from the day will be critical in informing a global perspective on age-appropriate design, safety and transparency. Together with insights, prototypes and designs from the global series of Design Jams, they will culminate in the production of a TTC Labs guide for age-appropriate design which will both inform Facebook’s own approach as well as being open sourced and shared with the wider industry to design better products and improve young people's experience online.”

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2020 Term Dates

To assist families in planning for next year, below are our 2020 term dates for students:

Term 1

Year 7 students start: Friday, 31st January

Year 7 – 12 Classes begin: Monday, 3rd February

Term finishes: Thursday, 26th March

Term 2

Classes begin: Tuesday, 14th April

Year 10 Work Experience: 22 – 26 June

Classes finish: Friday, 26th June

Term 3

Classes begin: Monday, 13th July

Term finishes: Thursday, 18th September

Term 4

Classes begin: Monday, 5th October

Year 12 student classes finish: Thursday, 15th October

Year 11 & 10 students finish: Friday, 27th November

Year 7 – 9 students finish: Friday, 4th December

Child Safety

We have had reports of students crossing Bulmans Road unsafely. Parents are asked to remind students to use the designated crossings.

Additionally, if your child rides to school, please ensure helmets are being worn.

College Production

Catholic Regional College Melton presents Little Shop of Horrors. "Seymour, an orphan and a nerd, is taken in and given a job by Mr. Mushnik, the owner of a run down florist in the seedy part of town. Seymour spends his time doing menial tasks and dreaming of the shop assistant, Audrey. One day, just after an eclipse of the Sun, Seymour discovers a strange plant. He buys it and names it Audrey II. While caring for Audrey II, Seymour discovers the plant's rather unique appetite. The plant grows and grows, as does Seymour's infatuation for Audrey, but who will get her first? FEED ME!" 

Rehearsals are well underway and everything is shaping up for an amazing performance season in the Performing Arts Centre on Thursday 25th, Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July 2019.

Tickets are now on sale and available through the TryBooking website. Make sure you book group tickets early to ensure you are all seated together.

For bookings go to:

https://www.trybooking.com/BDONZ 

Little Shop Poster.pdf

LOTE News

We congratulate Ashley Scicluna for obtaining third prize in the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition on Thursday 18th July. What a wonderful achievement.

Ashley will be presented with her award on Friday 6th September at the University of Melbourne. Congratulations Ashley!

Claudia Russo

Domain Leader - LOTE

IMG_3144.jpg

Book Reviews

Sarah Clewer of Year 12 has written a novel:  A Spell for an Eye

If you were fated to become a 'Saviour' to a planet and chosen by a meteor programmed to find help, what would you do?

At only four years old, Celeste Teal and her best friend, Miranda, were struck by a meteor. Both girls developed mysterious powers after the accident, with Celeste gaining ice powers, and Miranda the ability to control water. Five years later, Celeste's parents die and she is torn away from Miranda and forced to attend a strict boarding school in Antarctica. Over the years, her powers advance, and she is eventually reunited with Miranda. They both soon discover a third victim of the meteor strike - Vanessa, a girl with the ability to wield fire.

After an attack with an old enemy in the caves of Antarctica, the trio discover an ancient written legend composed and kept in the archives of six planets within the solar system. As well as attempting to learn their place in the legend, they must gain each other's trust in order to combine their powers to defeat foes and win over the evil that has taken Antarctica and threatens the world.

During this journey, Celeste meets a mysterious admirer who appears to know everything about her, including her parents' deaths. Is he a friend, or is he after something? And why does he always disappear before Celeste can talk to him?

Should you wish to purchase a copy of Sarah’s book, please pay $20 to the College to pre-order. Orders will be accepted until Friday, 2nd August. Payment can be made by cash or credit card at the Office.

On this date, the College will purchase the number of ordered copies and distribute to purchasers on delivery from the publisher.

We congratulate Sarah on her fine achievement and wish her well in her future endeavours as an author.

Disney Villains: Mother Knows Best

The tale of Rapunzel is widely known. So what of the old witch, Mother Gothel? Where does she come from? And how does she come across the magical golden flower? Here is one account that recounts a version of the story that has remained untold for centuries . . . until now. It is a tale of mothers and daughters, of youth and dark magic. It is a tale of the old witch.

Yassmin's Story By Yassmin Abdel-Magied

At 21, Yassmin found herself working on a remote Australian oil and gas rig; she was the only woman and certainly the only Sudanese-Egyptian-Australian background Muslim woman. With her hijab quickly christened a 'tea cosy' there could not be a more unlikely place on earth for a young Muslim woman to want to be. This is the story of how she got there, where she is going, and how she wants the world to change. Born in the Sudan, Yassmin and her parents moved to Brisbane when she was two, and she has been tackling barriers ever since. At 16 she founded Youth Without Borders, an organisation focused on helping young people to work for positive change in their communities. In 2007 she was named Young Australian Muslim of the Year and in 2010 Young Queenslander of the Year. In 2011 Yassmin graduated with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (First Class Honours) and in 2012 she was named Young Leader of the Year in the Australian Financial Review and Westpac's inaugural 100 Women of Influence Awards as well as an InStyle cultural leader and a Marie Claire woman of the future.

Weekly Reflection

Do all the good you can

Do all the good you can,
By all the means you can,
In all the ways you can,
In all the places you can,
At all the times you can,
To all the people you can,
As long as you ever can.

- Mother Teresa

From the Principal

Welcome back to all families for the start of Term 3. I hope that you all had a restful break and that students are ready to engage in our Semester Two learning programs and activities. I am pleased to be Acting Principal during the first 4 weeks of this term whilst Mark Sheehan is on Long Service Leave. Kerrie-Ann Matthews will be Acting Deputy Principal - Staff during this time.

Staffing

We welcome both new and returning staff to our CRC Melton family. Mr Ian Box joins us in the Health/PE area, Mr Wesley McDougall in the Student Support Area and Mrs Maria Brown, who replaces Miss Ashlee Hughes whilst she is on LSL this term. We also welcome back Mrs Lauren Spearman from Family leave.

Reports

Semester One Reports are now available through the Parent Portal. If any parents/guardians are not able to access the online reports, please email the College at itsupport@crcmelton.com.au.

Semester Two Subject Changes

All Year 9, 10 & 11 Semester Two changes have been finalised. If there are still any concerns with elective placements, student or parents need to contact the Year Level Coordinator to request any changes. Please note that numbers are very tight and students must still fulfil the required subject requirements in our Domain Areas.

2020 Subject Selections

Term 3 marks the start of our 2020 Subject Selection process.

Year 11 students will be given their 2020 Year 12 Subject Selection Information this week.

Year 11 2020 Subject Selection starts with an Information Evening this Thursday, which all students and parents/guardians are urged to attend. Part of the VCE selection process involves student and parent/guardian interviews.

Staff Faith Day –15th July

Yesterday was our Staff Faith day. It was held at CRC Caroline Springs where teaching staff were engaged with a presentation from Dr Carmody Grey on The Gospel of Mercy and Measuring Success. Both sessions were insightful and thought provoking and increased our understanding of today’s Church.

From the Director of Learning

Firstly, a very warm welcome to Term 3 to all students and their families.  Students are encouraged to make the most of every learning opportunity presented to them and revisit their study habits and work ethic in an effort to submit tasks that reflect their full potential.

In reaching their full potential, students should reflect on the feedback they received in their Student Report and on the parent portal last term.  This feedback is valuable to improving student learning by highlighting areas that students both excel in and areas that need some focus.  I encourage all students to strive to achieve continual academic improvement by setting high standards, seeking help, believing in themselves and working hard. 

For parents and carers, we encourage you to continue to be engaged in your student’s learning.  Ask questions, have them teach you what they learnt at school, provide a space conducive to study and supervise their home study. The feedback from Semester 1 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. 

Languages News

Calabria Club Excursion

On the 27th of June, we went to the Calabria Club and had an enjoyable day. We were involved in 4 fun activities that were important to the culture of Italy including bocce, soccer, pasta making and dancing! Out of the four activities, pasta making was my favourite - although if eating was an activity, I would choose that! On behalf of Year 8, I would say we all had an amazing day! Thank you to Mrs. Russo and all the Year 8 teachers for organising a wonderful day out.

-Ellie Grainger 8A

Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition - June, 2019

On Wednesday 26th June the Year 9, 11 and 12 Italian students enjoyed the morning at the University of Melbourne where they partook in a Poetry Recitation Competition. Thirty eight students participated from CRC Melton. We are delighted to announce that we have two finalists who will be competing this week for first, second or third prize, out of 4000 students statewide. We congratulate Ashley Scicluna in Year 12 and Hero Rosales in Year 9 who will attend the University of Melbourne on Thursday 18th July to hopefully, attain a winning placement. In bocca a lupo!

Sports News

Congratulations to Montana Djatschenko who was selected to represent Australia in the Oceania area Championships (Athletics) in Townsville on 24th-29th June. It was an honour for Montana to represent her country and wear the green and gold which she had been dreaming of since she started the sport as a 5 year old. Montana placed 2nd in the U20's Long Jump. 

Volleyball News

Term 3 Volleyschool

Students are invited to sign up for Volleyschool for Term 3. Sessions will run from 4:00pm til 5:30pm on Thursday evenings.

The first session will be on the 25th July and will then run each Thursday evening until the end of Term, so come along and get coached by State League Volleyball coaches.

See attached information sheet for payment details or contact Michael Hill at mhill@crcmelton.com.au.

CRC Melton Volleyball Mini Tournament

The CRC Melton Volleyball Mini Tournament is only 2 weeks away and we would like to introduce as many of you as possible to the game of Volleyball.

Western Region Volleyball will run a two week Mini Tournament at the start of Term 3. This event will run on Thursday 1st and 8th August from 5:30pm (straight after Volleyschool) in the Sheehan Stadium. Cost is $5 per night, per player.

Students, staff, CRC Melton family members and ex-students are all welcome to enter the Tournament. So that the Tournament can run smoothly, please advise your interest in participating by emailing me with your name and the names of any others you will be bringing along to play.

You dont need to be part of a team to join in. We can organise individuals to fit in to teams for the two nights. We need to know numbers before the night to allow a fixture of games to be arranged to fit in as many games as possible. For further infiormation, please email me at mhill@crcmelton.com.au.

Michael Hill

Volleyball Coach

WRV Volleyschool Costs 2019 Melton.pdf

Book Reviews

Wings of Fire #12 By Tui T Sutherland

Growing up in the hives, Cricket has always had a million questions. Why are trees forbidden, even in art? Why do her parents seem to hate her? And the biggest, most dangerous and secret question of all: why is Cricket immune to Queen Wasp's powers? Whenever the queen takes control of all the HiveWings, speaking through their mouths and seeing through their eyes, Cricket has to hide, terrified of being discovered. 

Now she's hiding again, wanted for stealing the Book of Clearsight along with her new SilkWing friends, Blue and Swordtail, and the fierce LeafWing, Sundew. The fugitives need answers, and fast, in order to prevent a LeafWing attack. But Cricket has more questions than ever. How can she stay hidden and discover the queen's deadliest secret? And if she does succeed, can a powerless dragonet really do anything to topple a regime and stop a war?

Always Another Country By Sisonke Msimang

Born in exile, in Zambia, to a guerrilla father and a working mother, Sisonke Msimang is constantly on the move. Her parents, talented and highly educated, travel from Zambia to Kenya and Canada and beyond with their young family. Always the outsider, and against a backdrop of racism and xenophobia, Sisonke develops her keenly perceptive view of the world. In this sparkling account of a young girl's path to womanhood, Sisonke interweaves her personal story with her political awakening in America and Africa, her euphoria at returning to the new South Africa, and her disillusionment with the new elites. Confidential and reflective, Always Another Country is a search for belonging and identity: a warm and intimate story that will move many readers.

Woolworths Earn & Learn

Thank you for your participation and support in the Woolworths Earn and Learn promotion. The school raised a healthy total of 8,157 points. These points were used to purchase equipment for the Lunchtime Art Club, The Fire Carrier Indigenous Leaders Group and The Library for lunchtime activities. A photo will follow once our delivery arrives in the coming weeks. This will go a long way towards providing entertaining projects for the students at lunchtimes.

Headspace Melton’s Tuning into Teens

Headspace Melton’s Tuning into Teens Term 3 Program will run for 7 consecutive weeks from Wednesday 24th July until 11th September between 6:00pm-8.30pm. It will have an emphasis on Early Intervention and managing difficult behaviour. Our consortium partner Mackillop Family Services will be co-facilitating the program with our staff.

See attached flyer for more information.

Testimonials from this term’s participants and more information regarding the program can be accessed by clicking this link: https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/melton/term-2-tuning-into-teens-is-a-wrap/

Luke Hartley

Community Awareness and Engagement Worker | Odyssey House Victoria

hsm_TINT_Term3_Flyer.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Wise and compassionate God, help us to be willing to respond to the needs of refugees and asylum-seekers and not simply seek to shift the burden of care onto others. Call our leaders to justice, generosity and compassion. Help them create and implement strategies that are fair and just and treat refugees and asylum-seekers with dignity and care.

O God, our comforter, we ask you to comfort the broken-hearted and protect the vulnerable. We pray for those who are in detention at this time, and for those who face removal to an uncertain future. We pray for those who struggle to buy food and to find secure housing. And for those experiencing stress and mental anguish. We ask you to assure them of your great love, surround them with your presence and fill them with your peace.

Amen.

From the Principal

African Student Conference

On Tuesday, the College hosted the 2019 African Student Conference and students from Melton Secondary College, Mount Alexander College, Staughton College, Kurunjang Secondary College and Hampton Park Secondary College joined us in celebration of African culture.

The aim of the African Student Conference was to inspire and engage African Australian students in their educational pursuits and career opportunities. It showcased community leaders who have been successful in the fields of art, sport, science, law and health to build capacity and strengthen cohesion amongst the African Australian community.

Special guests included MLA for Melton Steve McGhie and Melton Mayor, Bob Turner. Principals and school representatives from several schools were also present. It was a celebration, an affirmation and a positive day overall for our African students and all involved.

Special mention to Rob Blackley, Mollie Daphne and Simma Maiel for organising the day.

School Holidays 

Best wishes to all families for the July school holidays. Monday 15th July is a Student Free Day with Staff participating in Faith Day. Students resume classes on Tuesday 16th July which is a Day 2 of the timetable.

2019 College Production - Little Shop of Horrors

Catholic Regional College Melton presents Little Shop of Horrors. "Seymour, an orphan and a nerd, is taken in and given a job by Mr. Mushnik, the owner of a run down florist in the seedy part of town. Seymour spends his time doing menial tasks and dreaming of the shop assistant, Audrey. One day, just after an eclipse of the Sun, Seymour discovers a strange plant. He buys it and names it Audrey II. While caring for Audrey II, Seymour discovers the plant's rather unique appetite. The plant grows and grows, as does Seymour's infatuation for Audrey, but who will get her first? FEED ME!" 

Rehearsals are well underway and everything is shaping up for an amazing performance season in the Performing Arts Centre on Thursday 25th, Friday 26th and Saturday 27th July 2019.

Tickets are now on sale and available through the TryBooking website. Make sure you book group tickets early to ensure you are all seated together.

For bookings go to:

https://www.trybooking.com/BDONZ 

Kerrie-Ann Matthews

Community Relations

Little Shop Poster.pdf

Weekly Reflection

In the Midst of Winter

Lord, In the midst of Winter, when the days are cold and wind can pierce remind us of the warmth of your love.

In the midst of Winter, when days are short, dawn comes late, and dusk arrives early remind us that in the darkness your light still shines.

In the midst of Winter, when the flowers of spring still lie hidden in the earth, when leaves are off the trees, and the world can seem bleak remind us that all seasons have their place in your plan and warmer days are a short time away.

And when in our lives we feel as if we are experiencing a season of winter, reach out to us with the power of your resurrection so that we may feel the warmth of your love and see your light that alone can take away the darkness of our soul.

From the Principal

On Monday, Marlene Jorgensen, our new Principal for 2020 visited CRC Melton for the first time.

Staff welcomed Marlene at morning tea, and then we had a school tour where we met informally with many students and staff.

Parents will have an opportunity to meet Marlene later on in the year.

Marlene was very complimentary about our school, the warmth of greeting from staff and students, and the facilities on offer for our students.

For further information regarding our new Principal, refer to the attached letter from Bishop Mark Edwards.

Mark Sheehan

Principal

CRC Melton - Appointment Announcement.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Mid -Year Exams

Year 10 and Year 11 VCE students are only required to attend school for exams as no classes will operate. However, there will be supervised study rooms available.

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

Work Experience - Monday 24th - Friday 28th June

We wish our Year 10s the best next week. This experience is always valuable as it either reinforces that the pathway is the correct one or tells them that maybe it is not their best pathway option. Either way it assists when our Year 10 students choose their 2020 VCE/VCAL pathways and subjects next term.

Last Day of Term 2 and Buses

Our College will finish classes on Friday 28th June at 2:30pm. Please note the following information regarding bus service pick-ups for next Friday, 28th June. All Bacchus Marsh Coaches will arrive basically an hour earlier to accommodate the 2:30pm finish but not our Sita Town bus services.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

Changes to Semester Two electives and subjects have now closed.

Staff PL Day

The College will be running a Professional Learning day on Monday, 24th June. This is a student free day. Staff will be involved with training as part of the College Resilience Project.

Sports News

Year 7 Girls Volleyball Grand Final

Last Wednesday 12th June we held the Year 7 Girls Volleyball grand final here at school in our Sheehan Sports Stadium. Our Year 7 team, coached by Miss Segrave, competed against Caroline Chisholm to gain the winning title of Year 7 Premiers. Our girls were very excited to compete in their first secondary school grand final. It was a fantastic game played between both schools and one of the most skilful and advanced games we have seen at a Year 7 level which showcased the girls talents, set plays and tactics. It was an intense 5 set match played between the girls. A huge congratulations to the girls making it through the whole season undefeated. The final scores and the girls involved are listed below.

Final Scores

• Lost 1st set Melton 22, Chisolm 25
• Won 2nd set Melton 25, Chisholm 23
• Won 3rd set Melton 25, Chisholm 16
• Lost 4th set Melton 26, Chisholm 28
• Won 5th set Melton 15, Chisholm 5

The Team

Coach- Miss Jennifer Segrave, Student Coaches- Alyanna Manalili & Ager Mangok 

Year 7 Players

Belle Bonifacio, Achol Chok, Mele Finau, Nana Gawam, Ashira Lazaro, Shayne Manalili, Nyahok Wicthiel, Anna Yool

CRC Melton Volleyball Mini Tournament

We would like to introduce as many of you as possible to the game of Volleyball.

As a taster, Western Region Volleyball will run a two week Mini Tournament at the start of Term 3.

More details will follow but keep Thursday nights, August 1st and 8th free!

Cost will only be $5 a night. Please contact me at mhill@crcmelton.com.au to express interest and be put on an email list to be advised of the latest news about the Mini Tournament.

Tuning into Teens Term 3 Program

Please find attached flyer for Headspace Melton’s Tuning into Teens Term 3 Program. Term 3 TINT will run for 7 consecutive weeks on Wednesdays 6:00pm-8:30pm from 24th July to 11th September. It will have more of an emphasis on early intervention and managing difficult behaviour compared to previous programs.

You can view testimonials from this term’s participants and more information regarding the program here https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/melton/term-2-tuning-into-teens-is-a-wrap/

Community members can register their interest by calling Headspace Melton’s reception on 8065 5600 or sending an email through to contact@headspacemelton.org.au.

Luke Hartley

Community Awareness and Engagement Worker | Odyssey House Victoria

hsm_TINT_Term3flyer.pdf

July School Holiday Activities

July School Holidays are fast approaching and Young Communities have some great FREE opportunities available including recreational activities such as Basketball, Futsal, AFL, Street Art and the movies!

See attached flyer for more information.

Stephanie Serret

Youth Development Officer | Melton City Council

JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES.pdf
JULY Free School Holidays Permission Form.pdf

Weekly Reflection

When was the last time that we heard the wind of your Spirit
roar through this place?
When was the last time your fire lit up this room?
When was the last time we took you at your word
and met together in expectation of your Spirit filling this place,
and these lives with your Glory and Power?
Lord, you challenge us with Pentecost.
Do we believe that this was a once in eternity experience,
never to be repeated?
That the Holy Spirit was poured out on your followers for a single purpose,
and ended His work at that instant?
If so, then maybe that is why the Church seems so powerless in this age,
helpless when faced with the needs both spiritual and physical,
that we see in the world.
Lord, as we meet together, and celebrate once again
the memory of that first Pentecost, may it be for us as it was then
a moment of empowerment, an awareness of your Glory in this dark world,
a life changing experience. Amen.

From the Principal

With our focus on Pentecost, Father Ron Rolheiser OMI, provides some interesting insights:

‘We all live with inferiorities, dashed dreams, and deep frustrations. Because of this we tend to grow jealous and envy other people’s lives, seeing in their lives the things that we are missing within our own. This increases our disappointment with who we are and, all too often, puts us into an attitude within which we refuse to accept what is good, happy, creative, and pleasurable within our own lives.

There is a beautiful image in Scripture that depicts this. After the resurrection of Jesus, his disciples are unable to pick up the spirit of his new presence. They want, instead, to have their old earthly Jesus back. Eventually, they are reduced to huddling in fear in a locked room, paralysed.

When they do receive the spirit of the resurrected Christ, they burst from that room, now alive with the spirit for their actual lives. When we live in restless unhappiness, not satisfied with our situation in life because we would want a different job, or a different family, or a different body, or a different set of friends, or a different city to live it, we live, like the Apostles, huddled in fear.

Pentecost in not an abstract mystery. We are asked to accept the spirit of our actual lives. When we do this, then we no longer belittle our own lives but know that even with all our inferiorities and frustrations, we are something special.’

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Years 11 & 12 VCAA General Achievement Task (GAT)

All Year 12 VCE students and any Year 11 students undertaking a Unit 3/4 study must sit the GAT on Wednesday, 12th June between 10:00am and 1:15pm in the Trade Training Centre.

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

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. 

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:

Years 10 & 11 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 the 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 winter 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.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

Year 11 students will be able to investigate any Unit 2 subject changes. Requests for Semester 2 Subject changes must first go to Mrs Dickson. Once a pathway plan has been approved students can complete a Change of Subject Form. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson. All changes must be applied for and processed by 21st June.

Refugee Week Film Screening 2019

The Catholic Regional College Social Justice team recognises this week to promote positive images of people who have experienced displacement and create a culture of welcome in our community. The week also includes International Refugee Day on 20th June. 

In order to best understand some of the hardships experienced by those seeking asylum and refugees, a screening of acclaimed documentary, Human Flow will be held on 20th June in the Performing Arts Centre. Human Flow, directed by Ai Weiwei, explores what is the greatest human displacement since World War II and the personal stories of those escaping famine, climate change and war. Screening will commence promptly at 6:30pm, doors will open at 6:00pm. 

Please contact me at rcassar@crcmelton.com.au for more information. The Social Justice team hopes to see many members of the college community on the night.

Sports News

Year 7 Girls Volleyball 

Last week on Wednesday 5th June we had the Year 7 girls Volleyball Semi Final played here in our Sheehan Sports Stadium. Our girls ended up winning the match 3 sets to 1 set against CRC North Keilor and the scores from the sets are as follows:

• 1st set won - Melton 25, NK 11
• 2nd set lost - Melton 16, NK 25
• 3rd set won - Melton 25, NK 13
• 4th set won - Melton 25, NK 20

Our Girls Volleyball team are now through to the grand final against Caroline Chisholm Catholic College which will be played in the Sheehan Stadium tomorrow. We wish them the best of luck and we are all so proud that they have made their first grand final. We wish our coaches Jen Segrave & Michael Hill victory in tomorrow's match.

Book Reviews

Growing Up African in Australia By Maxine Beneba Clarke

Australians of the African diaspora have arrived here in many different ways- directly from the continent; via the Caribbean, the Americas and the United Kingdom; making the journey to Australia over one generation, or several. What is it like to grow up African in Australia? Growing Up African aims to defy, question or shed light on the many stereotypes that currently exist about the vibrant extended African community in Australia. Contributors include Faustina Agolley, Santilla Chingaipe, Carly Findlay, Khalid Warsame, Nyadol Nyuon, Tariro Mavondo, Magan Magan and many, many more.

The Deadly 7 By Garth Jennings

The Deadly 7 is a monster adventure by Garth Jennings, writer and director of animated movie Sing, and is packed full of hilarious illustrations. One night, deep in the catacombs of St Paul’s Cathedral, eleven-year-old Nelson stumbles across a strange and ancient machine, which accidentally extracts the seven deadly sins from his soul in the form of living breathing, grumpy, smelly monsters. Suddenly he’s stuck with seven angry, sneaky, greedy, vain, adorable, thieving, farting new friends, who help him form the best (and weirdest) plan ever: to find and rescue his missing beloved big sister.

Fr Rob Galea's Coming Home Tour

Coming Home is Fr Rob Galea’s seventh music project. This tour has been four years in the making and is a collaboration with some of the best songwriters and producers from across the world. In this album, Fr Galea sings about the need to return to our first Love; we choose Christ but we often run away. No matter how far we wander, God will run towards us as we begin our journey back home.

Fr Rob Galea's ‘Coming Home’ concert will be an amazing and contemporary witness of faith that will reach out to young people in a way they can relate to easily. This event is open to all ages and we encourage families to come and celebrate the love of God, through music, together.

We are hopeful of drawing as many young people as possible to further inspire them in their Catholic faith and to encourage them to know how Jesus can work in their daily lives.

Weekly Reflection

May our ‘way of looking’ become more like yours

Lord, we come before you as we are.

We ask you to take away from us all that makes us less than human.

Strengthen us with the power of your Spirit that our attitude and outlook may develop,

and our “way of looking” may become more like yours.

Help us to remain positive - encouraging and appreciating one another,

looking upon people in the same way that you do.

Amen.

From the Principal

Archbishop Visit

There would not be too many schools in Australia who had both a Bishop and an Archbishop visit to give Mass in one particular week!

On Friday 31st May, Archbishop Peter Comensoli was joined by Canonical Administrators Rev. Maurie Cooney, Rev. Michael Moody, Rev. Fabian Smith, Rev. Peter Chin Hoang, Rev. Gerard Keith, Rev. Mgr. Charles Portelli, Rev. Richard Rosse, Rev. Arockia Sebastia and Chaplains Rev. Patrick Bradford, Rev. Justel Callos, and Rev. Joseph Panackal. The liturgy was held at St Catherine’s Church on Friday afternoon to celebrate the Annual CRC Federation Staff Mass.

Over 440 staff were present as the CRC Melton Ensemble opened Mass with a beautiful rendition of "We are Called" opening hymn.

Special thanks to Rev. Michael Moody and Margaret Cassar for organising St Catherine's of Siena Church, and all of our staff and students who contributed to this very special event.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Anaphylaxis

As families are aware Anaphylaxis is a major Health issue for many students in schools. We have had 2 incidents over the last week where a student has suffered an Anaphylaxis response due to nuts. In one case, another student simply opened a bag of Trail-mix whilst seated in front and the air borne fragments were enough to trigger an Anaphylaxis attack. In the other, a student suffered an attack after using her locker after someone else had handled it who had nut residue on their hands. In both cases the students were treated quickly with no long term ill effects.

Nevertheless, it reminds us all; parents, teachers and students to be vigilant and aware of possible nut contamination in areas where students who are anaphylactic can be located.

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

An interview evening will be held this Thursday, 6th June between 4:00pm and 7:00pm. Interviews can now be booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM). Normal classes will operate during the day. Interview bookings close this Wednesday, 5th June at 4:00pm.

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

Mid Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks 2019

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 and English at the same times. These assessment tasks will take place during normal timetabled class. These are listed below:

Years 11 & 12 VCAA General Achievement Task (GAT)

All Year 12 VCE students and any Year 11 students undertaking a Unit 3/4 study must sit the GAT on Wednesday, 12th June between 10:00am and 1:15pm in the Trade Training Centre.

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. The College will be closed on this day.

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. 

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:

Years 10 & 11 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 the 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 winter 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.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

All Year 10 and Year 9 students need to email their request for changes to Semester 2 electives to me at jchristie@crcmelton.com.au by Friday 7th June. In the email, students need to nominate the elective 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 subject levies.

Year 11 students will be able to investigate any Unit 2 subject changes. Requests for Semester 2 Subject changes must first go to Mrs Dickson. Once a pathway plan has been approved students can complete a Change of Subject Form. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson. All changes must be applied for and processed by 21st June.

John Christie

Deputy Principal - Staff

10 & 11 Exam Timetable.pdf

Act for Peace: Ration Challenge 2019

This year, a group of seven students and five staff are participating in the Ration Challenge during Refugee Week. All participants receive a ration pack, similar to the rations provided to Syrian refugees in Jordan's refugee camps. The challenge invites staff and students to experience some of the experiences that displaced people face as they flee their homelands in search for safety and stability. 

All money raised will provide Syrian refugees with food, medicine and education and you'll also be supporting other conflict- and disaster-affected communities.  

By sponsoring the CRC Melton Ration Challenge 2019, you will greatly assist Act for Peace to achieve safety, justice and dignity through their humanitarian response, sustainable development and advocacy programs around the world.

You can donate directly to the team and follow our journey by following the link:

https://school.rationchallenge.org.au/catholic-regional-college-melton 

SACCSS Intermediate Futsal Tournament

On 27^th May, twenty-one Year 9 and 10 students competed in the SACCSS Intermediate Futsal Tournament. The boys were coached by Mr Gavran and his assistant Liam Volf, whilst the girls were coached by Mr Reithofer and assistant Danica Klasic. The girls team played at the Melbourne Sports Aquatic Centre and the boys team played in Pit Lane, Albert Park. Both teams were very competitive, with some wins and losses for both teams.

Results as follows:

Girls:

Wins:

Antonine: 5-0

Kolbe: 5-1

CRC St Albans: 4-0

Losses:

CRC Caroline Springs: 1-4

St Monica’s College: 1-5

Boys:  

Wins:

Penola: 4-1

Losses:

Marymede: 5-2

CRC Caroline Springs: 5-2

MacKillop: 4-2

CRC North Keilor: 10-2

Congratulations to both teams for participating and showcasing their talents and sportsmanship towards their teammates and their opponents throughout the day.

Sports News

Year 7 Premier League

On 29th May, our Year 7s played their fifth and final round of premier league against CRC Caroline Springs. Our Girls Volleyball team won again and have gone through the season undefeated and will compete in the semi-final tomorrow against CRC North Keilor. The match will be played here at school in Sheehan Stadium. Our girl’s netball team only lost one game and only missed out on finals due to percentage which was unlucky. A number of our teams place 3rd and 4th in the competition overall which is a great achievement by the Year 7s in their first year of secondary school premier league. We wish our Volleyball team the best of luck for tomorrow and hopefully we can bring home the win. I hope all the students have enjoyed their first premier league season here at CRC Melton and am looking forward to all the upcoming sport in semester 2.

Won Girls Netball 29-14

Won Boys Volleyball 3-0

Won Girls Volleyball 3-0

Won Boys Basketball 31-16

Lost Girls Basketball 17-24

Lost Boys Soccer 3-7

Lost Girls Soccer 0-6

Lost Boys AFL 17-59

Senior AFL

Our Boys and Girls Senior AFL matches today against Emmanuel College were cancelled unfortunately due to unsafe playing surfaces at the ovals. Our Senior AFL teams will compete in their last game against CRC Sydenham for the annual clash to win the Bruce Runnalls Cup. This tradition will take place on Thursday 27th June this year and will be played at Arnolds Creek Recreation Reserve. Everyone is welcome to attend. Support and attendance at this special event would be much appreciated.

Weekly Reflection

Come, O Spirit of God

And make within us your dwelling place and home.

May our darkness be dispelled by your light,

And our troubles calmed by your peace;

May all evils be redeemed by your love,

All pain transformed through the suffering of Christ,

And all dying glorified by his risen life. Amen.

From the Principal

On Tuesday Bishop Mark Edwards celebrated Mass with our school community and officially opened our new Sports Stadium. Fr Michael Moody from Melton and Fr Joseph Panackal from Melton South concelebrated Mass with Bishop Mark.

Today I was filled with enormous gratitude as the College announced that the new Sports Stadium will be named Sheehan Stadium.

In his homily Bishop Mark mentioned the story of Eric Liddell. Eric, a devout Christian and Scottish athlete, competed in the Paris 1924 Olympic Games and was featured in the films ‘Chariots of Fire’. In Paris Liddell refused to run in the heats for his favoured sprint because they were held on a Sunday, the Lord’s day. Instead he competed in the 400 metres held on a weekday, a race that he won. Liddell said the following regarding competitive running:

‘I have no formula for winning the race. Everyone runs in her own way, or his own way. And where does the power come from, to see the race to its end? From within. Jesus said, 'Behold, the Kingdom of God is within you. If with all your hearts, you truly seek me, you shall ever surely find me.' If you commit yourself to the love of Christ, then that is how you run a straight race.'

It is in a spirit like Eric Liddell’s that we would like our current and future students here at CRC Melton to compete in this our marvellous new stadium.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Project Rockit – Digital Workshop 21st May

Last Tuesday we hosted the inaugural Project Rockit Digital Workshop for a group of students across Years 7 to 9 from nine schools in the western suburbs. CRC was represented by our SRC students. Schools participating in the workshop with our students were CRC North Keilor, Overnewtown Anglican Community College, Point Cook P-12 College, Copperfield College, Sunbury Downs College, Westbourne Grammar, Pascoe Vale Girls College and Melbourne Girls Grammar.  The students came from a very broad and diverse community, providing a rich and enlightening experience for all involved.

We have been working with the Project Rockit team for the past eight years in Years 7 & 8 addressing the issues of bullying and online bullying. Project Rockit in partnership with Facebook and Instagram recently launched their Digital Workshop in an endeavour to grow 10,000 Digital Ambassadors from 600 schools in 40 communities across Australia. As a result of our connection with Project Rockit we were invited to host the first Digital Ambassador workshop across the country.

The workshop brought together students from different schools to grow a generation of digital ambassadors for school and wider online communities, who are equipped with the empathy and skills to tackle online hate and lead a better, kinder digital world. The program provides youth-driven training of young people focussed on building peer networks to create supportive online communities. Together with ongoing online resources, Digital Ambassadors are equipped with the tools to spark their own school-based social action and are empowered to build a safer, kinder digital world.

The students involved in the workshop have the opportunity to plug into a powerful movement of over 300,000 other young people who are united, prepared and ready to stand up to bullying - on and offline.

https://www.projectrockit.com.au/digitalambassadors/

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

VCE Unit 3/Year 12 VCAL Parent Student Teacher Interviews

A VCE Unit 3 Parent Student Teacher Interview evening will be held on Thursday, 6th June between 4:00pm to 7:00pm. Interviews will be booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM). Normal classes will operate during the day. Interview bookings will open this Thursday, May 30.

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

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 during normal timetabled class. These are listed below:

CRC Federation Mass Day

Families are asked to note that Friday, 31st May is the CRC Federation Mass day where staff from all five Regional Colleges come together for Mass and reflection. The morning will be used for our staff to participate in Child Safety and Disability updates. Students are not required at school on this day.

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, requests 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.

Sports News

Year 7 Premier League

On 15th May we played our third round of Premier League against MacKillop College. MacKillop is always a strong successful team, so we knew we were up for a challenging day. Our Year 7s played great and we had some very close competitive games. Five of our teams won, which was a fantastic effort.

Won Girls Netball 35-29

Won Girls Volleyball 3-0

Won Boys Volleyball 3-2

Won Girls Soccer 5-0

Won Boys Soccer 6-4

Lost Boys Basketball 18-60

Lost Girls Basketball 12-67

Lost Boys AFL 1-97

Last week on 22nd May, we played our fourth round against Emmanuel College. It was an extremely tough day for our Year 7s with only one of our teams winning. They were by far the most difficult teams we have played. We did have our Girls Volleyball win which leaves them undefeated heading into the last round. We have our last round tomorrow before teams are notified if they made the semi-finals or not. The results are as follows.

Lost Girls Netball 15-23

Won Girls Volleyball 3-1

Lost Boys Volleyball 0-3

Lost Girls Soccer 0-4

Lost Boys Soccer 0-5

Lost Boys Basketball 11-44

Lost Girls Basketball 18-47

Lost Boys AFL 13-64

Book Reviews

How to Make Friends with the Dark By Kathleen Glasgow

It's the brightest day of summer and it's dark outside. It's dark in your house, dark in your room, and dark in your heart. You feel like the darkness is going to split you apart. Here is what happens when your mother dies. That's how it feels for Tiger. It's always been Tiger and her mother against the world. Then, on a day like any other, Tiger's mother dies. And now it's Tiger, alone. Here is how you learn to make friends with the dark.

To Night Owl, From Dogfish By Meg Wolitzer & Holly Goldberg Sloan

Told almost entirely through emails, this is the exuberant, funny story of two girls who try to get their gay fathers back together. It's a novel about the true meaning of family, written by two exceptional and beloved authors. Avery Bloom is anxious and academic and afraid of the water. Bett Devlin is brash and athletic and loves to surf. The only things they seem to have in common are their age – twelve – and the fact that their dads have fallen in love with each other. Now their dads are sending them to the same sleepaway camp, against their will, so that they can become friends. But when the girls reluctantly grow to like each other and start looking forward to becoming a family, their dads fall out of love. Can Avery and Bett figure out a way to bring their fathers back together now that they can't imagine a life without a stepsister?

CRC Melton Social Volleyball Competition

This competition is ready to go…..it just needs you!

Have fun, develop new skills, make new friends! Play a wonderful game in a safe and enjoyable environment.

We are looking to start this competition in Term 3.

Who can play?

Anyone from the CRC Melton community - current students, family members, staff, ex-students. Referees will be provided.

When will it happen?

From 5.30pm on Thursday evenings following Volleyschool.

What do I need to wear?

Appropriate sporting footwear and any suitable clothing. No need for team uniforms.

How long are the games?

Games will be 3 sets in duration to allow for a schedule to be prepared. A schedule will be created once the number of teams are known.

How do I join?

You can create your own team (6 minimum) or join as an individual and we will match you up with other players to help form teams. Simply contact Michael Hill at CRC Melton (mhill@crcmelton.com.au)

What does it cost?

The team at Western Region Volleyball would be running the competition. The cost would be $70 for the term (about 8 or 9 matches), however it does depend on the number of teams entered. The cost per Term for those doing Volleyschool (4.00pm – 5.30pm) AND playing in a team would be $165. A saving of $25!

So, talk with your fellow students and family members and see who would like to join in and have great fun playing a great game in the fantastic new stadium.

Please contact me to express interest or ask any questions via email at mhill@crcmelton.com.au

Foster Care Information Evening

Anglicare Victoria is looking for people who have a place in their heart for a child in need of a safe home. Care can be short term or long term.

See attached flyer for event details.

Jessica Watson

Angelicare Foster Care Recruitment Worker

001_FosterCare_InfoSession_SchoolAd_2019_MeltonSouth_V4_11_JULY.pdf

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.