E-News 23 April
Welcome to Term 2
Welcome to Week 2
A very warm welcome back to the start of another exciting term at the College. I hope, as always, that families and friends took time to spend some quality time together over the break.
ANZAC Day
In the lead up to ANZAC Day on Thursday, we paused as a College community on Monday this week to honour all Australians who are serving, and have served, in theatres of conflict in many parts of the world.
We were thrilled to have Mr Peter Collins, father of Year 10 student William, attend our ceremony. Mr Collins served in the Australian Army for 15 years and saw active service in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Whilst in service he performed duties as both a Medic and a Fitter Armourer. We acknowledge Mr Collins’ service to our country and thank him for giving of his time so generously yesterday.
We also acknowledge Cadets Alex Cann, William Collins and Maxwell Coughlan for their contribution to the ceremony in leading us through the laying of the wreath, the Last Post and the Reveille.
Celebrating ANZAC Day is a very important part of the Australian culture. It is not a celebration of war but rather an acknowledgement of the exploits, bravery and courage of all those who have served and are currently serving our country. The day allows us to reflect on the legacy of the ANZACs which continues to shape our society today.
During the ceremony, we reflected on the Spirit of the ANZAC which was suggested by official war historian C.E.W. Bean to have "stood, and still stands, for reckless valour in a good cause, for enterprise, resourcefulness, fidelity, comradeship and endurance that will never own defeat."
We also reflected on the values that underpinned the ANZACs and explored how we can take inspiration from them in upholding what we stand for through living our own College values out in a genuine way. We encouraged all students to proudly represent the Av Christi and honour the crest, its heritage and meaning, each day they put on the College uniform - just like the ANZACs did in donning theirs.
Commemorating ANZAC Day importantly also reminds us, just as Jesus did, to strive toward peace always and to seek to love one another just as he loved us. “It is by continuing to work towards a future of peace and security for all, that we can best honour all those who have and continue to serve our country” (Dame Cindy Kiro)
As conflict continues to impact so many people around our world, we pray for peace:
Lord God, as we are currently in the Easter Season, we rejoice in the new life Your Son the Risen Jesus gives us. You offer us hope and peace. We thank You for this treasured land of ours, Australia. Today as we remember the Anzac soldiers who sought to uphold the value of freedom and who fought to protect our country, help us to be inspired by their efforts and to strive for peace in all we do. Lord Jesus, and His Church, the Body of Christ – Pray for us. Amen.
Inter House Cross Country Carnival
In another first at our K-12 College, we were thrilled to hold our inaugural whole school Inter-House Cross Country Carnival at Piney Lakes Reserve on Tuesday last week.
This signature event allowed students to showcase their talents and to represent their House with pride. It was wonderful to see so many students courageously giving their best, committing fully to the event, and compassionately helping others in their time of need.
We acknowledge Head of Sport, Mr James Howard and the HPE team along with the House Community Coordinators for their enormous efforts in bringing the day to fruition. It was also excellent to see so many parents and families present which added to the exciting atmosphere on the day.
Congratulations to all students who took part in the event, with special commendation to the year level champions and runners up who were recognised at our awards ceremony on Friday last week. Well done also to the following Houses for winning carnival shields:
Junior Shield - Xavier
Senior Shield - Mackillop
Overall Shield - Mackillop
College Musical Production – Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
This week is a very exciting time in the life of the College as many months of hard work and dedication come to fruition with the launch of our whole school musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Tonight is Opening Night with shows continuing through to Saturday.
In the build-up to Opening Night, we were very pleased today to welcome around 400 students from local primary schools to attend the full-dress rehearsal and enjoy a sneak peak of what promises to be an outstanding production.
I would like to acknowledge the enormous efforts of Director Mrs Jo Palmer and Co-Director Melissa Kelly along with the extensive staff team who have worked tirelessly to ensure that all is in readiness for tonight.
I would also like to acknowledge our amazing students who have courageously stepped outside of their comfort zone, committed themselves fully to the preparation and rehearsal process and been compassionately there for one another – they have epitomised what it means to live out our College values and are to be commended for their efforts.
Performance details and access to the limited range of remaining tickets are available here.
K-12 College Uniform – Summer/Winter Changeover
We would like to advise our community that the two-week grace period into Term 2 for the transition from summer to winter uniform concludes at the end of this week. This means that all students will need to attend school in their full winter uniform commencing Monday next week (Week 3). We are very grateful to our families for their terrific support of the new winter-uniform roll out.
Leave
I would like to inform our community that I will be on leave during the month of May. Vice Principal Mr Tim Shanassy will assume the role of Acting Principal in my absence.
College Calendar
As a school which prides itself on providing multiple holistic learning opportunities for students, we consequently have a very busy College calendar.
To support clarity of communication, I remind families to regularly access the College Calendar here and also the College App here. These communication strategies were co-developed with the school by our Friends of Av and continue to be fine-tuned to provide a quality user experience.
Student Free Days
A reminder to all families that tomorrow, April 24th, marks a student-free day for students as we will be conducting Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews. Also, Thursday, April 25th, is a public holiday to honour ANZAC Day. Enjoy the well-deserved break together!
Best wishes and every blessing.
Jeff Allen
Principal
Welcome to Term 2!
This term there are some major events and projects in our Catholic Identity and Mission space that include students, staff and families! We are excited to share these with you.
Week 3 – Year 7 Quest Breakfast – Families and Students
On Tuesday 30 April we will be hosting a breakfast for Year 7 Students and their families as a follow-up from their Quest Retreat that occurred in Week 2 of Term 1. Our Year 11 and 12 Quest and Cadre Leaders will also attend. The breakfast is an opportunity for students and parents/guardians to meet, check in with Home Teachers, and be present for the launch of the Year 7 Winter Appeal – Canned Food Drive. More specific details will be communicated soon by email. We look forward to seeing you there!
Week 3 – Year 10 Retreat
In Week 3, our Year 10s will embark on their retreat centered around the theme "Answering the Call," drawing inspiration from Matthew 7:7-12. This three-day event will include reflection, acts of service, and opportunities to contemplate their futures, aligning with the Own Your Own Path Expo in the same week. Further details will follow via email.
Week 3 - Winter Appeal
On Tuesday of Week 3 we will officially launch our College-wide Winter Appeal, engaging students from Pre-Kindy to Year 12 in supporting those in need during colder months. Each year level will focus on specific donations to ensure our impact as a community is maximised. Details will be emailed, but here's a basic guide for planning support:
Junior School - non-perishables (not canned food – pasta, rice, cereal, etc.)
Year 7 - canned food
Year 8 - winter clothing
Year 9 - sleeping rough (blankets, sleeping bags, tents, etc)
Year 10 - protective clothing – gloves, socks, beanies/hats, scarves, etc.
Year 11 and 12 - toiletries and personal hygiene items
Week 4 – Fr Rob Galea
During Week 4 we will have world famous priest, Fr Rob Galea, visiting the College. He and his band will spend most of Tuesday with our Year 11 students and Wednesday with our Year 12 Students. Fr Rob is an inspiring musician who uses his story and journey to faith to capture people’s hearts in minds! On Thursday evening there will be a charity concert with Fr Rob and his band with proceeds going to Caritas Australia and LifeLink WA.
Parish Mission – St Thomas More Parish
Saint Thomas More Parish will be hosting their Parish Mission from Wednesday 8 until Saturday 11 May.
Saint Pat’s Kitchen
We had an overwhelming number of students volunteer to cook for Saint Patrick’s Community Support Centre in Fremantle. From Week 3, each Thursday after school, students will cook a variety of meals that can be frozen and served to people who need it most. We thank the generosity of our staff and students for giving up their time and resources in this way for what is such an amazing cause.
Staff Prayer - Mondays in the Parish Church
You may have noticed that on Monday mornings our staff have been gathering for prayer in the Parish Church. This is a wonderful opportunity for our staff to gather in the presence of the Eucharist to pray. As the Av Christi – the Body of Christ – praying in this way brings us together and reminds us of our mission to serve God through the learning and experiences we bring to our students. We thank Fr Phong and the Parish Council for the beautiful partnership between our communities.
Launch of new Acts of Service Program
The College, in collaboration with the Student Ministry Team, is revamping its approach to acknowledging student service. Instead of focusing solely on hours logged, we're shifting towards recognizing impactful acts of service. A new program launching in Semester Two will use tiered systems to track and reward these efforts. The Student Ministry Team is currently finalising the program details and preparing for its launch in Term 2. This initiative aims to streamline service requirements while empowering students to contribute meaningfully to social justice causes.
Damian Ramos-Nunez
Deputy Principal Catholic Identity and Mission
A review of the College’s Homework Club offerings was conducted in Term One of this year with the goal of maximising the time available for students to refine their study skills and approach to homework.
Following feedback from the student leadership team, we are pleased to announce that the new and invigorated A.S.P.I.R.E Club (formerly known as Homework Club) is ready to launch in Term 2. The acronym A.S.P.I.R.E stands for Academic Success, Progress, Innovation and Revision and captures the types of activities students can engage in to propel their academic growth.
A.S.P.I.R.E Club is open Monday to Friday before school from 7.30am and after school Monday to Thursday from 3.20pm to 4.30pm in the library. During these times, students can arrange to meet with teachers to seek further feedback, collaborate with their peers, complete homework, study for examinations or participate in revision workshops.
I look forward to seeing students across all year levels at A.S.P.I.R.E and there will be further notices about revision opportunities throughout the year.
Jenny Miraudo
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning
College Uniform Changeover
The winter uniform will be compulsory for all students from the commencement of Week 3, in Term 2 (29 April 2024).
We're excited to announce that a new shipment of K-2 short-sleeve polos, SunSmart long-sleeve polos and College ties will be arriving soon.
All items can be purchased via and in person at the Uniform Shop.
K-2 polos will be available from 3 May 2024
College ties will be available from 13 May 2024
Enrolments Update
Year 7 2026 – Progressing Enrolment Applications has commenced!
We have some vital information for all new and existing families who are interested in a place for Year 7 in 2026, as follows:
Year 7 2026 - Enrolment Applications for Siblings of Current Av Students
Do you have a child who attends another Primary school in Year 5 in 2024?
Are you interested in a place for Year 7 in 2026 for your Year 5 child? And,
You have another child who is a current Av student?
If you have answered YES to all of the above questions, please lodge an enrolment application for your Year 5 child as soon as possible!
Siblings of current students are required to lodge their own enrolment application to be considered for a place at Av Christi College.
For noting, current Av Year 5, 2024 students are not required to lodge enrolment applications for Year 7 in 2026.
Kindergarten 2027 – Apply now!
If you have a child born between 1 July 2022 – 30 June 2023, please apply now for 4 Year Old Kindergarten commencing in 2027.
While we will not be interviewing for this cohort until a few years’ time, places are limited and we encourage enrolment applications to be lodged in advance to avoid missing out on a place!
Lodging an Enrolment Application at Av Christi College
For ALL Years, enrolment applications are lodged online via our College website by clicking on this link:
Reporting of Absentees
If your child is absent from school there are a variety of ways in which parents can inform the College, more information is located HERE. Absentees can be reported through a variety of means, including the online form, SMS or email absentee@corpus.wa.edu.au. The least preferred method is via call due to the translation of the voice message being unclear at times, please reserve calling for emergencies only. It is very important that you provide your child’s full name, their classroom/homeroom, and the reason for their absence. Please ensure any emails are sent to Absentee@corpus.wa.edu.au and not individual staff email accounts within Student Services. The College will shortly be undertaking a review of the variety of methods used to report absences and is looking to streamlining the number of methods in which this can be done.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: 23-27 April
K-10 Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews (Student Free Day): 24 April
FHC Parent Workshop: 30 April
Year 6 Av: 1- 3 May
FHC Commitment Mass: 4 May
Mother’s Day Breakfast: 9 May
Year 11 Dinner Dance: 31 May
Please always refer to the College Calendar for the latest updates.
Hottest Tickets in Town !
Tickets for the College production of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" are selling fast!
Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of this beloved musical brought to life by our talented students. Get your tickets now for an unforgettable evening filled with adventure, laughter, and timeless music. Book your Tickets before they're gone and join us for an enchanting journey into the whimsical world of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang!
Performances on 23, 24, 26 & 27 April 2024.
A Charity Concert with Father Rob Galea
Av Christi College is proud to present a Charity Concert with Father Rob Galea.
All proceeds* from the concert will be donated to and .
Doors open from 5:30pm, the Concert Commences at 6:00pm
(The conclusion of the concert is estimated to be at 7:30pm)
Mother’s Day Breakfast
The College invites students and their Mothers, Grandmothers or a significant lady in their life to a Mother’s Day Breakfast on Thursday 9 May at 7.30am - 8.15am at the College Hall (adjacent to the Theatre).
Tea, coffee, juice and a continental breakfast will be served with an opportunity to grab a professional photo with your child as well as go in the draw to win prizes.
No registrations are necessary. We look forward to seeing you there!
Pathways Hub
Upcoming University Open Days:
: 28 April
: 5 May 2024
Any questions? Please reach out to Tamara Murphy, Head of Pathways.
Ms Tamara Murphy
Head of Pathways
Week 2 Update
Dear Parents and Guardians
As we bid farewell to the restful days of the school holidays and eagerly step into the vibrant rhythm of Term Two, I extend a warm welcome to all our families. Your support and engagement are invaluable as we nurture and inspire our students’ growth and learning journey.
I am delighted to introduce Miss Courtney Hill, who joins our dedicated team this Term as she covers Year 5 Blue. With her passion for education and commitment to fostering a dynamic classroom environment, we are confident that she will contribute greatly to the success and well-being of our students.
The Circles All Around Us
In the circles all around us, everywhere that we all go, there's a difference we can make and a love we can all show.
During the school break, I stumbled upon Brad Montague's captivating picture book, “The Circles All Around Us”. Montague, the creative genius behind the beloved Kid President, is renowned for crafting content that resonates with both children and adults, weaving in powerful messages. His debut picture book beautifully echoes the values we cherish at our College: compassion, commitment, and courage. Through heart-warming tales and profound reflections, Montague invites families and young students on a journey of embracing interconnectedness and celebrating the worth of every individual. With gentle encouragement, he urges readers to expand their circles of connection, fostering unity and empathy. I enthusiastically recommend this book as an ideal tool for sparking conversations about connection, friendship, and the transformative power of belonging to a diverse community.
Interhouse Cross-Country Event
We kicked off our Term with a successful Year 3 to 12 Interhouse Cross-Country Carnival! It was an exhilarating event filled with fierce competition, unwavering determination, and boundless school spirit. Our students displayed remarkable athleticism and sportsmanship as they navigated the challenging course, pushing themselves to new heights with each stride. Every student showcased their dedication and passion for their team, from the youngest participants in Year 3 to the seasoned athletes in Year 12. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all participants for their outstanding performance and teamwork.
Values
Finally, as a school, we continue to look to embed our sense of belonging further as we focus on respectful relationships in our community. In belonging to our community, we genuinely live out our values:
Compassion - we are kind, respectful and caring toward others and our environment.
Courage - we hold ourselves accountable for our own actions.
Commitment - we are committed to our learning and that of others.
Katya Anderson
Head of Junior School
Junior School Library News
This term, we'll provide more information about the 2024 Premier’s Reading Challenge, offering students the chance to win various prizes. Our 4-year-old kindergarten students are now invited to visit the library weekly with their teachers for a seven-day borrowing period. Parents should provide a library bag for book exchanges and can borrow additional books if desired. Scholastic Book Club Issue 3 will be accessible early this term, and parents are encouraged to order books online via Loop.
Mrs Catherine Munro
Library Technician
Sophie Prisgrove and Josh Laboudese
We are so proud to share that Sophie Prisgrove and Josh Laboudese whose work 'Think inside the Box' and 'Harmonie Creole' is featured in the Art Gallery of Western Australia Pulse Exhibition. The exhibition launched last weekend and runs until the 6 October. Please support Sophie and Josh by voting for their work in the People's Choice category! Full details available here:
Madison Lewis
Maddie showcased exceptional talent at the WA State Swimming Championships, clinching 6 gold medals, 2 silver, and achieving 3 personal bests. Despite qualifying for 14 events, she was limited to competing in 8, demonstrating her prowess in the pool. Maddie's dedication, skill, and resilience are commendable, reflecting her commitment to excellence in swimming. Her outstanding performance is a testament to her hard work and determination, inspiring others to strive for greatness. Congratulations, Maddie, on your remarkable achievements!
Jack Duffy
Jack Duffy's (Year 9) summer of 2023/2024 was a whirlwind of success in sports. Despite stiff competition, his Teeball team clinched a commendable third-place finish, highlighted by a triumphant win at the Warren Lake Carnival. Jack's leadership propelled Thornlie District Teeball to claim the gold medal, showcasing his sheer determination. Beyond Teeball, Jack's prowess extended to baseball, culminating in a victorious grand final. Now, gearing up for charter baseball over Easter, Jack promises more thrilling moments. His summer saga exemplifies resilience, skill, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, setting the stage for even greater triumphs ahead.
Well done Jack!
Zachary Mellor
Zachary Mellor (Year 11) was a member of the King Canute Crew that completed the 2024 60th Cape Naturaliste and Return Ocean Race. Total crew of 6. The sailing ocean race started from Fremantle to Bunker Bay and then returned to Fremantle.
The King Kanute Crew completed the race in 1 day 10 hours 10 minutes and 59 seconds. Starting the race at 6pm on Friday 22nd March and finishing at 4.10am Sunday 24th March.
Zachary at the age of 16 is an experienced sailor but this was an outstanding achievement for someone so young. Showing plenty of bravery and resilience in some extremely tough sailing conditions. To put it into context one boat Baci sank during the race, luckily no one was hurt.
Well done Zac!
Ruth Vincent
We are thrilled to announce that Ruth Vincent, one of our talented Public Speaking Captains in Year 12, has progressed to the State Finals for the prestigious Lions Youth of the Year Competition.
In the District final on Saturday 23rd March, Ruth showcased her exceptional talent by clinching the overall Public Speaking Prize for her prepared speech and impromptu speaking performances. Her captivating speech on beauty standards resonated deeply, demonstrating her insight and passion for youth issues.
As Ruth gears up to represent the state on April 27th in Duncraig, it's crucial for our community to rally behind her. Let's show our support and encouragement for Ruth as she prepares to dazzle the judges with her charisma, intellect, and talent in the upcoming State Final.
Congratulations, Ruth, on this remarkable accomplishment! Your journey is an inspiration to us all, and we're confident that you'll continue to shine brightly as both a public speaker and an outstanding young individual. Go forth and make us proud!
Ms Melanie Bird
Public Speaking Coordinator
⭐ Share Your Story ⭐
We love celebrating student success, so if you have a story to share please send details and a photo to: marketing@corpus.wa.edu.au
World's Greatest Shave - Team Av
Team Av, consisting of a number of Year 12 students and staff are participating in this event. We would appreciate any donations via the QR code attached. Blood cancer is Australia's hidden cancer crisis. There are 140,000 families facing blood cancer right now. And it takes the lives of 16 Australians every day.
These numbers are set to double by 2035. Unless we do something about it. That's why we've signed up for the World's Greatest Shave. We're raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation to give Australians facing blood cancer life-changing practical and emotional support. And to fund critical research, bringing us closer to the day when zero lives are lost to blood cancer.
Will you be part of our World's Greatest Shave community and donate?
Donate here:
Learn to Swim at Av
Av Christi College offers a Learn to Swim Program onsite at the Jennifer Reilly Aquatic Centre. The aquatic centre features a covered and heated 25 metre, eight-lane indoor lap and water polo pool, a separate 12 metre learn-to-swim pool and terrace seating for 180 people.
Our Learn to Swim Program is facilitated by Speed With Style, a company who provide a unique approach to swim teaching called Individualised Custom Teaching, which was developed by Dr Nigel Williams in collaboration with head coach and Speed with Style Founder - John Williams.
The Learn to Swim program is available to both Av Christi College students and those external to the College.
You can register and find more information about Speed with Style on the
College website: www.corpus.wa.edu.au/speed-with-style
Ricky Grace Basketball at Av
In case you missed it...
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