E-News 7 March 2024

 

Welcome to Week 6, Term 1

Celebrating Community

It was wonderful to see our whole school community gathered in the one place to share in the celebration of the Eucharist on Tuesday evening last week. As the Av԰ Christi, the Body of Christ, gathering for Mass is the perfect way for us to celebrate our K-12 College.

We are very grateful to our broader community for their support of this special occasion. To have parents, caregivers, families and friends join staff and students for this significant Mass was a fabulous celebration of our College and a terrific way to formally welcome in the new school year. We appreciate the busyness of people’s lives in our dynamic world, so we are most grateful for our community’s support in prioritising this special Mass and taking the time to spend some quality time with one another.

We were also very pleased to have a number of special guests at the Mass including Father Thai Vu, Deacon Bruce Talbot, CEWA Deputy Executive Director Annette Morey, CEWA School Improvement Advisor Kelly Smith, St Thomas More Council Chair Carol-Ann Norris and parishioners, the School Advisory Council and the Friends of Av԰ Executive. We thank them for their support of this special event.

The theme of the Mass was ‘one bread, one body, one spirit of love’. In speaking to our community toward the end of Mass, I reflected how this theme reminds us that our community mosaic is made up of many individual parts, each with a very special and unique role to play. Together, then, we make up one inclusive community that reaches out to others with the spirit of love.

Jesus tells us to “love one another as I have loved you” and therefore challenges us to reach out to others, to be present for them, to promote their needs above our own. He calls us to serve, to accept, to forgive. He wants us to be compassionate, selfless and to truly see others for whom they are.

So, if we are all a part of the one body, one community that is the Av԰ Christi, then we have the shared responsibility to uphold what it stands for – that is be the eyes, the hands, the feet of Jesus on earth.

I connected this message of Jesus and the challenge that he presents us to our College values. In truly living out these values and modelling Jesus we:

  • Courageously stand up for what is right and actively contribute to the type of community that He envisaged

  • Commit ourselves to others – seeking peace, justice and mercy for all

  • Are compassionately present for others - walking alongside them on their journey, reaching out in support and service

In giving genuine witness to our values, we fulfill our College vision of being Outstanding for Others. That is to fully harness our gifts to be outstanding in the way that we interact and serve those around us.

A celebration of this significance does not just happen by circumstance – it is achieved through the hard work, dedication and support of many people. We are grateful to staff and students for their considerable contribution in the lead up to and during the Mass.

A very special thanks to Father Thai for celebrating our Mass. We greatly value his terrific support of our College community. We are also grateful to Deacon Bruce for his contribution to the celebration.

We thank our Catholic Identity and Mission, Administration, Grounds, ICT, Music, Arts and Executive teams, along with our Heads of Year and House Community Coordinators for their amazing contribution to the Mass. A very special acknowledgement also to our Deputy Principal Catholic Identity and Mission, Mr Damian Ramos, for his terrific efforts in leading the organisation of this very special occasion.

We were delighted at the considerable involvement of our students in the Mass. Their input enriched the experience and allowed them to share their gifts and talents with us. We were delighted to share our Catholic Arts Servite Friar award-winning liturgical movement ‘Still God’ with our community as a lead into the Mass.

Our student choir and musicians were superb, adding to richness and reflectiveness of the occasion. We were thrilled to commission our newly appointed Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Community during the Mass and thank them for their contribution. To our student leaders, we acknowledge you for your enormous efforts in ensuring the success of the Mass.

We celebrate the terrific contribution that our students make to the College each and every day. It was very energising and rewarding to see our dedicated students help shape the Mass and step up to serve on this very special evening in the life of the school. We are grateful to for the enthusiastic involvement of all of our students in the Mass – from our Kindergarten students all the way through to our Graduating Class of 2024.

It was very fulfilling to see so many different parts of the mosaic come together as one in celebration of the Av԰ Christi – the Body of Christ.

Best wishes and every blessing,

Jeff Allen

Principal

 

Dear Parents and Guardians

Our Years 3-6 students had a wonderful day at the Interhouse Swimming Carnival. The display of swimming was outstanding, and it was impressive to see every swimmer trying their best and really challenging themselves. We always emphasise House spirit and sportsmanship in everything we do, and the swimming carnival was an incredible demonstration of these traits. It was impressive to see all our students cheering on, not just their own House, but all swimmers, which created such a supportive environment and allowed our students to really push their limits.

A big round of applause goes to Mr Trickett, who worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly.

A special thank you to our Year 6 Sports leaders, dedicated staff, and all volunteers for their efforts on the day. I also want to thank all the parents and grandparents who came to support and cheer on the students.

The efforts in the pool continued at the CAPSS interschool carnival with Years 4 and 6 taking home the overall trophy winners.

Pre-Primary House Allocation:

In the tapestry of human existence, the concept of belonging weaves a narrative thread that connects us to something greater than ourselves—a sense of home, acceptance, and community. To belong is to find connection, understanding, and a sense of home within a community or environment. It is a fundamental aspect of our identity and shapes the way we navigate the world around us.

The sense of belonging to a community was the experience created at our House Allocation event for our Pre-Primary students. It was wonderful to see the pure joy and excitement each student brought to the stage as they waited eagerly to find out which house they belong to.

 At the end it was nice to connect with parents and family members over a cup of coffee, a chance for them to make connections and create that sense of belonging among each other.

 Parking at drop-off areas:

It is essential that parents adhere to road and street regulations when dropping off and collecting their child/ren. It is a regular occurrence to see:

  • Parents entering off Marsengo Drive in the no-entry zone.

  • Cars parked in the kiss and drop areas.

  • Vehicles entering with speed through the incorrect entrances.

  • Vehicles not giving way to children crossing. 

We do not want to have to engage the services of the Rangers; however, we will be obliged to do this for the safety of our students if parents fail to adhere to safe driving and parking practices.

Upcoming Events:

Below are some upcoming events. Please check out our College calendar for further details.

  • Tuesday 12 March - Rice Bowl Day

  • Wednesday 13 March - Friends of Av԰ (all welcome), 6 pm.

  • NAPLAN Commencing Week 8

  • Thursday 21 March - URSTRONG – Language of Friendship Online Workshop, 6 pm.

Through the enchanting realm of children's literature, we can learn so many valuable things. In Oliver Jeffers' "Lost and Found," there emerges a captivating narrative that beautifully encapsulates the profound essence of belonging. The heart warming tale invites us to witness the extraordinary journey of a young boy and a penguin, both seeking connection and a place where they truly belong. "Friendship, said the penguin, is like a toasty-warm scarf in the chilly winds of life."  At Av԰ we recognise the transformative power of relationships and the unwavering commitment to ensuring every child experiences the embrace of friendship and understanding, ultimately finding their place in the world.

 

Warm regards

Katya Anderson

Head of Junior School

Inter-House Swimming Carnival Results

What an incredible day for our students for our Champions! The atmosphere was electric with cheers and encouragement, creating unforgettable memories for everyone involved.

A heartfelt congratulations to all our participants for their outstanding efforts and for making the carnival a resounding success! A special 'Thank You' to all the parents who came out to support and cheer on the students.

A BIG round of applause to our remarkable sports team, supportive staff, dedicated House Coordinators, organisers, and our senior students who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly.

‘de Vialar’ House are the winners of the 2024 Inter-House Swimming Carnival!

 

Tickets on Sale !

Tickets for the eagerly awaited College production of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" are now officially on sale!

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.

 

Pathways Hub

The Pathways team has a new careers hub which you and your family can now access via , this is a great place to plan your next steps and start exploring your career options. What is the Pathways Hub? It’s our online source of careers and pathways information. You’ll find lots of resources that help you plan your pathway, so add it to your bookmarks and share it with your family. You can also join Study Work Grow on our Pathways Hub you'll be able to sign up for SWG membership, which is an easy way to keep on top of all the opportunities that are out there. You'll receive an email each week with information, news, and events about your career and further study options. Any questions? Please reach out to Tamara Murphy, Head of Pathways.

Please view Study Work Grow factsheet HERE.

Ms Tamara Murphy
Head of Pathways

Public Speaking commences Week 7

 A heartfelt thank you to all the students who have shown interest in Public Speaking Club 2024.

This year, we've received over fifty registrations, highlighting the commitment of our students to enhancing their confidence, organisation, and leadership abilities. The registration form is now closed. However, if you missed out and would like to come along, please email Ms Bird directly.

Commencing: Tuesday 12th March (Week 7) 

Room: M11  Time: 3:30pm – 4:30pm. 
Sessions run each week until Week 10 of Term 2. 
Session 1 will be an information session followed by team building tasks.
Students who have registered have been placed into an small coaching team, lead by an English teacher and Student Coach. 

You are all welcome to contribute to afternoon tea for your small coaching group to share. 
Looking forward to meeting you all!

Ms. Melanie Bird

Public Speaking Coordinator.

 
 

Upcoming College Events 

The latest events with detailed information can be found by visiting the events page.

Please always refer to the College Calendar for the latest updates.

 

NAPLAN Update

As you may already be aware, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) assessment is scheduled to take place from students in Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 in the coming weeks. The NAPLAN rest window is 9 days long and commences on Wednesday 13 March and concludes on Monday 25 March.

 
 

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance or if you have any queries about NAPLAN testing for Av԰ Christi College.

Mrs Jenny Miraudo
Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning

Junior School Library News

A second-hand library book sale will be held before and after school outside the library on Monday 18, Tuesday 19 and Thursday 21 March.

Mrs Catherine Munro
Library Technician

 
 

Ethics Olympiad - International Finalists

Congratulation to these Year 9 students, Lachie A, Charlotte D, Gaurav G, Anastacia K and Haydn G for being outstanding members of our College’s student body and Mr Adrian Richmond for your continued support and mentoring. These five of the College’s finest intellects participated in the - Middle School International Final on the 21st of February. Our College Team competed against 44 schools from across Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, India and Singapore.

They performed with their customary wit and panache, and the Judges commented on the excellence that Av԰ Christi College students demonstrated in a highly competitive and capable field. We are particularly proud of how our team incorporated ethical theories such as deontology, consequentialism and utilitarianism into their arguments. Very impressive indeed!

Congratulations on an outstanding achievement!

 
 

The Lester Prize Finalist - Ava Kormick (Y12)

encourages the creative talents of young, aspiring and emerging artists. It is open to all High School students across Australia from school years 7 to 12. The Youth Award allows entrants to showcase their works and present their unique artistic perspectives; helps build their confidence to further their art practice; and allows them to share their stories with the wider community.

We are very proud of Ava’s outstanding achievement!

 
 

Summer Success

Jack D’s (Y7) summer sports saga has been nothing short of epic!

His Tee-ball team conquered tough competition, seizing third place for the season, they were triumphant in the fiercely contested Warren Lake Carnival. But that's not all – Jack's Thornlie District Teeball team soared to Gold medal glory. And he didn't stop there, his Baseball team emerged victorious in the Grand Final. Now, Jack is set to conquer charter baseball over Easter. We wish you the very best over the Easter Weekend!

 

⭐ 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

 

Sacramental  Program

Sacramental classes for St Thomas More Parish commence on Wednesday the 7th February from 4.00pm, please enrol and upload all necessary certificates. There will be no enrolment day next year as all enrolments are online. (During class on 7 February, 2024, ‘Form 10 - Safeguarding’ will need to be completed.)

If you are experiencing difficulties in enrolling online please send us  an email on catechist.bateman@perthcatholic.org.au  or on 93101747 on Tuesday and a Wednesday.

All children (from pre-school age on) are warmly welcomed to attend the Religious Education Sacramental program. Special arrangements can be made for High School children and Av԰ Christi College children who may not have celebrated their age relevant Sacrament.

Sacramental dates for next year will be published at a later date this year.                                      

 
 

Learn to Swim at Av԰ Christi College

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

 

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.

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 in order 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.  

Year 7 2026 – Enrolment Applications for New Families to Av԰

We have a high demand for places for the Year 7 2026 cohort year.  To avoid disappointment, we encourage all prospective families/students to lodge an enrolment application for Year 7 in 2026, as soon as possible.   

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: 

Withdrawing from the College Information

A reminder to parents, if you are withdrawing your child from the College you are required to give a Term's notice in writing. Failure to give adequate notice will result in a Term's fees being charged as per the terms and conditions of enrolment. 

To notify of your intent to withdraw, please submit the online form available here: .

Please do not hesitate to contact our Enrolments Team, should you have any further Enrolment questions:  enrolments@corpus.wa.edu.au.

 

In case you missed it...

Keep up to date with news as it happens by following our social media accounts and by checking out our latest updates.

 
Av԰ Communications