Principal's Message

Opening College Mass 2025 and the Start of the Academic Year

The 2025 academic school year has commenced positively. Some key highlights:

• Staff commenced with Staff Mass and Staff Meetings to set the agenda for the year. New staff were introduced and inducted. All teachers took part in professional learning with the Berry Street Education Model.
• Foundation students commenced their first day of school. This was a very smooth start as they were the only classes on that day at Cedar Campus. Students in Years 1-6 were completing literacy testing.
• Year 7 successfully transitioned to secondary campus and new students joined those from Cedar Campus. A new VCE cohort commenced on this day also.
• The Opening School Mass took place on Monday 10 February, allowing us to celebrate the Feast of St Maroun. The Mass was held in the Mother Isabelle Khoury Stadium with approximately 1000 in attendance. Foundation students did not attend as they are still settling into school for such a big event. Mass was celebrated by Mon. Joe Takchi and Fr Ehab Chamoun. It was attended by special guest: Sr Cynthia Kassis, Honourable Mr Anthony Cianflone Member for Pascoe Vale, ACL Board Members Ms Leila Khattar and Mr Johnny El Halabi as well as the family of the 2024 Dux and Proxime Accessit who were presented with a financial award supported by Ms Carmen Fleyfel and presented on her behalf by her daughter Ms Mariana Haddad.

It was impressive to see all the students fill the Stadium, to see the growth in numbers. But most of all to see the well behaved and well presented students show reverence and respect for the Mass.

The College Theme for 2025 – Pilgrims of Hope

The College theme this year is Pilgrims of Hope taken from the theme of the Jubilee Year which takes place every 25 Years. On Christmas Eve, Pope Francis opened the Holy Doors at St Peter’s Basilica and then in subsequent days, opened the Holy Doors of the Basilicas of St John Lateran, St Mary Major and St Paul outside the Walls. Usually, these doors are sealed but in the Jubilee years, they are opened offering pilgrims the opportunity to walk through them in the hope that they can further develop their relationship with Christ by going to Reconciliation, by receiving the Eucharist and by doing good works.

We decided to bring the doors to Antonine College since we can’t all visit Rome this year. In a symbolic gesture, main doors around St Joseph Campus have been transformed into ‘Holy Doors’ as can be seen from these photos.

During the Mass, Bookmarks to commemorate this special year were blessed and distributed through RE classes to all students.

New students and Year 7 students received a College pin also blessed and distributed as a sign of transition to and belonging to St Joseph Campus. I have a pin for each Director also which as been blessed.

Student Pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee

In March, 16 students and three staff will make their pilgrimage to Rome. They will visit all the Basilicas and have an opportunity to walk through the Holy Doors. They will also have opportunity for Adoration, Eucharist and Reconciliation. There will be a visit to the Maronite Monastery in Rome as well. We have been doing some fundraising to support the students with some of the costs.

Here is a link to the Program Pilgrimage information booklet

Later in November, some students and staff will take part in the Melbourne Pilgrimage at the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) which is a national gathering of Catholic young people (Year 9 – 25 years old), providing the opportunity to come together to connect, deepen their relationship with Jesus, be empowered to live their faith in the world and experience the breadth of the Church in Australia.

Throughout the year, there will be other local pilgrimages for students at all year levels.

Pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee Fundraiser

We have a small group of Year 10-12 students who have been organising fundraisers throughout the term to help with their Pilgrimage to Rome for the Jubilee in March.

If you would like to donate please click here: https://bit.ly/AntonineRomeFundraiser

Any help will be appreciated

Catholic Schools Youth Ministry International (CSYMI) comes to Antonine College

During my studies and pilgrimage to Rome last September, I was introduced to the CSYMI Spiritus Program and its focus on Evangelisation in Catholic Schools. Antonine College has signed up to the program which has three parts:

• RE curriculum is embedded with units on discipleship and ministry
• Retreats experiences for all students
• Student Ministry Groups at different year levels for those students who want to make a further commitment

For students who complete the Year 11 and 12 program, they will attain 5 bonus ATAR marks for entry into any ACU course. Here is a link to the overview of the program - https://csymi.com/. I have also included information on how we will run this program on our website.

Looking forward to 2025!

- Ms Joanne Bacash

Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching

Digital Technologies Acceptable Usage Agreement

Students across F-12 spent time in their Pastoral Care class reading, discussing and signing the Digital Technologies Acceptable Usage Agreement. Parents have been requested to provide consent through PAM Activity Permissions. This agreement is designed to ensure we are working together in partnership to ensure online safety and the appropriate use of digital technology.

The Acceptable Usage Agreement is in our Digital Technology Handbook pp. 11-15 https://bit.ly/dighandbook24

The safe and appropriate use of digital devices is important, and we request that devices are used in moderation and boundaries are set by students, teachers and parents as we work together in partnership. The College expectation is that responsibility for the entire program is shared amongst parents, students and the College.

Parent responsibility

Parents are encouraged to direct, create and implement their very own family rules and expectations for devices used at home. Set some clear non-negotiable rules, to support acceptable online safety practices. Clearly communicate your rules and expectations regarding screen time and access to age-appropriate content (i.e. games, apps and social media) and revisit them when necessary. While the school network system will provide some Internet security through Internet content filtering there is no substitute for parental supervision when using a device. Parents are ultimately responsible for monitoring student use of their devices and Internet at home.

Education is about empowering your child, not just disciplining them. To help your child be empowered in the online world, ensure that your child feels safe to talk to you about anything that might upset them online. Let them know that they should seek you or another trusted adult whenever they are unsure.

The Digital Technology Handbook explains the safe and responsible use of technology at school and encourages families to access resources and information to support healthy and positive use of digital technology at home. If any parent is experiencing difficulty, they may wish to seek IT support from school or speak to a Leader.

Set Up Parental Controls

eSafety parent resources and webinars

Family Sharing

Set Up Screen Time

- Ms Ria Coffey

NAPLAN 2025

Beginning on March 12 students in Year 3, 5, 7 & 9 will be participating in a series of tests including Writing, Reading, Conventions of Language and Numeracy. This is an annual national test for all students to participate in. For our school the information collected provides us with data to analyse growth, successes and challenges on an individual, cohort and school level. All students are expected to participate and do their best and teachers will send out further information closer to the date.

To support students and families to understand NAPLAN the public demonstration test site includes the types of questions students will answer and the functionalities that are available in NAPLAN tests. If you or your child are interested, you can view and practice NAPLAN style tests at the link below:

https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/public-demonstration-site

- Ms Ria Coffey

Extension & Support Programs

Across the College we have a range of programs in place to support students who need extra support to access the learning in the classroom. Often this is an opportunity to revise a concept or skill, work at a different pace, unpack ideas and scaffold work. We have small groups working with a teacher, or Educational Support Officer (ESO) and we offer a literacy intervention program which Mr Nick runs at Cedar and Ms Manariti at St Joseph Campus.

We also offer literacy and numeracy extension opportunities. There are small groups working together to extend students’ learning, make deeper connections and tackle problems with higher order thinking skills. At St Joseph Campus this includes the Year 7 & 8 STEM classes and Year 9 Extension Maths, while at Cedar Campus there is Ms Mori’s Maths Extension and Year 5 & 6 Debating.

- Ms Ria Coffey
 

Congratulations to our College Leaders
 

We congratulate Jayden Sadek and Tahlya Mardini as our College Leaders

Deputy Principal - Student Wellbeing and Management (St Joseph Campus)

- Ms Helen Diab

Teeth on Wheels

Dear Families,

Your child’s dental health is important to us, that’s why Teeth on Wheels will be visiting our school starting on the March 11th 2025.

Click here to sign your child up - IT MIGHT BE FREE!

Teeth on Wheels are focused on providing a positive dental experience and specialise with working with children. They can provide check-up and clean appointments, as well as treatment onsite and will be able to advise you if your child is eligible to receive dental care for FREE under the Child Dental Benefit Schedule.

Please complete your form today and the Teeth on Wheels team will be in contact to confirm and schedule your child’s appointment. - Forms must be completed by March 4th 2025 for your child to participate. If you are unable to access the E-form, please visit the school reception for a paper form.

For any further questions, please contact the Teeth On Wheels team on (03) 9338 1191.

- Ms Helen Diab

Walking through the gates, our Year 7s arrived with a mix of excitement and nerves, navigating a new environment, meeting teachers, and finding their place in our school community. Meanwhile, our Year 12s stepped onto campus with confidence and purpose, ready to take on leadership roles and set the tone for the year ahead.

Teachers and staff shared in this moment, offering guidance and encouragement to both groups—supporting our youngest students as they settle in and inspiring our seniors to make the most of their final year.

As we begin this new academic year, we celebrate both new beginnings and final milestones. To our Year 7s - welcome! And to our Year 12s- make this last year one to remember.

Student reflection:

My first day of Year 12 felt surreal, exciting, and yet daunting. The reality of it being my last year at school hit me when I walked through the gates. It was a bittersweet feeling seeing how fast time has flown. As we started our Year 12 classes, the stress was overwhelming but also a sense of confidence was present, especially when joining new classes and meeting new teachers. - Julie

The first week of Year 12 encompassed mixed emotions from excitement to stress. Entering school on the first day, seeing our teachers and classmates after a long break, felt refreshing and reminded us of the strong connections we have built over the years.

The Opening School Mass allowed us to gather as a community in a meaningful way and it set an encouraging tone for the adversities that we will face in our final year of schooling. The Mass served as a reminder of our shared journey and the importance of faith, knowledge and virtue.

Stepping into this year brings responsibility and consistent academic discipline. This week has taught me that this year is not all about hard work, it is about leadership, resilience and cherishing the time left in school. - Ibrahim

Deputy Principal - Cedar Campus

Lord God,

We give thanks for this new school year and pray for energy and patience through changes for students, teachers and families.

We pray for compassionate hearts to reach out to those in need.

We pray for unity as we work together for a safe community.

We pray that all people will treat others with kindness and respect.

We pray for those who are sad, sick or lonely that you will give them hope.

We ask for wisdom for those who make decisions for our futures.

We pray that we continue to be intentional collaborators, guided by your spirit.

We give thanks for all the blessings you have given us.

We ask this through Christ our Lord,

Amen

A warm (literally) welcome back to school. I hope you all were able to have some time to relax and spend time together with family and friends. It has been great to see all the children returning to school during their testing days and also having our new Foundation and families join us. I am sure the Antonine community will make all new staff, children and families feel very welcome at our school.

At Antonine, we strive to provide the best education for every student, and daily attendance is crucial to achieving this goal. Our current attendance data shows room for improvement, and we’d like to emphasise the importance of being at school every day.

Why is attendance so important?

Each school day matters because students learn new skills and concepts that build upon one another. Missing even a single day can leave students behind in vital areas like numeracy, writing, and reading. Patterns of regular absence in the early years can often lead to ongoing challenges in later schooling.

Here are some tips to ensure your child is at school every day:

Establish a Routine: Create consistent bedtime, wake-up, and morning routines to make school preparation smoother.

Prioritise Health: Encourage a healthy lifestyle with good sleep, balanced nutrition, and physical activity to minimise illness.

Plan Ahead: Schedule vacations during school holidays and avoid taking days off unless absolutely necessary.

Stay Positive: Highlight the fun aspects of school to keep your child motivated to attend.

School Schedule and Timetable

8:20am School Gates Open -  (Children should not be at school before this time)

8:40am  - 9.40am Period 1

9:40am – 10.40am Period 2

10:40am-10.50am Eating Time 

10:50- 11.20am Break One

11:25am-12:25pm  Period 3

12.25pm-1:25pm Period 4 

1:25pm-1:30pm Eating Time

1:30pm-2:00pm  Break Two

2:00pm - 3:00pm  Dismissal (Children need to be picked up at this time)

Disruptions during school hours

To minimise disruptions to valuable learning time, we kindly request all student appointments be scheduled after school hours whenever possible. Frequent interruptions can impact on a student’s education. Scheduling appointments after school hours helps ensure students receive the full benefits of their education. If any early pick up is unavoidable, please allow our office staff sufficient time to locate your child and have them ready. Your cooperation helps us maintain a smooth and efficient school day for all students.

Birthday Treats

We ask families to provide nonedible treats for birthdays and other celebrations. Families are to be commended for the way they have taken up this challenge and are being very creative in this space. With the growing numbers of dietary restrictions, this has been very welcomed. If as a school we have a special food event, such as hot food days, fundraisers, special events, icy poles we will always seek parent permission prior and have adequate controls in place for our students with allergies or special dietary requirements. To assist parents, I have brainstormed some ideas with our students in year six from last year that you can include for Birthday or Christmas treats that are non-edible and still bring joy and happiness to our children. I ask families to keep this simple and I thank you for your support.

• Pencil topper (Eraser)
• Pen or pencil or ruler
• Slinky
• Hair accessory
• Christmas straws
• Christmas ornament or Holy
• Key chain
• Bouncy ball
• Stickers- Christmas, animals, dinosaurs etc.- (Children love stickers)
• Bubbles
• Tiny colouring book packs or tiny notebooks
• Mini play dough
• Paper aeroplane templates/origami set or bookmarks.
• Poppets

Transition into a new school year

Settling into a new school year can be an exciting yet challenging time for both children and parents. Here are some tips for parents to help their children adjust and thrive:

Establish a Routine:

• Set a consistent daily routine that includes a balance of homework, playtime, and relaxation.
• Ensure your child gets enough sleep by enforcing a regular bedtime.

Open Communication:

• Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns about the new school year.
• Stay involved in your child's school life by attending parent-teacher meetings and staying in touch with their teachers.

Encourage Independence:

• Teach your child age-appropriate skills, such as organising their school bag, managing their chores, and completing homework independently.
• Foster a sense of responsibility by involving them in decision-making processes.

Stay Positive:

• Maintain a positive attitude about the new school year, and express enthusiasm about the opportunities and experiences your child will have.
• Remind your child that it's normal to feel a mix of emotions when starting something new.

Create a Homework - Friendly Environment:

• Establish a quiet and organised space at home for homework and studying.
• Set aside a specific time each day for homework and help create a routine that works for your child.

Promote Healthy Habits:

• Encourage healthy eating habits by providing nutritious meals and snacks.
• Emphasise the importance of physical activity and playtime to support overall well-being.

Build Social Skills:

• Help your child develop social skills by arranging playdates or participating in school-related activities.
• Teach them how to make friends and navigate social situations positively.

Monitor Screen Time:

• Set reasonable limits on screen time, especially during school nights.
• Encourage activities that promote creativity, learning, and social interaction.

Engage in School Activities:

• Participate in school events, such as school masses, parent-teacher meetings, Open Mornings, and school fundraisers.
• Volunteer for classroom activities, excursions, or special events to actively contribute to your child's school community.

Be Patient:

• Understand that the adjustment period may take some time. Be patient and supportive as your child settles into the new routine.
• Stay engaged with their experiences and address any concerns or challenges together.
• Remember that every child is unique, so adapt these tips to suit your child's individual needs and circumstances.
• By providing support, encouragement and a positive environment, you can help your child navigate the new school year successfully.

Parent Protocol

I remind all parents that under no circumstances should they approach someone else’s child or another parent to discuss a school/classroom/playground/bus incident. If you are concerned, or have a problem or an issue, please speak to a teacher or contact the front administration to make an appointment. This ensures that appropriate processes and protocols can be followed, and that behaviour cannot be seen as bullying, threatening or intimidating.

Under Child Safety regulations all parents must enter through the front administration office. Parents, guardians and friends are not permitted to enter the school grounds in the morning and after school. The safety and wellbeing of all our students is of the utmost importance.

House Captains

Congratulations to our College Captains at Cedar Campus. This week, they led our first student Assembly and did a great job!

Care Captains

• Tia Haddad
• Emeline Haddad

Mackillop House Captains

• Zahra Ghosn
• Andreas Haddad

Maroun House Captains

• Chloe Aoun
• Reinard Kadamani

Nassar House Captains

• Grace Mansour
• Gabriel Makalintal

Paterson House Captains

• Louise Alam
• Valentina Bruni

Open Classrooms - Cedar Campus

You are invited to join your child in class. Parents only (no siblings or prams) Click on the link to book: https://events.humanitix.com/cedar-campus-open-classrooms

Collection notice 2025

The Australian Government Department of Education (the department) would like to notify you that we have requested for your child’s school to provide residential address and other information.

Under the Australian Education Regulations 2023, the school is required to provide the department with the following information about each student at the school:

 

• names and residential addresses of the student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s)
• student residential address (excluding student names)
• whether the student is a primary or secondary student (education level)
• whether the student is boarding or a day student (boarding status)

The school collects the above information by generating a unique and unidentifiable student reference number (SRN) for each student record. The school only uses the SRN for this collection. The SRN cannot be used for any other purpose. The number only indicates to the department that each record provided is for one student.

Faith Development

First Holy Communion Notice

Dear Parents/Guardians,

In December 2024, Bishop Antoine-Charbel Tarabay, issued a liturgical directive to all Maronite Parishes across Australia, New Zealand and Oceania. In this directive he stated;

“The correct age for First Holy Communion in the parish is determined as Year 4, keeping in mind this will be flexible with ages”

To align with this directive, the Sacrament of First Holy Communion will no longer be celebrated at Year 3. This means, that Antonine College will not celebrate this sacrament in 2025 but will resume our program for the Year 4 class of 2026. Our Saturday program for students outside the College will also resume in 2026.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will remain in Year 3. You can read the full directive from the bishop below. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Sr Veronique Karam or Ms Tanya Khattar.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Year 6 St Maroun Crests

As part of our start of year lessons in Religion, students in Year 6 have looked at the founding Father of the Maronite faith, St Maroun. We explored 4 main symbols of St Maroun and created our own crests representing the 4 symbols. Students needed to include the following;

• The Mountain – Represents his life of solitude and prayer.
• The Cedar Tree – Symbolizes strength, faith, and the Maronite tradition.
• The Cross – Represents his deep devotion to God and Christian mission.
• The Light/Rays of the Sun – Symbolizes his spiritual wisdom and holiness.

Student examples; Gabriel 6A, Meeri 6A, Mya 6B, Joseph E 6B, Reinard 6B, Naya 6C and Anthony 6C

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Cedar Campus Blessing

On Friday 7th of February 2025, Father Richard visited our school to bless the campus. As February 2nd marked the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, a day that signifies Jesus being brought to the temple and consecrated to God, Father Richard took the time to visit each classroom, spreading holy water as a sign of God's protection and grace. This sacred tradition not only reinforced our school's Catholic values but also strengthened the bond of our faith community, inspiring everyone to reflect on the light of Christ in their lives.

- Sr Veronique Karam

Rosary Club - Every Monday During Break One

Every Monday, our dedicated group of 40 students will gather in the chapel to pray the rosary, coming together in a spirit of faith and community. This sacred time allows us to connect deeply with our beliefs and with one another, as we offer our prayers from the heart to our Pope Francis. We ask you Lord the healing touch upon him during this time of illness.

Today, Mr. Diab announced over the microphone that anyone who wanted to join in prayer will meet Sister Veronique in the chapel during Break One. A group of people came and we prayed the entire rosary for Pope Francis, who is sick, asking the Lord Jesus to give him strength to carry his cross during his illness. It was an amazing experience. - Jude 4D

Sadly, at the start of 2025, Pope Francis, our leader of the Catholic Church, was admitted to the hospital. He has been suffering from a lung infection that affects his breathing. If you would like to join, you are very welcome to come to the chapel during Break 1 every Monday to pray the Rosary with Sister Veronique. - Dana 4C

I wanted to share something special with you about today. While I was praying the Rosary with you and the other kids, I felt so happy and overwhelmed in the best way. It was such a beautiful experience, and I truly felt closer to God in that moment.

It was a great time, and I just wanted to share how much it meant to me. Thank you for always being there and for guiding me in faith. - Natalia 4D

Jesus Christ, please help the people that need help Especially the Pope that is in bad shape, and please help the people that are suffering from coldness and the people that are homeless who needs food and water to drink, and I hope that the pope feels better. Amen. Jesus Christ saves us from the fires of hell and lead all souls up to heaven. In the name of the father son holy spirit amen. - Rita 5B

- Sr Veronique Karam

Year 12 Mass

On Tuesday 18th February the Year 12’s celebrated their first-year level mass for 2025. Monsignor Joe led a beautiful homily, encouraging the words of Mother Theresa which came from toady’s gospel of “You did it to me”. We are called to live as servants of God here on Earth and to demonstrate good works by not only caring for ourselves but caring for others, doing for them as we would for Jesus.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Learning and Wellbeing

Classroom helpers 2025

In previous years, the Cedar Campus Classroom helpers has been a great success with many parents providing invaluable support to the classrooms during the Literacy block. The Classroom helpers program will be running again in 2025 from 17th March with parents of students from Foundation to Year 4 invited to assist in the classrooms one morning a week during Literacy time (8.40am-10.40am).

If you would like to assist in the classrooms, you will need to:

1. Ensure you have a current Working with Children Check
2. Complete the following form: https://forms.office.com/r/essVpCtP2e
3. Attend a one-hour introductory session (if you have attended this in previous years, you do not need to attend again) Two available dates: Wednesday or Wednesday 19th March.

You will then receive a notification of when you will be supporting in the classroom. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email me jhine@antonine.catholic.edu.au

Note: if you are unable to attend your allocated time due to illness, please notify the front office.

- Mrs Jessica Hine

5-8 Swimming Carnival

Another year, another great swimming carnival. Last week on Friday the 21st of February, the Grade 5 to Year 8 students participated in our annual swimming carnival. The sun was shining, the students were thriving, and the staff were smiling!

This year showcased an increase in participation across all events, as there were more students in the water than ever. It was wonderful to see everyone wanting to participate and really show their house spirit. It was a competitive day where students really enjoyed competing for their house, especially in water volleyball and the biggest splash competition. Students even had the opportunity to race their teachers in a final race at the end of the day.

With a lot of house spirit, determination and teamwork, the competition was fierce but one house took out the winning title.

Congratulations to Nasser house for having the most house points and being the 2025 Antonine Swimming Champions.

Thank you to all staff who attended, without them these special days wouldn’t be possible.

- Ms Christine Al-Mourani

Year 3 Excursion

In Week 4, the Year 3 students visited the Antonine Sisters Childcare where they bonded with the children in the community. They played and enjoyed a fruit snack with them before going upstairs to see the Sisters residents. Sr Veronique spoke to the children about the leaders of the church and the 2025 Jubilee. They spent some time praying in the chapel and touring the Sisters home before going on a pilgrimage to St Charbel's Monastery. Inside, the students reflected and prayed before walking back to school. This excursion was a great way for students to experience the Jubilee and school theme 'Pilgrims of Hope'.

Student Writing:

Our Pilgrimage

In week 4 we went to the Antonine Sisters Childcare Centre. First, we went on the bus to get there. Then we went to play with the babies. After that we went to eat a fruit snack. Next, we went upstairs to see where the sisters lived and prayed for a bit. Then we went on a pilgrimage. We stopped at St Charbel’s Monastery and grew closer to God. Then we continued our pilgrimage to school. - Tahlia B

On the 21st of February we went to the Antonine Sisters Childcare Centre. We went by bus. When we arrived, we went inside and picked which room we wanted to go in. Then we played with the kids. I played with a boy and Yahya. We played on the playground and on the slides. Next, we ate fruit and then we went upstairs to the sisters home. We sat in the lounge and talked about the Jubilee Year. Then we went in the chapel and prayed. Sister Veronique gave us a tour around the sisters home. After that we walked to St Charbel’s Monastery, and we prayed. Then we walked back to school. - Jonathon B

- Mrs Joelle Zakharia, Ms Georgia Petraki and Ms Janine Wanda

Year 9 & 10 Food Technology Students Create Truffles for School Fundraiser

Our Year 9 and 10 Food Technology students kicked off the year with a sweet start—making chocolate and lemon truffles for a school fundraiser.

The first practical class was a hands-on, collaborative experience that combined cooking skills with creativity and community spirit. While mastering the technical skills took focus and patience, students also had the chance to showcase their attention to detail by attempting to make truffles consistent in size and taste.

What made this practical even more special was the purpose behind it. The truffles were created for a good cause, with the goal of raising funds for the upcoming Rome trip. Students took great pride in knowing their efforts would contribute to the school community, with some even volunteering to sell the truffles at the fundraiser.

This initial activity was all about teamwork, problem-solving, creativity and learning new skills. It was a fantastic start to the year, and we look forward to seeing how the students continue to grow in their food technology journey. A big thank you to all that were involved in this fundraiser, including all the staff and students who volunteered their time to make this fundraiser a success!

- Ms Norma Francis

Year 10 Health and Wellbeing

This year, students in Years 7–10 at the college are engaging in a newly introduced subject, Health and Wellbeing. The implementation of this subject follows updates to the Victorian Curriculum, which highlighted significant overlaps between Health and Pastoral Care. In response, staff members have collaborated to design a comprehensive program that integrates both areas, ensuring students develop essential health knowledge alongside personal and social capabilities.

In Year 10, students have been exploring the internal and external obstacles that can impact goal achievement. Through discussions, real-life scenarios, and problem-solving activities, they have analysed how various challenges influence their ability to reach their goals. Working both individually and in groups, students identified practical strategies to overcome these obstacles.

To reinforce their learning, students participated in a hands-on challenge where they worked in teams of 3–4 to construct the tallest possible pasta tower using only marshmallows, spaghetti, and tape. With a strict 10-minute time limit, they were required to think creatively, collaborate effectively, and adapt to unforeseen challenges. This activity encouraged the development of problem-solving skills, resilience, and teamwork, equipping students with strategies to navigate real-world challenges.

- Miss Isabella Athaide

Year 10 Awards

During our welcoming assembly in week 2 we recognised the outstanding achievements of some students from semester 2, 2024. This group of students obtained an average result of 80% or higher across all subjects in semester 2 of last year which showcased their ongoing commitment to their studies. I congratulate the following students on this achievement:

• Angi
• Andre
• Karam
• Jana
• Ben
• Rafael
• Marina
• Jacob
• Cristian
• Laith
• Iman
• Ranin
• Mirna
• Maher
• Layelle
• Liana
• Evelyn
• Lara
• Joshua
• Catherine
• Mariam
• Grace

Thank you to all parents/carers of year 10 students for your ongoing support. I look forward to getting to know you all individually over the coming year.

- Miss Isabella Athaide

Year 10 Badminton

On Monday, 17th February, Year 9 and 10 students represented the college at the annual Intermediate Badminton Tournament held at Eagle Stadium, Werribee.

Facing strong competition from other schools, our students demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork throughout the event. Their commitment to the game was evident in every match, as they applied their skills and strategic play against their opponents.

The tournament provided a valuable opportunity for students to challenge themselves, refine their techniques, and gain experience in a competitive environment. We commend all participants for their efforts and congratulate all students for their dedication and enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing their continued progress in future competitions.

- Miss Isabella Athaide

Year 11&10 Psychology Excursion

Student reflection

Our trip to the zoo for Psychology class was a great experience. We got to see ethical guidelines in action, like how the animals were cared for and how their environments were designed to keep them comfortable. The best part was watching the siamang monkeys, they were loud, energetic, and their songs echoed through the whole area. Hearing them “laugh” was both funny and fascinating, and we couldn’t help but laugh along. Overall, it was a fun and memorable way to see real life examples of the concepts we’ve studied.

- Channel (Yr 11)

Year 11 & 12 Academic Awards

It has been lovely to see all the students back in VCE and challenging themselves to work to the best of their ability. From participating in their class, staying up to date with coursework and displaying expected behaviours, students have started the year positively. Students should be completing study at home - this may be finishing coursework, completing set homework, creating mind maps, accessing practice SAC questions on Edrolo or doing extra reading. If you have any questions at all about your child’s learning or they require extra support, please do not hesitate to get in contact – aguido@antonine.catholic.edu.au 

During the Year level assemblies, the following students received a certificate for scoring 80%+ on their 2024 Semester 2 Reports:

Year 11

• Isabelle
• Charbel
• Nancy
• Larissa
• Ghazal
• Sally
• Jenevieve
• Angelina
• Hannibal
• Rose
• Kartia
• Angelina
• Isabella
• Ianna

Year 12

• Tahlya
• Alya
• Philip
• Dima
• Leen
• Joelle
• Isabella
• Maryam
• Jayden

Congratulations to these students and I hope to see even more students excel in 2025.

- Ms Ayesha Guido

Year 12 English Excursion

Students in Year 12 were fortunate enough to venture into the city as a cohort to attend an excursion complimenting their study of the classic 1950s film ‘Sunset Boulevard’ for VCE English. We were able to view the film at ACMI in Federation Square, before listening to a lecture dissecting components of the film. Students gained insight into the themes, ideals, and values as well as directorial choices made to enhance the film. Overall, it was an informative day for students, and we hope that the information will provide beneficial stimulus in aiding their revision for their upcoming SAC. Thank you to Ms Wakim and Ms Guido for accompanying the students with me on the day.

- Miss Tania Aoun

Senior Netball

The Senior netball team came together for the 2025 short season with a renewed energy for the game. It was great to beat previous scores and for every player to achieve their personal best on the court.

Thanks to the following students who contributed: Bernadette, Rawan, Natalie, Tahlya, Sienna, Miriam, Julie, Giselle, Gabriella, Joelle, Annabelle, Lida, Helene,

Also thanks to Mikayla for her coaching support and Ms Al-Mourani for Coordinating.

- Ms Ria Coffey

Upcoming Dates:

3 March: Ash Monday

4-7 March: Year 8 Camp

10 March: Labour Day Public Holiday

11 March: Teeth on Wheels (Cedar and St Joseph Campus)

12 March: Teeth on Wheels (Cedar Campus)

20 March: Teeth on Wheels (Cedar Campus)

12-21 March: Year 3, 5, 7 & 9 NAPLAN

18 - 28 March: Rome Student Faith Formation Tour

2 April: F-3 Palm Sunday Prayer Service and Procession

3 April Cedar Athletic Carnival

4 April: St Joseph Athletic Carnival

4 April: Last Day of Term One

Pilgrims of Hope - College Theme 2025