MSPC Newsletter - Term 4, Week 6, 21st November 2024
Principal
Dear Parents and Caregivers
It's been another busy fortnight here at Mount St Patrick College. One of the highlights was on Friday night when we farewelled our amazing group of Year 12 students at the Formal. Obviously, this was my first experience of a graduation formal at Mount St Pat's, and I was completely blown away by the evening itself, the wonderful way that the Year 12 students carried themselves from beginning to end, the amazing entries to the school via cars, trucks, motorbikes, to the way Year 12 held themselves throughout the ceremony. They celebrated in style with the music and their families by their side.
I again would like to take the opportunity to thank the Year 12 group and the parents who, despite being my first year here, made me feel very much a part of their time at the College. And again, I wish Year 12 all the best and hope that they get the very best, not only from their HSC results that are coming up shortly, but also from the many other wonderful outcomes that they get from being here at our wonderful school.
I would also like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who was involved with the Principal appraisal that happened on Wednesday last week. I had many contributions from staff and parents and the process itself was very formative. I'm very appreciative to everyone who was involved and look forward to moving forward with the school community and in leading what has been a great Mount St Patrick community and will continue to be into the future.
We had a school assembly last week and I took the opportunity to congratulate the students on the way that they were approaching their upcoming assessments. They were very serious in their approach and in many of the classes I'd walk past, or even homerooms, students were actively preparing for their upcoming exams and assessments and I appreciated their efforts in doing so.
We have less than a month to go and the year is rapidly drawing to a close. I encourage students to finish well and work right through to the very end as that is what our teachers will be doing. We have plenty of time on the holidays to relax and enjoy the summer.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Gavin Dykes
Principal
Assistant Principal - Mission
MINISTRY
Christmas carnival and Nativity Tableau
Our annual Christmas Carnival and Nativity Play, held on the last Saturday of November, has been a treasured tradition since 1961. This special event brings together our Parish, Parish schools, and the wider community to celebrate the beginning of Advent and share the story of Jesus' birth.
The Nativity Play is presented in a unique tableau format, with students and staff from Mt St Patrick Primary, St Joseph’s Primary and Mt St Patrick College portraying the story silently while narration, choir and band provide the words and music.
Alongside the Tableau, the Christmas Carnival offers a festive fete atmosphere featuring a variety of stalls, delicious food and drinks, raffles, chocolate wheels and children’s activities. It’s a night filled with joy and community spirit! Our students will join with Mt St Patrick Primary School and St Joseph’s Primary School staff and students to perform the annual nativity.
We warmly invite everyone from our Parish and school communities to participate. You can get involved by:
- Donating items for stalls
- Helping out on Carnival night or during working bees (held Saturday and Sunday)
- Supporting the Parish by purchasing raffle tickets, available online or in printed booklets
This year’s raffle features fantastic cash prizes:
1st Prize: $1,500 | 2nd Prize: $500 | 3rd Prize: $250
Let’s come together to make this year’s Carnival a wonderful celebration of faith, community, and the Advent season.
Grace Molloy
Leader of Evangelisation
Formal
Thank you to all those who helped set up for the Year 12 formal. It was a fantastic night. Congratulations to Year 12!
A special thanks to all the staff and students who helped, especially Year 11 students Ella Cracknell, Trisha Sharma, Claudia Larkin, Flynn Jones, Freda Biles, Ben Wilson, Jamie Howitt, Rhys Johnston, Lucy McTaggart, Leon Morgan, Hiwot Nardi, Amy Siripiboon, Neve Trembath, Estella Wong, Emelia Thompson, Isabelle Biersteker and Amali Moore. Thank you also to Mary-Ann Thackray from the parish office, Halle McClymont, Emma Loughman, Mrs Amanda McTaggart, Mrs Lesley Van Rosi and Mrs Vanessa Brown. A special thank you to Mr Gene Molloy and Mrs Lesa Swift for helping with setup and organisation. We will upload some photos to the college Facebook.
Vinnies Christmas Appeal
As Christmas approaches we ask College students, families and staff to think of those less fortunate in our community. This year we will be doing a Can Drive in homerooms as well as selling Candy Canes as part of the Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Any monetary donations would be greatly appreciated as these funds go directly to families in Murwillumbah as gift cards, so they can buy gifts and Christmas items appropriate for their family’s needs.
God bless,
Grace Molloy
Leader of Evangelisation
Assistant Principal- Learning & Teaching
Mt St Patrick College - Academic Excellence and New Elective Opportunities
At Mt St Patrick College, we pride ourselves on developing a culture of academic excellence. Our students gradually hone the skills needed to demonstrate their knowledge and abilities in exams. This important aspect of their education begins as early as Year 7, where the foundations for exam preparation and completion are established.
As our Year 7-10 students wrap up their exam period this week, we would like to congratulate them for the focus and dedication they have shown throughout the process. Year 11 students will soon be completing their first HSC assessment tasks in Week 8, and we wish them all the best in their efforts.
New Electives at Stage 5: Real-Life Skills in Action
We are excited to announce the revitalisation of our Stage 5 electives, offering students new opportunities to gain practical, real-world skills. This year, a group of Year 10 students had the chance to trial a new elective “Coffee”, where they have gained valuable competencies in running a café and learned about the coffee industry.
Last Friday, the class put their skills to the test, serving “Mocktails” and coffee to parents attending the formal. The students thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on nature of this new elective, which focuses on building real-life skills and creating durable competencies for the future.
In 2025, “Coffee” will be offered as a 100-hour elective, and Year 9 students will have the opportunity to run Cafe Signo. We extend our thanks to Mr. Rimmell for initiating this exciting new course.
Additionally, Year 10 students in 2025 will have the opportunity to try a new course “DIY”, where they will acquire skills in home, garden, and car maintenance, culminating in a renovation project.
We are proud to offer these innovative courses that help students build skills that are both relevant and practical.
The Solomons Are Coming: Exciting Immersion Visit
On December 6th, we will welcome 19 students and 7 teachers from Bishop Epalle in the Solomon Islands. Our 22 Immersion students will be hosting our Solomon friends, and the whole school community is invited to join in the fun as we share this cultural experience.
We look forward to this special event and the opportunity to strengthen our connections with our friends in the Solomon Islands.
The highlight of the trip will be Mass and cultural Exchange night on Saturday 14th December. Everyone is invited to join in and enjoy the friendship. Bishop Epalle and our Immersion group will perform their dances in the Gilbey centre. There will be a sausage sizzle and drinks on sale after mass. Year 10 students hoping to be selected for the program in 2025 should come along to the night to make connections.
Narelle Sherrah
Assitant Principal: Learning and Teaching
Curriculum
Week 5 saw our Year 8 and 9 students complete their Semester 2 examinations. We have been impressed by their quiet focus in preparing for and completing these tasks.
Meanwhile this week Years 7 and 10 are completing their exams and Years 11 and Accelerated 10 students have been gearing up for their upcoming HSC assessments in Week 9.
Term 4 Assessment Block - Week 9:
- Year 11 (HSC) and Accelerated Year 10 assessment block is scheduled starting Week 9, 02/12/24 to 06/12/24.
Assessment Policy: A copy of the Assessment Policy can be found on the Assessment Portal. If students require a variation to assessment, they should complete the online Assessment Variation Application Form for each subject.
Students can access all information regarding their assessments via the Assessment Portal which is found on the MSPC Moodle Site. Students can access the site using their school email and log in.
For Years 10 - 12: If students are absent on the day of the assessment, a Medical Practitioner must complete the Mount St Patrick Assessment Variation Illness Application. This can be accessed on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal. A zero will be awarded if the completed document is not provided. NOTE: A signed statutory declaration will not be accepted. * Please note that a family social event or holiday will not be considered a valid reason for an extension or exemption.
Years 11 and 12 should refer to their Senior Handbooks for the MSPC Assessment Policy relating to Stage 6. Years 11 and 12 should be conversant with the NESA HSC Rules and Procedures Guide. All students entered in an HSC course must read the HSC Rules and Procedures Guide.
Students are encouraged to be proactive with their learning and assessment preparation. This is important for building confidence and assessment readiness. Students will be provided with study guides and revision materials by their teachers. If students are unsure of expectations, they should seek advice from their teachers. There are many helpful online resources that can also assist parents to help their child to be organised, confident and assessment ready. Implementing a balanced home study routine can play an important part in this process.
Jo McDonald
Leader of Curriculum
Pastoral Care
Partnering with Parents: Supporting Relationship Building
At Mount Saint Patrick College, we know that strong, positive relationships are the foundation of a thriving school community. While much of this relationship-building happens in the classroom, the role of parents in fostering these connections cannot be overstated.
As parents and carers, you are your child’s first teachers when it comes to relationships. The values and behaviours you model at home set the tone for how your child interacts with others. Together, we can nurture the skills and attitudes that enable our young people to build meaningful connections throughout their lives.
How You Can Support Relationship Building
Here are a few ways parents can help strengthen their child’s ability to form and maintain positive relationships:
1) Model Empathy and Respect
Children learn how to treat others by watching the adults in their lives. Showing kindness, listening actively, and resolving conflicts calmly teach valuable lessons about empathy and mutual respect.
2) Encourage Open Communication
Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. This not only strengthens your bond but also helps them develop the confidence to communicate effectively with others.
3) Celebrate Diversity
Talk with your child about the importance of embracing differences and valuing each person’s unique perspective. Encouraging curiosity and understanding helps them build inclusive relationships.
4) Foster Resilience
Relationships aren’t always easy and disagreements are a natural part of life. Helping your child navigate challenges, manage emotions and find solutions equips them with the tools to maintain healthy connections.
5) Prioritise Family Time
Shared moments—whether through a meal, a walk, or simply a conversation—reinforce the importance of connection. These experiences provide a strong relational foundation for your child.
As a school, we are committed to nurturing strong, positive relationships among students, staff and families. Your partnership in this effort is invaluable. By modelling and fostering relationship-building at home, you strengthen the values we uphold at Mount Saint Patrick College. Together, we can raise young people who are compassionate, resilient, and ready to contribute positively to the world.
Blake Reynolds
Acting Leader of Pastoral Care
Faculty News
MATHS NEWS
Mathematics – Junior Semester 2 Examinations
I would like to commend our students in Years 7 -10 for the way in which they have been organised for the Semester 2 Examinations. It has been impressive to see how well they’ve organised their materials, whether it’s bringing calculators, summarising their notes or ensuring that they have arrived on time ready to give it their best effort. This commitment to being fully prepared reflects their hard work and determination to succeed.
I would like students to remember that completing the task is only one component of the learning journey. How they act on the feedback given afterwards is equally important. The end of the year is a time to reflect on the goals that have been set for 2024, taking the time to congratulate yourselves if you have achieved these goals or reassessing your circumstances and planning a new goal for 2025.
Mathematics ‘Wiles’ Awards
At the beginning of this term, we introduced a new form of positive behaviour recognition in Mathematics. The ‘Wiles’ awards, named after the famous contemporary mathematician Andrew Wiles, is being awarded to students in class for displaying one or more of the following attributes on a regular basis: Preparedness for class; Active Engagement and Effort towards learning; Perseverance with problem-solving.
Students who receive these awards go into the draw to win a $10 canteen voucher. Winners are drawn at each assembly and our very first winner of the prize was Olivia Bagnall. Well done!
National Mathematics Summer School (NMSS)
Earlier this term we received some fantastic news that Archer Szandala was successful in his application to attend the National Mathematics Summer School. The NMSS is a program for the development of talented high school students from all over Australia.
Approximately 70 students from across the country will converge on the Australian National University in Canberra during January to participate in a number of courses on branches of mathematics that are not studied as part of the NSW School Curriculum. The main course is Number Theory however, they may also explore aspects of: Chaos Theory, Cryptography, Knot Theory and Topology.
Well done Archer! I look forward to hearing all about it in the new year.
Dan Anderson
Leader of Learning: Mathematics
FROM THE SPORTS DESK
DIOCESAN SENIOR WATER POLO
Senior Boys
Nine of our best senior male swimmers travelled to the Aquatic Centre in Alstonville to contest the Diocesan Waterpolo Championships.
After a 5 - 0 win against MacKillop College in our first game, confidence was high. However, we were brought back to earth with losses to Xavier 3 - 1 and eventual winners John Paul College 5 - 0. Playing off for 5th place saw a tired MSPC team fight valiantly against St Joseph’s College losing narrowly 2 - 1.
A special thankyou to our Captain Jack French for his leadership and all the players who displayed great sportsmanship throughout the day
Coach: Rick Van Den Driest
Senior Girls
Our Senior Girls Water Polo team also travelled to Alstonville and represented the school with pride and determination. The team delivered an impressive performance, finishing second in their pool after some tightly contested matches. This strong result earned them a place in the semi-finals, where they faced a tough and skilled opponent in MacKillop College. Despite their best efforts, the girls missed out on a spot in the Grand Final. The spirit and camaraderie displayed by the team was fantastic. The students were an absolute pleasure to take away, demonstrating the values of sportsmanship and teamwork both in and out of the water. Congratulations to both the Senior teams, we are very proud of their achievements!
Coach: Lisa East
DIOCESAN JUNIOR WATER POLO
Junior Girls
The Junior Girls Water Polo team showcased their determination and skill at the Diocesan Carnival at Alstonville on Thursday, finishing second in their pool and earning a well-deserved spot in the crossover final.
The opening match saw the team hit the water with confidence, the girls fought hard to claim a well-earned draw. The girls kept positive and cheered each other on, setting the tone for the day.
The second game proved to be a challenge, as the opposition’s offensive power pushed the girls into a tightly contested battle. Despite a valiant effort, the team faced their only loss of the pool stage. However, they regrouped and refocused for the final pool match.
In their third game, the girls took the lead early and hung on for the win to solidify their position as second in the pool standings, securing their progression to the crossover final.
The girls' enthusiasm and determination were evident throughout the day, and their achievement of reaching the semi finals was fantastic.
Congratulations to the Junior Girls Water Polo team for their incredible performance!
Coach: Robyn Fitzpatrick
JUNIOR BOYS
The Junior Boys Water Polo team may not have brought home a win at the Diocesan Carnival, but they certainly earned admiration for their team spirit and dedication. Despite facing three challenging matches and finishing without a victory, the boys demonstrated perseverance and sportsmanship throughout the day.
Each game tested their resolve, with strong opposition pressing hard. However, the team never gave up, showing grit and determination in every play.
The boys’ defensive coordination improved as the tournament progressed, and score lines became closer. Game 1 - Woodlawn took a convincing win with 10 goals to nil for us. By the last game of the day the boys only went down 2-0 to Trinity.
Regardless of the scoreline, the boys encouraged one another, celebrated small victories, and worked tirelessly to support their teammates. Notable mention must go to Captain Tim Wellm whose leadership was commendable in and out of the pool. Well done boys and better luck next year.
Coach: Rick Van Den Driest
DIOCESAN NETBALL - GRAFTON
Neither the Rain, or the early start, could dampen our spirits as we made our way to Grafton to compete in the annual Diocesean Netball Championships.
All three teams impressed with their netball skills, their enthusiasm and team spirit. All teams were competitive in their divisions. Whilst we did not leave with any trophies, we left with lots of smiles after an enjoyable, but tiring day.
A special mention and thanks to those girls who umpired many games on the day, as well as played: Ella McTaggart, Sophie Geer, Charlize Harper-Green, Lucy McTaggart, Claudia Larkin.
JUNIORS
The girls had a great day out. They showed wonderful sportsmanship and relentless effort after some very close and aggressive games. Their spirits remained high, especially when you found out there was a trip to McDonalds on the way home. Well done girls!
Team: Alani Cracknell, Eva McCarthy, Sophie Gear, Saffron Richards, Ella Charles, Isabella Buckley, Kaia Lawrence, Ella McTaggart, Cleo Harper-Green.
INTERMEDIATES
The Intermediate Netball team showcased determination and skill during their games, enjoying a thrilling win, some tough losses, and a well-earned draw. All players demonstrated outstanding spirit and their efforts were a true reflection of MSPC values. It was a great day of netball that left the team inspired for future matches.
Team: Dannielle Kee, Kerala Richards, Minnow Glynn, Safira Doman, Charlotte Mathewson, Elliza Campbell, Grace Toms, Hannah Dykes, Eden Petrie and Charlize Harper-Green.
SENIORS
It was a pleasure to accompany this group of 10 girls to the Netball Championships. They played each game with a positive attitude and genuine enjoyment. I look forward to the carnival next year.
Team: Lucy McTaggart, Kate Warren, Claudia Larkin, Bree Putigam, Sienna Prendergast, Ella Cracknell, Jaimie Howitt, Christina Mathews, Amali Moore, Payten Nash
2025 DIOCESAN INDIVIDUAL TOUCH TRIAL NOMINATIONS
All talented Touch Football players U15 and Opens are asked to consider applying to attend the Diocesan Trials to be held in Tormina 4th March next year.
Players are expected to be at representative level as the Touch pool in our Diocese is very strong. Please only consider applying if you fit the criteria.
The link to the Diocesan form is below:
Dio U15 and Open Touch Football nominations 4/3/25
The cut off for all applications is very early next year.
UNDER 14 MALE AUSTRALIAN RULES FOOTBALL
Northern NSW trials are on Thursday, 27th February 2025 and will be held at Feighan Oval, Warners Bay (south of Newcastle).
To be eligible, you MUST be born from 1/1/2011 - 31/12/2012 ONLY. Expressions of interest for 2025 Boys Australian Football close at C.O.B. (5pm) Wednesday 19th February, 2025. Parents of successful students will be notified if they have been selected by the afternoon of Friday 21st of February. Whilst we understand this is a tight turn around for making travel arrangements, this is the expectation from CCC.
Please note - you must attend this trial, (if successful), to be considered for selection
Parents if your son meets the criteria and wishes to attend these trials please register interest via the google form below. Applications will be considered and successful applicants invited to trial. This is not an invitation to attend.
Northern NSW Aussie rules Trials
Tim Whitney
Sport Co-ordinator
DRAMA
To conclude a very successful year of elective Drama 100 hours, eleven Year 9 students were treated to an excursion to Movie World.
The day began with a workshop to explore aspects of characterisation and dramatic action with a focus on confidence and improvisation. The group engaged with the dark side of their favourite heroes (Batman, The Joker, Harley Quinn) to apply the elements of drama through the guidance of Warner Bros Movie World’s professional character performers. Students built upon their knowledge of the physical and psychological aspects of characterisation and how this influences intention and dramatic form. After engaging in the workshop, the students had some free time to explore the theme park and meet the characters.
The students felt that they left this program with a greater knowledge and understanding of the elements of drama and had the following to say:
“I feel like it’s had a positive impact on my drama knowledge, considering the different elements like how to stay in character, maintaining body language and voice technique.”- Ava O’ Toole
“This excursion was an amazing experience and an eye opener.” - (Millie Ewing)
“I learnt so much about job opportunities for acting and also gained a view on real-life actors. I really enjoyed today and the rides were a bonus to the private workshop with the actors!” - (Yasmin Van Rosi)
“The best excursion by a long shot… My favourite part (aside from going on The Joker rollercoaster) was acting as Batman- I learnt how to project and change my voice.”- (Chloe Trute)
“I had so much fun! My highlight of the day was working with my class in the improvisation workshop and I got to take away that drama is acting under real circumstances. It’s given me the opportunity to expand on my theatre skills. I would definitely do it over again and I wouldn’t change a thing. It was definitely worth all the laughs and hard work we put into our drama performances, wouldn’t have asked for a better group of people to work with.” -(Jana Lofts)
“It’s so special to have such an amazing group of girls get along so well and have so much fun.” - (Sunni Pearson)
Thank you to Jake Hetherington for getting us there and back safely on the school bus in the wet weather and for being a true thrill seeker and going on the roller coasters with the students.
And that’s a wrap!
Caitlyn Barone
College News
Join the 2024/2025 MSPC Basketball Academy!
We are excited to announce that registrations for the MSPC Basketball Academy 2024/2025 are now open!
The Academy is designed to support interested athletes in developing their basketball skills and work towards their sporting goals.
This program offers:
- Weekly training sessions with experienced coaches.
- Access to a personalised fitness program with Red Box Gym.
- Opportunities to participate in local, regional, and state-wide basketball events.
- Additional basketball learning including, coaching and refereeing.
The Academy aims to enhance student engagement, wellbeing and excellence in basketball. Helping athletes thrive both on and off the court.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity! If you’re ready to take your basketball journey to the next level, click the link below register your interest now.
https://forms.gle/acZY7iKJRgd1fAzw9
Lauren Frankham
Community News
