Newsletter Term 1 > Week 2

A Home That Welcomes 

It has been a wonderful start to the year, with the usual buzz of excitement, combined with an air of purpose and calm as we settle into the routines of school. 

We welcomed 51 new Reception students, looking smart and comfortable in the new active wear uniform, and 77 new students into various year levels across the College. We also welcomed 17 new staff at Benedict, 14 staff at Bosco, plus 4 trainees under the AFL Sports Ready Program, significantly increasing support available to students. 

It was a pleasure to welcome 31 boarders into our new boarding facility on Monday 27 January as we celebrated a liturgy, commissioned the Boarding House Captains, Alexandra O’Neill and Jed Devine, and shared supper together with families and supervisors. Having dinner with the boarders last week, I was touched to receive a thank you card from students appreciating the development of such fantastic accommodation to provide a home away from home. Small gestures of thanks or kindness can make anyone’s day, and that made mine. 

As we begin the new year, in a spirit of hope aligned with Pope Francis’ call in a jubilee year for us to be Pilgrims of Hope, we hope that our community comes to embrace the traditions of our Good Samaritan and Salesian charisms. We will always strive to be a home that welcomes, a parish that evangelises, a school that educates for life and playground where friends meet and have fun, whilst helping and including everyone. 

Two beautiful events already this year have brought us together as a community – our Opening Mass in Week 1 and our Year 7-12 Dux assembly to recognise our high achievers from the class of 2024. Once again, I congratulate all our graduates for their success last year and wish them well in the multiple pathways they are pursuing through universities, apprenticeships and the world of work. It is a short journey between Reception and Year 12! I look forward to us walking this road together, in harmony and partnership. All the best for 2025. 

 Dr Sandra Hewson, Principal

College Opening Mass 
The College held its Opening Mass on Friday of Week 1. The Diocesan Theme and Salesian Strenna were highlighted during the Mass through the readings, music and homily from Fr Jimmy. Classroom candles were blessed by Fr Jimmy and Deacon Gary following Communion. Also blessed, was our Bosco Altar Cross which was kindly crafted out of wood and resin by our recently retired Bosco Tech Teacher, Mr Mark Murphy. It will be proudly displayed on the altar in the Chapel during liturgies and Masses. A big thank you to all who were involved in organising and assisting during the event. 

Jubilee Year – Pilgrims of Hope 
2025 marks a Jubilee Year for the Catholic Church, celebrated every 25 years. This year’s theme is, ‘Pilgrims of Hope’. It is an opportunity for pilgrimage, to reconnect and renew our journey with Christ on the road. Journeying together, there is much hope to achieve our dreams and aspirations when we all work together and accompany each other on this road. This is where hope is found, in the anticipation of our dreams and aspirations to become leaders and companions in a world that God desires. The journey is ongoing, but it has an origin and a destination. Hope is that origin and the destination is God. 
 

Talks/Catechesis for Youth and Adults 
The Parish is hosting a group of Christians who are running a series of talks or catechesis sessions for youth and adults in the Cathedral on Sundays and Tuesdays beginning on Sunday 16 February at 7:00 PM. It will be a great opportunity to explore and discuss questions about Catholicism and Christianity that may be on one’s mind. Opening and exploring the Catholic faith in its fullness will bring about transformational change in establishing or renewing mission in our Parish Community. For more information, please contact Fr Jimmy on 0434 517 920 or Francesco Trentin on 0439 877 238. 

Sacramental Information 
Information will be coming out soon about the Parish’s Sacramental Programme for 2025. Catholic students in Year 3 will be invited to undertake the sacrament of First Reconciliation later in the year (November), similarly Year 4s with First Holy Communion in August, and the Year 6s with Confirmation coming up on Ascension Sunday (1 June). There will be an Information Meeting in the Cathedral on Monday, 3 March at 7:00 PM, and people interested will be invited to confirm their attendance with the corresponding Operoo that will be sent out. 

If there are any students wishing to become members of the Catholic Church (through baptism), please get in touch with our local parish office in (08) 8632 3977 or email saintmarkscatholic@pp.catholic.org.au. 

RCIA 
Similarly, among our older students (Years 11-12), an invitation is being made to join in some catechesis to prepare for the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). This is a process for older students and adults to be received into the Catholic Church. These sessions will likely be run over several weeks in the lead up to the Easter Vigil (19 April). If you are interested, please get in touch with our APRIM (iellis@smc.catholic.edu.au) for more information. 

Update on Operation Christmas Child 2024 
A big thank you to those classes and families that filled shoeboxes with gifts for children in need at the festive season. As part of the efforts in Australia and New Zealand, Samaritan’s Purse were able to send off 211,502 boxes to countries including Cambodia, the Philippines, Fiji, the Solomon Islands and the Ukraine. It is only with generosity like shown by our community that make these great things happen. 

The Witness 
Click here for the latest edition.

Southern Cross 
Click here for the latest edition.

Mr Isaac Ellis, APRIM 

Key Dates: Term 1, Week 3 and 4

• Little Lions Session 2 
  Monday 10 February, 8.30 – 11.30am
   
• Mini Mark’s Playgroup – Valentine’s Day Craft 
  with visit from Environmental Health Centre 
  Tuesday 11 February, 9.00am – 10.30am
   
• Little Lions Session 2 
  Friday 14 February, 8.30 – 11.30am
   
• Little Lions Session 3
  Monday 17 February, 8.30 – 11.30am
   
• Mini Mark’s Playgroup – Messy Play 
  Tuesday 18 February, 9.00am – 10.30am
   
• Benedict Campus Tour
  Wednesday 19 February, 9.15am – 10.15am
   
• Little Lions Session 3
  Friday 21 February, 8.30 – 11.30am

Welcome back to St. Mark's Benedict! To our new students and families joining us for the first time, a special warm welcome to our community.

Embracing New Beginnings
This year promises to be one of growth, discovery, and achievements. Our dedicated staff and teachers are committed to providing an engaging and supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. Whether it's in the classroom, on the sports field, or through extracurricular activities, there are countless opportunities for students to explore their passions and talents.

Welcome to Benedict Campus
I am excited to warmly welcome our new staff members to the St. Mark's Benedict family, and we look forward to the fresh perspectives and valuable contributions they will bring to our school community! It is my pleasure to introduce to you the following members to our teaching team:

• Mrs Alanna Wardle – Year 4 teacher
• Miss Brooke Davidson – Year 3 teacher
• Mrs Amy Bishop-Law – Intervention Teacher
• Miss Emma Rainsford – Reception Teacher
• Ms Jessica Uren – Reception Teacher
• Miss Laura Harris – Year 1 Teacher
• Miss Ning Zhang – Year 1 Teacher
• Miss Rachael Knights – Year 5 Teacher
• Mr Tom Reilly – Music, Dance and Drama Teacher

Our front office staff members are the welcoming faces and voices of St Mark's Benedict, providing a friendly and professional first point of contact for students, parents, and visitors. They are dedicated to ensuring the smooth operation of our school by managing administrative tasks, answering inquiries, and offering support to both staff and families. Their efficiency and warmth create a positive atmosphere, and their commitment to excellent service is instrumental in maintaining our school's high standards. We are grateful for their hard work and look forward to the continued collaboration that helps our community thrive.

• Mrs Tamsyn Blesing
• Mrs Ashton Puddy

I am delighted to welcome our new Education Support Officers to the Benedict staff family. Their addition brings a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and dedication to our school community. Education Support Officers play a crucial role in assisting teachers and students, ensuring that each learner receives the individual attention and support they need to succeed. By working closely with staff and students, they help create an inclusive and nurturing learning environment where every child can thrive. We look forward to the positive impact they will make and are excited to have them as part of our team!

• Mr Beau Allen
• Mr Anton Giancaspro
• Ms Deanne Clayton
• Miss Mya Giancaspro
• Miss Jazlyn McBride
• Ms Zahlia Sorrell
• Miss Matildah Scott
• Miss Isabella Martlew

As we embark on this new academic journey, let us embrace the opportunities and challenges that come our way with enthusiasm and determination. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant and dynamic school community where every student can reach their full potential.

I look forward to seeing the incredible achievements and milestones we will accomplish together in 2025. Here's to a fantastic school year filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences!

Snakes at Benedict: Stay Alert as the Weather Warms Up
As we embrace the warmer weather and enjoy more outdoor activities, it is essential to stay vigilant and be aware of the presence of snakes in and around the Benedict area. Snakes become more active during the warmer months, and encountering them is a possibility we should be prepared for.

If you come across a snake, remember to stay calm and follow these steps:

• Keep Your Distance: Do not approach or attempt to handle the snake. Give it plenty of space to move away.
• Alert Others: Warn others in the vicinity about the presence of the snake to ensure their safety.
• Please report this sighting to the front office.

We all play a role in keeping our community safe. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, we can minimise the risk of snake encounters and ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone at Benedict.

Mrs Sarah Freer, Deputy Principal, Benedict Campus

Hi my name is Anna and I am the new Mini Mark’s Playgroup Coordinator!

Playgroup is so important to our College. It is the first stage of entering our school community, where families and children establish relationships, and create a familiarity for the years ahead.

As well as being a Playgroup Coordinator, I am a mum to two children at Benedict (and a fur-mum to two sausage-dogs and a cat!) and am also an ESO at the Bosco Campus. I am studying inclusive education at University.

It was lovely to meet all our Mini Mark’s families at our first playgroup! It is a great place for children to have fun and be supported in their play and learning. I am committed to creating a safe space for our Mini Mark’s children to explore, have opportunities to grow and develop friendships. I also encourage feedback and want our families to let us know what is working well and where we can improve.

We have lots of fun ahead this term. Click here to see our Term 1 Schedule for all the details.

I look forward to seeing you at Playgroup, held weekly on Tuesdays between 9.00am – 10.30am, soon!

Anna Moulder, Playgroup Coordinator

Key Dates: Term 1, Week 3 and 4

• Parent Welcome Night, Years 7-9 
  Monday 10 February, 7.00pm, St Mark’s Sports Centre
   
• Student Leaders’ Day 
  Monday 17 February, Bundaleer Forest
   
• Bosco Campus Tour
  Monday 17 February, 4.30pm – 5.30pm

Our 2025 school year is underway, and I have been impressed with the way students are working to organise themselves and set goals for the new school year. With well over 100 students new to Bosco Campus our St Mark’s staff have been working to be explicit in supporting students to be ready to learn and to understand and meet our College expectations. 

We hope all of our new students and families experience welcome and belonging with our community.

Boarding House
Boarding students and their families gathered for a liturgy and meal to begin their year together in Salesian House. A highlight was having Gary and Nita Stokes (founding House Parents of St Mark’s College boarding) present at our first gathering in our new facilities. There was a sense of excitement and awe in coming into our beautiful new space for the first time. I thank the Boarding House team led by Luanne for their thoughtfulness and dedication in setting up this new environment for our Boarding students.

Parent Welcome Evenings
Thank you to all the families who attended our Senior School Parent Welcome Night on Tuesday evening. Connecting with your child’s 2025 teachers fosters engagement and provides students with the confidence of knowing they have strong support in their learning journey.

We hope parents found value in the presentation by Cab from Elevate Education, taking away actionable tips to support their child’s success. This session provided insight into our focus on learnership, building agency, and developing capacity in our young people this year.

Your involvement plays a vital role in shaping a supportive learning environment, and we appreciate your ongoing commitment to your child's education.

As part of our Middle School Welcome Night next Monday 10/2 our College engagement officer and counsellor will provide insights for parents into supporting young people in growing their independence through the adolescent years. I look forward to seeing our Year 7-9 parents and caregivers there.

Welcome to Bosco Campus
I warmly welcome a number of new staff members to our Bosco Campus this year:

Leadership Staff:

• Mrs Mari-Lene Fourie- Leader of Wellbeing and Student Development
• Ms Taylar Cox- Leader of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, Years 7-9

Teaching Staff:

• Mrs Ebonie Smith- Middle School
• Ms Adria Butterwick- Middle School
• Ms Megan Footner- Middle School
• Mrs Katrina Willson- Middle School
• Ms Mae Camporeale- Middle and Senior School

While Mr Nathan Brook is a familiar face, he is now teaching Design and Technology.

Education Support Staff:

• Mr Leo Coates- Sports Administrator
• Mr Ben Ibele- Classroom ESO
• Miss Alexa Manners- Classroom ESO
• Mrs Terri Northcott- Classroom ESO
• Mr Joshua Muhsin, Trainee, Classroom ESO
• Miss Addison Roberts, Trainee, Classroom ESO, PE
• Miss Lucy Pennell, Administration ESO
• Mrs Bevlee Reidy, Administration ESO

Uniform and Grooming

At St Mark’s College, we take pride in our uniform as a reflection of our values, to prepare students for life, to promote a sense of belonging and a commitment to excellence. We ask all students to ensure they meet the College’s uniform and grooming standards every day. 

To view the Uniform Guidelines click here.

Students who do not meet uniform or grooming expectations will be reminded of the standards and be required to correct it during Home Group where possible ie removal of excess jewellery for safe storage in the Student Hub or make an agreement with the teacher of a suitable arrangement to correct their uniform. Where there are persistent breaches of uniform and grooming, the Pastoral Care Team will arrange a meeting with the student and family to discuss supports and actions to comply with College expectations.

We appreciate the support of families in upholding these expectations, ensuring all students represent our College with pride and respect.

PE Uniform Guidelines

• Years 7–10 PE uniform is to be worn only on scheduled PE lesson days (no changes to current arrangements).
   
• Year 11 & 12 PE Students PE uniform is to be worn on the designated double PE lesson day. Currently this is Tuesday’s for Year 12 PE and Monday for Year 11.
   
• Students may also wear their College PE uniform on their scheduled gym day:

  • Monday – Year 10

  • Tuesday – Year 8

  • Wednesday – Year 9

  • Thursday – Year 11

  • Friday – Year 7

• Any other classes who require PE for particular practical activities (e.g., Agriculture or AFL) will be notified directly by their subject teacher regarding specific days they need to be in PE Uniform.

Dux Assembly
It was a pleasure to welcome back some of our 2024 Senior Students who we celebrated at our Annual Dux Assembly.

My congratulations to Zara, Jess, Ruby, Addison, Adam and Mitchell on their outstanding results in SACE.

The message Zara shared with students was one of practical advice for students at any stage of their schooling.

Mrs Katie Pole, Deputy Principal, Bosco Campus

SAPOL has been informed of a break ins at school at different times this week.

Some security cameras and lockers were tampered with, along with a staff office, and some devices were stolen.

Please remind your child to ensure their locker is securely closed and locked.

Locker codes should not be shared with anyone.

We strongly advise that laptops and other devices are not left in lockers overnight - they are tools for learning and should be taken home each day to be used for homework and re-charged for the following day.

It is timely to remind families that devices should be insured. Repair and replacement costs can be considerable.

We celebrated some wonderful results at the completion of 2024:

• 100% SACE completion for our Class of 2024
• College Dux: Zara Pansini, 96.9
• ATAR’s over 90: Zara Pansini, Jessica Doyle, Addison Roberts, Ruby Stark and Adam Wegner
• 15 students from the Class of 2024 achieved an ATAR over 80
• Merit (A+): Mitchell Court in AIF
• Students receiving an A+:
  • Spiritualities, Religion and Meaning- Isabella Martlew, Ruby Stark, and Adam Wegner
  • Creative Arts- Jessica Doyle
  • AIF- Wil Brown, Lucy Clogg, Mitchell Court, Alyssa Ganley, Madeline Murdoch, and Kodi Stake
    We also congratulate Jack Jaeschke whose modified AIF is being used as an exemplar
  • Psychology- Zara Pansini
  • Society and Culture- Zara Pansini
• 14 students from the Class of 2024 achieved 4 or more A grades
• 75% of the Class of 2024 who applied for University received first choice offers

We look forward to sharing more good news about students who have started apprenticeships in the next newsletter.

Ann Russack, Leader of Learning, Senior Years and SACE Coordinator

Hello, we are the school counsellors, Naomi at Benedict Campus and Sonya from Bosco Campus. We are excited to share with you the important role of school counselling!

A school counsellor is here to support students in navigating the ups and downs of both their academic and personal lives. We work closely with students to help them manage stress, build emotional resilience, and overcome challenges they may face. Whether it is addressing anxiety, resolving conflict, or goal setting, our role is to create a safe environment where students feel heard and empowered to succeed. We are here to listen, develop strategies with students, and ensure they have the tools to thrive both inside and outside of the classroom.

To make contact with our school counsellors, please contact your relevant campus:

• Benedict Campus 8633 8802
• Bosco Campus 8633 8801

or phone Centacare 8638 2100. 

Naomi Wilkins and Sonya Murphy, School Counsellors

We are delighted to announce that we will be offering Children’s University again this year to students in Years 3-8. Children’s University offers students recognition for pursuing learning experiences outside the normal curriculum, and beyond school.

We will be visiting classes and offering a Parent Information session on Thursday 13 February at 2:30pm in the Benedict Library. This will be a great way to acknowledge students’ personal learning interests and promote a commitment to learning. We look forward to seeing you there! More information to follow via Operoo.