MacKillop College Newsletter Week 5 Term 3 2025

From the Principal

The first five weeks of Term 3 have seen a significant number of important events for the College. Most notable was our celebration of the Feast of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop on Friday 8 August, for which we gathered as a College Community at the Cathedral of St Michael and St John for a Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael McKenna. It was a beautiful celebration, enhanced by wonderful music and singing, with Bishop Michael encouraging us to follow the example of St Mary MacKillop and become people of prayer. Our MacKillop students were wonderful in their participation in, and respect for, the occasion, and certainly enjoyed the celebratory cake on their return to the College.

Friday 15 August saw us return to the Cathedral as a College for the Feast of the Assumption. Fr Nam led our celebration, another beautiful Mass enlivened by our musicians and singers, and the active participation of the students. Fr Nam spoke to us about the importance of responding positively to what God wants of us, and I asked the students to think about and acknowledge those in our personal world who live lives of quiet service, just as Mary did.

We congratulate our Year 12 students who, throughout weeks 3 and 4, engaged with their trial Higher School Certificate examinations. In the weeks leading up to these examinations, I spoke to Year 12 about their importance, not only in regard to the examination practice that it gives them, but because they get a clearer picture of how prepared they are for their actual HSC examinations. The challenge for our Year 12 students now is to receive the results and feedback from their teachers and to use these to plan and implement the strategies that they need to get the best from themselves in their HSC examinations. They have the support of their teachers and, no doubt, the support of their parents, so … Game On Year 12, let’s work together to get you to the summit.

We are excited that planning for the 2026 MacKillop and Stannies combined College musical is well and truly underway. Performances of the classic Disney musical Mary Poppins will be staged from Wednesday 25 March to Saturday 28 March 2026. MacKillop students who wish to be a part of this production, and need more information, can speak with Ms Duncan or Ms Phillips.

On Thursday 14 August, four teams participated in a Rugby 7’s Gala Day. While all teams performed well, our U16’s team were successful in winning their age group and now progress to the State Finals in Sydney later this term. We wish these girls every success as they represent themselves and the College at the next level, and we thank Ms Bender, Ms Scullard and Mr Fahey for accompanying the students to last week’s Gala day.

Peter Halpin
College Principal

From the Assistant Principal

Subject Selection

Thank you to the Year 10 parents who attended our information evening recently. The powerpoint presented during the evening can be found at the link below.

Senior Elective Evening 2025

Information sessions for Year 10 students will continue over the next few weeks with teachers and current Year 11 students speaking about the various subjects available. Year 10 subject selections are due Wednesday 27 August. Interviews with students and parents about the selections will follow Monday 1 September and Tuesday 2 September between 3.30pm and 5.30pm. Bookings for these interviews will be available on Compass.

Presentations for Year 8 subject selection for Year 9, 2026 will take place in coming weeks. Elective handbooks and codes will be distributed and the elective process for Year 8 into 9 explained. 

Leadership 2026

Next week nominees for the 2025/2026 Senior Council will deliver speeches to Years 10 and 11.  Year 9 and 10 House Captains speeches take place Friday of Week 7. Welcoming Committee interviews will take place on Tuesday of Week 7. Thank you to the students who have nominated for the various roles. Leadership positions will be finalised and announced at the end of this term.

Year 7 & 9 NAPLAN Reports

NAPLAN reports were distributed by mail to parents last week. 

With best wishes for the fortnight ahead,

Gina Whelan
Assistant Principal

Mission and Faith Formation

Year 7 Mass

On Wednesday of week 2, our Year 7 students celebrated their first year group Mass. Parents and friends were warmly welcomed to the College to join Fr Francis in this special occasion. Following the Mass, everyone enjoyed a slice of cake and the chance to connect with one another. Thank you to all who attended and made it a memorable day.

Year 7 Reflection Day

On Friday of week 2, Year 7 participated in their Reflection Day at Perthville. The day was led by a group of Year 10 CYSMI student-helpers. We were very privileged to, potentially for the last time, be able to use the historic St Joseph’s House in Perthville as a place for our students to pause, reflect, and learn more about our school’s rich history.  A heartfelt thank you to the Sisters of St Joseph for their generosity in hosting us, for their dedication to our students and for allowing us to use this treasured space before its sale.

Feast of Mary MacKillop School Mass

On Friday of week 3, our school came together to celebrate the Feast of Saint Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first saint and founder of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Bishop Michael McKenna led a beautiful Mass for us, with students able to venerate her relic, which is placed in the Cathedral’s Altar. We’re very grateful to Bishop McKenna for joining us and extend thanks to all our staff and students whose help made this celebration so special. Upon arrival back at the College, students enjoyed cake to celebrate our school’s Feast Day.

Cathedral School Mass- Year 8 Student Helpers

A small group of Year 8 students remained behind at the Cathedral after our Mass to lead the music ministry at the Feast of Mary MacKillop Mass with the Cathedral School. These students did an incredible job, showing great leadership and improving the experience of the celebration for their younger Catholic school peers. Staff and students from the Cathedral School expressed great appreciation for their efforts and admiration for the talents they so generously share.

Feast of the Assumption School Mass

On Friday of Week 4, our school gathered again to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, when we remember that Mary, Jesus’ mother, was taken into Heaven. Fr Nam celebrated the Mass, offering a peaceful moment of hope and reflection. It was our second beautiful school Mass in two weeks, a lovely chance for everyone to come together and feel refreshed in faith.

Cathedral School Mass- Year 9 Student Helpers

Once again, after our celebration of Mass, a team of Year 9 students led the music ministry for the Cathedral School at their Feast of the Assumption Mass. Their generous contribution in giving their talents for their primary school peers was much appreciated by all in attendance. Beautiful music is an essential part of our worship as a community and, with these students, the Cathedral School enjoyed a lovely experience of recognising and celebrating the Assumption of Mary.

CYSMI Lessons

At the start of Term 3, our Year 9 and Year 10 students had the opportunity to join the Catholic Schools Youth Ministry International (CYSMI) program. Led by our Youth Minister, Lilly, and supported by our Religion teachers, CYSMI offers students a fun and faith-building experience each week through games, reflection, and group activities. It’s a great chance to grow in faith, friendship, and community.

Dr Amber Calleja
Leader of Mission and Faith Formation

Teaching and Learning

Celebrating Year 12 – Completion of the Trial HSC Examinations 

Over the past three weeks, our Year 12 students have undertaken their Trial HSC Examinations — a significant milestone in their final year of schooling. These exams provide an important opportunity for students to experience HSC-style conditions, refine their exam technique, and identify areas of strength and focus for the coming weeks.

What makes the Trials particularly impressive is the sheer breadth of subjects our students have prepared for and completed.  Across the College, examinations have been held in a diverse range of courses including:

• Mathematics Standard & Advanced, Extension 1 & 2, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth and Environmental Science, and Science Extension.
• Ancient History, Modern History, History Extension, Business Studies, Economics, Legal Studies, Society & Culture, and Studies of Religion.
• Music and Visual Arts
• Hospitality, Design & Technology, Community and Family Studies, and PDHPE
• English Standard, Advanced, and Extension

This diversity reflects not only the talents and interests of our Year 12 cohort, but also the dedication of their teachers who have guided them across such a wide curriculum.

With only five weeks of school remaining, we encourage Year 12 to continue building on the momentum of their Trials as they prepare for their HSC Examinations beginning Thursday 16 October. 

A valuable resource as they begin focussing on the next phase of exams is The Sydney Morning Herald HSC Study Guide 2025.

Our College is very proud of the resilience, commitment, and determination shown by our senior students during this recent exam period and wish them every success as they move into the final stage of their schooling journey and beyond.

Paul McPhillamy
Leader of Teaching and Learning

Student Wellbeing News

In striving to strengthen the whole school wellbeing program, MacKillop has been working on some exciting initiatives this term.

The Resilience Project – Parent & Carer Hub

The Resilience Project provides schools and families with evidence-based strategies to promote positive mental health and as a college, we have been working through many of these in our weekly wellbeing sessions. Our partnership with The Resilience Project provides parents and carers with an additional resource that is very exciting. We encourage you to explore the Parent & Carer Hub, where you will find practical activities and resources to support your child’s wellbeing at home. Working together and practising these strategies ensures the best outcomes for young people’s mental health.

You can access the Hub by scanning the QR code on the flyer or visiting theresilienceproject.com.au.

Smart Pass - increasing opportunities for student engagement in learning.

This term, we are also implementing Smart Pass, a digital system designed to increase student engagement and safety during lessons. The platform allows staff to track student movement in real-time, ensuring purposeful and accountable use of class time.

There are many benefits to the effective use of this system:

• For Students: Encourages responsibility, reduces disruptions, and supports time management.
• For Staff: Improves visibility of student movement, reduces hallway congestion, and enhances wellbeing support.
• For Families: Provides reassurance that students are maximising learning time and allows the school to respond to concerns about engagement or safety quickly.

Smart Pass reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and learning-focused environment where students are empowered to thrive. Being able to discuss with students the strategies we can use to support them in learning through an analysis of this data is our goal. We will continue to share the results and impact of the information we learn through the use of this program with staff and parents over the course of the year.

Katie Bennett and Monica Hay

English/Languages

At the start of Term 3, English and Language students returned with enthusiasm and focus, ready to engage in new learning opportunities. The term began with a strong emphasis on building foundational skills across subjects, encouraging collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. Teachers introduced exciting units that connect curriculum content to real-world contexts, aiming to inspire curiosity and deepen understanding. Overall, the term’s opening, set a positive tone for continued growth and achievement.

We would especially like to congratulate students across Year 8 and 11 who entered The Whitlam Institute’s What Matters? Competition. Inspired by Gough Whitlam's commitment to involving young people in shaping Australia's future, the What Matters? The writing competition is currently open to school students in years 5 to 12 from Australia.  Responding to the simple question 'what matters?', entrants are free to express their views on any matter they care about. In 2025, over 6500 entries were received, and we are very excited to say that two of our Year 11 students - Matilda Back-Mackay and Kirra Shepheard - have had their entries short listed for the Year 11 & 12 category.  We congratulate Matilda and Kirra for their outstanding achievement!

Across Stage 4

In Year 7 English, class 7G has been learning about poetry and created their own blackout poems using an extract from Peter Pan. By obscuring most of the words, they formed new poems from the ones left visible. Students were highly creative with this technique, producing some excellent work! 

Miss Mitchell

In Year 8 English, students are learning about the historical context of Shakespeare and his significance within the English literary canon. During the term, they will read, analyse, respond to, and compose texts. They will focus on understanding Shakespeare’s life and times, interpreting and using Shakespearean language, writing analytical essays, exploring the plot of Romeo and Juliet, and considering the relevance of Shakespeare’s themes to everyday life.

In Year 8 Italian, students will practice describing their families by sharing each member’s name, age, personality, likes, and dislikes. They will also expand their knowledge of Italian culture and geography through research on daily life in Italy. Additionally, students will study the city of Verona, the setting of Romeo and Juliet, to make connections with their English studies.  In Year 8 Japanese, the focus is on family as well, with students learning how to say how many people are in their families. They will describe each family member and explore the cultural practice of using different terms for family members depending on the social context and audience. Students will also study three new kanji characters, learn all the modified hiragana forms (youon, dakuon, and long vowels), and practice counting people in Japanese.

Across Stage 5

In Year 9 English, students are building on their introduction to Shakespeare in Year 8 in 2024 by studying Macbeth, exploring how its form, historical context, and themes remain relevant today. Through reading, viewing, and analysis, they will respond with both analytical and creative writing while deepening their understanding and appreciation of Shakespearean language.

The Year 9 Italian students are learning to discuss travel, including where to go, how to get there, and when to depart or arrive. Whilst the Year 9 Japanese students are learning vocabulary and expressions for school events, excursions, and transport.

In Year 10 English, students have moved into classes closely aligned to the suggested level of English they should be studying for their senior study.  All classes are examining texts through the lens of ‘The Individual and Society’, where students are exploring the nature of the relationship between individuals and their world.

Year 10 Italian students are learning to make phone calls, ask for permission, and use shopping vocabulary for sizes, colours, and prices. They are studying dovere, venire, uscire, and possessive adjectives, while exploring Milan’s role in fashion, related careers, and the cultural significance of Italian style.

The Year 10 Japanese students are studying fast food and dining out, comparing options in Australia and Japan. They will explore how culture, history, and the environment shape eating habits and how these are changing over time.

Across Stage 6, our students have exams on their minds! Year 12 students are currently sitting their Trial HSC Exams, and we wish them all the very best as they navigate this challenging time. The students will return to classes in Week 5 to complete their course content and to continue to consolidate their learning as they move towards the conclusion of their high school education.  In Year 11, students are focused on their final Module study, with courses engaged in the study of poetry and film.  We congratulate Year 11 on the consistency of effort they have shown across the Preliminary year, and we are excited to see what Year 12 brings!

Danielle Hart & Mirella Colagrosssi

Music

🎸🎶 BATTLE OF THE BANDS SUCCESS 🎶🎸 

CONGRATULATIONS to both our Junior and Senior Rock Bands for their fantastic FIRST PLACE performances at the Bathurst Eisteddfod ‘Battle of the Bands’ event on Friday 15th August!

MacKillop students had the pleasure of performing amongst students from Scots All Saints College, Country Boyz, Kelso High, The Marmots, and M crew. This is the first time MacKillop has taken part in this event, and the competition was EXCELLENT with all bands involved delivering stellar performances. 👏 

Section 205: Secondary School Years 7-9 Battle of the Bands                                                                                                        1st Place 🥇 MacKillop College Junior Rock Band (Points = 93/100)                                                                                            Band Members: Emma Avinash, Sailor Denyer, Ruby Elms, Indi-Rose Kilby, Eadie Maynard, Imogen Press, and Estee Zaitte.

Section 206: Secondary School Years 10-12 Battle of the Bands                                                                                                    1st Place 🥇 MacKillop College Senior Rock Band (Points = 96/100)                                                                                            Band Members: Savannah Beard, Marie Clayton, Ava Giddings, Audrey Peters, Hannah Orpwood, and Sarah Wong

Special thanks to Audrey Peters (Yr 11) for her awesome efforts in coordinating the Junior Rock Band item, and their fabulous shirts! ⭐️ 

✍️🎙️ MKC STUDENTS SHINE AT REGIONAL SONGWRITING CONTEST ✍️🎙️

CONGRATULATIONS to Jessica Rumball and Annika Classnitz (Yr 10 Music) for their outstanding achievement in reaching the TOP 12 Finalists of the Regional Songwriting Contest!

Out of hundreds of entries from across the Central West, Jess and Annika, performing as Where’s Cecilia?, were selected to showcase their original song Leave Me To Lie at the Finalist Showcase at the Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre Saturday 9th August. They were the youngest artists featured on the night, performing alongside a professional backing band made up of some of the region’s finest musicians.

The duo received glowing feedback, with judges and fellow contestants praising their gift for storytelling through song. When Jess and Annika shared that it was their school Music teachers who had encouraged them to enter, contest organisers Kris Schubert and Sophie Jones responded with, “Thank God for good teachers!”.

We are incredibly proud of you, Jess and Annika - keep on shining! ✨ 

Photograph courtesy of Photographer, Curtis Branagan

🎶 COCO’S LUNCH AT MKC 🎶

On Friday 25th July, MacKillop College had the privilege of hosting the multi-national award-winning Melbourne acappella ensemble, Coco’s Lunch. Known for their breathtaking harmonies, rhythmic vocal percussion, and original compositions drawing on Jazz, African and Carnatic traditions, this extraordinary group captivated our Year 7 and 8 students, as well as Music Elective students in Years 9-12.

A highlight of the day was when Indi-Rose Kilby (Year 8) was invited on stage to improvise a vocal solo alongside Coco’s Lunch! Indi-Rose performed with confidence and musicality, her voice blending beautifully with the ensemble.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jacqueline Gawler, Emma Gilmartin, Gabrielle MacGregor, and Dr Lisa Young for sharing their artistry and passion with our school community.  Their visit not only entertained, but also encouraged our young musicians to embrace creativity and explore new forms of vocal expression.

💕 SHARE THE DIGNITY 💕

Throughout the rest of August, in Weeks 5 and 6, our school is supporting the Share The Dignity campaign to help those who menstruate have free dignified access to period products. 

Share The Dignity supports people experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or just doing it tough. No-one in such a situation should have to worry about dealing with their period.

You can help by placing pads, tampons, or other sanitary items in our bright pink collection box, which is located in the Wellbeing Hub. Your donations will go directly to people in need in our community. Even just one item can make a big difference to someone in crisis by helping them manage their period with dignity.

Let’s show our community we care - please donate if you can.  Thank you. 🙏 

If you have any questions, please contact Ms Amelia Nell Hodgetts at a.hodgetts@bth.catholic.edu.au 

Amelia Hodgetts 

Aboriginal Workshop

Last month our Year 8 Geography students were fortunate to take part in a special session led by Mikayla, our Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO) to conclude their unit on Landscapes and Landforms. Mikayla shared Dreamtime stories closely connected to local landmarks, offering students a powerful insight into the cultural and spiritual significance these places hold for First Nations people.

Following the storytelling, students worked in groups to bring the narratives to life through art. Each group explored the stories from a First Nations perspective, creatively connecting cultural knowledge to key concepts in the Geography syllabus.

It was a rich and reflective learning experience that deepened students’ understanding of Country, culture, and perspective, encouraging them to see the land through a different lens, and to celebrate the strength and beauty of First Nations storytelling.

Mary Munro

Year 7 Forces and Indigenous Knowledge Immersion

In Term 2, Year 7 students at MacKillop College had been studying Forces as part of the newly introduced Science syllabus. Their learning has included exploring simple machines, magnets, invisible forces, and how mechanical advantage plays a vital role in making everyday tasks easier.

To deepen their understanding of forces—particularly through the lens of First Nations knowledge—our Aboriginal Education Officer, Mikayla De Losa, organised a special cultural experience. On Monday, 24th June, we were honoured to welcome several respected Aboriginal community members: Kayne Fernando (St John's Primary School), Peter Fitzsimmons (St Stanislaus’ College), and Percy Raveneau (Chifley District Aboriginal Liaison Officer).

These guests shared their expertise and cultural knowledge of traditional tools and weapons such as boomerangs, woomeras, and grinding stones. Students learned how these implements demonstrate an intricate understanding of physics and force developed over thousands of years.

In addition to these presentations, students were treated to freshly made Johnny Cakes for morning tea and had the opportunity to paint and decorate their own boomerangs as a meaningful hands-on activity.  A particular highlight of the day was Mr Fitzsimmons playing the yidaki (didgeridoo) and demonstrating the technique of circular breathing—showing students how sound can be produced continuously for long periods of time.

It was a memorable and enriching day that connected classroom learning with cultural wisdom and tradition, and we thank all involved for making it such a valuable experience.

Brenton Fahey

Exploring Early Childhood

Mrs Bright’s Year 11 Exploring Early Childhood class had a very special visit recently from Mrs Courtney Keates and her beautiful newborn son, Hayze.

Mrs Keates generously shared her experiences of pregnancy, newborn care, and the realities of being a mother of five children. Students were fascinated to learn firsthand about the joys and challenges of parenthood, as well as the practical knowledge that comes with raising a family.

The class was especially delighted to meet baby Hayze, who captured everyone’s hearts. The visit provided students with valuable insights that connected directly to their studies, making the learning experience both memorable and meaningful.

We extend our deepest thanks to Mrs Keates and baby Hayze for giving their time to enrich our students’ learning. Your wisdom, openness, and kindness have left a lasting impression on the class.

Alysha Bright

Library News

Book Week 

We celebrated Book Week this week with a couple of competitions for staff and students, as well as a display in the library for this year's theme 'Book an Adventure'.

Sharon Davis organised a game of Novel in a Bottle and staff had to guess the novel, from some shredded (photocopied) pages in a  bottle. 

Students participated in a guessing competition and had to match staff members to a book that took them on an adventure. 

Our winners will be announced next week. Thank you to all those who participated.

Premier's Reading Challenge

Well done to those students who are participating in the Premier's Reading Challenge this year. Just a reminder that your reading log sheets are due to Ms Bowman before Friday 12th September. She will then register you and enter your books online for you.  Reading Log sheets are available from the library.

Certificates from the Premier of New South Wales will arrive towards the end of the year.

Amber Bowman

Confirmation

Congratulations to MacKillop student Althea Sabado, who received the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Cathedral of St Michael and St John in Bathurst 10th of August. 

MacKillop Photo Vault

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