2024 Marsden High School Yearbook by MarsdenHS

MARSDEN HIGH SCHOOL

A TIME TO REMEMBER

We acknowledge the Traditional custodians of the country in which we work and learn, the Wallamattagal people of the Dharug Nation, and pay our respects to their Elders past present and emerging.

Principal's Message

Deputy Principals’ message

Captains’ Address

8 20 32

Year reviews

Faculty recaps

Extracurricular updates

In 2024, Marsden High School saw a year of significant change and achievements. The year began with a renewed focus on ‘Explicit Teaching’ and the development of student’s writing skills. Improved NAPLAN results evidenced the effectiveness of this focus. We continued to prioritise student wellbeing and mental health, implementing new initiatives and support systems to ensure all students felt safe and supported. The year also saw an increase in professional development opportunities for teachers, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and growth. Despite the challenges faced, the dedication and resilience of staff shone through, ultimately leading to a successful year of growth. As we bid farewell to 2024, graduating Year 12 students stand as a testament to effort, unity, and the power of dreams fulfilled. Through every challenge faced and triumph celebrated, these exceptional individuals have showcased the true essence of perseverance. As we turn the page on another year, let us remember the laughter, the tears, and the countless moments that have shaped our students into the individuals theyaretoday.

To the graduating Year 12 students of 2024, may your futures be as bright as your potential, and may your journeys ahead be filled with success, fulfilment, and endlesspossibilities.

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

It is with great humility and excitement that I accepted the position of substantive Principal at Marsden High School. I am deeply honoured to have been entrusted with this responsibility, and I am eager to work alongside the school community to continue the incredible work of our team. Together, we have the power to inspire, innovate, and make a positive impact on the lives of our students and the broader community. Staff at Marsden approach the work we do with collaboration, creativity and a shared vision for excellence to ensure the achievement of great things and a brighter futureforall.

Congratulations on reaching this milestone and all the best for the next steps that you take in life. In the upcoming year of 2025, Marsden is gearing up for a transformative period of growth and innovation. There will continue to be a strong emphasis on the explicit teaching of writing skills, ensuring that students develop strong literacy abilities essential for academic success and future endeavours. With a diverse cultural school community, we will continue to focus on supporting students with English as an Additional Dialect (EAL/D) and Aboriginal students, ensuring that culturally responsive practices are embedded in the curriculum to provide a holistic and inclusiveeducationexperienceforall.

Mr Stephen Smith Principal

As we reflect on the achievements of 2024, it is clear that this has been a year of growth, success, and collaboration at Marsden High School. The 2024 school year has seen significant progress across numerous areas. As Deputy Principals, our primary role has been to support the school’s strategic objectives, foster a positive and inclusive culture, and ensure the smooth running of day-to-day operations. Most importantly, we have focused on working with our students to support their learning and wellbeing. Collaboration with parents has been a key factor in ensuringthesuccessofthisyear.

Marsden High School remains deeply committed to supporting and engaging with Aboriginal education and First Nations cultures, fostering pride and inclusivity within our community. We celebrated key cultural events, including NAIDOC Week and National Sorry Day, providing valuable opportunities for students and staff to reflect on the histories, cultures, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week celebrations featured performances, storytelling sessions, and art workshops facilitated by local Elders and cultural leaders, ensuring authentic representation. On National Sorry Day, students participated in educational discussions aimed at promoting understanding and reconciliation, engaging thoughtfullywithAustralia’ssharedhistory.

DEPUTY PRINCIPALS’ MESSAGE

Central to these efforts is the role of our Aboriginal Education Officer (AEO), who provides vital support to Aboriginal students academically, socially, and culturally. The AEO works closely with families, mentors students, strengthens ties with local Indigenous communities, and promotes cultural awareness across the school. This holistic approach enhancestheexperiencesofAboriginalstudentswhile fostering an inclusive and culturally enriched environmentforeveryone.

One of the standout events of the year was Marsfest, a celebration of the diversity and vibrancy of our school community. This year, our student leadership team played a pivotal role in shaping the vision and bringing passion to the event, which fostered even greater engagement from parents and families. Marsfest offered a unique opportunity for students to learn about different cultures and traditions, culminating in a rich tapestry of performances, displays, and global cuisines. Feedback from students highlighted how Marsfest helped deepen their understanding and respect for their peers’ cultural backgrounds.

The Year 12 Graduation Week was a highlight, celebratingacohortofexceptionalstudents.

Under the guidance of Mr De Alwis, the Year 12 Advisor, the graduation dinner was held at Oatlands House, creating a memorable evening for staff, students, and parents. The annual Picnic Day saw students exploring the beauty of Sydney Harbour, travelling by ferry from Meadowbank to Cockatoo Island. Students organised food and activities with remarkable maturity, earning praise for their respectful and considerate behaviour from ferry staff and island personnel.

Marsden High School continues to cultivate exceptional leaders through its Prefect, Student Representative Council (SRC), and House Captains programmes, collectively known as the Marsden Leadership Team (MLT). Under the leadership of Mr De Alwis (Head Teacher Student Engagement), Mr Bills (Prefect Coordinator), and Ms Chu (SRC Coordinator), student leaders play a vital role in amplifying student voices, guiding the school community, and fostering school pride. Prefects act as ambassadors, the SRC contributes to policy and initiatives, and House Captains promote school spirit through inter-house competitions.

This year, student leaders attended a leadership camp on Cockatoo Island, where they participated in workshops on leadership styles, conflict resolution, and collaborative decision-making. The camp fostered camaraderie and equipped students with the skills to lead confidently in 2025. Through team-building exercises and strategic planning, they developed a shared vision for enhancing student engagement and strengthening collaboration among the Prefects, SRC, and House Captains.

In response to feedback from parents and students regarding the school uniform, we have made some adjustments. A long-sleeved shirt option is now available for girls to address cultural preferences and comfort. Additionally, from 2025, Year 10 students will transition to the senior school uniform, with a one-year grace period. By 2026, it will be mandatory for all Year 10 students to wear the senior uniform. As we look ahead, we remain committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and thriving school community. Thank you for your continued partnership and support of Marsden High School.

Ms Gina Koufos, Ms Diane Tegova, Mr Peter Wilson & Mr Sean Castle Deputy Principals

PARENTS AND CITIZENS

This year has been an incredible journey for our school community, and I am proud of the contributions our P&C has made. Our dedicated team worked hard to support various initiatives that have enhanced the school experience for our students.

One of the highlights was the Bunnings BBQ fundraiser, which helped us contribute towards the Year 9 and 10 interstate excursion to Melbourne. This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience learning beyond the classroom, and it was a privilege to assist in making it happen.

We were also thrilled to help the Year 12’s gift of the new Honour Board, a lasting tribute to the achievements of our senior students. Additionally, we provided new seating around the school, ensuring that students have comfortable spaces to gather during breaks and outdoor lessons.

Our P&C was proud to award several scholarships this year, helping to support students in achieving their academic and extracurricular goals.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed, including parents, staff, and volunteers. Your hard work and generosity continue to make a positive impact on our school.

Looking forward to another successful year ahead!

Mr William Bart P&C President

Thank you to our teachers that have been there for us through the good times and COVID times. To our parents and loved ones, we also extend our deepest gratitude. Your children may soon be adults, but we will also forever be your kids! You have been there for us when we have laughed, and cried, and everything in between. Thank you for loving us and beingthereforus,todayandalways.

IwouldalsoliketoextendourgratitudetoMrCastle (DeputyPrincipal),MrBills(PLTCoordinator),MrDe Alwis (Year 12 Adviser) and class teachers for supporting us in our studies and guiding Year 12 to a placeofconfidencefortheHSCexams.

After 13 years of schooling, we have made it to the finish line. It all feels so surreal, I almost can’t imaginewhatlifewillbelikeafterwewalkoutofthis hall as graduates. Although we are not all best friends and sit together at recess and lunch times, I have thoroughly enjoyed progressing through high school with you all and it feels bittersweet to end this chapter of my life and move on to what comes nextforus,whateverthatmaybe.

I hope to stay in contact with you all and look forward to continuing our journeys, together, into adulthood where we can recall the good old days walking up and down the infamous stairs of Marsden.

Captain’s AddressFarewell

In 2018, we graduated primary school and it was sad and wonderful and scary as we prepared to enter what we were told was the “big and exciting world of high school”.

Despite the comfort that the daily routine of school has provided me, I am excited to enter the world of adulthood, and know you will all flourish in whatever path you choose to follow in the years to come. High school has had its fair share of ups and downs. There have been so many moments when I have wanted to give up. However, standing here today, it has become clear to me. It has all been worth it. No matter what the future may hold, we will always have the memories of our time here at Marsden High School to look back on with pride, happiness, and accomplishment.

Once again, thank you teachers, friends and family. But, most importantly, thank you to the class of 2024! Good luck to each and every one of you and thank you for making our high school experience so rich and satisfying. Together, let's enjoy our last moments as the graduating class of 2024.

Darcy Jepson and Alise Monden School Captains 2024

YEAR 7

WELCOME YEAR 7!

As the Year 7 Advisor at Marsden High School, it has been an absolute pleasure to watch our newest students grow and thrive during their first year of high school. From day one, the Year 7s eagerly embraced the challenges and opportunities that high school life offers, quickly becoming an integral part of our Marsden community.They quickly adapted to their new routines, made new friends, and settled into their studies, demonstrating resilience and enthusiasm from the very start.

Musical Magic at Assembly

One of the early highlights was Mr White’s music class’s performance at school assembly. Our talented Year 7 musicians showcased their hard work, impressing everyone with their skill and bravery. It was a proud moment that highlighted the dedication and passion of our students and their teachers.

Year 7 Camp Adventures

Year 7 camp was a memorable experience filled with adventure, teamwork, and personal growth. Students tackled challenges like raft building and team- building activities, forming strong bonds with their peers. The camp was a chance for students to step out of their comfort zones, develop resilience, and create lasting memories.

Workshops on Bullying and Consent

In line with our focus on student wellbeing, we held important workshops on bullying and consent. These sessions equipped our students with the knowledge and tools to navigate social situations with respect and empathy. Their active participation and thoughtful discussions reflected their maturity and commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment.

Leadership through SRC Choices

This year, many of our Year 7 students took part in the Student Representative Council (SRC) elections, stepping up as leaders eager to make a positive impact. Congratulations to Emma Adam, Brayden Agus, Antonio Botta and Katrin Paserenko, who have already begun contributing meaningfully to our school community.

A Sporting Showcase

Our Year 7 students recently participated in the annual year 7 sport gala day, competing with other schools in the area. The event was a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their skills, foster team spirit, and engage in healthy competition. Itwasadayfilledwithexcitement,camaraderie,anda chancetobuildlastingconnectionswithpeers.

A Special Thank You to Parents None of these successes would have been possible without the support of our Year 7 parents and caregivers. Your encouragement and involvement have been key to your children’s successful transition to high school.

We thank you for your partnership and look forward to continuing this journey together. This year has been one of growth, learning, and new beginnings for our Year 7 students. I am incredibly proud of all they have achieved and look forward to seeing their continued success as they move forward at Marsden HighSchool.

Brigitte Roman Year 7 Adviser

YEAR 8

This year was all about growth, choices, and building resilience for Year 8. With excitement, we started the journey of choosing electives for next year, and many got a taste of these subjects through specialised classes. Through our wellbeing programs, we tackled important issues, like cyber bullying and mental health, in events such as the "Backwards against Bullying" initiative and Brainstorm Productions' "Wired" show.

These programs offered us strategies for resilience, help-seeking and forming positive relationships. Students also were given the opportunity to take part in the Raise mentoring and Art Therapy, boost confidence in the art therapy program, and join the Grow Girls group and Boys mentoring group with our SSO's. As we wrap up an incredible year, we are eagerly anticipating our Wellbeing excursion to Taronga Zoo - a chance to unwind, connect and celebrate our journey together.

Ms Kathy Doan Year 8 Adviser

YEAR 9

As we look back on our time in Year 9 at Marsden, it's amazing to reflect on how much we've grown, both as individuals and as a cohort. This year has been one of new experiences, learning opportunities, and memories that will stay with us throughout the rest of our high school journey.

Year 9 has marked a significant transition from the early years of high school into a more mature phase of our education.With successful SRC nominations encouraging our students to step out of their comfort zones, peer support training, mentoring workshops and Horizon interviews, students have excelled at tackling each new experience. We've faced new challenges in the classroom, with subject selections challenging us to take on more responsibility for our learning. It wasn’t easy, but year 9 worked hard, supported each other and developed deeper connections and positive relationships with their peers because of it.

Our teachers have been instrumental in guiding us through the highs and lows of Year 9. Whether it was offering support when we struggled with a difficult concept, or guiding us through difficult social situations, they’ve helped us realize that the effort we put in now will pay off in the future. Outside of the classroom, Year 9 has been filled with many memorable experiences. Our Wellbeing day at Taronga Zoo, sporting events such as Grade sport, AFL swan shield cup, and assistance with the year 7 gala day, as well as excursions like surf school allowed year 9 to bond with each other in new ways. These experiences have helped strengthen friendships and created lasting memories. One of the most important lessons we've learned this year is the value of community. We’ve grown not just as individuals, but as a team. Together, we’ve learned that each person’s strengths contribute to our overall success. From academic achievements to creative projects and athletic competitions, we've celebrated each other's victories and offered support when things didn’t go as planned.

As we prepare to move into Year 10, we carry with us the lessons and experiences of this year. We’ve learned that with hard work, support from our teachers and friends, and a positive attitude, we can overcome any obstacle. Year 9 has been a stepping stone, and now, with new confidence and determination, we’re ready to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Here's to all we’ve accomplished, and to the bright future that awaits us!

Mr Arthur Cardassis Year 9 Adviser

YEAR 10

As we close another chapter in our educational journey, it’s time to reflect on the incredible experiences that have shaped Year 10 this year. From subject selection to unforgettable excursions, this year has been filled with learning, growth, and camaraderie.

Subject Selection

Navigating the path to senior studies began with our subject selection process, where students were empowered to choose subjects that align with their interests and future aspirations. Many families took advantage of attending the Subject Selection Night to gain as much information as possible.Through engaging information sessions, students explored various options, weighing the skills they wish to develop and the career opportunities that lie ahead. The excitement and enthusiasm among students were palpable as they took this significant step toward their future.

Careers Expo at Meadowbank TAFE

Year 10 students attended the Careers Expo at Meadowbank TAFE, a pivotal event that opened doors to future possibilities. Among the many activities, the Robotics Workshop for TAS Students stood out, offering hands-on experienceinprogrammingandengineering.This practical experience ignited interest in technology and demonstrated the real-world applications of their studies. Additionally, students learned about the various apprenticeshipsavailablethroughTAFEcourses, providing insights into vocational pathways that canleaddirectlytorewardingcareers.

This year has been a remarkable journey of exploration, learning, and growth in Year 10. From selecting subjects that will shape our academic futures to embarking on enriching excursions, every experience has contributed to our development as individuals and as a community.

As we move forward into Year 11, let’s carry the lessons learned and the friendships formed, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Congratulations Year 10 for all your hard work this year!

Here’s to a bright future ahead!

Ms Ravneet Kaur

Year 10 Adviser

The expo was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore various career pathways, engagewithindustryprofessionals,andenvision theirfuturesbeyondYear12.

YEAR 11

This year was the beginning of the end for Year 11! (Or is it the end of their beginning?) The year began with fresh new senior uniforms, with pinstripes to prove their seniority among other Marsden students. It was a year of privilege and honour but was not without its trials and tribulations.

For many Year 11 students, this has been a period of learning about themselves and thinking about the future. Having committed to a selection of courses that will see them through to the end of their Preliminary and HSC studies, many have felt the pressure to do well while keeping the fine balance between learning and living. For others, Year 11 was their last year at Marsden and their first year pursuing bigger things in the world of apprenticeships and employment.

For those of us still at Marsden, 2024 has brought with it a lot of fun and exciting opportunities! From 5 to 7 August, Year 11 students attended the Life Ready Camp at The Tops Conference Centre at Stanwell Park near Sydney’s Royal National Park. This camp not only offered many valuable life lessons, but also a variety of exhilarating activities, including their 30 metre Goliath Swing!

Significant planning is underway to prepare Year 11 students for their final year of secondary studies, such as finalising their subject selections, as well as their Year 12 commemorative jackets! Even as Year 11 close in on the end of their high school journey, there is still much that remains to be seen. We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings!

Ms Vanessa Chu Year 11 Adviser

YEAR 12

Congratulations Year 12 class of 2024!

It has been a remarkable journey watching you grow, learn, and develop into the exceptional individuals you are today. I’m so proud of each of you for making it to this point, and I wish you the very best as you take your next steps into the future, whether it's furtherstudy,work,oranexcitinggapyear.

Your graduation ceremony was truly unforgettable, with the entire school coming together to form a guard of honour in celebration of your achievements. It was a powerful moment, one that you’ll carry with you for years to come. Then of course, was the fun and laughter of the graduation dinner at the beautiful Oatlands House Estate, where we enjoyed a wonderful evening together with staff and your family. Who could forget our final picnic day at Cockatoo Island, filled with relaxed moments spent with friends and teachers, soaking up the sun and cherishing your last days together as students?

These moments will forever be etched in your memories. As you head into the next chapter of your lives, remember the lessons you've learned, the friendships you've built, and the community that will always be here for you. Good luck, Year 12! The world isyourstoexplore.

Mr Danny De Alwis StudentEngagementHeadTeacher/Year12Adviser

SCIENCE

Science in 2024 has been another fantastic year for Marsden'sscientists!

In Stage 6 we have seen our first group of Accelerated Chemistry students completing their HSC exams. Successfully completing this course has required dedication and commitment with many hours of study outside the classroom. The whole faculty is proud of their efforts. For the first time in five years, we have run Science Extension which is a one unit course focussing on the scientific process with the completion of a student research project. This major work will be published in the Department of Education's Science extension journal, which is fantastic achievement. This course is expanding in numbers next year and we are excited to see what our students pursue for their projects. For the first time at Marsden in 2024, all five Science courses have been offered in Year 11 including: Biology, Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Science, Investigating Science and Physics.

Stage 4 and 5 students have worked hard all year, exploring the various elements of our world. This includes our physical world, chemical world, living world as well as earth and space. Students have been learning how all these elements relate to the world we live in so as to increase our knowledge of the world around us. Through first-hand investigations students have been able to think critically and develop creative solutions for problems. in 2024 students in both Yr 8 and Yr 10 participated in the Department of Education's Valid program.

Ms Doan has once again run Science club with great success, giving students a chance to explore some of their own interests and practical investigations in Science. We again welcomed students from our partner primary schools to where the full skills of these students were on display.

Thank you to all the students for your enthusiasm and participation in Science this year, we are excited for what is to come!

Ms Heather Gilchrist Teaching and Learning Head Teacher

MATHEMATICS/COMPUTING

Even though mathematics has been around for thousands of years, things are still fresh in the Marsden Mathematics and Computing Faculty. In 2024, we officially welcomed Mr Ken Emeleus, Mr Stefan Fearnley and Ms Nancy You and we continue to look forward to celebrating a growing and flourishingfamilyofstaff!

The most influential developments affecting the Marsden Mathematics teachers this year has certainly been the syllabus change! Year 7 and 9 students this year are the first to learn from this updated curriculum and some have even been introduced to brand new concepts, such as Networks in Year 9. Mathematics teachers state-wide have been working tirelessly to deliver our old gold in new and exciting ways.

As per Marsden tradition, a new Year 9 Accelerated Mathematics class was commissioned this year. There was overwhelming interest from more students than could be placed in a single class and, as a result, we have a whopping 30 accelerants in our newest cohort! Needless to say, these talented mathematicians are also navigating through the new syllabus and will be the first to learn from the most updated Year 10 curriculum!

This year, we are still “Building Thinking Classrooms”. This teaching and learning style is based on a book by Peter Liljedahl and is all about developing thinking skills by getting students on their feet and collaborating in random groups of three. The movement continues to gain traction in Mathematics at Marsden. Students are reporting enhanced learning, understanding and retention of the concepts being studied. When teachers take a break and return to more traditional teaching styles, it is not uncommon for students to demand we bring back “Thinking Classroom” methods!

As always, it has been another fruitful year, filled with many exciting opportunities for students and teachers alike. We look forward to 2025 as another year of endless possibilities in the Mathematics Faculty – the faculty that counts!

Ms Vanessa Chu Mathematics Teacher

ENGLISH

It has been another great year for the English/EAL/D Faculty. Our team have worked well to support our students in developing their analytical skills, fostering a deeper understanding of texts, and preparing them for their academic challenges. We have added members to our team, namely Ms Ficici and Ms England; welcomed back HT Ms Beerden and Ms Rizk into our faculty after periods of leave in recent years; welcomed back and farewelled Ms Kalaidjian; and wished Ms Rubbo, Ms Mourad, and Ms Murphy all the very best as they welcome new additions whilst on maternity leave.

Throughout the year our debating teams have had some success. Our teams have been well-supported by Ms Condor, with regular preparation meetings to encourage our students to engage critically with complex topics and present persuasive arguments.

For our Stage 6 students, excursions to the theatre provided invaluable experiences that supported their HSC preparations. By attending live performances of key texts, students gained fresh perspectives and insights that enriched their understanding of the plays in a tangible, immersive way.

Overall, this has been a year of collaboration, achievement, and development of skills. We are proud of the progress our students have made and look forward to continuing to support them in their academic journeys through English as we move into 2025 and beyond.

Mrs Codie Beerden and Mrs Trish Swinkels English/EAL/D Head Teacher

LANGUAGES

It has been an exciting year for the Languages Faculty in 2024! Students of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean had the opportunity to participate in a variety of cultural and linguistic activities, fostering a deeper connection to the languages they study. From vibrant cultural celebrations to engaging competitions and immersive experiences, our faculty has created countless memorable moments to enrich our students'learningjourneys.

Year 11 Korean Beginners language students participated in a cultural and linguistic experience at the Korean Hana Centre in NSW School of Languages, on November 15th during Term 3. Students enhanced their language skills through a fully immersive program conducted entirely in Korean. They took part in various activities, including wearing hanbok (traditional Korean attire) and learning how to performadeepbow!

Under the guidance of Ms Joo Lee, two Year 7 Korean language students, Arsevia Sutharia and Love Song, participated in the Korean Performance Contest hosted by the Korean Education Centre. Our talented students achieved remarkable success, winning 2nd and3rdplace,respectively,intheArtdivision!

Pahal Wasu, a Year 12 student in the Korean Beginners program, recently participated in the 2024 Korean Speech Contest and earned a spot as a finalist. This remarkable achievement provided her with an exceptional platform to showcase the Korean language skills she has diligently cultivated over the past two years. Her outstanding performance led her to secure 4th place in the competition. As a welldeserved reward, Pahal has been invited to South Korea to attend the prestigious 2024 International Korean Education Youth Camp, hosted by the Korean Ministry of Education. It is truly thrilling to witness our Marsden student excel in such a fantastic opportunity!

We would like to congratulate all our language students for representing Marsden High School with pride, for your dedication, enthusiasm, and passion for exploring different cultures through language. Your hard work and love for learning have made this year truly special. Let’s look forward to another amazingyearin2025!

Ms J. Lee, Ms Y. Mo, Ms S. Lee, Miss E. Lee Language Teachers

VOCATIONAL EDUCATION & TRAINING

This year in VET (Vocational Education and Training courses) we have three subjects - VET Retail Services, VET Hospitality (Food and Beverages) and VET Business Services.

VET Retail Services

This year in VET Retail Services, students gained hands-on experience in stock control, merchandising, housekeeping, and organisation, equipping them with valuable skills for the retail industry. They toured the Marsden Uniform shop and participated in activities such as counting stock, folding and hanging uniforms according to sizes. Additionally, students attended a one-day course on Elements of Design in Visual Merchandising at TAFE Ultimo, further enhancing their understanding of visual displays. This combination of classroom learning and practical experience, including 70 hours of work placement in a retail setting, provides students with a strong foundation in retail skills and knowledge

VET Hospitality (Food and Beverages)

In VET Hospitality students have had the opportunity to learn about the hospitality industry both inside and outside the classroom. The Certificate II in Hospitality (Food and Beverage) covers aspects of food preparation and cookery skills using safe and hygienic practices. Students gain knowledge and skills in preparing for service periods, interacting with customers, serving and clearing cafe style food and beverages. The students also gain skills and knowledge in espresso coffee making using an industrial coffee machine. In term 4, students were busy preparing and making cafe style drinks and smoothies for the teachers.

VET Business Services

Students who have participated in the VET Business Service course carry out a range of routine procedural, clerical, administrative or operational tasks that require technology and business skills. In VET Business Services students learn different knowledge and skills around business software applications and digital technologies. In addition, students design and produce business documents, create electronic presentations, and apply critical thinking skills in a team environment.

VET Work placement

This year all students in VET subjects have had the opportunity to learn industry in the particular subject area.

They gained valuable experience at their work placements completing two weeks per subject. Work placements provide students with hands-on experiences from serving customers, cooking, making coffee, housekeeping, stock control, merchandising and working collaboratively in a team. Congratulations to the students who gained casual employment after completing their work placements.

VET Awards

Over the two year course, there are many initiatives that award overall excellence in VET courses to students. The Rotary Clubs of Parramatta support VET in schools and acknowledge the hard work students and teachers do during the course. The "Rotary Youth Vocational Awards" initiative recognises the achievements of young people attending schools in the local area. This year, the 2024 annual awards ceremony was held at Parramatta Marist High School on Monday 19th of August.

We had six deserving students who received this award for their dedication to the subject, skills demonstrated and work placement performance. A huge congratulations to:

· Catherine Pike and Ian Agustin in year 12 for receiving their award in Hospitality (Food & Beverage)

· Adam Plummer in year 12 for receiving their award in Business Services

· Hunter Klowws in year 11 for receiving their award in Business Services

· David Ngyuen in year 12 for receiving their award in Retail Services

· Amelia Lee in year 11 for receiving their award in Retail Services

Ms Muneeza Rathore

VET Co-ordinator

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The Year 8 electives program, which included offerings such as Talented Sports and Fitness and Outdoor Education, garnered a positive response from students. These electives provided a diverse array of engaging activities, including hiking, fishing, and specialized coaching in various sports disciplines. These opportunities not only fostered physical fitness and teamwork but also allowed students to explore new interests and develop their skills in a supportive environment.

As part of their community engagement, Year 9 and Year 10 students played a vital role in assisting local primary schools during their sports carnivals and competitions. This involvement not only helped to promote sportsmanship and healthy competition among younger students but also provided older students with valuable leadership and mentoring experiences.

Year 11 students had the unique opportunity to attend the Life Ready Camp, where they participated in a range of challenging activities designed to promote personal growth and resilience. This experience was an integral part of the mandatory Life Ready Program, which aims to equip students with essential life skills and knowledge.

The PDHPE (Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education) faculty welcomed new staff members, which brought fresh perspectives to the teaching team. A significant focus was placed on technology-enhanced learning, utilizing tools such as Chromebooks and Google Classroom to facilitate a dynamic and interactive learning experience. This integration of technology not only made lessons more engaging but also prepared students for the digital world.

The introduction of new facilities greatly enhanced the quality of sports lessons, providing students with better resources and environments to practice their skills. Additionally, important discussions took place around critical topics such as healthy relationships and drug awareness, ensuring that students were informed and prepared to make responsible choices.

Year 10 students participated in the B Street Smart program, which aimed to educate them about road safety and responsible behavior as they approach driving age. Meanwhile, Year 11 students took the initiative to earn First Aid certificates, equipping them with vital skills that could potentially save lives in emergency situations.

The Year 7 students thrived in a Junior Lifesaver program, where they acquired essential swimming and lifesaving skills. This program was further enriched by the support and guidance of older students, fostering a sense of community and mentorship within the school.

Finally, Year 9 and 10 students enrolled in child studies classes found great enjoyment in learning about child development. Their studies culminated in an exciting surf excursion, providing a hands-on experience that connected theoretical knowledge with practical application, enhancing their understanding of the subject matter. Overall, the various programs and activities offered throughout the school year contributed significantly to the holistic development of students across all year levels.

Ms Sarah Maguire PDHPE Head Teacher

TECHNOLOGIES AND APPLIED STUDIES

Congratulations Year 12!

As we celebrate the conclusion of another remarkable year, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of 2024. Completing your studies is a significant milestone, and we are incredibly proud of each of you.

A special commendation goes to our Design and Technology students, who have successfully completed their major projects. Your creativity and dedication were truly impressive. One of the year’s highlights was our excursion to the SHAPE exhibition at Walsh Bay, where you were able to draw inspiration from a diverse range of exemplary works.

Our VET Retail students also demonstrated exceptional commitment. The excursion to TAFE Ultimo provided valuable insights into merchandising, enhancing your skills and knowledge in a practical setting. Your hard work in completing your clusters has been outstanding, and we are excited to see where your skills will take you.

Similarly, our VET Hospitality students have made significant contributions by assisting with catering at various school events, and through providing a delicious drinks service to school staff. Your enthusiasm and professionalism have not gone unnoticed, and your efforts have added a special touch to our school functions.

The successful completion of work placements by our VET students has been another significant achievement. Your application of classroom knowledge to real-world settings has been impressive, reflecting your readiness for future professional challenges.

We extend our deepest thanks to all of our TAS faculty staff for your unwavering dedication and support throughout the year. Your commitment to our students' growth and success is greatly appreciated. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to the families who have supported our students with encouragement and care. Your involvement has been a crucial part of their journey, and we are grateful for your partnership.

Congratulations once again to all our Year 12 students. As you embark on new adventures, remember that your hard work and achievements this year have set a strong foundation for your future. We wish you all the best in your next steps and are eager to see the wonderful things you will accomplish.

Ms Claire Morgan TAS Head Teacher

CREATIVE ARTS AND PERFORMING ARTS

The Creative and Performing Arts department has had a remarkable year, showcasing the incredible talent and dedication of our students in many ways.

Our Visual Arts students have been keen to extend and showcase their creative talents by entering a plethora of competitions through the year. Year 10 Photography and Digital Media student Ethan Rogers entered a won 3rd place in the 2023 Your Health Link National Photographic Competition with his high contrast portrait photograph called “Max”. Year 9 student Elizabeth Hergovits received a $2000 scholarship for art supplies. Yvette Xiao of Year 10 Visual Arts was placed 2nd in the Transurban art competition which had the theme “connections”. Year 8 student Zoha Ali entered the Ryde Council Youth Creative Competition and won 2nd place for work following the theme “Health and Wellbeing”. Along with all these great achievements our Visual Arts staff have grown this year as we welcome Ms Batra to the dynamic team.

We have welcomed Ms Muszynski to teach our Dance and Drama classes this year and our students have thrived in many areas. Dance students graced the stage at many events, showcasing their skills at the Year 12 Graduation Assembly, Sports Excellence Assembly and in school promotional videos. Fran Lee of year 12 was nominated for Callback both her Core and Major HSC Dances which is the highest honour for an HSC Dance student.

Our Music students have developed their confidence this year with the support of their classroom teachers and have stepped up to many performance opportunites for school events. To name a few; 7 Music 2 class ensemble performed for a Senior Assembly and the Year 6 Orientation Assembly, Year 12 students performed at Graduation and HSC Presentation Day as well as their own Senior Music Night and Year 10 Music Elective students performed at Captains and SRC Leaders Assembly.

The music co-curricular band schedule has increased over the year with our dedicated teachers leading and creating many performance opportunities. Mr Snell has worked closely with the Jam Band students to develop their instrument and performance skills so well he now has several bands on the roster.

They’ve performed at school events including Marsfest and school assemblies as well as community events for Youthrock, Granny Smith Festival, Battle of the Bands, Meadowbank Primary School Christmas Concert and ‘Boom, Clash, Rockstar’. Mr White has reconfigured the school concert band into a thriving Jazz Ensemble who are dedicated to rehearsing every week on Wednesday mornings and have performed at many assemblies. Ms Gilbert has worked with the school choir to develop their repertoire and accompanied students performing the National Anthem at the Granny Smith Festival. The String Ensemble continues strong with tutor Mr James Tarbottom growing in numbers and refining performance works for assembly performances.

Our year culminated in excellence as our Creative and Performing Arts team united to put on a showcase of works at CAPA NIGHT on Tuesday 26th November. We invited students and parents to come along and witness and celebrate the work that the students have been creating and refining in their classrooms. Music hosted a program of junior classroom ensembles, junior and senior elective class groups and cocurricular ensemble performances from our Jam Bands, Choir, and Jazz Ensemble. Visual Arts and Photography and Digital Media displayed a plethora of works, including large scale painting, charcoal drawings, watercolour portraits, Mambo inspired canvas paintings, still life and perspective drawings, digital works and photograms. Year 8 Dance and 9 Drama presented fabulous videos showcasing the work they have completed throughout the year. Both classes staged, filmed and edited their own videos making decisions with all the production elements of lighting, staging and costumes. Year 9 Drama displayed creative Commedia Dell 'Arte masks that they designed and constructed themselves.

The wonderful audience of parents, students and the P&C were overflowing out the door of our gallery and performance spaces! This year has truly celebrated the artistic spirit within our school community, and we are excited to continue showcasing our students' work at future events for years to come.

CREATIVE ARTS AND PERFORMING ARTS

I am truly excited to have joined the Marsden community as Head Teacher CAPA in 2024. It has been a pleasure to work alongside such a welcoming and enthusiastic team of teachers. I look forward to continuing our collaboration with staff, students, and families, as we work together to create a positive and inspiring learning environment.

Ms Riley Tombs CAPA Head Teacher

HUMAN SOCIETY AND ITS ENVIRONMENT

2024 was a dynamic year for the HSIE faculty, marked by engaging events and activities that enriched our students' understanding of social, cultural, geographical, and historical contexts.

Year 8 History: James Adams visited Marsden to present on Medieval Europe, allowing students to interact with medieval weaponry and experience life in the Middle Ages firsthand.

Year 9 and 10 Elective History: Students explored the Ramses II exhibition at the Australian Museum, gaining insights into Ancient Egypt through 182 artefacts and multimedia presentations.

Year 10 HSIE and Science Camp: The annual Canberra tour provided students with an in-depth look at Australia's history, culture, and democracy through various educational programs and site visits.

Year 10 History students participated in the ‘Refugee Camp in my Neighbourhood’ program at WSU Parramatta, experiencing the refugee process through interactive activities.

Year 11 and 12 Geography: Year 11 students explored Cultural change in Cabramatta and Natural systems at Balls Head. Year 12 students studied Urban dynamics in Barangaroo and Pyrmont.

Year 12 Economics Students attended the “Budget Night” incursion at Marsden, gaining insights into the 2024 Australian Budget and economic policies.

Year 12 Legal Studies: Legal Studies students participated in a live Q&A at ABC Studios and observed court proceedings at the NSW Supreme Court, deepening their understanding of legal processes.

Year 12 Modern, Ancient and Extension History classes: Students attended the HTA Year 12 History Study Day, consolidating their learning and preparing for final assessments.

A big thank you to our dedicated HSIE staff—Miss van der Kley, Mr. Giles, Mr. Zhu, Mr. Wareing, Ms. Roman, Mr. Eli, Miss Otto, Mr. Chen, Miss Humphreys, Mrs. Koller, and Mr. Johnson—for their tremendous effort this year.

Ms Lena Zraika HSIE Head Teacher

SUPPORT UNIT

Our Support Unit at Marsden is a vibrant thriving hub of learning, exploration and innovation.

2024 has been the year of Japan and all things Japanese. In the unit we work thematically across all classes. This immersion promotes a common vocabulary, embeds concepts and information and aids comprehension, engagement and participation. Students have relished investigation tsunamis, sumo wrestling and sushi involving themselves in a myriad of activities.

The unit has been fortunate to participate in learning experiences at the at Sydney Aquarium, the Wildlife Zoo at Darling Harbour, the Opera House and the exceptionally beautiful Cherry Blossom Festival at Auburn Gardens. Al our excursions have been in rich in educational experiences and a wonderful way for our students to explore our city and have much in common with classmates to discuss and reflect upon. Great memories have been made.

At the beginning of the year our Community Access program began which is part of our permanent timetable every 2 weeks. The aim of the program is multi faceted. Key to the program is living skills involving functional literacy and numeracy. The primary goal of Community Access is building capacity and independence in each student. The ability to be able to catch public transport, organise shopping, management money and time as well becoming familiar with our local area are all vital to becoming self-reliant, confident young adults.

Student have undertaken washing for the office and unforms. Again, promoting independent living skills: sorting, washing, drying and folding. The in-house retail program where student purchase, pack and sell chocolates and lollies to staff, mirrors the skills in the supported TAFE retail course. Student have relished moving around the school, selling to enthusiastic, hungry staff calculating change and practising their marketing skills. TAFE will begin for legible students in 2025.

The unit has had many highlights this year. Our Japanese meet and greet day in brought smiles to the faces of our students, staff, parents and caregivers. Art was displayed, cooking skills demonstrated as everyone was immersed in Japan for one afternoon. Truly wonderful. We are also so proud of Elijah Webb who is the first of our students to be inducted into the RSC here at Marsden. A proud moment for all of us.

2025 will also be a transformative year for the unit. Another class is being added along with another classroom attached to the existing rooms. Our Support Unit will continue to grow and thrive due to the energy and efforts of the dedicated, inventive staff and students.

Ms Diane Tegova Special Education Head Teacher

INTENSIVE ENGLISH CENTRE

Marsden IEC this year has experienced more than its fair share of surprises in terms of staff departures and student arrivals. Earlier in the year, we bade farewell to our beloved SAM, Lyndal, who took a promotion to relocate to head office, as well as two of our long term SLSOs, Pari and Frances who decided to retire after enjoying extended careers of tremendous contribution to student wellbeing and office administration. Pari was awarded the Medal of Order of Australia (OAM) for her valuable contribution to education. We were very fortunate to get excellent new staff to fill some big shoes, including Nancy, our new SAM, who really strengthened our networking with Marsden HS because Nancy previously worked in MHS office. We also gladly welcomed three young stars, Monica, Stella and Olivia, who are ex-IEC students and now work as part-time SLSOs providing great service in the languages of Mongolia and China to our students. Marsden HS staff have always expressed deep appreciation for the interpreting services of IEC staff to the whole of the school.

In December last year, IEC staff organised a farewell party for our 16 Afghan orphan refugees who stayed with us for over a year. It was also a thankyou party for the many external agencies who supported our refugee students so well, like Marist180, STARTTS, “Mother” Mahboba and Hedayat, a high-profile, young Afghan community leader who is an ex-IEC as well as ex-MHS student. These 16 students left an indelible mark on all of us at the IEC because of their diverse personalities and tremendous resilience and positivity in the face of the many challenges in a new country.

The IEC is no stranger to students from different countries but the last term of last year broke all records in terms of the number of enrolments (over 180) and languages spoken (over 12), which is not surprising given that Australia accepted the biggest number of migrants last year. Thanks to Mr Smith, our Principal, and Mr Castle, our Deputy Principal, who generously provided extra classrooms, the IEC was able to provide full support for all these students despite staff shortages at the time. The trend of students arriving from Mongolia has continued into this year. It’s only a small country (less than 4 million) but has an enviable international profile, not least for winning a prize at the Paris Olympic Games for Best Uniform Design and also a few Gold Medals. This year, IEC student, Aaron, has impressed audiences with his spectacular performances of Mongolian dances at Meadowbank PS and the Inter-IEC Talents Showcase in Bankstown.

However, the prize for “Fastest Welcome to Australia” must go to Roham from Iran who was swooped by the same magpie twice on the way to school and now knows what to add to the endless list of scary animals in Australia.

Gladly looking forward to another exciting year for the IEC in 2025.

Mr Nhan Nguyen IEC Head Teacher

ADMINISTRATION

The SASS team comprises diverse staff members engaged in various roles for both Marsden High School and the Intensive English Centre. We value collaboration and provide mutual support to one another.

We enjoyed celebrating Marsfest, Book Week and R U OK Day with the school community. The SASS staff dressed up for Book Week and we wore our R U OK Day t-shirts for R U OK Day.

This year we bid farewell to Wendy Bosman from our SASS team as she embarked on her retirement. Having dedicated an impressive 29 years of service to Marsden High School, Wendy made a remarkable impact on our school community. We extend our best wishes to Wendy for a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement.

We are looking forward to decorating our office for Christmas and joining in the staff Secret Santa which is always a great way to finish the year.

2024 Team:

Business Manager: Vicki Moore

Administration Manager: Corrina Donaldson

General Assistant: Phillip Bongers

Administration Officers: Natali Atra, Wendy Bosman, Kylie Ewings, Sharon Hassarati, Linda Knight, Belinda MacRae, Benita Muller, Sana Omar, Dee O’Neill, Holly Simpson, Michelle Tannous, Eleena Thomas, Kerry Watson

SLSO’s: Mirna Barsoumian, Mary Justin, Sophie Luck, Marylou McNamara, Rebecca McNally, Trudi Molteno, Leanne Mooy, Livia Sendelbeck, Caleb Tohi

Canteen – Fumiko Dean (Supervisor), Paullette Baghramian, Yuki Shirase, Yuri Yoshida

Uniform Shop – Michelle Tannous and Holly Simpson

IEC Administration Manager – Nancy Marvello

Administration Officers – Barbara Ngo, Dilcia Tansey

IEC SLSO’s – Onon Ariyamaa, Nasira Fazili, Freddie Fung, Kitty Fung, Monica Otgontuul, Su Shin, Frances Tse, Pari Zahedi (OAM)

Ms Corrina Donaldson School Administration Manager

LIBRARY

This school year, the Marsden High School library has once again served as a vibrant hub for reading, creativity and learning with many ups and downs.

As always, our major highlight of the year was Book Week, where students celebrated their love for literature through exciting competitions and a number of new events. Congratulations to our winners: Alexia Creighton, who dazzled everyone with her imaginative costume; Aaliyah Chan, who showcased her storytelling talent; and joint winners Inigo Diaz and Erissa Tan for their stunning bookmarks. Additionally, Erissa Tan and Pedro Baldi impressed the library staff with their innovative book designs. For the first time ever, we also had a Book Fair at the Marsden High School Bookshop on Level 1 of the library. This event was a huge success and saw us raise just over $1000 to support ongoing collection development of the library! A massive thank you again to everyone who donated books to this event and who got involved in the spirit of Book Week!

Throughout the year, we also saw great success with the Accelerated Reading Program in Years 7 and 8, a program that encourages students to read widely and track their progress through engaging quizzes. This initiative not only sparked a love for reading but also fostered healthy competition among students and has seen at least 40 students read 20 or more books for the year!

As we look forward to another year, we invite everyone to continue exploring the endless possibilities that our library has to offer. Here’s to many more adventures in learning!

CHESS CLUB:

The Chess Club had a fantastic year, with three teams representing the school in the inter-school competition: junior, intermediate, and senior. Each team demonstrated great strategy and sportsmanship, with the juniors just missing out on the finals and coming a very close 3rd! The other highlight of the year was the annual in-school tournament held in Term 4 in the school library. After a series of intense matches, Archer Ha from Year 8 emerged victorious, while Sky Unenbat from the IEC claimed the runner-up position.

The club continues to be a hub for students of all skill levels, fostering critical thinking, camaraderie, and a love for the timeless game of chess.

Mr Tom Johnson Teacher Librarian

HIGH POTENTIAL AND GIFTED EDUCATION

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. InvolvemeandIwilllearn."-BenjaminFranklin

With this quote in mind, Marsden teachers and the High Potential and Gifted team have been working hard to actively involve and engage our Pinnacle and Horizon students in their own learning. This year has seen our Pinnacle and Horizon classes adapt to many challenging situations and continue to strive for excellence. The team has also worked with students to develop our three way learning conversations held in Term 4 using Clifton Strengths coaching. By integrating strengths into our goal setting program we have been able to focus on encouraging students to think and reflect on their talents and strengths as centraltotheirownselfdevelopmentandgrowth.

As always, Pinnacle and Horizon students are supported, challenged and extended in all lessons by a dynamic team of caring, intelligent and dedicated teachers.

AveryproudPinnacleandHorizonCo-ordinator,

Ms Sarah Van Der Kley Head Teacher Secondary Studies

Some of the Highlights of being a part of the year 10 Horizon class have been the opportunities it has provided me, for example attending the annual HPGE retreat, as well as the class atmosphere in general. A high of the Horizon class this year has been the class atmosphere in general. It has pushed me to become a better student, being encouraged and supported by my peers, and has definitely shaped me into the person I am today. I’ve also liked how the class has a sense of community. Overall, being a part of the Horizon program has had many highlights and has provided me with lots of opportunities I otherwise wouldnothavehad.

HollyLivermore,Year10

One of the highlights for me of Pinnacle 2024 was the HPGE camp. As it was quite early in the year, it was a goodopportunitytogettoknowmypeersin7M.

It helped build our leadership, teamwork, problem solving and courage, all while having fun in new and interesting activities. It also helped me get to know someoftheolderpeopleinPinnacleandHorizon

Another highlight of Pinnacle was Gemma Curcio’s strength coaching, which emphasised building on the things that we do well, instead of focusing on the things we aren’t good at, as traditional goal setting methods are. She helped us discover our strengths, and pointed out how we could use them in our assessments, relationships, and everyday life. It has helped me recognise how to use my skills of creativity and emotional intelligence and how I can use them in aclassroomsetting.

EmmaAdams,Year7

Being a part of the program has allowed me to grow in many areas such as my understanding of my strengths through the coaching program. There have been highlights from the program that have encouraged me to critically evaluate the decisions I make in everyday life. In addition, in class we often have debates where we discuss real-world problems and talk about what we think about the topic. These moments are so much fun as well as sharpening my skills of persuasion. I also really enjoyed the HPGE retreat which was the perfect opportunity to build friendships and to meet other students from the HPGEclasses.Everyyearwegotothebeachandhave lotsoffun.

ZacAu,Year9

DUKE OF EDINBURGH

2024 and the Duke of Edinburgh International award have been the perfect combination for Marsden High School this year. Mrs Maguire is the coordinator for theaward.

The award itself is aimed to be a non-competitive but yet challenging program whereby young people are encouragedtoengageinoutdoorandextra-curricular activities to build up their interpersonal skills and resilience. Participants undertake a range of activities including learning a new skill, undertake a commitment to a sporting style or team, volunteer in the form of community service and complete two challenging adventurous journey hikes with other participants.

Marsden students have proudly represented themselves in the community service fields as environmental regenerators, early childhood educators, student mentors, church leaders and librarians. A range of creative skills have been learnt by our participants including learning to; play an instrument, speak new languages, sing, tutor younger students, become a sporting team coach/ trainer, developpublicspeaking.

A bronze and silver qualifying hike was held in October with Mrs Maguire and Mr Emelus taking students on an expedition on the Great North Walk and camping overnight at Broken Bay sport and recreationcentre.

This year the Duke of Edinburgh team saw 10 students complete their Bronze award and move onto completing their silver award as well as 2 students complete their Silver award. The program is growing with students in Year 8 and 9 joining and looking forward to their first expedition of an overnight hike inTerm4.

From a leader’s perspective it has been such a successful year and an absolute privilege to see Marsden students undertake such a challenging and rewarding program. The skills and level of commitment demonstrated by all participants has been truly inspirational to the next generation of future Duke of Edinburgh participants within the school. I have seen students grow in terms of their resilience, physical strength, outdoor knowledge and passion, sporting and extra-curricular abilities, leadership attributes, teamwork skills, and overall personalities into such mature and driven young adults.

I would like to take the opportunity to thank each individual participant, their parents for undertaking this program. Furthermore I would like to extend this appreciation to each participant’s volunteers and assessors both within the school (teachers) and in the wider community for enabling these students to have the opportunity to complete the Duke of Edinburgh Award. I look forward to continually being inspired by the participants and their aspirations within the programfor2024andtheyearstocome.

Ms Sarah Maguire Duke of Edinbourgh Award Leader

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

In 2024, the SRC Team successfully introduced major events which had a positive impact on both the school and wider community. Across the year, the team successfully ran fundraisers, for both charity and school causes, as well as events which generally aimed at raising spirit and morale at Marsden. Notably, the team were able to bring new events to the school as well as continue our established SRC traditions.

For the first time, and together with the Marsden Leadership Team, the SRC sold candy canes and caramel slices in celebration of the Christmas holiday season. Through all our sales, we were able to exceed our goal to donate $250 to OzHarvest to provide food for those who are going through hardship.

Another newly introduced SRC event was Autism Awareness Week. Spearheaded by SRC member Jayden Muddell, the team was able to raise awareness across the school community about what it is like to be a person with autism. Marsden’s very own Support Unit students were also able to participate by performing at assembly during Autism Awareness Week. The event culminated in our blue-themed Bake Sale which raised almost $500 towards Aspect Australia to support people with autism and their families.

As per SRC tradition, the Pay It Forward campaign encouraged random acts of kindness throughout the school. As we continued this tradition in 2024, members of the Marsden community wrote messages of affirmation on our high recognisable paper arrows. The paper arrows were delivered directly to students and staff which further enhanced the positive atmosphere at Marsden High School. The SRC continue to be proud of this free event which puts a smile on the faces of those around us.

Finally, this year’s team concludes with the majority student-led Soup Fundraiser. Run by our Year 11 SRC members, Noura Abdo, Naserah Aprildo, Aela Chiang and Scarlett Whiteford, the team were able to sell hundred of bowls of soup to raise money for the Support Unit COLA. We were able to raise over $400 to contributed to improvements to make a better environment for the students in the Support Unit.

Over the year, the SRC were also able to raise money by selling cookies to purchase 8 brand new basketball nets. These were installed over the winter holidays by Mr Bongers and have been used daily since! The team also started the Wrap with Love Knitting Club which creates blankets for people in need.

It has certainly been a productive year for the SRC and we look forward to bringing more events to Marsden in 2025!

Ms Vanessa Chu SRC Co-ordinator

WELLBEING & LEARNING SUPPORT

A Year of Positive Change and Connection

The Wellbeing team is proud to reflect on another successful year focused on the overall wellbeing of our students. At the end of 2023, we dedicated an entire day to professional learning and strategic planningtoensurethatourinitiativesforthefollowing yearwereevenmoreimpactful.

One of our greatest successes this year has been the introduction and continued support of Connect lessons and groups. These 25-minute sessions, held fortnightly, have given students the opportunity to bond with a dedicated teacher, fostering positive relationships and providing a space to discuss various wellbeing and health topics. This initiative has allowed us to create stronger connections between students and staff, helping to build a more supportive and understandingschoolcommunity.

Our commitment to collaboration with external organisations remained strong this year, and we were thrilled to bring back programs such as Backflips Against Bullying and Brainstorm Productions, who presented Wired and other engaging performances to students in Years 7-10. In addition, we welcomed back Consent Labs, who delivered an insightful presentation on consent to our Year 7 students. These programs have been invaluable in teaching students about setting boundaries, forming positive relationships,andrespectingeachother.

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue focusing on these crucial themes of positive relationships and consent, which are vital to addressing issues such as bullying and ensuring a healthy, supportive environmentforall.

As we approach the end of the year, our annual Wellbeing Days are just around the corner. To reward our students for their positive behaviour throughout the year, Years 8-10 will embark on an excursion to Taronga Zoo with their Year Advisers, while Year 7 will enjoy a trip to Luna Park. Year 11 students will remain at school, participating in a series of Wellbeing activities designed to encourage reflection and personalgrowth.

We are incredibly proud of all the progress made this year and look forward to continuing our work in supporting the wellbeing of our students in the years tocome.

Wellbeing Team

ABORIGINAL TEAM

2024 was a busy year at Marsden for the Aboriginal students. An excursion to the Field of Mars Environmental Education Centre was educational, fun and united students from Marsden and surrounding schools creating new connections. NAIDOC week celebrations involved a visit to Meadowbank TAFE for a smoking ceremony, traditional Barbecue, weaving, boomerang painting and throwing. The students organised a wonderful NAIDOC assembly at school with an outstanding musical performance by Tyrell and Oscar playing animal sounds on the didgeridoo. Artworks inspired and designed to share culture and history made by the students were showcased. A Barbecue and yarn at the school for the students and their families with the school executives made for a memorable evening. The students were kindly invited to join Ermington P.S to create a hand painted mural which will be televised on the ABC and shown on the Sydney Opera House sails on New Years Eve. Thank you to the mob and all students who participated and helped in these events. A special thank you to Mr Wilson and Miss England for their guidance and support.

Brienna Buckland Year 10 student

GIRLS GYM MENTORING PROGRAM

Our 2024 Girls Gym Mentoring Program offered a supportive and empowering environment where young girls from year 8 to year 11 could develop their physical fitness, self-confidence, and overall wellbeing. Facilitated by trained professional trainers, the program provided personalised workout routines, nutritional guidance, and motivational coaching. Participants engaged in a variety of fitness activities, from strength training to yoga, all tailored to their individual needs and goals. The program also emphasised the importance of mental well-being and fostered a sense of community and teamwork, helping girlsbuildlastingfriendshipsandapositiveself-image.

Ms Natalie Jerez Student Service Officer

SPORT

Tuesday Sport

Term 1 & 2 Grade Sport

12 teams competed in the Zone competition 5 teams competed in the Grand Finals and 2 teams were victorious - Open’s Boys Oztag Team 1 & Open Boys Futsal Team 1

Term 3 & 4 Grade Sport

11 teams competed in the Zone competition with the outcome of the competition yet to be determined.

Social Sport

The aim of social sport is maximise enjoyment and engagement for all students through the offering of a wide range of options. This year saw the introduction of Fishing, NRL Skills & Game Development, NSW Football Skills and Drills and The Sydney Youth Basketball Program. All sports received excellent engagement and feedback through the year from both students and staff.

Carnivals

Swimming

54 students represented Marsden High School at Zone Carnival. 15 students competed at the Regional Carnival. With two Age champion in the under 12s & 17s Boys age Group (Rivah Chung & Declan Bragg).

Student competing at Combined High School (CHS) carnival:

Matthew Kim

1st - 50m Breaststroke

Cross Country

88 students represented Marsden High School at Zone Carnival.

15 students competed at Regional Carnival, with Evan Homan finishing third in the 15s Boys Category. 2 students competed at the CHS carnival.

Athletics

105 students represented Marsden High School at Zone Carnival. 24 students competed at the Regional Carnival. 2 student competed at Combined High School (CHS) carnival:

Alex Londregan

14s Boys High Jump

Caitlyn Weatherburn

16s Girls Shot Put

2024 Combined High School (CHS) representatives:

Matthew Kim - Swimming

Caitlyn Weatherburn - Athletics

Alex Londregan - Athletics

Michelle Bang - Golf

Lucas Williams - Baseball

2024 NSW representatives:

Matthew Kim – Swimming

Kaylee Chan - Ultimate Frisbee

Michelle Bang - Golf

2024 AUS representatives:

Matthew Kim - Swimming

Knockout Teams

17 teams entered in the Sydney North Competition. Sports entered below:

Opens Girls Volleyball - Mr Choi

Opens Boys Volleyball - Mr Choi

Opens Girls Touch Football - Ms Dinh

Opens Boys Touch Football - Mr Cardassis

Open Boys Basketball - Mr Payne

U15s Basketball - Mr Eli

Opens Boys Cricket -Mr Eastwood

Opens Boys Soccer- Mr Beilharz

Opens Girls Soccer- Mr Eastwood

Opens Girls Netball - Mrs Maguire

U15 Girls Netball - Ms Dinh

U14 Rugby League- Mr Eastwood & Mr Tohi

Opens Boys Rugby League- Mr Eastwood & Mr Tohi

Opens Boys Baseball - Mr Eastwood

Table Tennis- Mr Tran

U15s Boys AFL- Regional Cup- Mr Stone & Mr Beilharz

Best result – Opens Girls Futsal competed at the State Championships

Talented Athletes

Pierre De Coubetin - Olympic Change Makers- Minseo (Michelle) Bang, Kaylee Chan & Matthew Kim

Michelle Bang - Golf

1st Sydney North Championships 2024 - Wyong Golf Club

1st CHS Championship 2024 - The Coast Golf Club

1st All Schools Championships 2024 - Canberra

SPORT

Kaylee Chan - Ultimate Frisbee/Gymnastics

Australia Youth Team - 2024 NSW Team 2023 - 2024 - Ultimate Frisbee

Matthew Kim - Swimming

1st CHS Championships 100m Breaststroke 2024

1st Sydney North Regional Championships 2024

1st Zone Championships 2024

17s Age Champion at National Age Championships (external event) on the Gold Coast 2024 Paris Olympic Trialist 200m Breaststroke

Lucas Williams - Baseball

Combined High Schools Team - 2024

National Championships in Adelaide (NSW Shortstop/3rd/Pitcher) 2024

Sai Naga Jhansika Peddada - Cricket

Womens Sydney University 2nd Grade Squad member (State League) U16 NSW Academy Member 2024

Jee Woo (Jee) Lee - Volleyball

NSW Pheonix Squad (State League)

Jake Wheeler - Volleyball

NSW Pheonix Squad (State League)

Zachary Chan - Diving

1st Sydney North Championships - 5m Platform & Springboard

2nd CHS - 5m Platform & Springboard

2nd All Schools 5m Platform

4th All Schools Springboard

1st NSW Elite Junior Championships - Platform

2nd NSW Elite Junior Championships - Springboard

1st National Talent Program (National)

2nd Brisbane Elite Junior Championships - Platform

3rd Brisbane Elite Junior Championships - Springboard

Micah Lam - Brazilian Jujitsu

1st U16 National Jujitsu Championships

1st IBJJF State Championships

1st IBJJF Pan Pacific Championships

SPORT

Gala Days

Marsden High School has also supplied teams to other relevant gala days performing astonishingly well in all of them. They include the following:

Beach Touch (Opens) - Touch Football Wanderers Cup (Yrs 7 & 8)- Soccer

Netball Gala Day (Yrs 7 & 8) - Sydney North Sport Unit

NRL all Schools Boys and Girls (15s & Opens)– Rugby league, run by the NRL

NSW Futsal competitions (Opens)– Indoor soccer run by NSW Football

Kids vs Cops League Tag (Yrs 9 & 10) - NSW Police

Thea Slatyer Cup (Yrs 9 & 10 Girls) - Northern Suburbs Football Association

Paul Davies Cup (Yrs 9 & 10 Boys) - Northern Suburbs Football Association

Secondary Schoolboys Challenge Cup (all years)NSW Table Tennis

AFL Stephen Conilgio Cup (Yrs 9 & 10) - Greater Western Sydney

Community Involvement

PSSA League Tag Refereeing Assistance - NRL

The following students helped the NRL with the refereeing of Primary Schools (in our Zone) League Tag on Fridays for Term 2 & 3.

-Reece Arundale

-Dylan Baikie

-Eve Emeleus

-Zayd Fatile

-Rhys George

-Zia Hammond

-Flynn Harris

-Lachlan Lamborn

-Ysabella Lugay

-Mitchell Maley

-Ilaria Mitry

-Roberto Rincione

-Lui Rivera

-Tamara Spies

Mr Daniel Eastwood Sport Co-ordinator

ENVIRONMENT TEAM

In 2024, the MHS Environment Team took part in a sustainability workshop program educating primary school students on the importance of sustainability. We began planning for our workshop and came up with the idea of Pots-To-Go. Our initiative consisted of creating pot plants out of newspaper and composable tape. This initiative was actioned later in the year where we taught primary school students how to make the mini pot plants. We also explored various ways of how to be sustainable and encouraged students to grow their own foods using newspapers as a sustainable way to take home their own freshly grown goods. This in return, allowed us to pass on our knowledge to the younger generation showing that individuals can make a real difference fortheplanettoday.

Elizabeth Hergovits Year 9

CANBERRA TRIP

One of the highlights of the year was our educational excursion to Canberra. In Term 2, we set off on an adventurefilledwithdiscoveryandreflection:

Questacon: Students immersed themselves in interactive science exhibits, making learning both fun and engaging. It was a day filled with curiosity and exploration!

War Memorial: Our visit to the War Memorial allowed students to pause and reflect on Australia’s history. Guided tours provided profound insights into the sacrifices made by many, fostering a sense of respect andremembrance.

Parliament House: Participating in a mock parliamentary session deepened our understanding of democracy and governance, sparking discussions aboutcivicresponsibilityandengagement.

This trip not only enriched our educational experience but also strengthened the bonds of friendshipamongclassmates.

Mr Daniel Eastwood Sport Co-ordinator

MELBOURNE TRIP

Students in Years 8, 9, and 10 took a trip to Melbourne for a well-rounded experience that includedvisitstohistoricallandmarkssuchastheOld Melbourne Gaol and the Holocaust Museum, as well as engaging in cultural activities like attending an AFL match.

Ms Lena Zraika Head Teacher HSIE

YOUTHROCK

Two bands from Marsden High School, Recess and Freak, competed in the youthrock competition in August, performing 15 minutes of original music judged on various criteria. Recess, a year 11 band, includes Minami (drums), Isabel (bass), Baran (guitar), Aela (vocals, guitar), and Natalie (keyboard, vocals). Freak, a year 10 band, consists of Ben (bass), Max (guitar, vocals), and Ethan (drums). Both bands reached the semi-finals at Bankstown Sports Club, gaining valuable experience.

“This year, we cranked up the creativity dial, pouring our hearts into music that screams individuality and tells our unique stories! Our tracks took a big leap toward maturity, striking a chord with both the judges and the crowd—talk about a proud moment!

We aimed to shine bright and show the world we’re more than just another band recycling the same old tales.

With songwriting and performing as our passion, we’ve learned to toss every piece of criticism into our "challenge accepted" basket! Youthrock has been our trusty companion, helping us level up both musically and personally with invaluable advice and insider knowledge about the industry we’re itching to conquer someday.”

Freak -

MARSFEST

Marsfest at Marsden High School was a vibrant celebration showcasing the diversity and talent within our community. From captivating performances to interactive cultural exhibits, the event exemplified inclusivity and creativity. Students from diverse backgrounds came together to share their heritage through music, dance, art, and more, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation. We would like to thank everyone who made this day a resounding success, highlighting the importance of cultural diversity in our schoolcommunity.

YEAR 12 GRADUATION

The Year 12 graduation ceremony was a momentous occasion, highlighting and celebrating the achievements of our students as they marked the end of their secondary education. As they walked down the aisle to enter the hall, the stirring notes of a bagpipe performance set the tone for this significant milestone. The music added a sense of tradition and reverence, enhancing the atmosphere as families and friends gathered to honour the hard work and dedication of the graduates. This event not only recognised their accomplishments but also looked forward to the bright futures that lay ahead.