The Beacon Newsletter

Volume 19 Issue 18: December 2 2015 From the Principal Dr Watson Advent The Advent wreath will once again take its place in our liturgical celebrations for the next four weeks. The four candles of the wreath represent the four weeks of Advent and each candle light speaks so much of the longing and waiting of our hearts.

Through the birth of Christ, God came among us and is still among us. Yet, often our whole life is like an advent, the time in which God is waiting to be born. During this special time we are invited to look back, forward and around. We look back to every first Christmas when God became one of us. We look forward to Christ’s second coming “in a cloud with power and great glory” with our heads raised high. And we look around to try to be attentive to the people and events that reveal Christ’s presence to us as the Emmanuel – God is with us.

Graduation Mass and Dinner Last Friday evening the Class of 2015 and their families gathered at St Mary’s Star of the Sea Church in West Melbourne for the Graduation Mass. This was then followed by the Presentation of the Graduands and Graduation Dinner held at Flemington Racecourse. Fr Jude celebrated the Eucharist with us before each student was presented with their Graduation Certificate and a gift from the College and Parent & Friends Association prior to dinner. I had the pleasure of addressing our graduating class. I have provided below an extract of this address.

Good evening Class of 2015, ladies and gentlemen.

It is always fitting and appropriate that we mark our significant school occasions by coming together as a community to celebrate the Eucharist. I think you would all agree it was a very fitting and moving Mass to mark the end of our Year 12 student’s time at the College.

We have now gathered for our last graduation ceremony the Presentation of Graduands and the Graduation Dinner. This evening provides the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company, reflect on our time as students, parents and teachers of Thomas Carr College and celebrate the conclusion of classes and most recently the end of VCE examinations.

Coming Events December Fri 4: Year 8-12 Head Start Program ends; Last day for all students 3.20pm Wed 16: College office closes January Fri 29: Year 12 Orientation Program “Kick Start to Year 12”.

Year 7 students begin 2016 school year New students who did not attend Induction on 26 November 2015 begin 2016 school year.

February Mon 1: Year 8 to 11 students will begin their 2016 school year Mon 8: 90+ Luncheon Semester 2 2015 Exams Tues 9: Pancake Tuesday Wed 10: Ash Wednesday PA led Liturgy Project Compassion commences Thurs 11: Year 7 Welcome Evening 7.00pm Tues 16: Year 11 Reflection Day Thurs 18: Year 11 and 12 VCE Unit 3/4 PIN 7.00pm Fri 19: House Swimming Carnival Mon 22: Middle School photos Tues 23: Board Meeting Wed 24: Commencement Mass and unveiling of bronze sculpture of Archbishop Carr. Launch of Thomas Carr Biography Term Dates for 2016 Lenten Term: January 29 to March 23 Easter: March 24 to 28 Pentecost Term: April 11 to June 24 Assumption Term: July 11 to Sept 15 Advent Term:October 3 to December 2

College Theme for 2015

College Vision

‘Seek God with all your heart’

Thomas Carr College is a dynamic Catholic learning community, guided by the Gospel.

Prayer for Advent As we begin Advent, we want to be renewed in a sense that Jesus came to save us from our sin and death. We want to experience his coming to us now, in our everyday lives, to help us live our lives with meaning and purpose. So, we now begin with our longing, our desire and our hope. Amen

Excellence and opportunities to develop are pursued.

Through our hope and service to others we shine our light into the world.

As you leave school, your teachers hope that their efforts will provide you with a range of resources for coping with work, study, travel, friends and family. They hope that you will keep learning!

And your Church community hopes that one of the resources you will find to fall back on will be your faith.

From time to time remember and reflect upon your time at Thomas Carr College, the friendships you made, the moments of joy and the achievements accomplished.

Take the time to express your gratitude to your parents who have made significant sacrifices to send you to Thomas Carr College and for their efforts to provide you with so many different opportunities, both at school and outside of school.

And finally in the coming few months as you await news of your ATAR score and university places enjoy each other’s company and look out for each other. Ensure that the New Year begins with joy rather than sadness.

Thank you to the Class of 2015 for your contribution to Thomas Carr College over the past six years. During your time at the College you have experience much growth, development and change. You have become very much part of the Thomas Carr story.

I wish you all the very best for the future, exciting times for you lay ahead. I hope that your exam results are what you desire and I trust that you will have the opportunity to pursue your dreams as your embark on either further study or work next year.

I look forward to hearing of your successes in the coming weeks, years and decades.

As the College motto states “They will Shine” and I am sure you will continue to shine as you embark on the next phase of your life’s journey Class of 2015 I wish you every success for the future. Thank you and farewell!

Mass of Thanksgiving All Year 7 to 11 students conclude the academic school year on Friday December 4 2015. The end of the year will be marked by a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by Fr Jude. This is a full day of school and all students need to be in attendance until they are dismissed at the normal time of 3.20pm.

Recent Correspondence from Members of the Public I have recently received the following e-mails from members of the public drawing my attention to our students’ excellent behaviour, good manners and common courteous.

Dear Dr Watson I felt compelled to send this message after my train ride home this afternoon on a Werribee bound service from Flinders St. Each Thursday I have the increasing displeasure of travelling with school children. I am normally amazed by their behaviour, use of English language and disrespect for the property of their friends and disrespect for the other passengers. Today I had the pleasure of being in the same carriage with male students for your school. Wow, the behaviour of those boys is a credit to your school, their families and themselves as young adults. These students spoke softly, displayed respect to each other and to those around them. I wish this experience was the norm, believe me many other City /St Kilda schools could learn from Thomas Carr students.

Kind regards, Fran Dear Dr Watson I have been recently been employed as a school crossing supervisor. I have now worked for a number of schools on call. I just wanted to make all involved with this school aware how polite and courteous you students are. I am not saying other

schools pupils are rude or not polite but some don't even acknowledge me where as ever single student which passed me smiled and thanked me.

You all should be very proud of them. Makes me which I was in the position to send my own daughter to your school. Please if you could pass this message on.

Yours sincerely, Laura Head Start Program and Middle School Examinations This week all our students participated in the College’s Head Start Program, a week long intensive introduction to the courses of study they will be undertaking next year. It provided students with the opportunity to hear from their teachers, the expectations in relation to their chosen subjects, receive preparatory work to be completed over the holiday period and to find out about assessments and examinations requirements for their subject.

All Year 7 to 11 students have now completed their examinations which proved to be very valuable preparation for their future years. Examinations are an important and valid assessment tools just as are assignments, projects, oral presentations and topic tests.

It is essential that students are well prepared for the demands of examinations as they continue to be used in both VCE and Universities.

Pastoral Reflection by Archbishop Denis Hart In preparation for the Royal Commission’s hearings, which commenced on November 24 2015, I provide for your information below a pastoral reflection by Archbishop Denis Hart.

Dear Brothers and Sisters, In April this year, Pope Francis proclaimed an Extraordinary Year of Mercy to be celebrated as a special time for the Church. The Jubilee Year will commence on 8 December 2015 and conclude on 20 November 2016. During this time, Pope Francis calls on us all to renew our appreciation of the Mercy of God and our commitment to be living agents and signs of his mercy.

In announcing the Jubilee Year, Pope Francis reminds us: ‘Mercy is the force that reawakens us to new life and instils in us the courage to look to the future with hope.’

Misericordiae Vultus (Bull of Indiction of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy), par. 10

This force for new life and the courage to look to the future with hope takes on particular significance for us in the Church of Melbourne at this time.

The Royal Commission hearings return to Melbourne on 24 November. At these hearings, we can expect to hear the testimony of those who suffered abuse perpetrated by those representing the Church in our Archdiocese. Many of those living with the pain and suffering of the consequences of the abuse, and the failings of how it was dealt with in the past by those in authority, will have an opportunity to tell of their experiences and the impact on their lives.

We will continue to be challenged as a community as we listen to the pain and anguish of the victims, their families, those who offered support and those who sought to bring their concerns to the attention of Church authorities. Those in leadership and all of us as a Church must face this challenge and hear the cries of those who were vulnerable and who were taken advantage of in this shocking and despicable way.

We must all listen to their experiences with open hearts and minds. We must all continue to learn from the mistakes of the past so that we may confidently move into a future, reawakened with new life and the courage to look forward with hope for all of God’s children – past, present and future.

It is my fervent prayer that those who have been so wronged in the past through abuse will find renewed hope for their future. I also pray that the experiences revealed and the investigation and findings of the Royal Commission will enhance the efforts already made to safeguard our children today and into the future.

May the grace of God bring compassion and healing to those who are suffering, together with understanding and insight for those in leadership and all in our Church community.

Yours sincerely in Christ, Denis J. Hart ARCHBISHOP OF MELBOURNE 12 November 2015 Congratulations Wyndham Mayoral Youth Leadership Award Congratulations to Emily O’Connor (2015 College Vice Captain) who has been awarded a Wyndham Mayoral Youth Leadership Award. This award is a program operated by Wyndham City that recognises and rewards the diverse range of personal and community achievements of young people and assists them to reach their goals. Emily received her certificate and cheque at Wyndham Civic Centre on Monday November 23.

Emily O'Connor

Julia Gillard Award 2015 Congratulations to Natasha Graham in Year 10 for her nomination for the Julia Gillard Award. The Julia Gillard Award is intended for a student who has demonstrated a commitment to Civics and Citizenship. Natasha has been an excellent SRC Executive member and a wonderful role model for other students. This award will be presented at our opening College Assembly in February next year Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars (KLDYS) The Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program is an academic enrichment program designed to support high-achieving students. The program was established in 2007 and is named in honour of eminent scholar, leading educationalist and former ViceChancellor of the University of Melbourne, Professor Kwong Lee Dow.

Natasha Graham

I am pleased to announce that the following students has been accepted into the Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program for 2015: Monique Tran and Emily Bradley.

While at Thomas Carr College Monique and Emily, as Kwong Lee Dow Scholars:  receive an approved borrower card allowing them access to any of the University of Melbourne’s libraries  participate in dedicated KLYDS academic enrichment events and key University events  meet like-minded students from diverse backgrounds through on-campus activities  gain access to the Young Scholars Portal (website) so they can keep in touch with others in the Program  stay informed about the Program via e-newsletters Monique Tran

Substantial benefits also accrue to students who ultimately enrol at the University of Melbourne including:  a Commonwealth support place in the New Generation degree of their choice, conditional upon achievement of an ATAR of 95, or 90 and above if the student is from an underrepresented school in the year of application to University  participation in the Kwong Lee Dow First Year Program which features ongoing opportunities for interaction and optimises development of academic and leadership capacity for active citizenship and community involvement  a $2,500 Melbourne Global Scholarship to enable participation in an international mobility program during the course of their undergraduate studies at the University of Melbourne, subject to meeting satisfactory grade point average requirement and other conditions Enrolments Year 7 2017 Applications for Year 7 2017 are now open and will close on February 26 2016. Siblings of current students expecting to attend Thomas Carr College must also complete an application form.

Scholarships 2016 Numerous scholarships are available for Victorian students who are currently in Years 4 to 12. The student online process is available for applications at

Emily Bradley

www.eduweb.vic.gov.au/scholarships and will close on February 1 2016. Students will need their 2015 end of year results in order to apply and Principals are required to verify student applications. Scholarships will be awarded by June 30 2016.

The Year 12 scholarships that are available include the Alice Jennings Scholarship for a Koorie female completing her last year of VCE/VCAL, the Glen Moorhead Memorial Scholarship and the Ken Matthews Scholarship. Many of the scholarships that the Department of Education (DET) administers have financial need as an eligibility criterion. This criterion will be met if the parent/guardian holds a Health Care Card, a Low Income Health Care Card, a Pensioner Concession Card or if the student is in recipient of Youth Allowance.

For all enquiries, please contact Mr Dennis Torphy, Manager Wellbeing and Community Partnerships Unit, Catholic Education Melbourne on 9267 0228 or email dtorphy@cem.edu.au Staffing I am pleased to announce staff appointment for 2016:  Mr Tom Bridges has been appointed as Director of International Programs. Tom returns to Thomas Carr College after having taught at The Geelong College and most recently at St Joseph’s College, Echuca where he held the position of Learning Leader – School of Enterprise. Tom holds a Master of Education (Management), Graduate Diploma of Education and a Bachelor of Business. Tom was previously Co-ordinator of the VCE in China Program.  Mr Francis Camenzuli comes to Thomas Carr College from Emmanuel College, Point Cook where he has taught Mathematics and Science. During this time he has also held the position of Daily Organiser. Francis holds a Bachelor of Bio Medical Science and a Graduate Diploma of Education. Francis will be a Year 9 Level Coordinator and will teach within the iD9 program.  Mr David Livshiz will also be teaching within the iD9 program. He holds Master of Teaching from the University of Melbourne and a Bachelor of Science from Monash University. David is currently teaching at Santa Maria College, Northcote having previously taught at Bacchus Marsh Grammar, Beth Rivkah Ladies College and The King David School.  Mr Brendan Shields is currently teaching at St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School, Flemington and has previously taught at St Peter Chanel Primary School, Deer Park and Good Samaritan Primary School, Roxburgh Park. He has a Masters of Education (Student Wellbeing and Inclusive Schooling) from ACU as well as a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Teaching. Brendan will be teaching in the iD9 Program.  Ms Lisa Bui holds a Bachelor of Science and a Masters of Teaching. She has taught at Bayside P-12 College, Eltham High School and is currently completing a short term contract here at Thomas Carr College. Lisa will also be part of the iD9 team.  Ms Teresa Zanca, having recently completed a Masters of Teaching in the method areas of Italian, Legal Studies and Humanities, will be teaching Italian next year.

Teresa has had teaching placements at Scuola Cicgnini, Prato, as well as John Paul College, Frankston and Elisabeth Murdoch College in Langwarrin.  Ms Catherine Devine will commence at the College as an English and RE teacher and will also be the Head of Learning: Religious Education. Catherine is currently a Literacy Project Office at Catholic Education Melbourne. She has previously taught at St Monica’s in Epping where she held several positions and St Mary’s College in Broome. Catherine has a Master of Education, Graduate Diploma of TESOL, Graduate Certificate in RE, Graduate Diploma in Education and is currently completing a PhD through ACU.  Ms Clare de Graaf has been appointed as the Student Support Team Leader. Clare has a Bachelor of Arts, a Masters of Teaching and has completed a Masters of Education (Specific Learning Difficulties). Clare comes to us from Hume Central College after having worked at Mount Scopus Memorial College and a brief contract position at Thomas Carr College in 2013.  Mr Peter Ottavi comes to Thomas Carr College from Tasmania and he has previously taught at Galen College, Wangaratta. Peter holds a Bachelor Arts degree along with a Graduate Diploma of Education. Peter will be teaching in the Year 9 iD9 Program.

The following Year Level Co-ordinator appointments have been made for 2016: Year 7: Ms Nakkita Solier and Mr John Bassi Year 8: Mr Michael Ramsay and Mr Andrej Pomasan Year 9: Mr Jacob Levy and Mr Francis Camenzuli Year 10: Mr Cameron Rowe and Mr Stephen Manitta Year 11: Mr Robert Peszko and Ms Jemila Goodman Year 12: Mr Ernie Rijs and Ms Marrisa Sarif Mr Andrew Cathcart has been appointed to the position of Head of Learning: English, EAL & LOTE for 2016 while Tara Sherlock has been appointed as the Head of Learning and Teaching: Senior School.

Mr Anthony Diamond has been reappointed to the position of Manager: Good Samaritan Campus. Our program at the GSC continue to develop and is quickly being recognised as being very innovative and desired by many other Catholic secondary schools.

Christmas Mass Times I have provided at the end of this newsletter, for your information, the times for the various Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses at our local Parishes.

Staff Professional Learning Commencing on Monday December 7 and concluding on Thursday December 10, all staff at Thomas Carr College will be participating in an End of Year Professional Learning conference. The conference will provide sessions for all staff in the areas of Catholic Identity, Technology, Learning and Teaching and Student Wellbeing, as well as several planning sessions for 2016.

Farewell At the end of this year we will farewell the following staff. I thank all the staff mentioned below for their dedication and contribution to Thomas Carr College during their time with us and wish them all the very best for their future endeavours: Dr Tom O’Connor Mrs Wenny Hollingdale Mr Hang Yin Mr Geoff Hon Ms Melissa Massari Mrs Charmaine Schembri, Ms Melissa Sabo, Ms Lee Tadic, Mrs Danielle Merhi, Ms Susannah McGuiness and Ms Anne Berardinelli will enjoy periods of maternity leave during 2016.

Thank You, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Finally, this newsletter will be the last produced for 2015. As another year at Thomas Carr College draws to a close I would like to conclude by thanking staff, students and parents of the College for your continued support and encouragement throughout the year. It is very much appreciated. In particular I would like to the College’s three Canonical Administrators, Fr Jude, Fr Pius and Fr Frank for their support, advice and encouragement during the course of 2015.

I thank in particular the members of the College Executive: Ms Brigitte McDonald, Deputy Principal, Ms Sharon O’Neill, Business Manager, Mr Cris Scarlata, Senior Director, Ms Anne Berardinelli, Director of Catholic Identity, Mrs Geralyn McCarthy, Director of Student Services, Mrs Margaret Knurek, Head of Senior School and Mr Stephan le Roux, Head of Middle School. They shoulder great responsibilities and I value their support.

I am certainly looking forward to a very exciting 2016 at Thomas Carr College as we celebrate our 20th Anniversary.

To all families and staff of Thomas Carr College thank you for the wonderful year and may your Christmas be filled with the love of family, the joy of friends and the blessing of God’s peace throughout the coming year.

From the Deputy Principal Ms McDonald Beacon Awards The Beacon Award recognises achievements of our students. Selected students will be presented with a certificate of commendation and their names will be published in each edition of the Beacon. A maximum of 5 students per level may be recognised each fortnight. The criteria is:  Evidence of learning which is consistently exemplary or displays great improvement  An action performed by a student(s) that supports the Catholic ethos of the school  Evidence of behaviour which is consistently exemplary or displays great improvement  Active and purposeful involvement in a College or community event Congratulations to the following students: Year 7

Amelia Bosilijevac, Pharell Peni, Mikaela Lat, Anabelle Russell, Karly Flahive

Year 8 Year 9

Monique Fegan, Jade Murrell, Isaac McAdam, Jessica Morgan Hayden Reeves, Estelito Agatep, Laylah Roberts-Castano, Zara Gibson, Joshua Rubite

From the Business Manager Ms O’Neill Office Hours during Christmas Break Please note the following changes to the operating hours of the College Administration Offices during the upcoming Christmas period: Date December 7

Main Reception Business Office Closed for staff professional learning

December 8

Closed 8.00am to 1.00pm Closed 8.00am to 1.00pm Staff professional learning Staff professional learning Open 1.00pm to 4.00pm Open 1.00pm to 4.30pm Closed 8.00am to 1.00pm Closed 8.00am to 1.00pm Staff professional learning Staff professional learning Open 1.00pm to 4.00pm Open 1.00pm to 4.30pm Open 8.00am to 12noon Open 8.30am to 12noon Closed from 12noon for Closed from 12noon for staff function staff function Closed for Staff Mass and luncheon

December 9

December 10

December 11 December 14 and 15 December 16 and 17

Normal hours of operation Normal hours of operation Open 8am to 4pm Open 8.30am to 4.30pm Closed due to office relocation

December 18

Closed due to office relocation

December 21 to January 15 2016 January 18 to 25

Closed for Christmas period Open 9.00am to 12.00pm and 1.00pm to 3.00pm

January 26

Australia Day public holiday

January 27

Closed 8.00am to 1.00pm for Staff Mass Open 1.00pm to 3.00pm Normal operating hours Normal operating hours Open 8.00am to 4.00pm Open 8.30am to 4.30pm Year 7 and 12 students begin classes Normal operating hours All students begin classes Normal operating hours

January 28 and 29 January 30 February 1

We apologise for any inconvenience caused by these reduced operating hours. Fee Payers on pre-approved Payment Plans using regular cash, cheque or EFTPOS instalments are asked to attend the office during the hours of operation, as indicated above. Fee instalments paid by Direct Debit and Credit Card plans will continue on the advised scheduled dates. Fee payers can also continue their BPay and Direct Deposit arrangements during the term break, even on dates when the Business Office is closed.

Administration Office Relocation: Due to the planned refurbishment of the Administration building (E Block) during 2016, the Reception and Business Office staff, as well as the Principal, Deputy Principal, Business Manager, Principal’s PA and other staff will be relocated to D Block.

All parents and visitors attending the College from Monday January 18 2016 onwards for appointments, student collection, payment of fees, canteen and other volunteer work, or any other matter, will be required to report and sign in at the new (temporary) Reception Office located at D5 in D Block. The nearest entry is from the car park located near the gym or end of the Paul D’Astoli Information Centre.

The Student Absentee Line and all office phone numbers will remain the same. As there will be substantial building works occurring during 2016, temporary fencing will be erected near and around the current administration block and the gymnasium. Parents and visitors are asked to keep clear of all building zones, to adhere to all safety signs and to be mindful of potential hazards throughout the school grounds. Your cooperation, patience and understanding during these building works will be greatly appreciated.

Other Finance Matters: Please refer to PAM for information relating to critical dates and procedures for 2016 that may require your attention and action:  Outstanding College items and books;  Student Exits;  Fees Billing and Payment Plans.

From the Director Catholic Identity Ms Berardinelli We are fast approaching the end of the school year and the end of the Church’s liturgical year. The Advent season commences Sunday, November 29. Advent is the hardest of the seasons to keep yet with a little imagination we can make it a season of waiting and praying. In this way we can truly live the spirit of advent with its joyous expectation.

This busy time of year, also comes with various activities and arrangements. We have the opportunity to gather together in Eucharist with Fr Jude on Friday December 4 at 9am. This will be a wonderful celebration of our Catholic education community. Our Mass will include Advent readings, the singing of Christmas Carols by our College Band and choir. To conclude, we will present the St James and St Peter’s Vinnies Adult Conference with our Christmas Hampers. I thank all our staff and students who over the month of November have lived out the call of service.

I hope that the busyness of the rest of the term is leavened with the joy and hope of Advent as we wait for the Lord’s coming.

College Theme 2016 “Be the face of Mercy” Our College Theme for 2016 will be “Be the face of mercy” which is inspired by Holy Year of Mercy and serves as an invitation to follow the merciful example of God who asks us not to judge or condemn but to offer love and forgiveness instead. The Jubilee of the Holy Year of Mercy commences when Pope Francis opens the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica on 8 December 2015.

Pope Francis' invitation to the Year of Mercy provides us with an opportunity to reflect on God's mercy and how we are witnesses of His compassion to those in our lives and communities. The Pope has also invited us to open our very own 'door of mercy' to officially mark the start of the Year of Mercy. As a College community we do this on Wednesday February 24, 2016 at our ‘20 Year Anniversary Commencement Assembly where we unveil our Thomas Carr statue and launch our Thomas Carr College History

Book. This grand occasion not only begins our journey through this Jubilee but officially commences our 20 Year celebrations.

College Sacramental Program 2016 Once again, the College is offering the Sacramental Program for students in 2016 who have not yet received one or more of the Sacraments of Initiation, namely the Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation. The Sacramental Program includes eight sessions of instruction given by our College Chaplain and the reception of the sacraments in the students’ home parish of either St Peter’s or St James.

In 2016, the instructional element will occur during the Lenten Term. The eight sessions will occur during class time and will be arranged in such a way that students will not miss any given class more than once or twice. The actual reception of the sacraments will be in the local parish of each of the candidates. The College will work with the Parish Priests, Fr Pius and Fr Jude and with the families on the specific arrangements for each of the sacraments.

A letter accompanied with an application has been posted home to all Year 7 and incoming students for 2016. It has also been placed on PAM for current families If you have any questions, regarding this program please contact our College Chaplain, Mr Burn: larry.burn@thomascarr.vic.edu.au Renewal of ‘Coming to Know, Worship and Love’ Over the course of 2015, Catholic Education Melbourne has been working steadily, in collaboration with schools such as Thomas Carr College, on the renewal of the ‘Coming to Know Worship and Love’ curriculum framework documents. The main focus of the renewal is to ensure consistency between the Secondary and Primary schools, to ensure a continuous learning pathway from prep to Year 12 and to provide consistent approaches to learning and teaching, assessment and reporting in Religious Education.

To date, introductory material describing the aims of Religious Education and leading for learning in Religious Education has been developed with consulting schools. A learning progression has been mapped alongside achievement standards P-12. The project group are currently in the process of seeking feedback and advice through the consulting schools and engagement broadly. The draft learning progression and achievement standards, along with learning elaborations and supporting documentation are expected to be ready in early 2016. Schools are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the documentation as it becomes available. Supporting website development is proposed for completion at a later time.

We are one of the lucky schools who are involved in this renewal and therefore the CEO RE curriculum consultants will be spending quality time with all our RE teachers at the End of Year Professional Learning Program ensuring we’re kept up to date with such important changes ensuring all our RE teachers are well informed and ready for renewal of our program in 2016 and beyond.

St James December Young Paulist Event The St. James Young Paulists Team invites you to a Moonlight Cinema Night. Proudly watching a 2014 Epic Biblical Film called "The Son of God" (Rated PG), where John, the last surviving disciple, tells the story of Jesus Christ. This spiritual and fun event will include a pre-dinner BBQ with snacks, drinks and reflections during the film.

Date: Saturday 5th December 2015 Where: St. James Church 336 Derrimut Rd, Hoppers Crossing Time: 7pm *R.S.V.P. by 29th November (for catering purposes) to Simone or Anthony Email:simone.pinto@hotmail.com *Recommendations:  As this event will be held outdoors, we recommend you bring/wear warm clothing in case of cold weather.  This event is for all ages, but we recommend children to have parental guidance.

Opening of the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy An invitation from the Archdiocese of Melbourne to be part of the opening of a special Holy Door of Mercy on Sunday 13 December at 2.30pm at St Patrick’s Cathedral. It would be such a great opportunity to be part of.

In announcing the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis asked that a special holy door be opened in every diocese, "to allow everyone in every part of the world to experience the Mercy of the Father the Holy Door will become a Door of Mercy through which anyone who enters will experience the love of God who consoles, pardons, and instils hope.” (Misericordiae Vultus) To mark the opening of the Jubilee in Melbourne, Archbishop Denis Hart will open a special Holy Door of Mercy on Sunday 13 December at 2.30pm.

Program highlights  Opening of the local Door of Mercy by Archbishop Denis Hart at 2.30pm  Food stalls, music, and activities hosted by Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, CatholicCare, Catholic Mission, Melbourne Vocations Office, and more  Hour of adoration and prayer led by Bishop Vincent Long OFMconv at 4pm Pilgrims are advised to arrive as early as 2.00pm, as we anticipate a large crowd for the official opening of the door of mercy at 2.30pm.

From the Head of Learning &Teaching: Senior School Ms Sabo Senior School Change of Subject If any 2016 Year 10-12 students need to make a subject change, forms from Student Reception will be available from Monday 16 November. The last day that subject changes for the Senior School can be submitted is Wednesday 10 February, 2016. The College will not consider any application submitted after this date.

VCE Protocols & Expectations Assembly On Thursday February 4 2016 at 9am all Year 10, 11 and 12 students will be involved in an assembly which will clearly outline the College’s VCE Expectations as contained in the VCE Policy document. The College’s VCE Policy can be found on SIMON under Information for Students in the VCE Folder. All Senior School students and parents are urged to familiarise themselves with this document.

Academic Progress Interviews In 2015, the College facilitated a number of Academic Progress Interviews for students who were identified as not achieving at a satisfactory level across a number of their Semester 1 & 2 examinations and assessment tasks. It is hoped that during this process with the Senior School students, the important decision to enter either VCE or VCAL in 2016 has been made clearer, particularly based on students results over Semester 2. If students or parents have any questions in regard to the eligibility of students entering VCE in 2016, they are recommended to contact the Head of Learning and Teaching: Senior School to discuss further.

Leave in 2016 I will be taking Maternity Leave in 2016, and Ms Tara Sherlock will be acting as my replacement during this time. I wish all students the very best in their Senior School studies in 2016 and look forward to returning in 2017.

2015 VCE Results and ATAR Service The VCAA and VTAC offer three options for accessing VCE results and the ATAR: internet, SMS and mail. VCE results and ATARs are available from the 2015 VCE Results and ATAR Service from 7.00 am Monday 14 December. Only 2015 results are recorded on this service.

You will need your VCAA student number and your results service PIN. Both the VCAA and VTAC encourage you to change your default PIN, which is the first four digits of your birthdate (for example, 17 July = 1707), to ensure you select a result service PIN that will enable the security of your result data. If you have registered with VTAC, please note that your VTAC ID and PIN are separate from your

results service PIN. Only your VCAA student number and results service PIN can be used to access the 2015 VCE Results and ATAR Service.

Internet resultsandatar.vic.edu.au The internet service is free and available 24 hours a day from 7.00 am Monday 14 December until 5.00 pm Friday 18 December.

SMS 19 787 888 SMS cost $1.10 max. (incl. GST) To register to receive your results and ATAR by SMS, send a text message as follows:  student number – eight digits only, not the letter  space  PIN (four digits)  send to 19 787 888.

Salmat – SMS cost $1.10 max. (incl. GST). Obtain bill payer’s permission before using this service. Call 1800 501 083 for help with SMS registration. You can register between 9.00 am Monday 9 November and midnight Sunday 13 December. Requests sent after this may be delayed. You will receive your results from 7.00 am Monday 14 December.

SMS access is available until 5.00 pm Friday 18 December. SMS results are reported by using the first two alpha characters and numbers of the study. For example, Further Mathematics is represented by MA07, Mathematical Methods by MA11 and Specialist Mathematics by MA09.Students should be aware that scored VCE VET studies (such as VCE VET Business and VCE VET Hospitality) only have two graded assessments – one school-based and one exam. To find out more about VCE examination results, a statement of marks can be obtained. Further information is available on the VCAA website: www.vcaa.vic.edu.au Mail VCE and VCAL results and ATAR statements will arrive in the mail from Tuesday 15 December. Printed ATAR statements are only mailed to VTAC applicants who have submitted and paid for a course application. Students who have not applied for courses can request an ATAR statement from the VTAC website: www.vtac.edu.au.

Administrative fees apply.

VCE and VCAL certificates are distributed by schools and colleges, rather than mailed with the results.

From the Head of Senior School Mrs Knurek Year 12 Graduation Mass and Dinner On Friday November 20, the College held the Year 12 Graduation Mass and Dinner. It was fitting to celebrate this occasion in St Mary Star of the Sea Church, in West Melbourne, which is a beautiful church with wonderful acoustics and a lovely venue for our Thanksgiving Graduation Mass. I would like to thank Ms Anne Berardinelli for her work on the Mass and Mr Morse and the Choir for their contribution to the liturgy. This was followed with the Graduation Dinner at Flemington: again a wonderful occasion: students were individually presented and recognition was given for their contributions to the College over a number of years. We wish them well as they pursue their careers.

Special thanks to the Year 12 Homeroom teachers, Year 12 Co Ordinators, Mr Cameron Hall and Ms Jemila Goodman, The Parents and Friends Association and Mrs Lucy Banks for their ongoing support of our year 12 students and their work for the success of this evening.

Orientation Program for new students in 2016 An orientation program for new students in Years 8-12 will be held at the College on Thursday November 26, from 10am to 3pm. This will provide information for our new students and enable them to participate in our Head Start program this year.

Year 12 Results All Year 12 students have had a letter detailing key dates in December and early January concerning results and Change of Preferences. The letter details the times and contact arrangements for staff who will be available to offer assistance on Monday December 14 and Tuesday December 15 to students who wish to alter their preferences and who require additional Career and Pathways advice. Please contact Ms Kristina

Covacci, our Pathways and Transition Co-Ordinator on 8734 2497 if you require further information.

VCE Summer School, 2016 The University of Melbourne is running their VCE Summer School in January 2016. This provides an introduction to VCE course material (units 1&3) for a variety of subjects including English, Sciences, Accounting, History, Arts and LOTE. Please contact the Careers Staff, Ms Kristina Covacci for additional information about this.

2016 Commencement of School Year Year 12 will begin the 2016 school year on Friday January 29, 2016 with an Orientation Program “Kick Start to Year 12”. Year 10 and 11 students will begin their 2016 school year on Monday February 1, 2016.

For safety and security of books, equipment and personal belongings, all students are required to have the appropriate Thomas Carr College lock for their locker. Year 7 and new students to the College will be provided with a lock. If students have lost their lock, a new one can be obtained from the Year level co-ordinator.

2016 Year 12 Orientation Program: Kick start to Year 12 Year 12 will begin the 2016 school year on Friday January 29. On this day, all year 12 students will be involved in an Orientation Program “Kick Start to Year 12”, which explores issues relating to a successful year. We are fortunate to have Mr Mark Dobson as our motivational Keynote Speaker for day. Sessions will include: Goal setting and aligning your passions with future career pathways, Stress in Pressure Situations, Bringing out Your Best, Time Management, Learning More Effectively and Facing the Year 12 Challenge. Students will be required to wear summer uniform and to bring a pen and paper and their lunch or money to purchase lunch from the canteen I would like to extend my thanks to: the Principal, Dr Andrew Watson, Deputy Principal, Ms Brigitte McDonald and the College Executive for their support; to our team of Homeroom teachers who provide the pastoral care and support of our students and to the Year Level Co-Ordinators for their commitment, dedication and enthusiasm. We are fortunate to have a dedicated staff who strive to nurture and develop the potential inherent in all students. Finally, I wish to thank the students. It has been a pleasure to work with them and I look forward to the enriching experiences we will share in 2016. I wish the Year 12 Class of 2015 the very best as they embrace the new opportunities that await them. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday. Merry Christmas to you all!

From the Head of Middle School Mr le Roux Good Samaritan Campus Below are reflections by students who have recently attended the Good Samaritan Country Campus.

Country experience was truly an awesome experience!

New friendships were formed, new skills were learnt and most importantly, unforgettable memories were made. Personally I gained much knowledge about my peers and learnt information and facts about how to use the required equipment for our day/night activities safely. This included learning new tasks, games, and outdoor activities.

I faced many challenges throughout the iD9 Country Experience such as our early morning wake up time of 6:30am. This was a huge difference to the morning routine I am used to back at home for a regular school day. I overcame this challenge with the help and motivation of the staff and my friends, and by just adapting to the new morning routine just expecting that this now was my routine for the next three weeks.

My favourite part of the whole experience was the mountain bike riding. It was very different from riding your bike through the streets at home in the suburbs. Riding over sticks and twigs, rocks, dirt, grass and up and down hills was great. We also rode past the beautiful scenery that nature had on view… Just for us. So many unforgettable moments were made that I have already shared with my family and friends and will continuing on sharing for many years to come.

If you are yet to attend the Country Experience at the GSC my advice to you is simple…

Make sure you have a positive mindset and are open to trying new things and putting

yourself out of your comfort zone. By doing this you will gain the most out of the program and have an amazing experience that has been designed just for you…!

Grace Newland City Experience Below are reflections by students who have recently attended City Experience.

The thing I enjoyed most about city experience was just being in the city and travelling around and completing the set tasks with my group. I also really enjoyed seeing all the great features of the City, some of which you don’t normally notice, especially if you’re not in the city that much. I learnt a lot from the five day program about how to catch public transport effectively, so now I know how to use it better and will be able to in the future. I won’t be arriving at set destinations late because I got on the wrong tram or something.

The biggest challenge I faced was basically getting on and using the trams. Before we began the iD9 City Experience I didn't really know how to use the trams properly. I overcame this challenge of using the public transport system by asking other people around the city and the metro staff lots of questions about how, and when, to get on the trams, and at what stop to get off at, depending on where I was going. I also learnt how to use the PTV app, this was very useful.

The one thing I learnt about myself throughout the whole experience was that I really enjoyed the independence that the program allows. Being in the city with a small group of friends is a great way to learn a lot about yourself, and them. Not being with a parent or teacher all the time meant that we had to manage ourselves effectively, including departure and arrival times when meeting our teachers at the booked tours.

This is an experience not to be missed by all future year 9 students because it is a program designed just for iD9 students and it is the best fun you will have all year…! It is safe, the teachers were really helpful and because you get to work with a small group of your close friends, it really makes for a positive week. Lachlan Caithness

From the Director of Student Services Mrs Geralyn McCarthy Survey of Parents’ Usage of Parent Access Module – Results Thomas Carr College’s Parent Access Module (PAM) provides parents with online access to a range of information specific to their child including his/her timetable, attendance records, daily messages, the College calendar, the student assessment area and Learning Areas, Parent-Teacher interviews, and Student Reports.

Recently, a parent survey was conducted to help us review parents’ usage of PAM. Thank you to the 165 parents who took the time to respond to the survey. The results and particularly your reflective comments will assist the college to review areas of operation pertaining to PAM and lead to a continued improvement in 2016.

The results suggest the following:  The vast majority of parents who responded (73%) use PAM at least monthly;  Most parents use PAM to check their child’s assessment and learning areas, book Parent/Teacher Interviews, and access their child’s report; many parents also use PAM to access College documents  Most parents find PAM helpful (72%), with some saying that they could not do without it Parents also offered a number of helpful comments about how the College might continue to improve PAM. A recent meeting of the College Executive reflected on these comments and suggestions, and have earmarked this as a matter to be discussed with College staff and the IT team to ensure that some follow-up occurs early in 2016. If you would like to discuss the results of the survey in more depth, please feel free to phone Geralyn McCarthy on 8734 2414.

For all parents new to the College or who believe that would like a refresher course on PAM, 2 PAM workshops will be conducted at the College. Dates for these workshops will be made available early in the New Year.

From the Office of Wellbeing Ms Joy Georgey Essential Care over the Holidays While for many, Christmas is a time of celebration and rest, unfortunately, holiday cheer is not necessarily everyone’s experience. The Christmas season is an important time to consider those who are less fortunate, or who may be finding this particular time of year difficult. Family separation and conflict, grief or loss of a loved one, isolation and financial pressures, are just a few factors that leave some families and individuals dreading this time of year.

You and your family may consider seeking opportunities to reach out to others, who may otherwise be alone this holiday. As a community it is important to keep an eye out for those who are vulnerable and to teach our children to share this same compassion and care for others. Should you find that you or someone you know requires any support for mental health related concerns over the break, please consider any of the resources listed below. Of course, recommending a visit to a General Practitioner is also an option all year round.

Support Services for Adults:  MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78  Women’s Health West: 9689 9588  Lifeline: 13 11 14  Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277  www.lifeworks.com.au  www.beyondblue.org.au  www.mindspot.org.au Support Services for Young People:  Kids Help Line: 1800 55 1800  www.kidshelp.com.au  Youth Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636  www.youthbeyondblue.com  Headspace Werribee: 8001 2366  www.headspace.org.au  Reachout.com From the Wellbeing Team at the College, we wish you a blessed Christmas and a safe and restful break.

From the Information Centre Mrs Mercieca Resource Lists for 2016 Years 7 to 11 Resource Lists for 2016 were placed in Homeroom tubs this week. Families are able to order online or by returning the resource list to the school.

The last day for orders to be returned to the school is Friday December 4. The resource collection day is Thursday January 21 2016 in the Gym. Families who will be away on this date should pre-pay for their order. Pre-paid orders will be left at the Information Centre and can be collected when families return.

More information can be found on the Information Centre Hompage – libguides.thomascarr.vic.edu.au/informationcentre Families who have questions regarding this process can also contact the Information Centre.

From the ACS Department Miss White Middle School Grand Finals In the last 2 weeks we were fortunate enough to have had 9 Middle School ACS teams make their respective Grand Finals. I am pleased to announce we won 7 of 9 finals which is a fantastic achievement. Thank you to all Middle School Year 7 Girls Softball Team

students in the ACS program and to their parents/guardians for their support over the 2015. We look forward to continuing this success in 2016.

Grand Final Results Year 7 Girls Softball Congratulations to our softball girls team who finished on top of the ladder in their first year of ACS. The girls being favorites to win almost let the game slip by until they all showed great fighting spirit and wonderful teamwork to take the win in the final innings against Overnewton 17-12. Coach: Ms Julie Hannath. Best Players: Team Effort Year 8 Girls Softball The girls trailed Loyola, our biggest competition all year, for most of the game. Some brilliant pitching from Mona Sharma put the team in front winning with with a score of 15-12. Well done to both teams for showing great sportsmanship. Coach: Ms Lauren Camilleri. Best Players: Mona Sharma, Jasmine Wilson, Logan Roache Year 7 Girls Soccer A great game played with wonderful sportsmanship by both teams. Great defence throughout the first half produced a 0-0 score. Second half St. Leonards scored and our girls immediately responded, scoring 2 goals within 5 minutes to take the lead. At the end of the second half St Leonards scored the equalizer to force the game into 10 minutes of extra time. Both teams were exhausted but Thomas Carr College were able to defend brilliantly and score a further 2 goals to win. A very exciting, tough game, played in great spirit. Coach: Ms Kristy Hannath. Best Players: Julia Budiongo, Cayar Kooc, Ashleigh Koropeckyj Year 7 Boys Hockey The game against Overnewton started off slow due to an even match in skill and ability between the two teams. After 20 minutes into the first half, Thomas Carr started to attack and our first goal was slotted off a short corner by midfielder Patrick Mudford, giving Thomas Carr College a 1-0 lead. Strategic maneuvers and motivating words delivered at half time set the boys off to a flying start slotting another two field goals (Daniel Esposito and Nathan Powell) within 5 minutes of each other to give us a 3-0 lead. Our goalie Jayden Farrell worked up a sweat, saving multiple goals, as Overnewton increased the attack. With 5 minutes to go, Overnewton scored a well-deserved goal to bring the score to 3-1. At the final whistle Thomas Carr College were the winners with a 3-1 score. It was a great game by all team members, a fantastic end to the team’s first year of high school. Coach- Ms Emma Albergo.Best Players: Jayden Farrell

Year 8 Girls Softball Team

Year 7 Girls Soccer Team

Year 7 Boys Hockey Team

Year 8 Girls Volleyball B After an amazing year of Volleyball, the girls were able to demonstrate the skills they had learned by participating in the Grand Final. Throughout the game the girls were enthusiastic and extremely supportive of each other, attributes that did not differ from their previous games leading to the final.

It was fantastic to see the girls show great sportsmanship and fight back to win the third set after some changes in our game plan. Unfortunately we could not sustain it and Overnewton took the fourth set to become the champions. I couldn’t be more proud of these girl efforts not only in this game but throughout the year.

Coach: Ms Jaymie Byrne. Best Players: Alexis Pangan, Justine Pedigral, Drashti Shah Year 8 Boys A Basketball Year 8 Boys A team went up against Overnewton, who are the defending Year 8 Champions and Thomas Carr College’s equal, with four Year 8 ACS Basketball Championships. The winner of this grand final would take the crown for most ACS wins at Year 8 level with a total of 5. Congratulations boys, you made history with a dominant display of impressive team work and skill. Coach-Mr Pomasan. Best Players- Jett Mathews, Darrien Herbert, Makur Johnkuch Year 8 Boys B Basketball Year 8 Boys B team went up against old rivals Loyola, the only team to beat them throughout the season. It was a close game, however Thomas Carr College got their revenge by winning with a 3 point margin. Well done B team. Coach- Mr Pomasan.

Best Players- Maluk Adub, Noah Allen, Ayrtan Mazzuggia-Kiazim

Year 8 Girls Volleyball B Team

Year 8 Boys A basketball Team

Year 9 Boys Softball Year 9 boys were beaten in the ACS Softball Grand Final by Overnewton. It was a tough game in difficult windy conditions. Amazing fielding skills by both teams and extremely good batting made for an exciting game. With a much disrupted team this term, it is a great tribute to the boys to even make the final. Thanks to all the boys that helped out and the maturity shown by the boys in defeat. Hopefully we'll continue to have strong senior teams next year. Coach: Ms Trish Hughes. Best Players: Team Effort Student Achievement Natasha Smith of 7 Blue represented Werribee Hockey Club in the U14 Western Metro Wild Cats Girls team who competed in the Victorian Zone Challenge.

Year 9 Boys Softball Team

The tournament, played over two weekends, in Greensbourgh and Albury saw the Under 14 Western Metro Wild Cats Girls team undefeated for all 8 games, winning 7 and drawing 1. The Girls won 1st Place and are the Zone Challenge U14 Girls Champions. Congratulations Natasha on your achievement.

From the Parents & Friends Association Second Hand Uniform Shop The P&F run a Second Hand Uniform Shop on a volunteer basis. The shop is open during term time only, each Thursday from 3.00pm to 4.00pm and is located in D3, in the Year 9 Centre. We have a large variety of second hand uniforms that can be purchased.

Natasha Smith

Good condition current uniform styles only can be left on consignment. All items must be clean and in good condition. The P&F holds a 20% commission on items sold and the balance is forwarded to the seller. Contact details and prices are to be attached to each item. Clothes can only be left at the Shop during the operating hours above.

Please note we only accept cash and cheque (no EFTPOS available). For all enquiries please contact the P&F on 0419 115 115 or parentsandfriends@thomascarr.vic.edu.au The Shop will re-open on Thursday November 19 when the VCE examinations will be finished.

Community News Uniform Shop Appointments are now being taken for all new students to the College in 2016. Please have your appointment time finalised by December 4. Appointments are available from now until Friday January 15, 2016.

The Uniform Shop is open:  Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:15am to 4:00pm from now until November 27  Open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 4.00pm November 27 to December 11  Open Monday to Friday 9.00am – 4.00pm January 11 to January 22, 2016 For all enquiries, please ring Michelle on 9749 5969.