Mount St Bernard College eNewsletter

Principal

Welcome to our final newsletter for Term 1!

As we wrap up this busy term, we reflect on the incredible learning, activities, and experiences we've shared together. From engaging lessons to exciting events, it's been a journey filled with growth and discovery.

A huge thank you to our College community for their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm throughout the term. Your contributions have made our school community vibrant and thriving.

As we look forward to the Easter break, I want to wish you all a safe and joyful holiday season. Whether you're spending time with family, embarking on adventures, or simply relaxing, may it be a time of rejuvenation and happiness.

Thank you once again for making Term 1 memorable, and let's return refreshed and ready for more amazing experiences in the next term!

Year 7 Camp at Mungalli Falls

Year 7 camp is not just a trip—it's an adventure waiting to happen, a journey of discovery, friendship, and unforgettable experiences. It's a chance for each of us to step out of one’s comfort zone, embrace the great outdoors, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

In the heart of nature at the beautiful Mungalli Falls, our Year 7s were away from the distractions of everyday life and had the opportunity to truly connect with each other. They built connections as they abseiled, navigated obstacles courses, built rafts, and attempted to cross the dam on a flying fox.

Together, the students created memories that will shine bright in the tapestry of their lives, reminding them of the strength of friendship and the joy of shared adventures.

Thank you to the staff who led the camp and made this such a memorable experience for our Year 7 students.

Engaging in Learning and the importance of attendance and respect for teachers and peers

Engaging in learning is not just about sitting in a classroom and absorbing information—it's about actively participating, questioning, experimenting, and discovering. It's about cultivating a sense of curiosity and wonder, and finding joy in the pursuit of knowledge.

The loss of learning due to lack of attendance and disrespectful behaviour is a serious concern that affects not only the individuals involved but also the entire learning community. When students are absent from class or are disrespectful in their behaviour, they miss out on valuable opportunities to engage with the material, participate in discussions, and collaborate with their peers. This can result in gaps in their understanding, decreased academic performance, and a sense of disconnection from the learning process. Disrespectful behaviour also disrupts the learning environment for everyone else in the classroom, making it difficult for teachers to effectively teach and for students to focus and participate. It creates an atmosphere of negativity and can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and disengagement among both students and teachers.

Addressing these issues requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and students themselves. The Student Representative Council is currently working with the Leadership Team to provide student voice in helping us find solutions to improve student attendance and minimise disruptions to classroom learning. The students are feeling frustrated by the behaviours of their peers and are providing some excellent insight into the causes, impacts and possible solutions we can trial as a College.

Ultimately, addressing the loss of learning due to lack of attendance and disrespectful behaviour requires a proactive and holistic approach that prioritises the well-being and academic success of all students. By working together and creating a supportive learning environment, we can help ensure that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Active engagement in learning was unmistakable in the Year 12 Certificate III in Health Services Assistance program. Amora and Summa demonstrated exemplary professionalism as they conducted health checks on students and staff. Their dedication and commitment to their course are commendable, reflecting a deep understanding of the importance of hands-on learning in healthcare settings.

Meanwhile, during lunchtime, the music students took centre stage with a concert that electrified the entire school community. Their vibrant tunes and infectious melodies not only entertained but also showcased their talent and passion for music. This lively performance transformed an ordinary lunch break into a memorable musical experience, illustrating the power of artistic expression in enhancing school culture and fostering student engagement.

In addition to healthcare and music, Year 7 Art students immersed themselves in a creative exploration of Chinese New Year celebrations and the Year of the Dragon. Through research and inspiration from the movie "How to Train Your Dragon", they delved into the realm of mythical creatures, drawing from the characteristics of various animals to create their own unique dragons. The result? A captivating display of imagination and artistic skill, including the whimsical concept of a flying hammerhead shark - a testament to the students' creativity and willingness to explore unconventional ideas.

International Women's Day

The Express International Women's Day Luncheon held on Friday, March 8, 2024, was a resounding success, bringing together Mount St Bernard College staff, students, and women from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women worldwide. Grace Hart, Annika Feher-Holan, and Aailyah Duck represented the student body at this empowering event, which took place at the Mareeba International Club.

The luncheon offered attendees a delightful experience, featuring a sumptuous buffet lunch and decadent desserts to tantalize the taste buds. Angela Nasson, Mandie Scott, and Lisa Turner captivated the audience with their empowering stories and words of wisdom, leaving a lasting impression on all who were present.

Adding to the festivities, local musician Nicole Highthawk provided enchanting musical entertainment, while Sandra Schmidt of Pole Play Studios mesmerised the crowd with an aerial performance that showcased grace and strength in equal measure. Additionally, Ida Portella of Comedy Tours lent her wit and charm as the event's MC, keeping the atmosphere lively and engaging throughout the proceedings.

It's worth noting that the purpose of this event extended beyond mere celebration, as all proceeds from the luncheon were dedicated to supporting the Tablelands Soroptimist Club. By contributing to this worthy cause, attendees not only enjoyed a memorable experience but also made a meaningful impact on the community, helping to fund the club's invaluable work.

Overall, the Express International Women's Day Luncheon served as a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising and uplifting women's voices and achievements. Through shared experiences, inspiring speakers, and charitable contributions, attendees came together to honour the past, celebrate the present, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

End of Term Farewells and Welcomes

Thank you to the following staff who will be leaving the Day School at the end of Term 1:

Donna McLaughlan

Lauren Colless

Sherrie Hall-Thege

Christopher Cawley

Kerry Winslett

I’d like to thank these staff for the tireless work they have undertaken to lead and support the education of our students.

I’d also like to welcome Ryan Mamauag, Holly McGowan, Jess Mason, Tania Bolger, Shannon Day and Janine Conolly who joined the Mount St Bernard College community during term 1.

Easter Message

As we embrace the spirit of renewal and hope that Easter brings, let us take a moment to reflect on the profound message of love, compassion, and grace that defines this sacred season. Just as spring breathes new life into the world around us, Easter invites us to renew our spirits, to celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, and to rejoice in the boundless possibilities of transformation.

In the compassionate footsteps of Catherine McAuley, let us extend our hearts and hands to those in need, offering kindness, understanding, and support to all who cross our paths. May the joy of Easter fill your hearts with warmth and your souls with peace, as we continue to journey together in the spirit of mercy and love.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Easter.

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Acting Deputy Principal Curriculum

Term 1 has passed so quickly; assessment tasks are being finalised and teachers are preparing the Term 1 progress reports to be uploaded to the Parent Portal before the end of term.

Parent Teacher interviews will be held Tuesday, 30 April 2024 (Week 3 Term 2) from 3.30-6.00pm. A 10-minute interview with your child’s teacher shows your child that you’re interested in their learning and what’s happening for them at school. You can learn so much about your child’s progress by meeting with their teacher/s for 10 minutes a semester. At MSB we understand it’s not always possible or convenient to attend in-person, phone interviews can also be arranged.

Information on how to book using Parent Teacher Online (PTO) will be sent out via email for most and by post for those without email.

Janine Conolly - Acting Deputy Principal Curriculum & Administration

Acting Deputy Principal Residential

Acting DP Residential 2024

Assistant Principal Mission

As we look forward to the holidays, I would like to highlight some of the initiatives our inspiring, and aspiring, student leaders have instigated and participated in.

Year 11 Religion & Ethics students have been learning about social justice and thinking of practical ways they can care for our Earth and the people who share it with us. Dot Shea spoke to them about the increase in homelessness across the Tablelands and how Rosies is trying to help. This year our Great Wheelbarrow Race team will be fundraising for Rosies, Friends on the Street.

We have continued to nurture Wild River Bicentennial Park. Tablelands Regional Council’s Christine Wolf was able to join us on site and show us the difference between weeds and native plants so now we can help the revegetation process.

Commitment to environmental stewardship is also evident by the increasing number of students who are volunteering to keep the college grounds free from rubbish.

Some of the students have decided that the best way for them to fight against social injustice is to support Caritas Australia and help them in their global humanitarian efforts. To this end they have organised a disco with all proceeds going to Project Compassion.

Mercy leader Amora Krnjacki has co-ordinated Harmony Day activities which aim to celebrate diversity and foster inclusivity within our college community.

We are also proudly supporting Mia Ackland’s participation in the World’s Greatest Shave by having a free dress day to support the fight against cancer.

Thanks to our Indigenous Liaison Officer's Debbie and Sherie for helping a group of students participate in the inaugural CES Student Voice Forum. Its long-term goal is to support and facilitate a continued student agency within the Diocese and aims to empower students to create positive change in their communities by being a voice on topics such as social justice, the environment and any other issues they bring forward.

The end of Term 1, also brings us to the end of the liturgical season of Lent. Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday, marks the beginning of Holy Week - the most important week in the Church’s Year. During this week the church remembers the last days of Jesus’ life, His death and resurrection.

I wish you a joyful Eastertime and may God’s Mercy shine upon you!

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Mission

Mission Term 1

Dear Parents, Guardians, and friends,

As Term 1 draws to a close, we are delighted to share an update with you. We extend our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support, which, combined with the dedication of our College's staff, has ensured a successful term for our students. Your partnership has been instrumental in fostering a positive school experience for each child.

Throughout the term, our well-being team remained steadfast in their commitment to supporting your child's holistic development. The highlights of this term include.

Young Indigenous Leaders night
GRIP College Captains and Leaders day
Ash Wednesday Liturgy
Anniversary of the National Apology
Year 7 camp
International Women’s Day
Naplan
MSB International Pi Day competition
National Close the Gap day
Crazy Hair/Free dress day for Shave for a Cure
College disco
College Swimming Carnival
Easter liturgy

This term we focussed on our college expectations of

Being Safe
Being Respectful
Being responsible

Your continued support is important, and we express our genuine appreciation for it. We are grateful for your continued support in encouraging your children to attend classes, to make safe, respectful, and responsible choices. We look forward to celebrating their achievements, and fostering a strong, supportive community.

This term, we explored crucial topics including self-regulation techniques for stress management, navigating peer pressure responsibly, ensuring online safety, and looked at anti-vaping initiatives. Your continued partnership in nurturing our children, guiding them towards making safe, respectful, and informed choices, celebrating their accomplishments, and fostering a robust, supportive community is immensely cherished and deeply valued.

We also paid attention to

Attending classes Go here for more information
Put away all mobile phones as soon as we enter College grounds Go here for more information
Being ready to learn
Engaging in learning
Setting Goals
Staying safe online
Resolving our differences peacefully

As we approach the holiday season, I wish you and your family a blessed, joyful and safe Easter break. We eagerly anticipate continuing this educational journey with your child in the upcoming term.

On behalf of the Well-being Team

Stephen Godfrey - Assistant Principal Wellbeing

Transition Support

We have had a huge Term 1 for Transition Support at MSB.

We welcomed 38 new Year 7 students who participated in the Orientation program Week 1 with team building activities, getting to know their classmates & staff, and finding their way around the college.

We also welcomed 24 new students from Year 8 to 11 into the College.

Our 2025 enrolment tour began in the Torres Strait Islands and at our feeder schools. St Josephs (Atherton) and St Teresa’s (Ravenshoe) Primary Catholic Schools.

We hosted 8 parents for support visits - to support their child at the college. All ABSTUDY students are entitled to 3 x support visits per year/per child. The parent or carer can request a support visit or a College staff member. Support visits can help if your child is feeling homesick, is experiencing social & emotional issues or to share in celebrating special College events.

To finish off the term we hosted 12 Year 5 students from Pormpuraaw State School for a Boarding Readiness Program. They experienced what it was like to be a boarding student at MSB and participated in a full day at high school with activities in Health & Physical Education, Visual Arts, Maths, Science and a tour of the college including our Eco Shed & Agriculture department. Thank you to our Student Boarding Leaders - Tony Harry, Mary Kyle-Smith and Shandrella Pilot for assisting with tours of the residential houses, joined by our College Captain Limferd Lui. A big thank you to Teachers - Kieren Waugh, Daniel Buckley and Sarah Cortis for presenting an activity, as well as our amazing Residential supervisors.

Mr Bailey passed on his students feedback saying it was all positive:

They loved being able to make new friends from other communities.
All the kids there were so nice.
The food at school was so great.
Being able to see family again was really good.
We got to play a lot of basketball and football which was really fun.
We loved the lights and prizes in Mrs Waugh's Maths class.
The Library had heaps of cool books to read and games to play.
The Science class had lots of cool things in there and looked fun.
Thanks for having us stay at MSB. You guys did a great job and we all loved it.

Andrea Gower - Transition Officer

Pormpuraaw State School Boarding Readiness Program

We find ourselves in Week 9 and with it the Library has been celebrating Women’s History Month. To highlight the incredible contributions and achievements made by women across history, the Library has created a large display celebrating and giving a snapshot of women who changed the world. Students have enjoyed learning more about the incredible inventions that women have made and the social changes they have worked hard to implement.

Our Library collective noun trivia has continued… What is the name of a group of starfish? (See bottom for the answer) and our latest poll has deep sea exploration more popular than the exploration of deep space by 13 to 5.

Readers Cup 2024 has started and we are happy to announce the Year 7 & 8 team consists of Natalie Cannan, Supreet Kaur, Eli Cortis, Cooper Jones and Sidney Jenkins is our shadow reader. The team will meet for reading parties throughout the term and prepare for the competition in Smithfield on June 5th. The Year 9 & 10 team is still being finalised.

Thanks to all the students and teachers who have returned the library loans on time. We hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday.

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Communications & Community Engagement

ENROL NOW FOR 2025 & 2026

~ Enrolment applications for Round 2 close on 14 June 2024

~ Scholarship applications for 2025 are available at www.msb.qld.edu.au/scholarships/

~ Apply online now at https://www.msb.qld.edu.au/apply-online-now/

To enquire, book a tour or require more information visit our website at www.msb.qld.edu.au , Email - msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au or

PH: 40 961 485

MSB Dining Room Information

There will be changes to the Friday shared lunches from Term 2. These will no longer be held every Friday. They will now be held twice per term and align with special days wherever possible.

The dates for Term 2 are:

Week 5 - Friday 17 May
Week 10 - Wednesday 19 June (Mercy Day)

Day Students are still welcome to purchase their lunch from student services each day including Friday. There will be no charge on the Shared Lunch days on 17 May and 19 June. Please mark these dates in your calendars.

Due to operational reasons, dining room meals will not be available in Week 10 Term 1 for day students and staff. Monday 25 March is the catered Swimming Carnival. Please ensure your student makes arrangements for Tue 26 and Wed 27 March (last day of Term 1).

YMCA QLD YOUTH PARLIAMENT

MSB students Rose Mene, Makala Harries-Spinnler & Alima Pausa have been selected to attend this years YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament program. The program has been running for twenty-eight years, and is designed to equip our youth with the skills, knowledge and enthusiasm to spark change in their communities. Queensland's peak youth forum, empowering young people to present their vision to parliamentarians and shape our state's future. Well done to all.

VOLLEYBALL TRIALS | Congratulations to Binzella Anson, Nancy Anson, Rylee Finch, Amora Krnjacki, Shandrella Pilot, Sannah Pearson, Megan Trezise, Javahn Kanak, Billy Bourne, Tony Harry and Limferd Lui for making the Tablelands District Volleyball team. Playing on the 7th and 8th March in Smithfield they represented MSB and the Tablelands extremely well. Congratulations to Limferd Lui who was selected to the Peninsula Team to represent Far Nth Qld at the State Championships in May held on the Sunshine Coast.

Volleyball Trials Term 1 2024

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this edition, which is now available on our website www.cairns.catholic.org.au

Alternatively, please click on the link below and it will take you straight to the flipbook.

https://online.fliphtml5.com/xgvmy/jhvv/#p=1

Instructional Leader Learning Culture and Growth

As we approach the holidays, it’s a good time for students to reflect on whether they’ve met their academic goals for Term 1. In many cases, they will be very pleased with their results, but some students may conclude that they need to ‘aim up’ for the remainder of the semester. 

The NAPLAN testing which took place in Week 8 has been a major event on the school calendar, involving students from Years 7 and 9. NAPLAN candidates sit papers on Writing, Reading, Conventions of Language and Numeracy, and the results are useful in assessing both individual needs and school improvement priorities. Parents and families will be informed of results as soon as they come out.

Holidays are a great time to relax, and there’s no better way to do this than chilling out with a good book. Whether your preferred genre is romance, action, fantasy or something else entirely, the process of reading every day is the single biggest thing you can do to enhance your literacy and broader educational outcomes.

I hope you have a safe and restful break and I look forward to seeing you in April!

Daniel Jenkins - Instructional Leader Learning Culture and Growth

Years 7 & 8 CPAR

Hello everyone,

I can’t believe how fast this term has gone by. It is the business end of the term and everyone has been working really hard on completing their assessment tasks.

This term our students have been studying a range of topics and have gained a wealth of knowledge from all their subject areas.

In Year 7 students have been learning how to write narratives in English and discovered how the position of the Earth, Moon and Sun can change events on Earth such as tides and seasons. In Humanities, our Year 7’s studied a unit titled ‘Water in the World’ . Through this unit they were able to develop valuable knowledge on water as a precious resource and learnt how to interpret climate graphs! In Maths students have been studying number skills, learning prime and square numbers, indices and using these to express numbers as products of prime factors.

In Year 8 students created persuasive podcasts to entice their listeners to travel to their chosen destination. In Maths they have been studying investigating irrational numbers and their connection to circles. While in Science they have learnt about plate tectonics and how the processes in the rock cycle creates igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks . In their Humanities classrooms they learnt about Medieval Europe!

Students have been eagerly talking about their holidays plans and are excited for a break!! I hope everyone has a refreshing and safe Easter Holiday. We can’t wait to see you all back nice and fresh to start Term 2!

Kieren Waugh - Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment and Reporting 7/8 (C.P.A.R)

Year 7 Art, have learnt about the Chinese New Year Celebrations and the Year of the Dragon. They researched mythical creatures and watched 'How to train your dragon'. They developed ideas for their own dragons by looking at the characteristics of different animals to make a hybrid creature. Please see the art students at work, there's even a flying hammerhead shark!

Traylea Sexton - Art Teacher

Year 7 Art Term 1 2024

Junior Design Tech and Engineering Principles

Year 7's and 8's Junior Design Tech and Engineering Principles students have been extraordinary in their efforts and ideas. Natalie recommended and modelled a school where kindness is taught to counteract war. Cooper would build irrigation systems around towns prone to bushfire, while Eli suggested an underground system of irrigation for drought conditions. Water is our saviour and a threat so, both Zara & Emma built seawall models to investigate rising seas and ways to protect their homelands, while Kathalina built a model of a Tsunami early warning system. All our engineering students are passionate about making a better future for their families. They first identified and investigated a problem, so that they can then develop possible solutions.

The Year 10s are hoping to build working models of solutions they came up with for renewables, including a personal EV charger and a hydrogen engine. One group sees disengagement in schools as a leading problem that needs to be tackled and they have built mind maps and flowcharts, while listing the processes and materials to model better commitment to learning. These students are a blessing to teach and prove to all of us that they are taking hold of the wheel to drive change that leads to a better future for all of us.

Julia Cazita-Mazeuad - Design Tech and Engineering Principles Teacher

Design Tech and Engineering Principles

Year 9 Curriculum Highlights:

In English, students studied a unit on narrative writing, which extended the narrative writing skills they had learned in Years 7 and 8. They read the novel ‘Boy Overboard’, focusing on character development and epiphanies.

In Humanities, students studied a new History unit this term, called “Making and Transforming the Australian Nation”. Throughout the term, they learnt about the movement of people across the world from 1750; European colonisation of Australia and its impacts on Indigenous people; and significant events such as the Myall Creek Massacre, Eureka, and Federation.

In Maths, students worked on calculating surface area and volume. They discovered the value of drawing nets to document their thinking and the relevance of measurement in everyday life. They learnt how to apply their knowledge of surface area to practical scenarios, like working out the volume of paint on the Bunnings website. At the end of the term, they have combined their knowledge to design a cupboard under a set of stairs and document the features.

In Science this term, students looked at how energy transfers and how we view light in our universe. The students dissected a cow's eye a few weeks ago and wrote a report on a bionic eye. Students have found this scientific advancement in healthcare extremely interesting.

In Business, students have been designing their businesses ideas.

In Sport and Recreation, students engaged in a coaching unit. Students learnt what it means to be a good coach and implemented it with their classmates. For their assessment, students designed a sports game and coached it in different ways to their peers.

In Digital Technologies, students learnt video editing software, which they used to document some data logging and analysis.

In Religion, students considered Catholic social teaching, the three forms of penance (prayer, fasting, and almsgiving), Scripture, the celebration of the Sacraments of Healing (Penance and Anointing of the Sick), and personal and communal prayer experiences as sources of inspiration, strength, and guidance for believers today.

Year 10 Curriculum Highlights:

In Engineering, students are identifying issues in today's society and designing solutions for these problems. Students are creating solutions ranging from energy to entertainment.

History in Year 10 was offered as an elective for students. This term, students studied World War II and learnt about the causes of World War II; significant events of the war; Australia’s involvement in the theatres of war; and the significance of World War II for Australia’s international relationships.

In Food, Technology, and Design (FTD), students focused on Food Technology. They looked at Indigenous perspectives; they made kangaroo and beef sausage rolls and examined why kangaroo is healthier to eat than beef. They are investigating healthy alternatives to design and create a 3-day menu for an adult at the end of the Semester.

In English, students either studied the play “So Much to Tell You” and learnt analytical essay writing skills or studied Science Fiction and were excited to be watching the movie 'The Martian' and prepared to do a persuasive presentation on why we should colonise Mars. Students have created particularly compelling arguments for living on Mars!

In Science, students learned about genetics and the different theories of evolution from Darwin’s theory of evolution to Larmark’s theory of evolution. Students also studied how characteristics are passed on from parent to child referring to dominant and recessive genes.

In Maths, students learnt Statistics and probability this term. The focus was on showing if two variables have a relationship using scatter graphs. They investigated the human body and if characteristics have a relationship. They then moved onto designing and conducting chance experiments that involve compound events.

In Drama, students studied lighting techniques for the theatre stage and how different lighting choices create desired moods for a performance. Students also undertook a character study based on one of their favourite characters from film and television. This was in preparation for students acting a 2-3 minute scene with each other on stage in week 7 this Term, showcasing a scene of their choice from screen acting and applying their character study practically.

In Music, students grew their technical instrument skills this term in preparation to be able to play an increased repertoire of musical material. Students undertook studies on guitar, drums, keyboards, bass guitar, and experienced exposure to performance techniques on a musical stage. In week 8 Music students from Years 7, 9, 10 and 11 put on a lunchtime concert in front of the school library to entertain the school community. It was thoroughly enjoyed by all! We are particularly proud that 3 out of 8 songs played that day were original songs written by students.

In Health & Physical Education, students completed a first aid unit, learning how it is important that as many people as possible know first aid. They also did a practical unit on striking sports (Cricket, baseball, etc.).

Careers was offered in years 9 and 10 and was an amazing subject which completed the VET Unit ‘Work Readiness’. This helps to prepare students for Work Experience at the end of the year by completing resumes and applying for tax file numbers. The subject also introduced students to the QCE system and subject selection for senior school.

In Religion, students identified and described how the mystery of God in the Old Testament can be named, encountered, and better understood. They described how humans express an understanding of God or the ‘Other’ as revealed in creation.

Nicola Chambers - Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment and Reporting 9/10 (C.P.A.R)

Lunchtime Music Performance Term 1

Term 1 Years 9 & 10 Art

Year 10 Science

Year 11 English & Drama Theatre Excursion

In Week 7, students in the Year 11 English and Drama classes travelled to the Bulmba-Ja Arts Centre in Cairns to see Grit, a new production by the Perseverance Street Theatre Company, from Gympie. This innovative play told the stories of six diverse characters from a small town, with one actor playing all the roles. An ensemble of talented singers accompanied the stories with movement and music. The students were inspired and very entertained by the performance and loved having the opportunity to see live theatre. They came away from the theatre full of ideas for their Term 2 assessments in both English and Drama. A big thank you to Jute Theatre for hosting the production and creating the opportunity for us to attend as a school.

Sarah Riber - Year 11 English & Drama Teacher

Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

As we approach the end of Term 1, I would like to emphasise the importance of attending classes regularly and maintaining a safe, respectful, and responsible environment both in and out of school.

Firstly, attending classes regularly is important for your understanding and development. Being present in class allows you to actively engage in learning, participate in discussions, and ask questions. Consistent attendance also demonstrates your commitment to your education and sets a positive example for your peers.

Additionally, it is crucial to prioritise safety in all areas of our lives, especially during school hours. Whether you are in class, on the school grounds, or in the community and at home, always be sure to be safe.

We must also uphold values of respect and responsibility towards ourselves and others. Treat fellow students, teachers, and staff with kindness and consideration, to have a positive school community. Take ownership of your actions, whether it be completing assignments on time, caring for school property, or resolving conflicts peacefully and responsibly.

As we look forward to welcoming everyone back at the beginning of Term 2, we encourage you to enjoy the upcoming Easter break. Spend quality time with family and friends, indulge in some delicious chocolate treats, and recharge for the new term ahead.

Wishing you a restful Easter break filled with happiness and plenty of chocolate delights!

Emma Sheppard - Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 7/8

As we come towards the end of term both students and teachers have been working hard during this assessment period. Our Year 7's have just been through the NAPLAN assessments; their third round out of a total of four (NAPLAN happens for Years 3,5,7 and 9). With Easter arriving early this year, Week 10 is a shorter week and will include our whole school swimming carnival on Monday. The forecast is for a lovely 27 degrees with sunny spells - helping to build excitement for the house competitions! As a close to the term my warm thanks goes out to our parents and carers; during this term I have had so many positive, supportive conversations with parents and carers about how best to assist their child in both the education space and wellbeing space. I hope all of our students, parents, carers and staff have a safe and enjoyable holiday period!

Alex Hinchliffe - Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 7/8

Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 11/12

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

As we bid farewell to Term 1, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements and growth we've witnessed within our Year 11 and 12 cohort.

First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all students for successfully navigating through the challenges and opportunities this term has presented. Your dedication to your studies and commitment to personal growth are commendable.

Throughout Term 1, our students have showcased exemplary resilience, adaptability, and determination in facing academic challenges and embracing new learning experiences. Whether it be in the classroom, on the field, or within the creative arts, your efforts have not gone unnoticed.

As we all embark on a well-deserved break, I encourage everyone to take time for rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Use this time to reflect on your achievements, set new goals, and recharge for the exciting journey ahead into Term 2.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the excitement of fundraising for our highly anticipated Year 12 Formal! With the big event scheduled for November 9th this year, Term 2 marks the beginning of our fundraising efforts to make this occasion truly unforgettable.

Wishing you all a very safe and enjoyable break. See you refreshed and ready to tackle Term 2!

Doris Cuda - Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 11/12

Introducing Bernard’s Residential Student Leader 2024 - Tony Harry

Hi I’m Tony Harry. I come from Warraber Island. I was born in Cairns and grew up in Warraber. The best thing about living in Warraber Island is swimming, fishing, recreational boating and diving for crayfish and other species of fish. I started at MSB in Year 7 in 2019. I love the sporting and Art programs at MSB. I am the Bernard’s Residential Student Leader for 2024. My job is to look after the younger boys in the Dorm and help them when they feel ‘home sick’, scared or lost.

Diversity

Every year on March 14th, there is a celebration known as Pi Day in honour of the mathematical constant Pi and its applications in various fields. 

Pi is a unique number that represents the circumference-to-diameter ratio of a circle. It has been studied and calculated for thousands of years, and ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians and Egyptians used it in their work.

To celebrate Pi day at MSB, the Diversity team tasked students with remembering as many decimal places of Pi as possible. All competitors came together on Thursday lunchtime with prizes for the student who remembered the most decimal places.

We are pleased to announce that this years Pi day winner was Supreet Kaur in year 8, who remembered 27 decimal places! What a fantastic effort.

The majority of Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs) have been reviewed and/or written. Parents and Carers of students who require a PLP will be contacted at the start of term 2 to meet with me, either in person or via the phone, to discuss and approve the plans.

Rachel Brown - Diversity Middle Leader

Indigenous Liaison Officer

International Women’s Day - Friday 8 March 2024 Mareeba International Club

MSB Staff, Deborah Booth & myself along with MSB students, Grace Hart Aaliyah Duck and Annika Feher-Holan attended this year's International Women’s Day Luncheaon held in Mareeba, This function had positive attendance by all ladies from different backgrounds.

Students enjoyed the day which included a great buffet lunch and dessert, inspirational guest speaker, entertainment by local musician Nicole Nighthawk, aerial performance by Pole Play Studios Cairns and Ida Portella Comedy Tours in joining the incredible line up as the event's MC.

All proceeds from this event went to the Tableland's Soroptimist Club to help fund the incredible work they do in the community.

Debbie Zysk - Indigenous Liaison Officer