Mount St Bernard College eNewsletter

Principal

Dear members of the Mount St Bernard Community,

I’d like to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all our mothers in the MSB community.

MSB wants to extend our deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks for all that you do. Your unwavering love, tireless efforts, and endless sacrifices do not go unnoticed. You are the backbone of our families and the silent heroes who make the world a better place.

Thank you for your boundless patience and for always being there with a listening ear and comforting words. Your strength, wisdom, and nurturing spirit shape not only our homes but also our communities.

I hope you all had a happy Mother’s Day that was filled with joy, love, and the appreciation you so richly deserve.

Strategic Focus

The narrowed strategic focus in Term 2 on curriculum development and student attendance has yielded promising results. The professional learning sessions, supported by Marg Girdham and the MTSS-E Team, have been instrumental in equipping staff with the skills and knowledge needed to refine unit planning effectively. This, in turn, has had a positive impact on student engagement and behaviour.

Moving forward, maintaining this focus will be crucial. Continued professional development and support, coupled with data-driven interventions, will be essential in sustaining and furthering the improvements observed. The positive changes in attendance and behaviour are encouraging signs that we are on the right path, and we will persist with these strategies for the remainder of the year to ensure ongoing success.

Term 2 Staffing Changes

Mount St Bernard College is feeling the pressure of the current national and international teacher shortage. Every effort is being made to ensure suitable work is being left for students whilst we work through the recruitment process. We currently have four teaching roles, in Mathematics, Science, Industrial Design and Technology and Health and Physical Education, being advertised and seeking the right applicants for these positions. These positions will provide greater consistency and opportunity for reduced class sizes to our students.

Resignations:

We bid farewell to Bruce Douglas, Ryan Mamauag who both depart the College on May 24 and we will farewell Daniel Jenkins, Hazel Jenkins and Daniel Buckley at the end of the term. We extend our gratitude for their contributions to our community and wish them the very best in their future endeavours.

New Additions:

Please join me in welcoming the following individuals to our team:

Ken Duncan – mathematics
Jim Gaynor – casual boarding supervisor

Timetable Working Party Review

The Timetable Working Party is meeting weekly to develop a sustainable structure to the timetable that will provide the best opportunity for subject choices, reduce teacher changes and prepare students for post-school options. The team will continue to meet with the aim of introducing the new structures in Semester 2 2024.

Wheelbarrow Race

A huge thank you to the MSB Mountain Goats for their incredible feats running and placing second in the social event at the annual Great Wheelbarrow Race. This year's fast paced team achieved the 140km in 9 hours and 16 minutes. Thank you to Janet Wigan for her leadership in organising MSB's participation in this event and all the staff and students who put their hands up to be involved.

CAPE and GULF Community Visits

This week Stephen Godfrey and Debbie Zysk visited the Cape and Gulf communities as part of the College’s enrolment and community connections projects. Thank you to the community schools that enabled us to meet with staff, students, and families and to our existing school families who made the team feel so welcome. During this visit the Cape and Gulf Consultative Committee was introduced to community representatives. We look forward to developing this relationship further as we progress through the school year.

Feedback Survey

Feedback surveys play a crucial role for several reasons:

They provide an opportunity for students, parents/carers and teachers to express their opinions and provide feedback on various aspects of education. This feedback is invaluable in understanding their experiences, needs, and expectations, allowing schools to make informed decisions and improvements.
Incorporating feedback surveys as a regular practice fosters a culture of continuous improvement within our schools. Schools are able to reflect on their practices, identify areas for growth, and implement changes based on feedback. This iterative process helps schools stay responsive to the evolving needs of students, families and staff and adapt strategies to ensure ongoing improvement.
Surveys promote accountability and transparency within the education sector. Schools can demonstrate their commitment to quality education by actively seeking feedback and responding to it. Sharing survey results and actions taken to address concerns builds trust and credibility.
These surveys assist schools in meeting legislated accreditation requirements.

All parents and staff will be invited by email from CES to complete the survey, as well as all students in Years 5, 6, 8 and 11. We estimate that the survey will take 20 – 30 minutes to complete. All surveys are anonymous.

Scam Awareness

In today's digital age, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and pervasive. Protecting yourself from scammers requires vigilance, awareness, and a proactive approach. Here are key points to help you stay safe:

Stay Informed: Regularly update yourself on common scams and new techniques used by scammers. Knowledge is your first line of defence.
Verify Sources: Always verify the authenticity of any communication you receive, whether it's an email, phone call, or text message. Scammers often pose as trusted entities, like banks or government agencies.
Guard Personal Information: Never share sensitive personal information, such as your Social Security number, bank details, or passwords, with unknown or unverified contacts.
Use Strong Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and update them regularly. Consider using a reputable password manager.
Be Sceptical of Unsolicited Requests: Be cautious if you receive unexpected requests for money or personal information, even if they seem urgent. Verify the request through official channels before taking any action.
Secure Your Devices: Ensure your computer and mobile devices are protected with up-to-date antivirus software and firewalls. Regularly update your software to protect against vulnerabilities.
Recognize Red Flags: Be aware of common red flags, such as promises of easy money, threats of legal action, or requests for payment via gift cards or wire transfers.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you've encountered a scam or been targeted by a scammer, report it to the appropriate authorities. This helps prevent others from falling victim.
Educate Others: Share your knowledge about scams with friends, family, and colleagues. Awareness is a powerful tool in preventing fraud.

By staying alert and informed, you can protect yourself and others from the growing threat of scams. Remember, if something seems too good to be true or feels off, trust your instincts and investigate further before taking any action.

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Deputy Principal Residential

Mothers day for Morrissey Staff

Sunday 12th May was Mothers day. To celebrate the fact that our Morrisey staff act as ‘mothers’ for our female boarders during the six years they are at our college , the staff had a Mothers breakfast.

Homework and Study

Every evening from Monday to Thursday homework is conducted in both boarding houses. In years seven to nine all students do reading for 20 minutes through an online program called renaissance reading then they do Maths for 20 minutes through Maths Online. It is pleasing to see that many of the students are working on these programs every night and are beginning to see the fruits of their efforts.

Cooking

Over the past three weeks the students in Morrissey have been spending some of their spare time cooking. This has included cupcakes with Sara, pikelets with Sandy , brownies with student leader Danielle, and most recently nummus and kanilaw with Kales and Sheila. Nummus is a traditional Torres Strait Islander dish whereby fish is cooked with vinegar. Kanilaw is a Filipino dish which uses the same process with a little less chilli as well as the addition of ginger. The students certainly enjoyed these dishes as they were both gone within a short period of time. The next cooking class will be based on scones, plain scones, island fried scones and pumpkin scones.

Malcolm Fahey - Deputy Principal Residential

Mothers Day Breakfast 2024

Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are delighted to share the positive midpoint of Term Two with you. It's been a period filled with numerous learning opportunities and enriching experiences for our students, families, and staff at the College. Thanks to the dedication of our staff and the invaluable support from families like yours, our students have seamlessly transitioned into Term Two.

The Wellbeing team and the College have been proactive in offering various programs aimed at enhancing your child's school experience. One such program is the Deadly Indigenous Youth Doing Good (DIYDG) About No Shame in My Game Program, where students have the chance to engage with music under the guidance of Simone Stacey. Additionally, students from Years Seven to Twelve are benefiting from the Harbrow Mentoring Program, led by Marc Harbrow, focusing on leadership, mentoring, and sportsmanship.

In Week Six, all Year Ten students embarked on an expedition at the Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre (TEEC), participating in bushwalking and canoeing activities, fostering teamwork and outdoor skills. We extend our gratitude to both the College and TEEC staff for their supervision and guidance during this enriching experience.

Looking ahead, we mark several significant dates in the next few weeks:

National Sorry Day on May 26th
National Reconciliation Week from May 27th to June 3rd
Mabo Day on June 3rd

These dates serve as important reminders of significant milestones in our reconciliation journey, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to build respectful relationships between all Australians and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

During these formative teenage years, we understand the challenges your child may face, and our college’s wellbeing team is here to offer vital support. Please feel free to reach out to our dedicated team members for assistance. The team consists of.

Counsellors: Sara Gorring, Kayleigh Smith

Wellbeing Officers: Michelle Davies-Griffith, Jess Mason, Jade O’Shea, Tim Tewhare 

Middle Leader Wellbeing:

Years 7 – 8: Alex Hinchliffe - ahinchliff@cns.catholic.edu.au

Years 9 – 10: Covered by Emma Sheppard and Stephen Godfrey

Years 11 – 12: Doris Cuda - tcuda@cns.catholic.edu.au

Instructional Leader Wellbeing: Emma Sheppard - esheppard2@cns.catholic.edu.au

Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing: Stephen Godfrey - sgodfrey@cns.catholic.edu.au

For enquiries on your child’s wellbeing please contact the Middle Leader Wellbeing of the year that you child is in, using the email addresses provided or the College phone number 07 4096 1444.

We are also excited to introduce the MSB Student Expectations Matrix, outlining minimum behavioural standards across all College settings. This document will help ensure that all students understand and adhere to these expectations, fostering a positive learning environment.

Our focus for the start of this term remains on:

Attending classes
Being prepared to learn
Actively engaging in learning
Making safe choices
Online safety

This week, Deb Zysk, MSB Indigenous Liaison Officer, Jennifer King, Education Officer - Indigenous Education -North-CCEO CES, and myself visited several Cape communities and schools. We are deeply grateful for the support of elders in facilitating these visits and eagerly anticipate fruitful discussions on supporting our young people's education.

Your ongoing support is invaluable, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude for it. We look forward to nurturing and empowering your children this term, guiding them towards making safe, respectful, and responsible choices, and fostering a strong, supportive community.

Stephen Godfrey – Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing 

Assistant Principal Mission

Last Sunday the Church celebrated Pentecost, bringing the fifty days of the Easter season to an end. We recalled when, as Jesus had promised, the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples, giving them the strength to continue His work on Earth. This is often considered the Church’s birthday because so many people were inspired by the apostles’ preaching that they were baptised, and joined this new movement that eventually became Christianity.

What would a birthday be without gifts? The gifts of the Holy Spirit are Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgement, Courage, Knowledge, Wonder and Awe, and Reverence. It is up to us to use these gifts to spread the Good News and make the world a better place just as Jesus’ first followers did.

Come Spirit of Wisdom, fill our hearts with your treasure that we may seek you in all things.

Come Spirit of Understanding, gift us with deep inner knowing that we may live with integrity.

Come Spirit of Right Judgement, guide us with light and truth that we may discern your ways.

Come Spirit of Courage, free us from fear and doubt that we may act justly.

Come Spirit of Knowledge, enlighten our hearts and minds that we may boldly speak your truth.

Come Spirit of Reverence, quieten our restless lives that we may hear your voice.

Come Spirit of Wonder, alert us to your presence that we may join in creation’s praise.

AMEN

It was a privilege and a joy to support the MSB Mountain Goats as they completed the Great Wheelbarrow Race, 140 kilometres from Mareeba to Chillagoe, in a time of 9 hours, 16 minutes, and 48 seconds – coming second in the Social Teams category!

Congratulations to our runners Nathaniel Ghee, Griffin Banu, Kura Joseph, Reem Sam, Dekierim Schrieber, Glen Ingui, Oscar Wosomo, Yindali Sharp, Rylee Finch, Mia Prior and Tara Bevan. A huge thank you to our bus driver Dan Hunter, Hillary O’Brien and John Nickholds for logistics, our masseuses Leesa Hunter and Jenny Rossiter, Nurse Tanya and the MSB kitchen staff. To have support from across the college was wonderful.

Thank you to those who donated to our chosen charity: Rosies, Friends on the Street.

This year I got a very different perspective as I coordinated the runners from the bus. The support they demonstrated for each other, their incredible persistence and determination, and their endless exuberance was awe-inspiring! It was wonderful to get this feedback from members of the public: MSB students were so lovely and polite. They had lots of fun banter with us over the 3 days and were very respectful.

Everyone had an amazing experience – we are already looking forward to 2025!

2024 Great Wheelbarrow Race

On Friday 31 May, MSB will be commemorating National Reconciliation Week (NRW) with a short ceremony and dancing on the front lawn. NRW runs from May 27 to June 3 each year. This is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. This year’s theme is: Now More Than Ever.

Friday 9 June is Mercy Day at MSB! This day will celebrate our heritage and the links we have with the Sisters of Mercy and their founder Venerable Catherine McAuley. We will begin with a College mass in the chapel at 12 noon followed by shared lunch in the dining room. Jo Langtree from St Monica’s Catholic College is coming up to do a 2-day choir workshop in Week 9 to help us prepare some spirit-filled liturgical music! After lunch, students will complete a series of activities along our Mercy Trail. Activities will include walking the labyrinth and touring our museum and St Patrick’s Church.

May God’s Mercy continue to shine upon us all!

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Mission

Waves of Mercy_2024 Reach Youth Camp

Director Learning Culture and Growth

As the term continues we are now travelling at full speed towards assessment tasks and exams. This can sometimes be a stressful time for all involved, but if students do their best there’s nothing to worry about. High grades are fantastic, but when students make mistakes it provides a definite opportunity to identify gaps and prepare for future challenges - which is why assessments can be seen as both summative and formative.

At this time of year, it’s appropriate that students should gradually increase their study time; they should also reach out to teachers when they need help and meaningfully incorporate the feedback.

On Monday next week, Year 7 & 9 students will participate in an ACARA Item Trial, which involves the students sitting tests in Language Conventions and Writing. The test results do not get recorded against the candidate’s name, but play a vital role in shaping changes to the NAPLAN process over the coming years.

Finally, there’s been a noticeable increase in students visiting the library this term, which is very encouraging. Extensive reading is probably the most important component in literacy development, and research suggests that reading for 20 to 30 minutes per day, for a sustained period of six months, will likely lead to a dramatic improvement in spelling, vocabulary and writing.

I look forward to working with students, families and staff as we enter what will be a challenging and rewarding final month of the semester.

Daniel Jenkins - Director Learning Culture & Growth

MSB Musical Concert

On May 16th students performed an evening concert at MSB's Mercy Hall for an audience of family and community members, as well as boarding students.

Year 10 students Ashton Robinson, Meshach Friday and Alvin Wilson-Simpson performed an instrumental version of Oasis' "Morning Glory" and Rock'n'Roll classic "Wipe Out"

Yindali Sharp performed two original songs of hers, along with a cover version of Olivia Rodrigo's "Stranger".

Year 9 student Tahli Mays and Year 11 student Maya Hutton performed a guitar duo version of the song "Toxicity".

Year 8 students Lacey Wyatt, Mia Ackland and Surpreet Kaur performed three instrumental pieces as a drums, bass and piano trio, called 'Wellerman', 'I need You' and 'Butter'.

Year 11 Music in Practice students performed the two original songs they have written and recorded in class so far this year.

It was a fantastic night to be had by all and we look forward to the Term 3 Naidoc Day performances of these and other Music students.

Tobias Moldenhauer - Music Teacher

MSB Musical Concert Term 2 2024

TABLELANDS DISTRICT CROSS COUNTRY

Congratulations to Kaiden Douglas, Oscar Wosomo, Lochlan Dalgety, Izion Waradoo, Danielle Thiele, Emily Ginn & Megan Trezise for your selection in the Tablelands District Cross Country team. Meena Riber & Tara Bevan were selected as shadows. Congratulations on your sporting achievements!

PENINSULA CROSS COUNTRY

The Peninsula Cross Country trials were held on the 16th May at the Avenue of Honour, Yungaburra. MSB students Nathanial Ghee, Oscar Wosomo, Megan Trezise & Danielle Thiele competed for a place on the Peninsula team. Congratulations to Oscar Wosomo, who came 8th in his age group (15yrs) and is now a shadow for the State Championships.

NRL FRIENDLY GAME

On Friday the 10th of May MSB 13-15yrs students played a friendly NRL game at Wondecla oval against players from Gordonvale. Despite the weather our students had a great time playing with lots of spirit. MSB student, Tyler Everett received an award for displaying great sportsmanship during the game. Keep posted for upcoming dates for another friendly game this time in Gordonvale.

Kendra Robinson - MSB Day School Sports

BASKETBALL CARNIVAL

Our amazing basketball girls, Megan Inkerman, Zahlaila Mudd and Nancy Anson made the trek to Port Douglas on Saturday morning, where they met up with the rest of the team, including past student Sinevah Mari, to play the local Port Douglas team in two very competitive games. Atherton Tigers were victorious 17/29 and 16/34 respectively. Our students showed a robust competitive spirit, and also gracious in thanking the other team for a great game.Well done to all involved for your support and sportsmanship.

Jo Bull - MSB Residential School Sports

TABLELANDS DISTRICT TOUCH FOOTBALL

Congratulations to Jake Daley, Jaxon Finch, Taylor Daley & Emma Goff-Jensen for selection in the Tablelands District 10 - 12 years Touch Football teams. Representing the Tablelands District at the Peninsula Championships in Cairns we congratulate you on your sporting achievements!

A big shout out to Jake daley for his selection in the Peninsula Team. Jake will play in the State Championships from the 6 - 9 June in Rockhampton. Well done Jake!

VOLLEYBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Congratulations to College Captain, Limferd Lui for his efforts at the recent Volleyball State Championships. Thanks also to Harry Lui, our Torres Strait Consultative Committee member who attended this event, we thank you for the photos. Limferd, your dedication, teamwork, and skills have truly paid off. Your hard work and perseverance have made our College proud. Enjoy this moment of triumph, you've earned it!

GIRLS RUGBY LEAGUE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Congratulations to Nayita Joseph, Megan Trezise and Melinda Burns and all the incredible female players for their recent efforts at the Girls 13 - 18 years Rugby League Championships in Townsville. Your dedication, skill, and passion for the game are truly admirable. Your hard work and commitment have undoubtedly contributed to the success of your teams and the growth of the sport. Keep inspiring others with your athleticism and sportsmanship!

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement

District Cross Country 2024

NRL Friendly Game Term 2 2024

Basketball Carnival Port Douglas Term 2 2024

**Limferd in action at State Volleyball Championships**

Girls 13 - 18 yrs Rugby League State Championships Term 2 2024

**Megan Trezise and Melinda Burns at Girls Rugby League State Championships in Townsville**

**Nayita Joseph with her father at Girls Rugby League State Championships in Townsville**

Communications & Community Engagement

The Great Wheelbarrow Race

Thank you from us to you!. Sponsors contribute to making the Great Wheelbarrow race the best weekend alongside amazing people behind the scenes who do it all for love of the race and community.

The charities benefit from everyone's efforts as do the communities along the Wheelbarrow Way.

Thanks for letting us race with you and we can’t wait to do it again in 2025

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement

College Fees

Term 2 fee statements were sent separately to each account holder.

We would appreciate your prompt payment as the due date was 15 May 2024 - unless alternative arrangements are in place.

These arrangements might include:

1. Regular direct debit facility or BPay payments. Please contact the school if you wish to set up a direct debit facility or require assistance in calculating a regular payment amount.

2. Consideration of genuine family financial hardship. Please see our relief options available such as Health Care Card/Pension Card Concession and financial assistance forms.

3. If there is a reason why your account cannot be paid within that time, we invite you to contact us to discuss your situation and make a formal arrangement. Your circumstances will be treated in the strictest confidence.

The payment of school fees and levies is an important component of the income of this College and contributes to the high-quality education enjoyed by your children. Together we need to place a high priority on giving our students - your children - the best possible start in life. Paying fees in full on time is an important way in which you can contribute to this outcome.

If you have already made payment, thank you.

Any accounts questions please contact Sharon Negri - Finance Team Leader either by email - Sharon Negri snegri@cns.catholic.edu.au or telephone 07 4096 1586.

Sharon Negri - Finance Team Leader

SORRY DAY PRAYER

Lord, open up our hearts so that we may hear the message you teach of a world in which the wrongs of the past are recognised - a world in which a reconciled people walk and talk together sharing stories; a world in which all burn with the desire to have your peace and justice reign. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

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

Parents & Friends Assoc

The P&F Association met on 21 May with our parents providing valuable advice and comments. A Financial Report with details of available funding for consideration was reviewed and the following proposals were discussed:

A proposal for costs associated with our annual Naidoc Day celebrations was considered and approved.
A proposal for the purchase of a new zero turn mower was discussed but not approved.

The members also discussed some ideas for future funding proposals. We welcome new ideas for proposals to utilise the funds for activities and resources that benefit our students.

The College Board Meeting followed after this meeting with a report presented by Principal, Narelle Hunt. The College has an ongoing procedure to review and update its policies. Board Members were presented with four college policies and asked to provide feedback before the policies are approved. These policies are: Boarding Dining Hall and Day Staff Meals, Grievances and Complaints, Lost Property and Student Behaviour in Extra Curricular Activities.

Parents and carers are invited to consider becoming a member of the P & F Association or College Board. Any queries can be directed to Hillary O’Brien at hobrien1@cns.catholic.edu.au

Hillary O'Brien - Office Manager

Transition Support

ABSTUDY high school eKit

The start of high school is an important time in the ABSTUDY journey. It’s where most students first can get ABSTUDY and also when many need to move away from home to study. This information can help with this transition.

Attached are the following factsheets for parents and guardians:

ABSTUDY payments when students live at home factsheet
How ABSTUDY helps students to succeed factsheet
Going to an open day with ABSTUDY factsheet
Preparing to travel with ABSTUDY factsheet
Moving away for high school with ABSTUDY factsheet
How to get ABSTUDY factsheet
Other times ABSTUDY pays for travel factsheet
ABSTUDY travel to school and back factsheet
How to avoid an ABSTUDY debt factsheet
Who can get ABSTUDY factsheet

Andrea Gower - Transition Support Officer

Moving away for high school with ABSTUDY

Going to an open day with ABSTUDY

How to get ABSTUDY

How ABSTUDY helps students to succeed

ABSTUDY payments when high school students live at home

ABSTUDY travel to school and back

Who can get ABSTUDY

Preparing to travel with ABSTUDY

How to avoid an ABSTUDY debt

Other times ABSTUDY pays for travel

Library

The term is racing away from us and the Library has been a safe and warm place to escape the rain! Lunchtimes are filling up with our student voted activities and the students are enjoying our new noticeboard letting them know what’s on each week.

Day students are being reminded that it is their responsibility to charge their laptops at home and/or to bring their charger with them to school for top up charging. The library has some chargers for loan, however this should be for sporadic use when needed.

Our Readers Cup teams continue to devour the assigned books for the upcoming competitions. The year 7 & 8 team are preparing for the competition on Wednesday June 5^th at Smithfield State High School. With only two weeks to go, they are getting very excited at the prospect of winning not only the glory of the title, but the prize of a trip to Brisbane to compete in the State finals! Fingers and toes crossed for the hardworking readers!

Meanwhile, the year 9 & 10 team have until next term to prepare for their competition, however they are enjoying attending our reading parties and beginning to discuss their chosen books.

Lego Club has continued to be a huge hit with our students as they happily create vase and flowers, various cars and Brick Heads. As we continue, some students will be lucky enough to undertake some larger builds from the Friends and the City collections. All students are welcome to come and create, every Wednesday second Lunch!

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Lego Club Term 2 Week 6

This term the data gathering process for the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD) has commenced. This process is essential for ensuring that all students receive the support they need to thrive academically and socially.

As part of this process, it is possible that your child may be included on the NCCD register for the 2023/2024 year. If this is the case, please rest assured that you will be notified promptly. Along with the notification, you will receive further information detailing what this involvement entails and how it will impact your child's educational journey. Our school is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, and participation in the NCCD is one of the ways we uphold this commitment. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to ensure the best outcomes for every child in our community.

Rachel Brown - Diversity Middle Leader

Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

As we dive into the second half of the term, it's a great time to remember a valuable lesson from a famous fish: Dory from Finding Nemo. You might recall her catchy motto, "Just keep swimming!" This simple phrase is all about persistence and resilience, which are key to staying motivated and overcoming challenges. Just like Dory faced numerous obstacles in her underwater adventures, we too face our own set of challenges in school. Whether it's a tricky math problem, a long essay, or balancing schoolwork with activities, the secret is to keep moving forward.

Persistence means not giving up, even when things get tough. Imagine Dory swimming through a dark trench filled with scary creatures. She doesn't stop or turn back; instead, she keeps swimming. Similarly, when you encounter difficult tasks or feel overwhelmed by your workload, remember Dory's advice. Dory faced many setbacks but never lost her positive attitude. She believed in herself and her friends, which helped her push through tough times. Break down your tasks into smaller steps and tackle them one at a time. Celebrate your small victories along the way. Each step you take brings you closer to your goal, just like each stroke of Dory's fins gets her closer to finding Nemo. Just keep swimming, and you'll find your way!

Emma Sheppard - Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 7/8

For Year 7 and 8 students, the upcoming assessments are an important opportunity to showcase your understanding and progress in your subjects. To prepare effectively, make sure you're working hard and dedicating time to study. Here are some key strategies to help you succeed:

**Review Workbooks**: Read over your workbooks at home to reinforce your learning.

**Regular Practice**: Set aside daily study time to cover all subjects systematically.

**Identify Weak Areas**: Focus on challenging topics and seek help early.

**Ask Teachers**: Don't hesitate to ask your teachers for assistance with difficult concepts.

**Use Extra Resources**: Utilise textbooks, online resources, and educational videos.

By following these strategies, you'll be well-prepared for your assessments. Good luck!

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

Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 11/12

The past few weeks have been exciting and busy. Since my last communication, the seniors have been actively fundraising for their end-of-year formal. We are collaboratively running a Friday tuckshop, offering meal deals that include sausages, croissants, sweets, and hot or cold Milo. We will provide lunch on the following Fridays: May 24th, May 31st, June 7th, and June 14th. Additionally, Billy and Eleanor baked a large batch of cupcakes which were on sale at the school concert night last Thursday.

The College formal will take place at the Pullman Reef Hotel Casino, Cairns on Saturday, November 9th. Students are allowed to invite up to 10 guests plus their partner. Students have been asked to provide their guests' names and details, including birthdates for those flying in for the event. They are encouraged to finalise and submit their guest lists to the Formal Committee as soon as possible. Families and guests are also encouraged to pay for their tickets promptly. Julie Titlow at Student Reception will handle ticket payments and distribution. Ticket payments are due in Term 3.

For those interested in organising a hummer limousine arrival for their child at the formal, please contact Julie Titlow before the end of this term.

Amidst the fundraising activities, Year 12 students are diligently working on their subject assessments. Congratulations to those students who are not only dedicated to their studies but also volunteer their time for fundraising efforts. Year 12 students will be sitting their common internal assessments for Essential English and Essential Maths Exams in the next few weeks. Please encourage your child to invest the necessary time in their studies.

Thank you for your support.

Best regards,

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

Years 7 & 8 CPAR

We are half way through the term which means we are starting to get into the business end of Term 2.

Over the next few weeks students will be learning about the requirements for their assessment task which will go towards their final grade at the end of the semester.

It is essential that all students are in class, on time, making the right decisions to maximise their learning. It would be beneficial to have a conversation with your child regarding the importance actively participating in the class activities teachers have designed to develop their knowledge in essential topics required for assessment tasks.

I want to give a huge shout out to those students who are continually in the classroom, making the right decisions and putting their education first. We see you and how hard you work and are very proud that you are apart of the MSB community.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions and/or concerns regarding your child via email at kwaugh@cns.catholic.edu.au or through our school number 4096 1444.

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

Year 7 Dragon Art Term 2

I hope everyone has enjoyed this new subject and I look forward to finding tertiary connections for all of our engineering students. They have tinkered with Tinker CAD, built Lucid charts and across the year levels, and have come up with ideas yet to be considered by a lot of the adult engineers.

Please enjoy these images from Year 7 and 8, and Year 10 Design and Technology, Engineering Principles & Systems. I hope you ask your children what they were doing in the photo, especially about Dr Emoto’s experiments with water and rice.

The only thing constant is change, and these junior engineers might just have the solution.

Julia Cazita-Mazeaud - Engineering Teacher

Year 7 Engineering Term 2

Year 8 Engineering Term 2

Year 10 Engineering Term 2

In an engaging session, Year 10 students welcomed local law enforcement officers, Senior Constable Gavin Brown, Senior Constable Donna Bosence, and Sergeant Simon Armstrong into their Science class. Senior Constable Gavin adeptly demonstrated the intricacies of police speed radar equipment through hands-on activities. Using radar guns, students eagerly participated in measuring their own instantaneous speed as they dashed across a designated distance. This interactive experience provided invaluable insight into the practical application of scientific principles in law enforcement. The College extends its heartfelt appreciation to our local Police for enriching the students' learning journey with such a memorable experience.

Stephen Godfrey - Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing

Year 10 Science Term 2

Years 11 & 12 CPAR

A very busy time for our Senior students across all subject areas.

They are creating some fantastic assessment work! Keep up the hard work Seniors – not long now until the winter break.

Saffron Belkessa-Wood - Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment and Reporting 11/12 (C.P.A.R)

**Physics preparing for their next experiment**

**Makayla works on her Croydon Rodeo brochure**

**Griffin creates his Senior shirt design that is also used in his ICT project**

Senior Biology

Over the past semester, senior biology students have been studying ecology. Due to the weather constraints, we spent all our lessons inside the lab meaning we had to come up with some creative ways to practice our field skills. Students used pipe cleaners quadrants and tape to survey their mini ecosystems. We looked at the ‘tidal pools’, the forest floor and a river ecosystem.

Today we were finally able to put those skills into practice as students started collecting data for their student experiment in the bush area above the school.

They are collecting data for a number of interesting experiments including;

how the mountain bike track has impacted the plants found at our school
how bushfires and back burning impacts the plants found at our school
which type of surveying techniques is most effective

This class is full of hard working, self-motivated students who are always striving to be the best that they can be!

Kieran Waugh - Senior Biology Teacher

Senior Biology Term 2

Senior Music 2024 Studio recording project

The College has purchased Music Studio recording equipment at the start of the year to record students’ musical works.

Music students from Year 11 have risen to the high expectation that we only record original music, no cover songs, and have produced two exciting alternative pop pieces which they started recording in Term 2!

Through this multi-term project, students gain essential skillsets required of contemporary musicians, which are learning how to set up and operate studio recording gear as well as mixing the music on a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

The students performed the songs over a week-long period in class while live-tracking the instruments into the recording software. Vocals will be overdubbed in the lessons following the Thursday May 16^th evening concert, along with their peers from other years at the school’s Mercy Hall, which the Year 11 class led.

Tonias Moldenhauer - Music Teacher

Senior Music Term 2

**Essential Maths students preparing for their common internal assessment exams**

Community News

Romeo and Juliet is one of Shakespeare’s most iconic works – the story of star crossed lovers and family feuds remains vibrant and relevant today with its action and romance. This exciting new production directed by Sarah Riber and Geo Toner combines youth and adult actors, to create an authentic and dynamic atmosphere. With spectacular sets created by Rob Mian & Antonia Chew (Into the Woods, The Sound of Music), this show is not to be missed.

Recommended for ages 12+ due to mature content including violence, sexual references and suicide.

Double casting information:

Romeo: Meenakshi Riber - 14, 21, 22 June ; Kye Ghelfi – 15, 16, 19, 23 June

Juliet: Clementine Barker – 14, 16, 22 June ; Chelsea Webb – 15, 19, 21, 23 June

Naidoc Day Travel Bookings

NAIDOC DAY TRAVEL - ABSTUDY BOOKINGS DUE BY 31 MAY 2024

Families come from near and far to celebrate with us and experience our MSB NAIDOC Day.  We welcome anyone who would like to travel to do so.  

If you require Abstudy travel for this, please email hobrien1@cns.catholic.edu.au or phone 4096 1485. Please provide your students name, the names, date of birth, CRN number and phone contact numbers for each person you would like to travel. 

Please note Abstudy allow up to 3 people per student to travel for NAIDOC Day. 

We are hoping Abstudy will approve travel bookings to arrive either Wednesday 24 July or Thursday 25 July and to depart for home on Monday 29 July.  If approved, you will stay in Abstudy accommodation, then on Friday afternoon after NAIDOC Day you will be transported to Cairns where you can also take your student (with a leave form completed before departure) and have a weekend in Cairns.  Students will then be picked up at 3pm from Cairns Central - McLeod St, Cairns on Sunday and families will be flown back home on Monday.

All travel requests are due by 31 May 2024 to avoid disappointment.

NAIDOC DAY BUS BOOKINGS FROM CAIRNS

We will run a bus from Cairns Central for families to attend. Please email hobrien1@cns.catholic.edu.au or phone 4096 1485. Please provide your students name and the names of family requiring a bus seat.

All bus travel requests are due by 14 June to avoid disappointment.

MSB Calendar

Term 2

Fri 24 May - Gateway to Industries - Coffee & Indigenous Chef Program

Sat 25 - Sun 26 May - Exeat (Free) Weekend

Wed 5 June - Years 7 & 8 Readers Cup Competition Smithfield

Mon 10 June - Year 11 RYDA Road Safety Education Program

Wed 12 - Fri 14 June - Year 8 Camp Echo Creek

Tues 18 June - Atherton Performing Arts Performance of Romeo & Juliet

Wed 19 June - Mercy Day - Mass and activities

Thurs 20 June - MSB Athletics Carnival

- Term 2 ends @ 3pm

Fri 21 June - Boarders Travel Day

- MSB Office closed for winter school holidays

MSB Messenger Friday 24th May 2024