麻豆APP

Signs of Hope

As we journey through this Jubilee Year of Hope we will examine what is hope, and how hope can impact not only our lives but the lives of our community. This edition we will look within the Pope Francis鈥� bull Spes Non Confundit (Hope does not Disappoint), at the section titled Signs of Hope. How we see hope at Aquinas? Francis identifies several ways: 

1. 鈥淭he need for peace challenges us all, and demands that concrete steps be taken. May diplomacy be tireless in its commitment to seek, with courage and creativity, every opportunity to undertake negotiations aimed at a lasting peace.鈥�
   Students who are working towards peace through inclusivity, welcoming and belonging. By educating our students in Respectful Relationships, Compassion and Justice.
2. 鈥淗ope also entails having enthusiasm for life and a readiness to share it.鈥�  Seeing newborns can be a sign of hope, new life in the garden, or growth both individual and communal. Teaching our students to be Stewards in this world, to share the joy of life and living with others so that all can belong.
3. 鈥淒uring the Holy Year, we are called to be tangible signs of hope for those of our brothers and sisters who experience hardships of any kind鈥�. 鈥淭o help individuals regain confidence in themselves and in society; and programmes of reintegration in the community, including a concrete commitment to respect.鈥� Working with our community to speak for those who may not be able to speak for themselves. To advocate for justice and compassion.
4. 鈥淪igns of hope should also be shown to the sick, at home or in hospital. Their sufferings can be allayed by the closeness and affection of those who visit them. Works of mercy are also works of hope that give rise to immense gratitude. Gratitude should likewise be shown to all those healthcare workers who, often in precarious conditions, carry out their mission with constant care and concern for the sick and for those who are most vulnerable.鈥� We see people every day working to help the sick. Our own students work with palliative care to create bags of comfort for families of those who have passed. Or the staff who prepare meals for a colleague in need.
5. 鈥淚 ask with all my heart that hope be granted to the billions of the poor, who often lack the essentials of life. Before the constant tide of new forms of impoverishment, we can easily grow inured and resigned.鈥� For our students we ask they open their eyes to see those who may need help around them and around the world. To look beyond their personal needs and wants to help someone else. We work with organisations like Caritas and Vinnies to provide hope.
   

Tania Grace

Assistant Principal Mission

Middle Years Report

Conversations across the past two days have been a valuable opportunity to gain meaningful insights into each student鈥檚 general life and progress and for families and staff to know each other more directly. Thank you to all the parents who had the chance to attend the parent/teacher interviews and to staff for their preparation and time. Discussions at parent teacher meetings often include what practices and routines parents should encourage and observe at the home. To assist you, I have summarised key examples of what may have been discussed for your reference.

As students progress through senior school, the demands on their home learning increase. These are commonly divided into three distinct categories - preparation, homework and revision.

Preparation is about getting ready for learning before a lesson and is a mix of teacher-directed and self-directed tasks.

• Preparation may include:
• Pre-reading assigned articles, notes or textbook chapters
• Highlight key points or ideas
• Writing down questions to ask in class
• Watching videos about upcoming concepts (included on cycle planners on found on Edrolo)
• Reviewing class notes from last lesson to refresh memory

Preparation is a powerful study habit that assists students to familiarise them with key ideas making it easier for them to follow class content. It may make students more confident to engage in discussion allowing deeper understanding. For others it reduces stress as students feel less pressure to keep up with the class.

Homework is set by the teacher and communicated via cycle plans. Set tasks reinforce classwork, helping students acquire knowledge, consolidate what they are learning, develop independent learning skills, and enable students to apply concepts in different contexts. Additionally, homework also allows teachers to formatively assess understanding and provide feedback.

Both preparation and homework aid the input of knowledge and understanding. Revision, on the other hand, is about the output. It involves actively recalling information, summarising, synthesising key points, and testing understanding. Effective revision techniques鈥攕uch as spaced repetition, completing past papers under test conditions, and mind maps鈥攈elp strengthen long-term memory. Unlike homework, revision is self-directed and requires students to take initiative in identifying areas that need improvement and working on these. Regular revision ensures deeper understanding and better retention, ultimately leading to stronger academic performance.

By encouraging a balance of preparation, homework, and revision, parents can help their child develop essential study habits that support long-term success. For students studying VCE subjects, the holidays provide time for rest and relaxation and also opportunities to dedicate time to homework, revision and preparation towards term 2.

Rachel Crawley

Head Senior Years

Middle Years Report
 
As Term 1 comes to a close, it's been fantastic to see our Year 9 students engage in a range of exciting activities during the final week.

MacKillop students enjoyed an unforgettable experience at camp, bonding with their peers and taking part in team-building activities.

Dominic students participated in the 'Starts With Me' program, where the METEC driving course proved to be the standout event. It was great to see students learning essential road safety skills in an engaging way.

Meanwhile, the RICE students explored the heart of Melbourne with their 鈥楳y Melbourne鈥� program, delving into the city鈥檚 culture, history, and landmarks. It was an enriching way to round off a busy term. Thank you to all staff members who made the experiences meaningful and rewarding especially with it being such a long term.

As we look ahead, we encourage all students to take some time to reflect on their first term. What have been your highlights? What challenges have you faced, and how have you grown as a result? This reflection is a valuable part of the learning journey and will help set the stage for continued success in Term 2. I鈥檇 also like to remind students to think about some personal goals for the next term 鈥� whether it鈥檚 improving time management, seeking out new learning opportunities, or continuing to develop positive habits.

Sam Storey
Head Middle Years

This first term for us Year 12s has been challenging, as the expectations of us have increased significantly since past years and the stakes are now even higher. We have completed numerous SAC鈥檚 for our various subjects and with dedication and hard work we have been able to tackle them head on. At times it has been stressful and challenging but the Year 12 cohort has ultimately come together and has worked as one to achieve a high standard as we all want to succeed as a team.

There have also been many memorable and enjoyable events and celebrations throughout this period. A major highlight was our College鈥檚 inaugural Whole School Athletics Carnival. It was a day that was embraced by all, but in particular our Year 12鈥檚 who dressed up for the occasion and got behind the different events whilst encouraging their house to do well. Congratulations to all involved and especially to Mackillop for getting the win on the day. Another highlight for the Year 12鈥檚 was the arrival of our Year 12 Jackets. Which has been a moment we have been looking forward to since the beginning of our journey at Aquinas and one that finally cements our place as the Year 12鈥檚 of 2025.

It has been a great start to this year, however we all need to recognise that this is only the beginning of our Year 12 journey. There is still a long way to go but we must remember to never lose sight of our goals or aspirations. As John Bertrand, Skipper of the Australian 1983 America's Cup Victory, once said, 鈥淵ou need to have an eye on the immediate task, but also what's over the horizon and you need to have a vision and that vision needs to be exciting鈥�

Maeve Wilkinson and Lachie Buyuck

Vice-Captains

Eco Friendly Easter Celebrations 

There are lots of ways to cut down on your Easter footprint this year. Before you purchase your Easter goodies consider where your chocolate comes from.

To make the most environmental and sustainable choices, choose chocolates that are: 

1. Fairtrade
2. Palm oil-free
3. Locally source
4. Organic

Fish

Sustainable fishing is about fishing practices that maintain the population of fish and fish stocks. Look for certified fish, as certified fisheries meet international sustainability standards. The guide will help you avoid endangered fish and choose fish species with healthier population numbers.

Recycle right

Easter egg wrappings that are made from aluminium foil is 100% recyclable. Individual pieces of foil can sometimes be sorted as paper and contaminate our recycling, so be sure to scrunch your foil wrappers together into a ball roughly the size of your fist before you recycle them. You can also put foil wrappers inside an aluminium can and pop them into the recycling bin together. Just remember to squeeze the top of the can together to prevent them falling out.

By recycling correctly, you're helping to reduce waste and protect our planet.

Karyn Myers
Sustainability Coordinator

 
Year 7 and Year 10 Immunisations and Information Sharing with Maroondah Council

The Secondary School Immunisation Program offers free National Immunisation Program schedule vaccines to all eligible Year 7 and Year 10 students. The Maroondah Council Immunisation Team will deliver immunisations to consented students onsite at 麻豆APP.

Year 7 Students - Wednesday June 18

• Diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (whooping cough)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Meningococcal ACWY

Your local council will work with 麻豆APP to implement the immunisation program. The authorises secondary schools to provide their local council with student and parent/guardian contact information for any student scheduled to receive a vaccination. This information is only used to assist local councils to follow-up parents/guardians of students with incomplete or missing immunisation consent forms.

Every day vaccination saves lives and makes it possible for Victorians to live free from the illness and disability caused by many infectious diseases.

For further information please go to the following links:

• Privacy -
• The

What information is given to the local council?

The school provides the following basic student and parent/guardian contact information to the local council immunisation service:

• student name
• date of birth
  
• gender
• year level and class group
• parent / guardian contact details
• language(s) spoken at home

Why does the school provide this information?

• To improve communication with parents/guardians regarding their child鈥檚 vaccination needs.
• To ensure all eligible students are offered the opportunity to access free vaccinations at school.
• To reduce the administrative burden on school staff to follow-up consent forms.
• To eliminate manual data entry processes.

What do you need to do?

1.  Your information will be provided to the Maroondah City Council immunisation team in Term 2. If you do not wish for your details to be provided, please advise the school in writing by Monday 28th April by emailing the College Registrar: registrar@aquinas.vic.edu.au
2.  In Term 2 an immunisation consent form link will be sent to Year 7 and Year 10 families to complete, please ensure that you complete the online form following the accompanying instructions.

Should you have any questions regarding the immunisations please contact the Maroondah Council Immunisation Team via phone 1300 88 22 33 or email immunisation@maroondah.vic.gov.au

Health centre staff

Students from our Music Department departed Melbourne early on Sunday morning and headed off on an international Music tour to the U.S.A. for 12 days. The tour's first stop is New York City where they are spending 8 days. The itinerary includes the chance to rekindle our partnership with Cardinal Spellman High School, Bands and choirs have already performed at a variety of NYC sites, including the USS Intrepid, the Empire State Building as well as experiencing key cultural and performing arts events and venues. The latest photos we have just received shows an incredible performance at Cardinal Spellman High School. We can't wait to hear first hand about this incredible experience and we will share more videos and photos soon.

Aquinas Career News Edition #9 can be found . Topics this week include:

• Dates to Diarise in Term 2
• Bachelor of Pre-Medicine, Science and Health at the University of Wollongong
• Bupa Trainee Carer Program
• Bachelor of Actuarial Science/Master of Actuarial Studies at Monash University
• Guaranteed ATARs for 2026 Entry to Deakin University
• University of Sydney: International Science School
• Upcoming Career Events:
  - Simulated UCAT Day Workshop
  - Animal Studies Online Information Session
  - Swinburne Innovation in Action
  - Aviation Careers Information session
  - Defence Careers Information session
  - PrimeSCI! April School Holiday Science Workshops - Wantirna and Synchrotron
  - Digital Art Holiday Workshop
  - Music Theatre and Performance and Song writing Workshops
  - JMC Open Day
• Criminology and Paralegal Degrees in Victoria in 2025
• Snapshot of Australian Catholic University in 2025

Vanessa Ramsay

Careers Counsellor

The value of The Arts cannot be overstated. 

Yes, the squeaky recorder playing and the wobbly clay pots might seem unimportant and could be dismissed as fruitful endeavours, but it is amazing (not surprising to any Arts teacher) how many people use some form of creativity as an outlet and form of expression to have balance in their lives and/or regularly in their work.

When my own children were in primary school, their maths teacher challenged the class to find any job that did not require maths. We brainstormed each night over dinner - a ballet dancer, a zookeeper, a volunteer firefighter, an ice sculptor, a racing car driver鈥�no, they all required some kind of numeracy concept and maths knowledge; from timing, angles and ratios to budgeting, percentages and volume.

The challenge of thinking where some form of Arts is not required in our lives is equally difficult - the thing is, that Arts activities are often considered hobbies, outlets and interests, as if these are secondary and less important. Well I say 鈥淩idiculous!鈥� to that! We choose what we want to do in our leisure time, we use hobbies to fulfil our lives and enrich our experiences! How many people express themselves through dance, feel grounded through the use of clay and feel heard through music? It is magical, transformative, expressive and necessary.

Now, back to school and the pursuit of goals鈥�what career doesn鈥檛 need or isn鈥檛 benefited by having Arts skills? Well, that is not only a challenge to find but possibly more difficult to fathom and bleak to consider!

Creative thinking, expression, aesthetics, appreciation of diversity and different viewpoints, curiosity, communication, performance, adaptability and resourcefulness, dedication, patience, emotional intelligence, creative and thoughtful risk-taking, I could keep going (I guess I could add embellishing, waffling and spirit to the list). These are skills that add to any aspect of schooling and will carry into careers and life. Thinking about what brings us together, creates traditions and makes a job fulfilling, it is often linked with Arts and culture, connecting through expression.

An example of how the expressive nature of the Arts inspires, connects and brings us joy (and provides jobs!) can be seen by the crowds at concerts and performances, the diversity of architecture and materials in our skyline, our love of Netflix and blockbuster exhibitions at Art galleries. Below are comments and photos from a recent visit to exhibitions in the NGV International and Australia. Yes, these students 鈥榟ad鈥� to go on the excursions as part of their studies, but the latest news from the NGV is that over 250,000 people have visited the Yayoi Kusama exhibition鈥�everyday people who didn鈥檛 have to, they wanted to - to feel heartfelt, authentic expression and joy. Remarkable, right?! Obviously, the value of the Arts cannot be overstated.

Sandi van der Niet
Arts Learning Area Leader

VCE Art Making and Exhibiting Gallery excursion

Last week, the VCE Art Making and Exhibiting classes travelled into the city to visit 3 exhibitions: Yayoi Kusama, Top Arts and Cats and Dogs. The diversity of artforms, vision and presentation was our focus, with this being a major component of the VCE study. This helps the students with their practice as well as leading into the SAC and later, the exam.

During the excursion students considered the relationships between exhibited artworks and the vision behind an exhibition. This trip also allows a first hand look into the maintenance and the caretaking of artworks on display, an important part of the study. This excursion allowed the students to be immersed into the full sensory experience made available by Kusama鈥檚 infinity rooms, paintings, installations and sculptures.

Students also visited Top Arts, an exhibition which celebrates and acknowledges top achieving Art students of 2024. This exhibition showcased everything from video and animation, to sculpture and lino printing. This exhibition helps show what our VCE Art Making and Exhibiting students can strive for and inspires their own work.
Jasper N - Arts Assistant

Even though I at first had little knowledge on who Yayoi Kusama was, I quickly became intrigued with her work upon seeing it in person. She works with a variety of different mediums, the most fascinating works of hers being her infinity rooms. As I myself have created art over the years, my biggest inspiration has always been to make something new; something that has never been seen or done before. Kusama鈥檚 exhibition felt like a transportation to another planet. The abstract nature of her artworks, although simple, brought me a sense of joy and wonder.

Visiting Top Arts was possibly my highlight. Top Arts showcases the final artworks of Year 12 VCE Art students. The artworks there were impossibly amazing, and it was beautiful to see them displayed for the public to see. I hope for a day that perhaps my own art could be showcased in this same way.

Elisha H - Year 11 

Tuesday the 25th of March the year 12 Making and Exhibiting Class was given the opportunity to visit the NGVs Cats and Dogs and Yayoi Kusama Exhibitions. The day started off with the Cats and Dogs exhibition which consisted of a collection of different artworks embodying the different themes of Cats and dogs! The collection varied from mythology, fashion, religion and royalty with different forms of art from detailed paintings to taxidermy cats. The highlight of the exhibition would be the last room that gave us the viewers an opportunity to import pictures of our own pets and have them projected around the exhibition room. The class enjoyed seeing our pets be displayed alongside each other!

Following the Cats and Dogs exhibition was Yayoi Kusama. Kusama is a famous contemporary Japanese artist presenting a colourful exhibition featuring many polka dots and pumpkins. The exhibition was exciting, with the artworks following the life of Yayoi Kusama featuring some of her early works. Part 1 of the exhibition features a collection of paintings and works made by Kusama however part 2 features the installations and infinity rooms. The infinity rooms were an amazing experience with a hallucinogenic effect with her colourful lights and reflective walls. The exhibition was much enjoyed by the class, giving a broader perspective to the nature of contemporary art and its expressive yet fun nature!

We were also given the opportunity to view Top Arts featuring the top works of 2024. Many students were inspired and learnt a lot from Top Arts as well as the other exhibitions. Overall the Year 12 class enjoyed the excursion making it a very memorable day!

Tyra W 12 AME

A big thank you to our teachers for organising the first aid course for the year 10 VET sport and recreation. This experience was super valuable for us, as it taught us important skills that could make a difference in real-life emergencies. We appreciate the time and effort you put in to make this happen for us. Thanks for preparing us for the future!

- Millicent C  Yr 10

Attending the Savile First Aid Course was an eye-opening experience that notably enhanced my understanding of emergency response techniques, including CPR, use of slings and assessing various emergencies. I learned practical skills whether I would use them in everyday situations or critical moments requiring immediate action. One particularly fascinating aspect was discovering the proper techniques for administering CPR and how to use a Defibrillator for the first time. The presenter was exceptionally engaging and knowledgeable, making the material relatable and easy to grasp. Their passion for first aid was inspiring and encouraged an interactive learning atmosphere. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the teachers for organising this insightful course, their efforts have allowed us to attain essential life-saving skills that we can carry forward for life.

- Max P Yr11

The Sport and Rec VET class was lucky enough to be able to attend an out of school ran First Aid Course. We got to learn many different skills within the First Aid world including CPR, what to do in emergency situations, how to use a defibrillator and how to wrap a sling to the part of first aid needed. This experience was very intriguing and I felt very lucky to be able to attend.

- Cleo H  Yr10

The first aid course was very helpful as it helped increase my awareness of risk which can help prevent accidents before they happen and also to help improve personal safety and prevent any further injuries from occurring. Understanding the importance of first aid is more than just preventing injuries, it is about saving people's lives.

- Devron Yr10

Over the course of the day as part of our VET Sport and Recreation First Aid Course, we learnt how to perform CPR on babies and adults, bandage wounds from different incidents including snake bites, stabs and amputations, apply slings to different breaks and dislocations, correctly use a defibrillator, and conduct emergency evacuations as well as how to identify and respond to health issues like a stroke.

- April D  Yr10

We have been studying a Unit focusing on Coaching Foundation Level Participants in class.
On March 6th, 25th and 27th our class was fortunate enough to gain experience Coaching our neighbouring Primary School in a range of different formats.
Aquinas students got to practice their theoretical knowledge and apply their learning of key concepts involved in Coaching. This will hopefully inspire them to take up Coaching opportunities at their local clubs.
Our students were fantastic role models and represented the College so well throughout each of the 3 sessions.
Everyone had a great time and we look forward to working with the Great Ryrie Primary School again in Term 2 when we have them back to facilitate a range of sporting tournaments.

Jeff Harrington 

Teacher

In the past couple of weeks, the Year 2 VET Sport and Rec Class gave coaching sessions to the Grade 4s from Great Ryrie Primary School. This was a great way to test our coaching skills and have fun teaching the Grade 4s how to do skills from various sports such as Soccer, Footy and Lacrosse. We all had such a great time coaching and would like to give a big thanks to the teachers at Great Ryrie and Mr Harrington for organising a great time.

 Dylan H  Yr 11

Umpiring at Marvel Stadium on the field was an unforgettable experience, filled with memorable moments. Meeting Sal before the game provided a unique glimpse into the behind-the-scenes preparation that goes into organising AusKick. Stepping into the changerooms was a great moment. Standing on the ground, heart racing, leading the AusKickers out on the oval in front of a large crowd was exhilarating and surreal. After the siren sounded we all ran to the boundary line and gave out high fives to spectators, A moment that was truly special. Experiences like this remind me of the joy sports can bring and the impacts us young adults can have on younger ages. I am grateful to my teachers for organising such a fantastic opportunity. These experiences will not only enrich my understanding of teamwork and resilience but also inspire me to share this passion with others in the future.

- Max P Yr 11

Umpiring in auskick is valuable for me in the future as it helps me improve my leadership skills, and also helps me learn to communicate effectively with players, coaches, and spectators, enhancing my interpersonal skills.

- Hayley R  Yr 10

Harmony Day 2025

On Friday 21st March the whole Aquinas community participated in Harmony Day, a day for celebrating cultural diversity and belonging.

All students began preparing for the day during their THRIVE session of this week, completing various activities to support their learning around what it means to be a global citizen.

On the day, all students had the opportunity to participate in cultural performances, year level sports and social justice fundraising activities. The students鈥� enthusiasm and participation produced a wonderful atmosphere all across the school. Year 7 and 8 students were also encouraged to complete a Harmony Day Passport by collecting the relevant continent stamp at each activity they visited.

Natalie Zuccon
Intercultural Learning Coordinator

Cultural performances  

Bollywood Dancing

Music of Africa

Greek Music

College fingerprint mural

In the quad space we were immersed with live music and the opportunity to create finger paint murals, it was a creative experience allowing lots of the students to contribute to a mural that will be shared in a community spirit.
As the painter of the mural it was really exciting to see all the different year levels come along and enthusiastically print their finger print onto the tree. The finished mural looked amazing with hundreds of different finger prints representing the school's community spirit! - Tyra

Social Justice Fundraising

Our Social Justice Group also made a meaningful impact during Harmony Day, raising an impressive $941.45 through their fundraising efforts! This incredible total will go towards supporting Project Compassion. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed鈥攜our generosity is making a real difference! Special thanks to the students who helped by baking and donating delicious treats; your efforts were truly appreciated!

Environment and sustainability activities

Our student captain, Milo McCurdy ran activities at the Environment and Sustainability activity centre. This included Making Seed Balls, Clay Nature Prints, Nature Scavenger Hunt and Draw Satchels. Students had a lot of fun getting messy with mud and clay, finding items around the school yard and creating some beautiful clay prints.

Year level sports

Year 9 and Year 12 pickleball, badminton, and volleyball:

In the Gym, we held a pickleball, badminton and volleyball tournament with our Year 9 and Year 12 students. The atmosphere was electric with school spirit filling the space as the different mixed teams were bonding and the competitive sides showing through. The mixture between our year levels was beneficial for all as it provided a chance to meet and compete against others in the school. Overall, the whole day was a huge success and an amazing chance for all of us to connect as a college. It was great to see a sense of belonging at Aquinas. - Evie, Joey, Gabby Alovi, Anneka, Raph and Jade.

Year 10 and Year 7 ultimate frisbee

It was so amazing to see all the year 10s and year 7s playing against each other in Ultimate Frisbee. Seeing both year levels connect and participate in a sport like Ultimate Frisbee which is not a common sport was amazing to see. The overall enthusiasm and excitement brought from both year levels was amazing as well as the intense competition that emerged from it made running the session so enjoyable - Vice Captains: Maeve  and Lachie  

YFC Belonging Wall

Year 7 and 8 Harmony Day Passport

It was great to see everyone at each and every activity and getting their stamps so that they could win a prize for their class. When I walked into my period 5 class I saw at least half of my class with my period 5 teacher showing them how well they did and where they went to get a commendation which was awesome. Can鈥檛 wait to see what great things happen on Harmony Day next year.- Year 8 Captain Hayden  

The Harmony Day Passport was a great addition this year as it got everyone involved. It was great to see both year levels join in on the fun and the smile on their faces after receiving a stamp. Majority joined in and played Aboriginal games out on the oval. I think the passports should stay for years to come as it adds that competitive atmosphere that gets people up and going. - Year 8 Captain Georgie 

Calling all knitters and crocheters- no matter the skill.

A couple of staff members have begun a Social Justice project knitting or crocheting squares. These squares will be sewn into blankets to give to those in need. At the moment there are a few students and some staff who have joined the activity and we are opening up to the wider community to join in. Perfect timing for the upcoming holidays!

Wool Square Requirements:

• 8ply wool/yarn
• Size 5 Needles
• 21cm x 16cm (approx 40 cast on and 60 rows for knitters)
• can be plain stitch, or purl or patterned if you wish

Completed squares can be dropped off at reception or students can drop them off in the ARC.

Questions can be directed to Jackie Branson at bransonja@aquinas.vic.edu.au

Congratulations to Sam Long (Year 12), who triumphed in the grand final of the prestigious Open Section 1, the highest division of junior tennis competition in the eastern region, this past weekend. Sam鈥檚 team topped the ladder throughout the season, capping off an exceptional campaign with dominant victories in both the semi-final and grand final. His performance was a remarkable showcase of power, strategy, and precision on the court. As a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding achievement, Sam will be awarded the Memorial Shield at the Tennis Victoria Awards Dinner later this year.