MSPC Newsletter - Term 4, Week 6, 16th November 2023.
Principal
Mt St Patrick College is a good school because of its strong community. This was evident last Friday night 10th November when as a community we celebrated thirteen years of education for the 2023 Year 12 cohort. The night started with the students arriving in an assortment of vehicles including trucks, motor bikes, cars, push bikes and horses. The students looked amazing and it was clear that everyone was there to have fun and celebrate each other's success.
Year 12 2023 had to endure many set backs such as floods and a pandemic. However, this group was admired for their resilience and tenacity. The adversity bonded the students together and they worked collegially to make the most of their education. We thank Year 12 and their parents for the contributions that they have made to the College over the years and wish them all the best.
On the night there were many awards presented for excellence in each field. The Kieran Thomas Award is presented to students who have received an exemplary behaviour award each year from Year 7-12. Never before have such a large group of students received a Kieran Thomas Award for exemplary behaviour. That epitomises the group.
Dr Doug Warne delivered a speech on behalf of the parents. The speech reflected on 13 years of association with the College and I have included it in this report.
Father Peter, Father Anthony, Acting Principal Narelle Sherrah , Mt St Patrick College staff , relieved parents of our graduating students and of course the wonderful class of 23 .
Good evening and congratulations ….. you all actually did it !!
Thank you Elizabeth (Warne) for your very kind words, and yes I’m sure that we all agree that the parents of this group have done an amazing job.
I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Year 12 Parents and to represent some of our thoughts and reflections, on this most happy occasion as our sons and daughters graduate from Mt St Patrick College in Murwillumbah.
Nicky and my association began in 2011 when our eldest son Lewis entered Year 7. In total we have now spent 13 years with our children here as he was followed by Anthea, Joseph and finally baby Elizabeth. So in total that would be 96 Parent Teacher Interviews, 13 Big Day Outs, 4 orientations to Year 11 and a blur of swimming carnivals, school camps and Musicals. This has given us a good insight into how the school is run, the dedication of the College teachers and staff, the incredibly rich school community spirit, and also a chance to know a number of students and their families, many of whom are graduating here tonight.
And we came to a conclusion very early that this is rather special place!
So, what makes Mt St Pats such a special place?
First and foremost is the diversity of interests that are offered. MSPC offers a myriad of activities and opportunities and the students enthusiastically embrace them. Cultural interests such as drama, the superb school choir and band and the annual Solomons Island trip; educational interests such as debating and Tournament of the Minds, fun activities like the HSC and religious enrichment through “Shine “ and Ignite and…. Oh …. so many sporting opportunities. The school community whole heartedly celebrates both effort and achievement in all of these diverse areas. There is an amazing balance between academic excellence and the pursuit of diverse cultural and social activities. The academic record of St Pat’s is truly outstanding and we as parents acknowledge and thank the school for this.
There is no obvious reason for this, other than the excellent teachers and teaching, intertwined with the academic program which has been fine-tuned over so many years. But at no point, does the push for academic excellence over-shadow the many other facets of educational experience at St Pat’s. Staff strive to find the passion and talent of every student and encourage them to enjoy and excel in that particular area. And for this we as parents say …… thank-you.
This culture allows all sorts of people and families to fit in here. To feel that they belong. It is my experience that most students at St Pat’s feel that they belong here; and that is a wonderful thing.
Mt St Patrick College then is a very special place. Nothing this special just happens by itself year after year. People make it happen …..which brings me to my first important task.
It is the Mt St Patrick executive, teachers, office and admin staff who define that culture of diversity and respect and achievement, who set the standard and lead by example, and educate our children to the highest levels.
I ask the parents present to stand and propose a toast “to all of the staff of Mt St Patrick College “
But now to the true stars of the evening …. The impossibly glamourous young adults that we see in front of us. Now I’m sure that everybody knows that the Class of 23 is a truly special group. Teachers are constantly telling us of their worth ….. phrases such as
Very high achieving …
Very calm and so organized
Caring and supportive.... or as one acting Principal told me “a very special group that will leave a huge hole in our College when they depart“
I’m not sure if you’ve noticed but teachers are not always so positive, and sometimes can be a little blunt in their assessments. I’ve heard other years described as
“bone lazy “ “Drama queens “ and as “permanently broken into warring tribes”
But not the wonderful Year of 23!!
In fact you may not know it, but the staff were so upset that they had a staff meeting, to discuss how to cope with your leaving and how to honour you …
Miss Molloy wanted to change the school motto to
“” wherever you are; always strive to be
as good as the class of 23 “
Mr Reidy felt that the current 8 house system had passed its use-by-date and proposed a new model involving the formation of 124 houses, each one named after a student from the class of 23.
It was finally decided that from now on there will be a staff uniform at St Pat’s and all teachers and staff will wear a “class of 23“ senior Jersey at all times. They will be able to choose their favourite student, and wear that jersey.
I did note that one teacher got a little excited and decided to wear it tonight …….. Ms McShane …please stand up
Is there anybody else ???? Mrs Fitz – yes I should have guessed
And Father Peter ???
Now for the difficult part.
What pearls of wisdom do I have for these smart educated worldly young adults that we see in front of us. As luck would have it I was driving and listening to ABC radio ( no not JJJ ). A PhD student was talking about his study looking into the factors that made extremely high-achievers. He was looking at world changing people like Michael Jordan, Albert Einstein and Barrack Obama. His study had shown that none of these people had shown any great talent as children and young adults and often had not stood out at all. Michael Jordan famously didn’t make the cut for his Varsity College team. It seems that it was their belief in themselves and their sheer hardwork and determination that led them to such high achievements rather than great given talent.
Lee Trevino was a champion golfer and he said
“I’m a great believer in luck …. And I find that the harder I work; the luckier I get”
So, if you have a dream then go for it and don’t let anybody tell you that it can’t be achieved. But you won’t achieve those dreams and ambitions simply by wanting it badly enough. Modern folk-lore talks about manifesting those dreams …. But simply manifesting something won’t bring it into existence. You need to plan, practice and prepare
And then work hard, practice and keep on trying.
But if there is one thing that I’d like our graduates to take away tonight, its that you don’t have to reach the top, or do revolutionary things that change the world. Simply strive to do what you want to do, be content in that role and do it to the very best of your ability. I’ve worked in many hospitals and I’ve seen many brilliant doctors, some almost as brilliant as Dr Hendrikse who joins us tonight and nurses using their highly trained skills to cure the sick. But I always remember a cleaner at Murwillumbah Hospital as probably helping patients more than anyone. She would clean the ward well, but always have a chat with the patients, finding out how they were going, and what was important to them. And then she would do what she could to help. She would drop into feed pets, visit ageing grandparents who were missing visits or bring in children to visit or favourite foods or flowers. When the patient went home she often dropped into say hi and check on them.
I’m not sure if you have ever heard of the phrase “Be The Good“ ? but this lady made a huge difference to the people around her, and this was a huge achievement.
So to the wonderful graduating class of 23, I wish you happiness and health and, of course, success.
I’d like to leave you with the words of possibly the greatest philosopher in history …….Dr Seuss who said:
“ You’re off to great places. Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting ……So get on your way “
Thank you to Doug and Nicky for their support during the education of their four children.
The Formal was the last time that the students attended the College as a Mt St Patrick student. However, they will always be a Paddy’s kid and will always be welcome to visit and tell us of their adventures.
May God Bless you Year 12 and hold you in the palm of his hand.
Narelle Sherrah
Acting Principal
Assistant Principal - Mission
Sacred Heart Parish Christmas Carnival and Tableau
This annual event will be held in the College grounds on Saturday 25th November from 5 – 8pm. The Nativity Tableau will be staged in the Gilbey Hall at nightfall and is a great preparation for the real meaning of Christmas.
College staff and students will be running some of the stalls and entertainment on offer. You might be able to win a Christmas ham on the chocolate wheel. Tickets can be purchased in advance, and on the night, for the Monster Raffle which has 3 cash prizes: 1st prize $1,500, 2nd prize $500 and 3rd prize $250.
College students are asked to bring in small clean glass or plastic jars to school (to be filled with lollies for the bottle stall). We are also asking students to make monetary donations (which will be converted into gift vouchers) for the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal or bring in personal care items and Christmas decorations to make up hampers which will be given to the local conference for distribution.
Mary-Anne McShane
Assistant Principal: Mission
MINISTRY
NOVO
As part of our ministry events at Mount St Patrick College, we are hosting a NOVO afternoon for students. The aim of NOVO is to provide students from Years 7-11 the opportunity to build community within the school, to share fellowship with one another, and to be involved in faith-forming activities. The NOVO program will involve dinner (small cost), music, activities, adoration, and a keynote.
The theme is the ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS COMPETITION.
Specific information in regard to the night is as follows:
Date: Friday 8th December, 2023
Venue: MSPC Gilbey Centre
Time: 5pm - 8pm
Cost: $5.00
Students need to see Halle and Eliza for further details.
Vinnies Christmas Appeal
As Christmas approaches, many families struggle in our local community. This year Mount St Patrick College students and staff will be supporting the Vinnies Christmas appeal. You can donate by bringing in a monetary donation or personal care items that be put into Christmas hampers, e.g toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, body lotion, powder, bath bombs, etc. Boxes will be outside the staffroom and be presented at our end of term liturgy.
G.O.A.T Boys Retreat
A big thank you to Mr Daniel Anderson who accompanied Jesse Barrett and Alexander Dowling to the first ever G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time). The boys had a great time!
Last week, 60 eager young men from across the Diocese met in Coffs Harbour for the first ever G.O.A.T discipleship retreat. G.O.A.T is a military themed Catholic retreat experience that is designed to provide students with a transformative faith experience in order to equip them to live out their mission as young Catholic men.
Jesse Barrett and Alexander Dowling of Year 10 were brave enough to take up the challenge and they boarded the bus early on Thursday morning, excited about what the next two days had in store. After arriving and getting settled in to their ‘barracks’, the boys were given a ‘camo’ uniform and put into their ‘squads’. It was in these teams that the young men took on the Commando course at Coffs Coast Adventure Centre. They waded through mud, climbed over and under obstacles, crawled through trenches, completed many push-ups, chin-ups, burpees all whilst running between each obstacle. It was enjoyed thoroughly by all students and teachers who participated.
In the afternoon, the boys were asked to load their backpacks with bricks to symbolise the burdens that may be weighing them down. As I was privy to the fact that the participants were going to have to carry these backpacks around all afternoon and trek 2km with them in the night, conveniently, I could only think of 1 burden that was weighing me down!
When we returned from the trek and laid down our bricks at the Cross, the young men were offered a chance to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, participate in prayer groups or silently reflect on the events of the day. It was very inspiring to see over 20 young men take part in Reconciliation, some for the first time in many years. We were very grateful for the four priests who generously offered this on the night.
Throughout the experience, people shared personal stories of their experiences and showed the boys how they may respond to Jesus and commit to become a positive agent of change in the world through service. We started Friday by praying the Rosary before setting ourselves some goals for Prayer, Service, Sacraments and Friendships (peers/Saints). The experience culminated in an engaging Mass delivered by Fr Anslem before we boarded the buses and arrived back at the College, thoroughly exhausted on Friday evening.
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7
Dan Anderson
Leader of Learning: Maths
Year 12 formal
Thank you to all those people who assisted in setting up, and packing up, of our beautiful Year 12 Formal which was held last Friday 10th November. A special mention to the many staff who assisted and jumped in to help at different times, especially Lesa Swift and Angela Rawson who did so many organisational jobs.
To our wonderful setup crew: Saskia Gray, Tahlia Males, Sunny Godbee, Lillian Gibb, Savarna Wheatley, Annaliese Schmechtig and Sienna Bull.
A special thank you to my ushers who stayed very late to help out with all sorts of jobs: Josie Farrell, Sunny Godbee, Tahlia Males, Jasmine Roberts, Sarah Bowers and Filippos Mackney, who escorted people to their seats.
Thank you also to Mary-Ann Thackray, Mary-Anne McShane, Lousie Shields, Halle McClymont, Eliza Blunn and Emma Loughman who helped all day and all night and for many days prior.
A very special thank you to Mr Gene Molloy, my dad, who set-up all the beautiful fairy lights, making the Gilbey Hall look spectacular.
Congratulations Year 12, you all looked wonderful. Best wishes for the future and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.
God Bless,
Grace Molloy
Leader of Evangelization
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
Last week marked the successful completion of summative assessments for Year 8 and 9, where students demonstrated their understanding of various subjects under examination conditions. This week, Year 7 and Year 10 are actively engaged in their assessment block. Post examinations, classes will resume with a focus on completing their course and laying the groundwork for essential skills for the upcoming academic year. Students will be assessed on this work formatively. I encourage all students to maintain their engagement and focus for the remainder of the term.
Our commitment to enhancing the learning experience continues this term with Learning Walks and Talks scheduled until the end of the year. This initiative involves teachers and leaders visiting classrooms, engaging with students, and gaining valuable insights into their learning experiences. It serves as a meaningful platform for students to reflect on their educational journey.
I extend my congratulations to our recent Year 12 graduates. A special acknowledgment goes to the recipients of the Presentation Sisters’ Medal which was presented to the students at the Formal on Friday night 10th November. This medal acknowledges their outstanding academic performance and is awarded to the students placed in the top 10% of the cohort according to their assessment aggregate. Recipients were:
Jamie Cotelli, Rosie Davis, Isaac Gibson, Isobel Gresham, Anja Griffin, Sasha Hendrikse,
Maya O’Callaghan, Mia Page, William Quantrill, Cooper Shields, Tabitha Stratton and Elizabeth Warne.
Well done to these students and the remainder of Year 12 on their completion of 13 years of schooling.
Best regards
Narelle Chaffer
Acting Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
Curriculum
Week 5 saw our Year 8 and 9 students complete their Semester 2 examinations. We were impressed by their quiet focus in preparing for and completing these tasks.
Meanwhile Years 7 and 10 are completing their exams this week and Years 11 and Accelerated 10 students have been gearing up for their upcoming HSC assessments in Week 9.
Term 4 Assessment Block - Week 9:
- Year 11 (HSC) and Accelerated Year 10 assessment block is scheduled starting Week 9, 04/12/23 to 08/12/23.
Assessment Policy: A copy of the Assessment Policy can be found on the Assessment Portal. If students require a variation to assessment, they should complete the online Assessment Variation Application Form for each subject.
Students can access all information regarding their assessments via the Assessment Portal which is found on the MSPC Moodle Site. Students can access the site using their school email and log in. Please see below a summary of the Assessment Rules.
For Years 10 - 12: If students are absent on the day of the assessment, a Medical Practitioner must complete the Mount St Patrick Assessment Variation Illness Application. This can be accessed on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal. A zero will be awarded if the completed document is not provided. NOTE: A signed statutory declaration will not be accepted. * Please note that a family social event or holiday will not be considered a valid reason for an extension or exemption.
Years 11 and 12 should refer to their Senior Handbooks for the MSPC Assessment Policy relating to Stage 6. Years 11 and 12 should be conversant with the NESA HSC Rules and Procedures Guide. All students entered in an HSC course must read the HSC Rules and Procedures Guide. The weblink can be found on the year page of the Assessment Portal.
Students are encouraged to be proactive with their learning and assessment preparation. This is important for building confidence and assessment readiness. Students will be provided with study guides and revision materials by their teachers. If students are unsure of expectations, they should seek advice from their teachers. There are many helpful online resources that can also assist parents to help their child to be organised, confident and assessment ready. Implementing a balanced home study routine can play an important part in this process.
Below is the schedule for assessment tasks for Weeks 7 and 8:
A guide for students: preparing for your assessment:
In preparing for examinations it is important for you to:
- Comply with MSPC Rules and Assessment Procedures found in the Stage 4 and 5 Handbooks on the Assessment Portal. A summary of the Assessment Rules can be found on the main page of the Assessment Portal.
- Read the Assessment / Exam Notification for each of your subjects on the Assessment Portal.
- Use study planners available on the Assessment Portal to plan your revision / home study.
- Prepare for assessments and exams by reading over coursework notes, completing revision questions and revising summaries.
- Ask your teacher for assistance if there is something you do not understand.
Illness:
- If you are sick and cannot complete your assessment, fill out an Assessment Variation Assessment Form for each subject missed. This form can be found on the year page of the Assessment Portal.
- If you are absent for an assessment, a note from your parent/carer is required upon your return to school. It is your responsibility to take your parent / carer note to the subject teacher. A zero will be awarded if the completed documentation is not provided.
- It is the student’s responsibility to complete the catch up assessment / exam as scheduled at the bottom of the assessment timetable.
On the day of the assessment:
- Each assessment / exam session will begin with silent study, therefore bring study notes with you.
- Students are to place all writing materials in a clear plastic sleeve.
- Before the assessment begins, all study notes to be placed at the front of the room as directed by the teacher.
- No talking or communicating during silent study period or during assessments / examinations.
Years 10 - 12:
- If students are absent on the day of the assessment, a Medical Practitioner must complete the Mount St Patrick Assessment Variation Illness Application. This can be accessed on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal. A zero will be awarded if the completed document is not provided. NOTE: A signed statutory declaration will not be accepted.
- NB/ Please note that a family event or holiday would not be considered a valid reason for an extension or exemption.
- It is the student’s responsibility to complete the catch up assessment / exam as scheduled at the bottom of the assessment timetable.
Years 11 and 12:
- Years 11 and 12 should refer to their Senior Handbooks for the MSPC Assessment Policy relating to Stage 6. This is available on the Assessment Portal.
- Years 11 and 12 should be conversant with the NESA HSC Rules and Procedures Guide
All students entered in an HSC course must read the HSC Rules and Procedures Guide.
Wishing students all the best with their Term 4 assessment preparations.
Jo McDonald
Leader of Curriculum
Welfare
Year 7 Boys' - Practical Project Program
Practical Project Program: Crafting Fishing Lures and Lure Boxes
We are excited to share with you the latest developments in our Year 7 boys' Practical Project program. This term, our young participants are diving into the fascinating world of crafting fishing lures and lure boxes. This hands-on project is more than just a fun activity; it's an engaging and educational experience that covers a wide range of skills and subjects.
This project not only teaches practical skills but also provides a deeper understanding of the natural world, encourages creativity, and fosters teamwork among the participants. To cap off this enriching experience, we are planning a fishing trip where the boys can put their handmade lures to the test in a real-world setting. We are confident that this will be an unforgettable adventure for the following students: Fynn Wheatley, Hunter Pinkstone, Hamish Carr, Lincoln Weaver and Vance Wilcomes who are involved in the Practical Projects Program.
We look forward to seeing the incredible creations our boys will come up with and the knowledge they will gain through this unique and engaging project.
Tiziano Morosini
Louise Shields
Leader of Student Welfare
Faculty News
A NOTE FROM THE SCIENCE DESK
Mt St Patrick College is proud to announce our collaboration with ‘PowerWells’ a social enterprise and innovation laboratory.
This social enterprise provides electric light and mobile phone charging to people in remote communities, such as those in Indonesia and the Solomon Islands.
PowerWells have set an ambitious goal of delivering the product to remote Indonesian communities experiencing energy poverty.
In December this year, and in 2024, students at Mt St Patrick College will be constructing PowerWells from recycled e-waste that would otherwise go into landfill.
This is an exciting opportunity for students to get involved in recycling waste and making a difference in people’s lives.
Mrs Tilsley
Earth and Environmental Science Teacher
HSIE NEWS
We're excited to share the impressive achievement of Year 11 student Amelia Keyes, who recently participated in the NSW Constitutional Convention in Sydney on Friday 3rd November. Amelia was selected by her peers to attend the National Constitutional Convention in 2025.
The Convention focused on a crucial question: "Do we need to revise the way we go about constitutional change?" This topic gained particular significance due to the 14th October referendum this year. Amelia and her peers engaged in dynamic discussions, bringing together diverse perspectives from all corners of New South Wales.
Adding to the prestige of the Convention, the students had the privilege of receiving a lecture from esteemed Professor Anne Twomey, often referred to as the 'rock star' of constitutional law. Professor Twomey's expertise enriched the students' understanding, providing valuable insights into the intricacies of constitutional matters.
As Amelia now prepares to represent our state at the National Constitutional Convention in 2025, we look forward to the potential impact of her thoughtful contributions on a broader stage. Congratulations to Amelia!
Zoe Boxshall
Legal Studies Teacher
TAS - Marine Studies
Exciting news! Our Year 11 Marine Studies class recently completed the PADI Open Water Diver course at Cook Island. Led by the team from Tweed Sea Sports, students dove into a unique learning experience, gaining scuba skills and marine knowledge.
After classroom sessions and confined water dives, Cook Island's stunning setting provided the backdrop for open water dives. Students learned about marine life, conservation, and responsible diving practices. The hands-on experience heightened their understanding of ocean ecosystems.
Thanks to Mr Peter Commerford and his team's excellent guidance, students showcased commitment and teamwork, earning a globally recognized certification. This accomplishment highlights their dedication and enthusiasm for marine studies.
Kudos to our Year 11 Marine Studies class for this remarkable achievement!
Mr Dan Keogh
Marine Studies Teacher
FROM THE SPORTS DESK
DOWNIE TROPHY RD 2
On Monday 6th November our Open Boys Cricket team played Woodlawn in Round 2 of the Downie Trophy at Barry Smith Oval Murwillumbah. Due to the very wet conditions, the 50 over game had to be played on a synthetic pitch.
Woodlawn won the toss and batted first amassing the very competitive total of 280 (all out in 47 overs). In reply MSPC were brave but no match for the strong Woodlawn team and were dismissed for 147 in 37 overs.
There were 2 outstanding performances from MSPC players in this game.
As the slippery pitch restricted the run-ups of our pace bowlers we had to rely on our spinners. Rishabh Lashand, bowling off spin, took 6/46 off 8 overs in a brilliant display, attacking the stumps and bowling a consistent length. Other wickets were taken by Harry O’Brien (2) and 1 each to Sam Acret and Jacob Lanyon.
When we batted the team was held together (for the second game in a row) by young gun Harry O’Brien who showed the rest how to bat in conditions where the ball was skidding through by playing straight and waiting patiently for a bad ball. Harry scored 62 in an excellent innings. Others to reach double figures were Menzie Tucker (18), Rishabh Lashand (16) and Tex Mikkelsen (13).
Overall it was a creditable performance against a good team. Our young cricketers will be better for the experience and we look forward to next year’s competition with great anticipation. Thanks to Mr Whitney for his organisation of transport, rain cover and equipment and also to Mr Bill Battese for umpiring yet again.
Mr Michael Acret
Coach
BERG SHIELD CRICKET
On Wednesday 8th November Billy Smith (Captain), Harry O’Brien (Vice-Captain), Ned Serne, Sanjay Nix, Jack O’Shea, Dougall Hughes, Sophie Buckley (Wicket Keeper), Max Palmer, Menzie Tucker, Hugo Portus, Elijah Keyes and Lachlan Adams played the first 2 rounds of the Berg Shield. They were keenly supported by George Fisher (injured) and Rishabh Lashand (Scorer).
Round 1 was against St Joseph’s College, Banora Point who proved to be a much improved team. After winning the toss and electing to bat, Billy Smith and Sanjay Nix combined for a 111 run partnership to take the team from 2/16 to 3/127. Billy finished with 81 off 46 balls and Sanjay was not out on 38 off 37 balls.
Some last minute runs from Menzie Tucker and Max Palmer set the final total of 212 off 20 overs. Some very tight bowling from all the bowlers restricted St Josephs to 4/68 at the end of the innings. Completing a very strong 144 run win to MSPC.
In the second round we faced the reigning state winners Woodlawn College, Lismore. Having lost the toss Woodlawn batted first. Billy Smith 5/14 (4 overs) and Jack O’Shea 2/15 (4 overs) were well supported by the other bowlers. However a number of dropped catches at critical moments allowed Woodlawn to set 8/121 off their 20 overs.
In return Harry O’Brien, Hugo Portus and Menzie Tucker got the team to 2/54 and looking strong. Some excellent bowling from Woodlawn created a collapse of 6/21. A last minute fight back from Ned Serne was not enough and left us 17 runs short on 104.
Mr Corey Nix
Coach
DIOCESAN JUNIOR WATER POLO
U15 Boys Water Polo
The boys travelled to the magnificent Aquatic Facility in Alstonville for the 2023 U15 Water Polo competition.
Although most teams consisted of predominantly Yr 9 boys, our Yr 7 “minnows” battled valiantly and improved with each game.
Unfortunately MSPC came home without a win, losing to Woodlawn, Xavier and St Joseph’s, Banora however are to be commended on their persistence and sportsmanship.
Mr Rick van den Driest
Coach
U15 Girls Water Polo
We were blessed with a stunning day of sunshine and light winds, which the girls made the most of at the fantastic Alstonville venue on Thursday 9th November.
The team was made of some very accomplished swimmers, however our knowledge of Water Polo was something very new. Despite this, the girls put up a mean battle across three matches. Ultimately we were defeated in straight games but sportsmanship, enthusiasm and tenacity were ever-present. For me, it was yet another proud day accompanying amazing “Pattie’s kids”, because win, lose or draw, they never wiped the smiles off their faces. Such a great day out overall.
Mrs Robyn Fitzpatrick
Coach
FOOTBALL OPPORTUNITY
Two MSPC students, Elijah Keyes and Stephan Pelikan, have been selected to participate in a UK Football Tour in December through Kingscliff Football Club. They are raising funds to support their trip via a Car raffle.
Tickets can be purchased via this link or by using the QR code in attached flyer, which also outlines all the fabulous prizes available.
College News
Students can now make canteen purchases with their student card!
Setting up payments using Flexischools, so that your student can use their School ID Card to purchase at the Canteen.
We have partnered with Flexischools to allow students to use the existing student library ID card to make payments at the canteen. This service has been implemented to give students a safe and secure way to pay at school and also avoid mobile phone usage. Parents use the Flexischools app to add funds to their digital wallet and link this account to the student’s existing student card. Parents can optionally setup daily spending limits and automated top-ups for additional peace of mind. Students then scan their cards at the canteen (the [if photo option] student photo and) balance appears on the terminal, and the transaction is charged to the card. Parents can track the student’s spending via the Flexischools App. The first 50 students to use the service will receive a free Zooper Dooper when they use their ID card for the first time.
Parents can setup their Flexischools account at https://www.flexischools.com.au or by downloading the Flexischools app from the Apple or Google app stores.
We encourage parents to consider using this service to help us create a safer, more efficient school payment experience.
Thank you
Natalie Webster
Learning Technologies Coordinator