MSPC Newsletter - Term 4, Week 4, 7th November 2024
Principal
We are just at the end of our fourth week of term and it is moving by very quickly! Our Year 12’s finished their exams yesterday and we are so proud of them for not only the last six years of hard work here at MSPC, but also the way they have focussed on their exams and given their best. Well done! We get to celebrate with them next Friday 15th November and it will be my first Year 12 Formal here at Mt St Pats so I’m nearly as excited as the Year 12’s!
We have a lot going on at the College at the moment, especially in the lead up to the assessment period. There seems to be a real focus from the students on the upcoming exams, which is really pleasing to see.
Unfortunately I missed the last opportunity in the newsletter to fill you in on a new immersion program we are hoping to offer our Yr 11 students for 2025. I was away visiting a place called Maningrida, which is a remote Indigenous community 500km east of Darwin. We are hoping to run an immersion program for approximately 10-12 students next year at the same time as our long standing and very successful Solomon Islands Immersion. We will have more information out to our Yr 11 families soon, but a big thankyou to Corrie Tapsall, Tayah Logan and Mitch Rice who visited the community and made the necessary preparations.
Finally, I would like to thank everyone involved in Fr Anthony’s Mass of thanksgiving which was held last Sunday in Sacred Heart Parish. We have been very blessed to have Fr Anthony as our Parish Priest and very happy to have him retire in our parish.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Gavin Dykes
Principal
Assistant Principal - Mission
PARISH CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL AND TABLEAU
The Parish Christmas Carnival and Tableau is quickly approaching. It will be held on Saturday 30th November in the College grounds. This is a fabulous community event in which the Parish and three school communities come together. Please support this once a year event. There is plenty on offer for all ages and culminates with the Christmas story performed by the students from our Parish schools.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM OUR PARISH OFFICE
From Friday 8 November there will be NO ACCESS for pedestrians, staff, students or parents, through the Parish Office carpark to the back of the Hall/Learning Hub. This area will be a building site with site office and materials storage.
The entry to the Parish Office will be only via the front gate on Queensland Road. The building site will be fenced off from the back of the learning hub down to the presbytery driveway gates. This is a NO GO area and this will remain in place until at least March 2025.
HSC EXAMS COMPLETE
Congratulations to our Year 12 students who have now completed their HSC examinations. Focus now turns to the Formal which is to be held next Friday 15th November in the Gilbey Centre. Students will start arriving at 5pm for a 6pm start. We look forward to celebrating their Mt St Pat’s journey with them and their parents.
Louise Shields
Acting Assistant Principal: Mission/Wellbeing
MINISTRY
Thank you!
Thank you to all the students, staff, parents, ex-students, friends and parishioners who came to celebrate Fr Anthony’s Thanksgiving Mass on Sunday 3rd November.
A special thank you also to Assisi House and Lucan House for the amazing food and cake. Our helpers and readers; Lucy McTaggart, Claudia Larkin, Estella Wong, Jaxon McAuliffe and Hunter Leslight, as well as our band and choir also deserved a big thank you.
We give thanks for Fr Anthony and his generosity in sharing his time with the students and staff of Mount St Patrick College. Whether he has been with us in class, celebrating Mass, or attending school events, his presence enriches our community, and we are grateful for the care and support he offers to all of us.
Christmas Carnival and Nativity Tableau
It's almost that time of year again. Save the date! Saturday 30th November here at the college grounds and in the Gilbey Multipurpose Centre.
Grace Molloy
Leader of Evangelisation
Assistant Principal- Learning & Teaching
Mt St Patrick College is committed to providing an inclusive and dynamic educational environment that caters to students of various abilities. One of the key strengths of the College is its ability to offer tailored programs that support and extend students in areas where they show particular talent or interest. For example, the College has a successful acceleration program in Maths and Science, where students can challenge themselves by attempting HSC subjects a year ahead of their peers. Recently, 19 students sat for the HSC in Chemistry, 15 in Mathematics, and 15 in Investigating Science as part of this program, demonstrating the strong academic abilities of these students. A notable example is Alex Wellm, who sat for Extension 1 Mathematics as a Year 10 student after receiving a Band 6 in Mathematics in Year 9.
In addition to academic acceleration, Mt St Patrick College offers diverse pathways for students to pursue their interests and career aspirations. The NANO program, which supports 27% of the College's HSC students, offers a non-ATAR pathway for students who wish to achieve a VET qualification alongside their HSC. Through this program, students can enrol in VET subjects like Fitness, Entertainment, Hospitality, Furnishings, and Business Services, or even participate in School-Based Apprenticeships. The College is always looking to expand the range of VET subjects available to students to better meet their needs and interests.
At Mt St Patrick College, the focus is not only on academic achievement but also on fostering a sense of success and relevance in learning. Recently, the Leader of Pedagogy, Ms Kendrick, conducted a survey among students to understand what makes them feel successful in their learning. The results of this survey will be shared with teachers to help refine teaching strategies and improve the overall educational experience. This ongoing evaluation process ensures that the College continues to adapt its approach to best support the success and growth of all students.
Ultimately, Mt St Patrick College takes pride in the achievements of all its students, working to provide an education that equips them for future success, whether that be in further academic study, vocational pathways, or the workforce.
Narelle Sherrah
Assitant Principal: Learning and Teaching
Curriculum
It is Week 4 and the last week of HSC Examinations. Congratulations to our Year 12 and Year 11 Accelerated students on completing their exams with dedication and resilience! We are immensely proud of their hard work and commitment, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements in the weeks to come with the release of their HSC results.
Week 4 has seen the rest of the College very focused on their studies. Students have been notified of their upcoming assessment blocks as follows:
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.
Year 7 - 9 Assessment Variation Application Form 2024
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.
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.
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 5, and 6 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.
- Years 7 - 9: If a student is absent in Years 7-9, the parent/carer must inform the College Office by 9am of the student’s absence due to illness. Failure to do this will result in a zero grade for an in class assessment completed on the day, or a penalty deduction for a hand in assessment.
- Year 9 Accelerated, Years 10 and 11: must have a medical practitioner or pharmacist complete the MSPC Assessment Variation Form: Illness. Students can access this from the Year 10 page of the Assessment Portal. NB/ Please note that a family event or holiday would not be considered a valid reason for an extension or exemption.
- Year 12 must have a medical practitioner complete the MSPC Assessment Variation Form: Illness. Students can access this from the Year 12 page of the Assessment Portal.
- Years 7 - 10 Catch Up Assessments / Examinations: 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 - Years 7 to 10:
- 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 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.
- All students entered in an HSC course must read the NESA HSC Rules and Procedures Guide.
I wish students all the best with their Term 4 assessment preparation.
Jo McDonald
Leader of Curriculum
Welfare
At Mount Saint Patrick College, our commitment to fostering a positive school culture rests on our three pillars: being safe, respectful, and engaged. Each of these qualities contributes to an environment where students can thrive both academically, socially and emotionally.
Being Safe:
Safety is at the core of everything we do, from the physical surroundings of our college to the emotional wellbeing of each student. We encourage students to look out for each other, practice responsible behaviour, and seek support whenever they feel uncertain or uncomfortable. Our Pastoral Care team is always available to provide guidance and ensure that everyone feels secure in their learning environment.
Being Respectful:
Respect forms the backbone of our interactions, whether in the classroom, on the sports field, or in our online engagements. Respecting each other, the staff, our facilities, and the broader school community not only creates harmony but also builds the mutual trust and appreciation that define us as a community. I encourage all students to speak kindly, listen attentively, and approach situations with empathy and understanding.
Being Engaged:
Engagement is about showing up, not just physically but also with a commitment to active participation and curiosity. By staying engaged students gain the most from their education and in turn, contribute positively to the learning atmosphere. This engagement extends beyond academics and includes involvement in cocurricular activities, community service, and school events, each of which enriches their experience at Mount Saint Patrick College.
In line with these expectations, I’d also like to remind our students of the importance of wearing the Mount Saint Patrick uniform with pride. Our uniform is more than attire, it symbolises our collective identity and commitment to representing our college and its values, both on and off campus. Properly wearing the uniform showcases respect for oneself and our community, reinforcing the sense of unity that we aim to instill.
Together, let’s continue to make Mount Saint Patrick College a safe, respectful, and engaging environment where everyone can achieve their best. Thank you for your support and commitment to these ideals.
Blake Reynolds
Acting Leader of Pastoral Care
Faculty News
HSIE NEWS
We're excited to share the impressive achievement of Year 11 student Makaylah de Jonge, who recently participated in the NSW Constitutional Convention in Sydney on Tuesday 5th November. Makaylah was selected by her peers to attend the National Constitutional Convention in 2025.
The Convention focused on exploring the limits on freedom of political expression, including limits on protesting, caps of government expenditure during elections and the effects and management of misinformation and disinformation in today’s landscape. Makaylah 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 the 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 Makaylah 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 Makaylah!
Zoe Boxshall
HSIE Teacher
UPDATE FROM THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT
MUSICAL UPDATE
Congratulations to all students who auditioned during Week 3 for lead roles in our production of ‘Grease’. All teachers involved were extremely impressed by your talent, enthusiasm and bravery. With so much talent on display you have not made it easy on the teachers who have to decide. A call back list will be released during Week 4, with the final cast to be announced during Week 5. Thank you to the many students who have completed the expression of interest form to be involved in the show. You will be contacted via email at a later date.
PROP DONATIONS/LOANS
As part of our Props Department we are looking for donations of any 1950’s looking items for our musical ‘Grease’ (There is an option to have these items returned to you at the end of the production if this is preferred). Items needed include:
- Comic Books
- A sofa
- Stuffed Animals
- 1950's dial telephone
- Hot Rod Magazine
- Hair-do Magazine (or just an older beauty magazine)
- Automobile Antenna
- View Master With Slide
- Record Turntable (doesn't need to work)
- Records
- 4 Hub Caps
- A tire iron
- Canvas Butterfly Chair
- Purses
Any 1950’s style clothing would also be very much appreciated by the Costuming Team.
For any further information or to organise collection of donations please contact isobel.gresham@lism.catholic.edu.au
Kaitlyn Rennes-Nadal
Leader of Learing: Creative Arts
FROM THE SPORTS DESK
BERG SHIELD CRICKET
The T20 style Gala Day event was held at the Barrie Smith Oval on Thursday 24th October. MSPC took on St Joseph’s College in Round 1 and comprehensively defeated them. A strong opening partnership between Lachlan Thomas (51) and Harry O’Brien (48) laid the platform for a large score. After 20 overs we had accumulated 174 runs. Tight bowling kept the bats from St Joseph’s very quiet and they could not form a much needed partnership. Wyatt Greenhil (2/10) and Lincoln Weaver (0/6) kept the pressure on with some very good bowling which St Joseph’s team could not overcome.
Game 2 was going to be tough, not only was it 32 degrees but we took on the 2023/24 Berg Shield Champions Woodlawn. We needed to win the toss and bat as the team had already been in the field for 2 hrs and had only had a 20 min break. Captain, Harry O’Brien, won the toss and elected to bat and along with Lachlan Adams he made his way out to the crease to begin the match. Tight bowling kept runs to a minimum and just when Harry seemed to be getting on top of the attack, one slipped through his defences and that was the end of his batting. Lachlan Adams took charge and was crafting a good innings and turning the strike over as wickets fell all around him. 9/114 was our final score.
The powerful batting lineup from Lismore took control after our openers finished their spell and the boundaries seemed way too short and they made the difficult look rather easy by reaching our total in the 10th over.
LtoR: Harry O’Brien, Lachlan Adams, Mikkel Gronholt, Lincoln Weaver, Jarrah O’Brien (front) Hamish Carr, Lachlan Thomas, Jared Hall, Lucas Bliss, Rishab Lashland (scorer), Alec Portus, Isaac Conder, Wyatt Greenhill, Kade O’Shea
DIOCESAN VOLLEYBALL
OPEN GIRLS
The Open Girls Volleyball team had an exciting day filled with team spirit, enthusiasm, and a lot of fun! Although the girls didn’t come away with a win, their improvement in each match was commendable. From the very first game, they created a positive team atmosphere that allowed every player to thrive and show off their individual strengths and skills.
As the day concluded, we were all very proud of their hard work and camaraderie. We look forward to coming back next year and hopefully getting a few wins under our belt.
Well done to Tara, Steph and Hunter on their leadership skills and outstanding performances throughout the day.
OPEN BOYS
JUNIOR GIRLS
Our Junior Girls Volleyball team had a fantastic carnival, showing off their skills and team spirit in four hard-fought games! They celebrated one well-earned victory and gave their best in every match, displaying exceptional teamwork, perseverance, and positivity. Despite the challenges, the girls kept smiles on their faces and supported each other, both on and off the court.
Each game brought the team closer together and gave them valuable experience to carry forward.
JUNIOR BOYS
The Junior Boys Volleyball team came together for a fantastic showing at the annual Diocesean Volleyball Competition. The seven young men involved showed great sportsmanship and spirit to be the eventual runners up on the day.
The teams first match was against Regional College, Port Macquarie, which they won 24-20. It was a great match for the boys to blow out the cobwebs for the rest of the day. Next up was MacKillop College, Port Macquarie, who set the standard for the remainder of the event. MacKillop were too strong in the end winnning a close encounter 29-26.
An extremely tight contest followed against St Mary’s, Casino, with the boys from MSPC going down by one point (28-27). They rebounded in the next encounter to beat a tough Woodlawn College outfit 43-23. From here the team really started to gel together and showed the true Patty’s spirit.
The final pool matches were against St John’s College, Coffs Harbour, and St Joseph’s College, Banora Point. The young men from MSPC won both matches comfortably with 33-24 and 42-24 results respectively.
These strong finishes meant that the Junior Boys team qualified for the Grand Final against MacKillop College. After a few nerves to begin the match and a closely fought encounter throughout, the boys from MSPC went down 24-19. Although it was not the result they were after, the boys should hold their heads high. They faced a very strong side in Mackillop College in the GF, came together with little practice and represented the College extremely well on the day. Congratulations to the Junior Boys Volleyball team!
LORD TAVERNERS T20 CRICKET
Open Girls
The Open Girls team played the Lyn Larsen Shield. They drew the first game against a very confident Trinity with both the teams finishing with 103 runs each.
They went on to score 88 runs against Xavier and then bowled them all out for 30. Shout out to all of the girls, but Ava McCabe finished with 22 not out and 26 not out, having not played before. Play of the day however has to go to Bree Puntigam who bowled 0/3 in the first game, then scored a hattrick to end up 4/1 in the second game.
Michelle Delaney
7 & 8 Boys
The Years 7 & 8 boys played the Phelp’s Shield. They beat Emmanuel Anglican College who had to chase 3 runs off the last ball. They then had a narrow loss to Xavier Catholic College despite putting 120 runs on the board.
Shout out to Wyatt Greenhill who hit 60 runs off not many balls on the day.
Nick Rimmel
9 & 10 Boys
Year 9/10 Cricket Team Victorious in Lismore
On Tuesday, October 29th, our Year 9/10 Cricket team travelled to Lismore for a much-anticipated tournament, and what a day it was! Our team of nine talented players faced off against Xavier Catholic College in the first game, followed by a challenging match against Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School. Both games resulted in decisive victories, showcasing not only the skills and commitment of our team but also the exceptional sportsmanship and team spirit that each player brought to the field.
From the very first ball, the boys displayed dedication and camaraderie, supporting each other through every run, wicket, and boundary. Against strong competition, they remained composed and showed immense respect for their opponents and officials alike. It was clear that the team’s preparation and unity played a significant role in their success.
Congratulations to our Year 9/10 team on an impressive day of cricket!
Lewis Hancock
3 x 3 BASKETBALL
MSPC Shines at BNSW 3x3 Event in Ballina
Ballina, October 29 – MSPC showcased exceptional talent and teamwork at the Basketball New South Wales (BNSW) 3x3 event, fielding six highly competitive teams across various divisions. The event featured an impressive level of skill and enthusiasm, with teams from across the region gathering for a day of fast-paced games.
In a standout performance, the Year 7/8 team—consisting of Sophie Gear, Annie Amoyal, Eliza Dowling, and Alani Cracknall—clinched victory in their division, displaying both tactical acumen and athleticism. Their skillful play and well-coordinated teamwork led them to a well-deserved win, capturing the crowd's attention with their impressive on-court synergy.
Not to be outdone, the Senior Boys’ team of Clancy Greenbury, Ryan Stuart, Darcy Bush, and Max Hunt also emerged victorious. Their grit and strategic gameplay earned them the Championship Title in their category, further underscoring MSPC's strength and depth in Basketball.
In an exciting showdown in the Opens Division, both MSPC teams faced off in the finals. The team of Joe Maynard, Angus Lindsey, Xander Wallace, and Noah Hunt battled valiantly, finishing as runners-up in a closely contested game. Their strong showing and sportsmanship made it an all-MSPC finale, with Clancy Greenbury and his teammates ultimately taking the win. The Ballina community was thrilled by the success, with MSPC once again solidifying its place as a powerhouse in Regional Basketball.
The event highlighted MSPC's commitment to Basketball excellence, with strong representation across all age groups and a promising outlook for future competitions. The MSPC Basketball community was thrilled by the success and ongoing pathways for our students in Regional Basketball. Thank you to BNSW for the event.
Lauren Frankham
OPEN GIRLS: Kerela Richards, Charlie Gear, Charlize Harper-Green
JUNIOR GIRLS: Alani Cracknall, Annie Amoyal, Sophie Gear, Eliza Dowling
OPEN BOYS #1: Darcy Bush, Ryan Stuart, Max Hunt, Clancy Greenbury
OPEN BOYS #2: Xander Wallace, Noah Hunt, Andus Lindsey, Joseph Maynard
JUNIOR BOYS #1: Paddy Nelson, Zac Stuart, Jarrah Wright, Hector Purcell
JUNIOR BOYS #2: Kobe Schipp, Brodie Waters, Keane Moriyon, Xander Hoade
Endurance Horse Riders Compete at the National Championships
On Saturday 19th October, Sanjay Nix (Year 10), Talyn Nix (Alumni) and Mr Corey Nix (Teacher) competed in South Australia at the Tom Quilty Gold Cup (National Championships).
With only 59% of competitors completing the challenging 160 km course, it was a great success that all 3 combinations completed. But they did not just complete:
- Sanjay Nix placed 5th Junior.
- Mr Corey Nix placed 6th Heavyweight and was on the winning NSW team.
- Talyn Nix placed 14th in Lightweight.
Sanjay Nix is about 76 km into the 160 km course
NSW won the Teams, Go NSW! Mr Corey Nix is in the centre.
2025 FORWARD PLANNING
At a recent gathering of sports coordinators across the Lismore Diocese, dates were set for most sporting events for 2025. These dates are at times dictated by the NSWCCC and ALL SCHOOLS calendar. For this reason I would like to mention a couple of events which occur at the very start of the year. Dates which involve individual athletes making their way to events if chosen.
- Lismore Individual Touch Football Trials, Toormina 4th March (Under 15 and Open Boys and Girls). Applications will open soon for talented athletes making representative teams to apply for consideration to attend these trials. Applications close Friday 21st February.
- NSWCCC Triathlon Individual 19th February and Teams event 20th February - Penrith (see below)
- AFL Northern Trials (Under 14s Boys and Girls are in Wagga Wagga) Warners Bay on 27th February. Students must apply and be invited in the link below https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfx4QYsO5uFAMgOgI0llokZbhU7TcrMy6zuSRRMi4JPKny_OQ/viewform
2025 NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON & PARA-TRIATHLON – individuals
Entries are now open for the 2025 NSW All Schools Triathlon for 26th February at Penrith.
Individual entries are through the Sports Unit DASH system (not the CSNSW Sport portal).
Entry is $60 per participant.
2025 NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON - School Teams
27th February 2025 @ Penrith – teams of 3 – 3 age groups – Junior, Intermediate & Senior.
$75 per team.
Entry by school Sports Coordinator – through log in on CSNSW.sport portal
For more information- https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/triathlon
TERM ONE SPORTS 2025
Individual nominated sports for Term One. Expression of Interest registrations will open by the end of November including: softball, baseball, tennis, volleyball – 15s & 18s, cricket – 19s.
Look out for further updates
Related Link
https://csnsw.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/2/article/198901765?src=584134009
SWIMMERS
- Next year’s Diocesan Swimming Carnival will be held in Lismore on Thursday 6th March.
Tim Whitney
Sport Co-ordinator
College News
Join the 2024/2025 MSPC Basketball Academy!
Mount Saint Patrick College is excited to launch the MSPC Basketball Academy for the 2024/2025 school year, welcoming students from Years 6-12 who are passionate about basketball and eager to develop their skills.
This Academy provides a structured, two-semester program focused on technique, fitness, and basketball IQ. Our goal is to support athletes’ growth within our community, preparing them for success in and beyond MSPC.
Academy Highlights:
- Weekly High-Quality Coaching
- Personalised Fitness Program at the school gym (2x weekly) by Red Box Gym
- Pathways for Success through local, regional, and BNSW competition support
- Leadership Development in coaching and refereeing
- Wellbeing Support from our Basketball Director
If your child is interested, please complete the EOI by November 15th by clicking the link below:
https://forms.gle/
We look forward to supporting our athletes as they pursue their sporting goals!
Lauren Frankham
Year 12 Caregiver and Child 'NEPALIES' December 2025 Immersion!
Dear parents / caregivers
Are you interested celebrating the conclusion of your child’s schooling at MSPC with a trip to Nepal? Approximate dates are December 3-18, 2025
Start planning now!
Spend over two weeks in Nepal with your child who will be:
- VOLUNTEERING in a Children’s Home and village school
- SIGHTSEEING in Kathmandu and Pokhara
- DAY TREKKING from three comfortable lodges in lower Annapurna.
All accommodation is with ensuites. The day trekking and volunteering is optional as we are transported between lodges by vehicle
Cost - $6400 per pair (adult and school leaver) plus airfares, visa and insurance.
‘Nepalies’ has been running at MSPC since 2016.
Please email Mr Jim Smith to register your interest in attending an information evening
Community News
