E-News
In this Issue:
Principal’s Pitch
Important Notices
Events
The Arts News
Sports & Outdoor Education News
VET/Workplace Learning News
Information Technology (IT) News
Library News
Sustainability News
Community News
Principal’s Pitch
Ten Years of Capital Development at MTCC
On 29 April 2013, our first builders commenced on site at the southern end of a 23-hectare block, bordered on the Eastern boundary owned by the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth. The capital development journey of our beautiful rammed earth Mother Teresa Catholic College now spans ten years…
Stage 1: - completed for the beginning of the new school year on 4 February 2014
The new Junior School consisted of two classrooms for each year level from Kindergarten to Year 2; Covered area which doubled as the Parish Church from 2014 to 2021; a small multi-purpose room which doubled as a Parish meeting room and morning Mass centre; temporary Administration in one of the classrooms; temporary library in another classroom; under-roof storage sheds; external works – paths, verandas, garden beds and lawn; hardcourts; and carparks.
Total Cost: $8,323,613
Stage 2: - was completed ready for February 2016
Extended Junior School consisted of two classrooms each for Years 3 to 6; a multipurpose building at the Western end; Administration Building including a staffroom; conversion of Stage 1 temporary facilities into classrooms; carpark extension and external works.
Total Cost: $8, 444,393
Stage 3: - was completed ready for March 2018
Middle School in the Secondary years consisted of the South wing of the Learning Block; an Occupied Stair (lecture/assembly area) and internal bridge; soccer field; external hardcourts; carpark extension and external works and services.
Total Cost: $14,211,147
Stage 3a: - was completed in 2019
Senior School in the Secondary years consisted of the North wing of the Learning Block; external bridge to the Learning Hub & Science Building; Administration Building; temporary Grounds and Maintenance facilities and external works.
Total Cost: $18,321,408
Stage 4: - was completed for the 2021 school year
New Junior School classrooms and shared areas to cater for the third stream of Early Learning classes; Conversion of an existing general classroom to a Pre-Primary classroom; Conversion of Junior School multipurpose rooms to general classrooms; external works and services.
Total Cost: $1,356,423
Stage 5a was completed for the 2022 school year
Junior School extension to provide a third Kindergarten classroom was constructed by converting both an under-roof storage shed and a meeting-room, creating the required 100sqm of clear learning-teaching space.
(College-funded) Total Cost: $318,128
Stage 5 was completed in Term 1 2023
New Secondary School Facilities consisted of: Visual and Performing Arts Centre and Cafe (originally in Stage 4); Technologies Building; Alterations in existing Learning Block; new Maintenance facilities and compound; carpark extension; external works and services.
Total Cost: $14,382,130
Stage 6 – Scheduled for completion by December 2023
Middle and Senior Schools in our secondary years will soon have a two-court Gymnasium including Change-rooms; Climbing wall; Ergo Room, PE/Health classroom and three additional Classrooms.
Estimated Total Cost: $11,348,375
Stage 7 – Scheduled ready for the 2024 school year
Four additional external Hardcourts; Large Oval; Carpark and Driveway extension; Access road around Oval to Maintenance area.
Estimated Total Cost: $3,589,342
Future Capital Development for completion of the College Master Plan
Stage 8 – due for completion for the 2025 school year
New Junior School Multipurpose Building.
Stage 9
New Theatre Building.
FUNDING SOURCES FOR STAGES 1-7
School Contribution $ 1,630,638
CDF (Catholic Development Fund) Loan 8,787,634
WA Government Low Interest Loan 58,760,000
Australian Government Capital Grant Program 11,114,692
TOTAL: $80,294,964
ARCHITECTURAL EXPRESSION AND LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
The architectural expression and learning environment of each building stage has been developed to ensure the form and architectural expression of the new buildings maintain the aspirations of the College and create a complementary relationship with the existing College facilities and the surrounding residential context.
The new buildings have been designed with simple but strong forms based on the proportion, scale and rhythm of their component parts. The contrast between the solid rammed earth walls and transparent ‘glazed walls’ has been continued, and the curved roof feature retained.
The significant learning and teaching pedagogy at Mother Teresa Catholic College is Inquiry Learning. The new learning environments have all been designed to facilitate the pedagogy and to accommodate the College’s Inquiry Learning programs. Learning spaces have been organised into connected zones to create learning communities aimed at building interdisciplinary relationships and ways of working and thinking.
Embracing technology, inquiry learning and digital media in the flexible learning spaces and furniture, our learning community of staff, students and parents enjoy the ever growing capacity Mother Teresa Catholic College offers as we journey together “Strong in Faith and Love”.
Geri O’Keefe
PRINCIPAL
Important Notices
NEW COLLEGE PODCAST - The Student Lounge
Welcome to ‘The Student Lounge,’ the official student-led podcast from Mother Teresa Catholic College. Created by students for our vibrant College community, this podcast is your gateway to captivating stories, insightful interviews, exceptional student achievement, exciting news, events and more.
Whether you're a student, parent/caregiver, staff member, or part of the wider community, The Student Lounge is your go-to source for staying connected with the College. Tune in and be inspired by the talents, experiences, and achievements that shape our community and celebrate the spirit of Mother Teresa Catholic College.
Episode 1 – Our Graduating Class of 2023
Join your hosts, Year 10 students Ava and Liam, as they sit down with special guests from the first ever graduating class of 2023. Tune in for an engaging and heart-warming conversation with Chelsea, Mia, and their Year 12 Coordinator, Mrs. Gaynor. Be inspired by the pioneers who have left an indelible mark on our College's history.
Loose Part Donations Requested
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
We are after some loose parts and things we can add to our Year 1 and 2 outdoor play area. Our learning doesn’t stop when we are outside, so we are looking for an array of items to continue our learning, even whilst we are outside playing. Listed below are some ideas for you to consider. There will be bins placed in the kiss and drive areas of the Junior School to place donations. This list is not exhaustive and if you have something you think would benefit the students in the playground, we would love to have it.
Used colouring in books
Old pencils, crayons and textas
Unwanted craft materials
Material
Wood cut offs
Cable wheels
Witches hats
Buckets
Old pots and pans
Pool noodles
Pipe cut offs
Old board games
Shells
Milk crates
Plant pots
Dress ups or old unwanted clothing, handbags etc
Thank you for your consideration.
- The Junior School
Loose part examples:
Events
National Tree Day
Today is National Tree Day and to celebrate, our Junior School students planted a variety of bush tucker and bird attracting native trees in the Junior School. Guided by Year 12 students and Sustainability teacher Ms McClenaghan, students got their hands dirty and had the opportunity to connect with nature.
By planting these trees, we're not just beautifying our College grounds but also contributing to the well-being of our environment and local wildlife. Let's all do our part to nurture these newly planted trees and watch them grow as we grow together as a community!
100 Days of Pre-Primary
It was a heartwarming day on Wednesday in Pre-Primary as our students reached the significant milestone of 100 days of (full-time) school. To celebrate this special occasion, students and staff dressed up as 100-year-olds! Seeing these little ones shuffle into the classroom with canes, spectacles, and silver hair melted our hearts. They truly nailed the "old and wise" look!
We are so proud of our Pre-Primary students for their dedication and growth during these 100 days. Each day, they've learned, laughed, and made new friends, and we can't wait to see what the next 100 days have in store for them. A big shout-out to our amazing teachers and education assistants who make every day at school an adventure filled with learning and joy!
Year 12 Leaders Lunch
Last week, our Year 12 Student Leaders were invited to meet with Year 12 Coordinator Mrs Sarah Gaynor and Principal Ms Geri O'Keefe to discuss important College matters over lunch. Our Student Leaders play a vital role in driving positive change and these special gatherings provide a platform for them to share their valuable insights, ideas, and concerns.
We are grateful for the leadership and dedication our Student Leaders bring to our College community. Their passion and commitment to making a difference are truly inspiring. Together, we will continue to create an inclusive and thriving College environment for all!
Harry Perkins Institute Excursion
Last week, our Year 11 and 12 ATAR Human Biology students went on an excursion to the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. The Year 11 students began their day by playing two different games about Stem Cells and were given an insight into the developments and progress of stem cell research. Students then moved to the laboratory and were guided by a researcher through the laboratory technique to thaw, prepare and stain stem cells used for investigating liver cancer.
The Year 12 students simulated Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR) in the dry lab, where they competed against another school to see how many copies of DNA they could make in a given time frame. They were then taken into the laboratory where they completed PCR and gel electrophoreses practicals and looked to see if there was a mutation that can sometimes cause melanomas in a patient's genes. Students were given a tour of the Harry Perkins Institute to learn about the medical research that is happening and how advances in research directly affect the lives of patients.
This was a fantastic opportunity for our Human Biology students and we hope they have been inspired by the experience!
The Arts News
2024 Arts Scholarships & Bursaries
Mother Teresa Catholic College takes great pride in offering The Arts Scholarship and Music Bursary, both of which are available to students who embody a profound dedication to advancing and enriching the College's commitment to The Arts. To be considered for these prestigious awards, students must exhibit an unwavering eagerness to foster the growth and prominence of artistic endeavours within our College.
Additionally, candidates must showcase an exceptional level of commitment and display genuine aptitude across diverse arts disciplines within the community. Through these scholarships and bursaries, we aim to recognise and support individuals who exemplify exceptional talent, passion, and dedication to the arts, contributing to the vibrant artistic culture of Mother Teresa Catholic College.
To apply for the 2024 Arts Scholarship or Music Tuition Bursary, please fill in the application form linked below.
Sports & Outdoor Education News
ACC Year 10 AFL Carnival
This week, our AFL team consisting of Year 10 boys (as well as a few Year 9’s) played in the ACC Year 10 Division 6 AFL carnival where they won 3 out of 4 games! Our team was rewarded with winning the Championship Shield and promoted into Division 5 for next year. What a fantastic achievement - well done team!
Year 7/8 Rugby - Western Force Cup
This week our Year 7/8 Rugby team showcased heart and determination on the field in an exhilarating debut at the Western Force Cup. This is the first time a College Rugby team has participated and the boys truely embraced the fast-paced Sevens format of Rugby Union. Despite their inexperience, they displayed remarkable teamwork, securing a well-deserved victory against Kolbe Catholic College. They narrowly lost to Ridge View Secondary College in a closely contested match. The boys' sportsmanship and unwavering spirit were commendable, leaving a positive mark on the tournament. We are immensely proud of their efforts and look forward to more Rugby adventures in the future. Go Mother Teresa Catholic College Rugby!
VET/Workplace Learning News
KIC iMEN graduation evening Wednesday 28 June
Congratulations to two of our current Year 10 students, Byron Beresford and William King, who recently graduated from the iMEN project facilitated by KIC (Kwinana Industries Council). On the evening, students presented what they had done and learnt in their program to their parents/caregivers and representatives from their schools and industry. Both boys were great with public speaking and well done to Byron; who was one of two iMEN students selected to host the evening,
Workshops included team building activities, career pathways, personal and career goal setting, bullying, safe and respectful behaviours in the workplace, resumes, cover letters, interview techniques and mock interviews. There was also an excursion to the Construction Futures Centre and site tours to Tianqi Lithium, Crushing Services International, Gilmore College Trade Training Centre and Taylors Engineering, plus some time spent volunteering at Native Plants WA. Participation in these programs can also assist towards student achievement of their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) by attaining a C grade WACE unit equivalent.
Well done Byron and William!
Byron Beresford
“During school time I went to the iMEN project. I went on sight tours and learnt about the workplaces. We got to take a private bus to the different locations. I think it was great as it gives you an experience and shows you what every day work life would be like. I definitely recommend applying!”
William King
“On the iMen program, all the boys involved participated in site tours around the industrial strip in Kwinana, and also partook in some workshops that helped bond us together and build up our relationships. These workshops included mental health and wellbeing, team building and talks from industrial workers and others. My favourite part of the program was going to different sites and experiencing what it’s like to be a worker and apprentice at the sites. The program really showed me what opportunities there are in the industrial and mining industry, and what jobs may suit me best. I would recommend this program to future Year 10 students who are maybe thinking of going down a VET pathway as it can show them all the opportunities they have, and where they can go in the future.”
Information Technology (IT) News
Message from the IT Team
The eSafety Commissioner (eSafety), Australia's independent regulator for online safety, has just launched a fantastic digital hub exclusively for parents and caregivers. This hub is packed with incredibly valuable information and resources on e-safety. If you want to stay informed and equip yourself with the necessary tools to ensure your child's online safety, make sure to check out the hub here. It's a fantastic resource that can help us all create a safer and more secure digital environment for our kids.
To support the great work that you are doing at home - the IT team will be offering informative hands-on sessions after School on Wednesdays. These sessions will focus on using parental controls effectively on your child's iPad, using either 'Jamf Parent' or Apple Screen time. Starting from Week 5 (16 August) through to Week 9 (13 September), these sessions aim to empower you with valuable insights, enabling you to create a safe and enriching digital environment for your child at home. Please select your session and reserve a place here.
If you have any questions about all matters IT at the College, please contact the IT team on it@motherteresa.wa.edu.au or (08) 9591 7151”
Library News
Book Week 2023
A friendly reminder to our College community that we are celebrating Book Week next week! Our dress up day and Book Week parade will be as follows:
Kindy: Wednesday 2 August
Pre-Primary - Year 12: Friday 4 August
All students are encouraged to dress up as a character that inspires them – it could be from a book, movie, or TV show. Prizes will be awarded for best dressed. We can't wait to see your fantastic costumes!
Sustainability News
This Tuesday 1 August the Green Team will be running the Sustainability Market Stall (before and after school) at the entrance of the Junior School. We will be selling freshly grown vegetables, eggs, worm wee, pots of herbs, bees wax lunch wraps, apple slinkies, cutlery rolls and more.
We had some wonderful Year 2 Waste Warriors in the playground this week who collected lots of rubbish that was on the College grounds. Thank you so much. Please help us to keep the College looking beautiful and reduce the paper/plastic waste by giving your child/ren a waste free lunchbox. We like to celebrate this especially on “Waste Free Wednesday.”
A few students from Year 12, Year 6, Year 4 and Pre-Primary participated in Schools Tree Day on Friday 28th July. They planted some bush tucker plants and bird attracting plants around our school gardens. The students got to connect with nature and inspire the next generation by participating in a National environmental activity. Maybe your family can get their hands dirty and plant a tree in your garden on National Tree Day this Sunday!
The bread bag collection has been extended until 4 August. Please place all your bread bags in the ‘Wonder Recycling Rewards Boxes’ which are placed at the entrance of the Junior School. There is one in the office at Middle School reception and one at the Sustainability Centre. By collecting the bread bags that would otherwise go to landfill, our College can receive some new sports equipment for our students to play with.
Community News
Academic Group Tuition
Term 3 - Tuition for Years 7 - 12
Weekly Tuition sessions with Academic Task Force are an affordable way for students to access individualised support from a qualified teacher and experienced subject specialist. Each session, students receive help by going over any problems and gaps in their knowledge, review content and get support with their work and assignments.
Venues: Churchlands SHS, Rossmoyne SHS and Perth Modern School
Term 3 - Master Classes for Years 10, 11 & 12
Master Classes with Academic Task Force support students looking to maximise their learning and strive for a top ATAR score. Each week, our specialist teachers will focus on a particular topic from the WACE syllabus. Students will get in-depth explanations and examples and receive individual feedback and expert coaching from our Master Class teacher.
Venues: Academic Group Applecross Office, Perth Modern School and Online.
View the timetable and enrol online. Join anytime cost pro-rata:
Mass Times:
Masses
Tuesday - Friday: 9.00am
Saturdays: 6.00pm
Sundays: 9.30am & 5.00pm
1st Friday of each month: Adoration (following 9am Mass)
Benediction 10.15am
Reconciliation
Saturday: 5.30 - 5.50pm (prior to Mass)