E-News 6 December 2024
In this Issue:
Message from the Principal
Important Notices
Events
Student Achievement News
Arts News
Community News
Parish News
Message from the Principal
Mr. Joe Hoyne
Principal
I would like to thank the College community for what has been accomplished throughout the year during Semester Two. The continued success of Mother Teresa Catholic College has been achieved through all members of the school community working and supporting each other. A good Catholic school is one where networks are established to enable growth in many areas to ensure good outcomes are achieved. This is the situation at MTCC.
To our College staff, thank you for all you have done in working collaboratively to ensure success for the students in your care and the work you have undertaken within your classrooms and learning areas. To the students, your desire to perform well in all areas of school has enabled the staff to encourage and support your development. The expectation for all in 2025 is that the same positive outlook and high expectations are evident in all activities conducted throughout the year.
Mother Teresa Catholic College looks forward to welcoming Mr Jay Sutton to the College at the commencement of 2025. Mr Sutton comes to MTCC with a vast array of experience in teaching and leadership. Currently, Mr Sutton is the Principal of St Augustine’s College which is a K-12 school in regional Victoria. I would like to give my best wishes and welcome Mr Sutton to MTCC and through the contact I have had with him, I believe the school is in very good and capable hands. I look forward to hearing and witnessing the future growth of the College under Mr Sutton’s leadership.
At the end of the school year, we say farewell to a number of staff who are leaving to take up other opportunities in education or beyond. I hope the next phase of their teaching career, or for some, a change of working environment, will be positive. I thank all of the staff for the positive impact they have had on establishing a good school. We also say farewell to,
Hayley Martin, Finance Department
Sarah Berveling, Finance Department
Ella Avrill, Junior School EA
Mary Mulry, Junior School EA
Kiara Barlow, Junior School Teacher
Kate Casey, Junior School Teacher
Amanda De Gooijer, Junior School Teacher
Tahlia Hodge, Junior School Teacher (Parental Leave)
Rachel Lambert, Junior School Teacher (Parental Leave)
Lucia Miller, Junior School Teacher
Rosemary Paperella, Junior School
Sharon Deacon, Secondary School EA
Sumy Antony, Secondary School Teacher
Jamie Clark, Secondary School Teacher
Johnny Ho, Secondary School Teacher
Emily McRedmond, Secondary School Teacher
Michael Peter, Secondary School Teacher
Caitlin Reynolds, Secondary School Teacher
Mark Ross, Secondary School Teacher
Kim Spencer, Secondary School Teacher
Shanice Tudor, Secondary School Teacher(Parental Leave)
Owen Wadsworth, Secondary School Teacher
Dian Wijayanti, Secondary School Teacher
I'd also like to recognise Mrs. Michelle Reed, the College's Business Manager, for her efforts and leadership over the last seven years. Michelle has ensured, along with the previous College Principal, Ms Geri O'Keffe, that the College's environment and facilities are modern and first-rate. As an 11-year-old school, Michelle's work has ensured that the facilities and finances are sustainable and that all students have a variety of opportunities to succeed. Michelle should be proud of what she has accomplished in such a short time.
The forthcoming events listed in this newsletter provide the key dates for the commencement of the school year in 2025 and events prior to the commencement of the school year.
I would like to thank staff, parents, and students as I finish at Mother Teresa Catholic College for their support of me over the past semester. I have been fortunate to lead the MTCC community, and I hope the work and changes in the school structure will further enhance the very good reputation the College has within CEWA and the broader community. MTCC is a very good school were all who participate are engaged and can be the best version of themselves each day. I believe the school will continue to grow and become stronger through the leadership of Mr Jay Sutton and I hope he receives the same support and encouragement I have received. The stalls held for MTCC Day last week further highlighted the unique environment of Mother Teresa Catholic College, where students, staff, and parents can thrive in a supportive environment that values individuality. I look forward to hearing and seeing the continued growth, and I thank everyone for their support.
I wish all families, staff and friends of MTCC a Merry Christmas and hope 2025 is a year of many celebrations and achievements. Christmas is a time to celebrate with family and friends and I hope your celebrations provide many positive reflections on the past year and that these reflections are an opportunity to show appreciation of each person and their achievements over the past twelve months. It is a time not only of reflection, as we do through Advent, but the opportunity to look forward with hope and excitement. May the peace and joy that Christmas brings fulfil and sustain all families.
…the angel said, ‘Do not be afraid. Look, I bring you news of great joy, a joy to be shared by the whole people.
Today in the town of David, a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord’
Luke2:10-11
Important Notices
The College Office will close on Friday 13 December and reopen on Monday 6 January 2025.
2025 Important Dates
TERM 1
Wednesday 5th February: Term 1 commences for Junior School Students and Years 7 & 12
Thursday 6th February: Term 1 commences for Years 8 – 11
Monday 3rd March: Labour Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 4th March: Pupil Free Day
Friday 11th April: End of Term 1 for staff and students
TERM 2
Monday 28th April: Term 2 commences for staff and students
Monday 2nd June: WA Day Public Holiday
Tuesday 3rd June: Pupil Free Day
Friday 4th July: End of Term 2 for staff and students
TERM 3
Monday 21st July: Term 3 commences for staff and students
Friday 22nd August: Pupil Free Day
Monday 25th August: Pupil Free Day
Friday 26th September: End of Term 3 for staff and students
TERM 4
Monday 13th October: Term 4 commences for staff and students
Monday 10th November: Pupil Free Day
Friday 12th December: End of Term 4 for students
*Please note, pupil free days may be subject to change
For all other College events please see the MTCC Community Calendar
https://www.motherteresa.wa.edu.au/event-splash
Uniform Shop Holiday Hours
The Uniform Shop is here to help you equip your child with the necessary items for a successful school year. Parents can visit us or conveniently place an order online via Flexischools. Uniform contact: number 08 9591 7109 or uniform@motherteresa.wa.edu.au.
General Sales
Friday, January 31 8.00am to 12.00pm then 12.30pm to 1.45pm
Tuesday, February 4 8.00am to 12.00pm then 1.00pm to 3.45pm
Wednesday, February 5 8.00am to 12.00pm then 12.30pm to 3.45pm
Thursday, February 6 8.00am to 12.00pm then 12.30pm to 3.45pm
Normal Trading Hours from Week 2
Normal Trading Hours
Tuesday 8.00am to 12.00pm then 12.30pm to 3.45pm
Thursday 8.00am to 12.00pm then 12.30pm to 3.45pm
New Student Appointments are available for FULL uniform fittings ONLY on the following days:
Wednesday, January 22 8.00am to 12.00pm then 1.00pm to 3.45pm
Tuesday, January 28 8.00am to 12.00pm then 1.00pm to 3.45pm
Wednesday, January 29 8.00am to 12.00pm then 1.00pm to 3.45pm
Thursday, January 30 8.00am to 12.00pm then 1.00pm to 3.45pm
Please follow the link https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/MotherTeresaCatholicCollege5@cewaedu.onmicrosoft.com/bookings/ to make you appointment.
Sacramental Dates:
RECONCILIATION
Wednesday 12 February Parent / Student Workshop @ 5.30pm
Saturday 15 February Commitment Mass – 6.00pm
Friday 21 March Retreat Day 9am – 2.30pm
Thursday 3 April Celebration of the Sacrament @ 6pm
EUCHARIST
Wednesday 30 April Parent / Student Workshop @ 5.30pm
Saturday 3 May Commitment Mass – 6.00pm
Friday 20 June Retreat Day 9am – 12.30pm
Rehearsal 1.15 – 3.00pm
21 and 22 June Celebration of the Sacrament
CONFIRMATION
Wednesday 23 July Parent Meeting/Student Workshop @5.30pm (Church)
Saturday 26 July Commitment Mass – 6.00pm
Friday 5 September Retreat Day 9am – 2.30pm
Thursday 11 September Rehearsal and Preparation Meeting 6.00pm
(Sponsor and Candidate)
Saturday 13 September Celebration of the Sacrament at 6.00pm
(Please note that the date of Confirmation is yet to be approved by the Archbishop’s Office).
Events
Mother Teresa Feast Day - Mini Fair
Last Week, our College came alive with the spirit of generosity, joy, and community for the Mother Teresa Mini Fair! From delicious treats to creative stalls, there was something for everyone—and indeed, everyone turned out (even the flies! ).
Some stalls were so popular they sold out within minutes of opening! The $6.077.05 raised from the fair is being donated to The Sisters of Charity, helping to continue the incredible legacy of our patron saint, Mother Teresa.
A heartfelt thank you to all who supported, donated, and brought to life the spirit of Jesus through your kindness and enthusiasm. Together, we’ve made a difference!
The City of Rockingham inaugural Green Award for Sustainable Education Program.
Congratulations Mrs Helen McClenaghan and the MTCC Green Team who have received The City of Rockingham inaugural Green Award for Sustainable Education Program.
The Green Award was introduced to celebrate and recognise local action on eliminating waste and improving sustainable practices in the City of Rockingham, and is part of the City’s initiatives towards a more resilient and sustainable community
Please see the news article https://rockingham.wa.gov.au/your-city/news/2024/december/mother-teresa-catholic-college-receives-inaugural-
Student & Staff Achievement
We love to celebrate student and staff achievement! If you have a success story and photo you'd like to share, email: marketing@motherteresa.wa.edu.au
CONGRATULATIONS:
Ryder Bennison has showed incredible courage and compassion by shaving his head in honour of his Nana, raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research.
As a proud Pink Hero, Ryder is championing a world where there are ZERO deaths from breast cancer. He believes—just like we do—that every single life matters and every death is one too many.
Ryder is raising funds to support the life-changing work of the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), Australia’s leading body for funding groundbreaking breast cancer research. Every dollar donated goes towards better diagnosis, treatment, and ultimately, saving lives.
Let's support Ryder’s inspiring efforts and help him make a real difference. Every donation counts, no matter how small.
Donate here: https://fundraise.nbcf.org.au/.../the-great-benno-shave...
Thank you, Ryder, for being a shining example of kindness and determination in our community!
Arts News
Magical Opportunity!
Secure Your Seats for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Secondary Schools Edition)
Attention all witches, wizards, and muggles! Get ready for an enchanting journey to the wizarding world as Mother Teresa Catholic College proudly presents Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Secondary Schools Edition) at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre in August 2025.
Be among the first to experience the magic by signing up for our exclusive presale ticket access! Early sign-ups will unlock a special early bird discount code, making this the perfect opportunity to secure the best seats at a spellbinding price.
Performance Details:
📅 When: August 2025
📍 Where: Mandurah Performing Arts Centre
✨ How to Sign Up:
Click the link below to register for presale access and receive your early bird discount code. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this extraordinary event—join us for an unforgettable theatrical experience in the world of Harry Potter!
PRESALE TICKET ACCESS: CLICK HERE
👀 Keep an eye out for more magical announcements as we draw closer to showtime.
Sustainability News
Thank you to everyone who has supported our Sustainability initiatives this year, from collecting items to reduce our waste going to landfill, to Waste Free Wednesday lunches, our Market Stalls, raffles and apple slinkies. You are all amazing and we appreciate your support. Working together is what we are asked to do…
“Because creation was entrusted to human stewardship, the natural world is not just a resource to be exploited but also a reality to be respected and even reverenced as a gift and trust from God. It is the task of human beings to care for, preserve and cultivate the treasures of creation. (Pope John Paul II, The Church In Oceania, 2001, n.31)”
Another thank you to the wonderful staff who run the apple slinky stall every Tuesday and Thursday morning. We really appreciate you giving up your mornings so the students have yummy apples to eat. Thank you, Mrs Hodgson, Mrs Fayed, Mrs Sneyd, Miss Mann, Mrs Van Der Kwast, Mrs Berveling, Ms Teixeira and Mrs Buckley. You are all Superstars.
This week Year 5 students have reinvigorated the herb pots in front of the church so there are herbs for the community to take. The Year 6 students have been helping with some jobs in the Sustainability area, showing great teamwork and leadership skills. The Pre-primary classes tasted some freshly picked carrots delivered from Father Christmas to check they are the right ones for Rudolph. The Year 3 students have been separating the worms from the worm castings which will help our vegetables to grow.
The school chickens have gone on their Christmas holiday and look forward to seeing you all next year.
Sustainability and Year 1 Unit of Inquiry
In recent weeks, our Year 1 students have been deeply engaged in an inquiry unit exploring the weather and seasons around the world. This unit has helped students understand how weather influences what we grow, how we live, and the connections we have with the land. Focusing on the unique seasons of Australia and the cultural insights of Aboriginal peoples, students have had the opportunity to explore sustainability in exciting and practical ways.
Aboriginal Connection to the Land and Seasons
In Australia, the seasons are not just about weather, but are deeply connected to culture and tradition. Students have learned about the important role Aboriginal Australians have played in understanding the land's cycles. By tracking seasonal changes, Aboriginal people knew when to hunt, gather, and prepare for ceremonies. This aspect of the unit has highlighted the importance of sustainability, respect for the earth, and cultural knowledge—values that continue to resonate with us today.
Sustainability in Practice: Planting and Picnic Preparation
The Year 1 students have had a hands-on experience learning how to plant, grow, and care for crops in our school’s sustainability area. They’ve explored which plants thrive in different climates and seasons, gaining a deeper understanding of the connection between weather patterns and food production. Mrs. Miller's program has provided a fantastic opportunity for students to apply their classroom learning to real-life practices, and with the support of Mrs. McClenaghan, the program truly came to life, making sustainability tangible and meaningful for the students.
Picnics Without Shops: Thinking Sustainably
One of the most engaging activities in the unit was imagining what it would be like if shops didn’t exist. What would we pack for a picnic, and how could we gather and preserve food sustainably? This thought-provoking activity sparked exciting discussions about foraging, growing our own food, and living more sustainably. The Year 1 students began to think about how much we rely on external resources and how we can reduce waste and become more self-sufficient in our daily lives.
Looking Ahead
We are incredibly proud of how engaged our students have been in this inquiry unit. They’ve learned valuable lessons about the connection between seasons, sustainability, and the environment, and we look forward to continuing to explore these important themes in the weeks ahead.
Library News
2024 – A year in review
The library has had so much going on this year, with new books arriving, primary lessons happening each week, lunch time games for High schoolers and so much more.
Throughout the year, we have focused on re-vamping the collections and encouraging reading for enjoyment across all year levels.
This means that we have loaned out over 18,000 books this year, a 32% increase from 2023!
Our top 100 readers have borrowed over 2000 books together, with Ain Seo borrowing 129 on his own.
With our budget and some help from Friends of Mother Teresa, we have managed to purchase over 1000 new books for the library this year.
Thank you for all your support and we look forward to a bigger and better 2025.
Community News
WAAPA Summer School 2025
Start your new year with an exciting experience at WAAPA. Come along this January for a fun-packed program where you'll meet new people, sharpen your skills, and get plenty of performance opportunities. WAAPA’s Summer School offers a wide variety of performing arts courses tailored for secondary school students. Whether you're going into Year 7 or Year 12, there's something for every aspiring artist—classes in Acting for Stage, Dance, Acting for Camera, Jazz Music, and Music Theatre. Our expert instructors welcome students of all skill levels and experiences.
For more details on the courses available, visit Summer School 2025 or reach out to Gabrielle Metcalf at explore.waapa@ecu.edu.au or call 9370 6775.
Crunch and Sip Workshop
This summer, the Cancer Council WA, in partnership with the Crunch & Sip program, will be hosting a workshop at the Mary Davies Library in Baldivis. Designed for parents of primary school-aged children, the session will cover important topics such as packing a balanced lunchbox, promoting adventurous and healthy eating, and understanding food labels. A qualified nutritionist will be available to answer any questions and provide expert guidance. Don't miss this opportunity to learn practical tips for supporting your child's healthy eating habits!
Wednesday 22 January 2025 10am to 11am, Mary Davies Library, Baldivis.
Settlers Hill Dental Therapy Centre
The Settlers Hill Dental Therapy Centre will be closed from 13 December 2024, with the reopening date for 2025 to be confirmed.
Emergency Contacts During Closure:
13 December: Safety Bay Dental Therapy Centre – 9527 6767
16–18 December: Tuart Rise Dental Therapy Centre – 9523 0965
19–20 December: Koorana Dental Therapy Centre – 9593 4821
23 December 2024–January 2025:
For emergencies during this standdown period, please contact Mt Henry Government Dental Clinic at 9313 0552 (public holidays excluded).
Important Note for Year 6 Students:
If your child is transitioning to high school next year, they remain eligible for the School Dental Service until age 17 or the end of Year 11, whichever comes first.
Parish News
Masses
Tuesday - Wednesday: 9.00am
Thursday: 8.00am
Friday: 9.00am
Saturday: 6.00pm
Sunday: 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)
Online Community
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