COLLEGE NEWSLETTER
November / December 2025
Message from the Head of College
Dear College Community,
I would like to share a message about growth, perseverance, and the power of our dreams, drawing inspiration from the parable of the sower in the Gospel. In this story, seeds fall into good soil, producing a harvest of thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold. Just as we cultivate our relationship with the Lord, we as a community strive to work hard and achieve success in our lives. Many of you dedicate yourselves to your studies, yet the outcomes vary—some yield the thirtyfold, some the fiftyfold, and some the hundredfold. This variation teaches us that while effort is essential, the results may differ, reminding us to celebrate each step of the journey.
Let us also reflect on the story of Simeon in Luke 2: 25 - 35 who was a righteous man who lived in Jerusalem. He was eagerly waiting for the messiah to come and rescue Israel. As a young man, he was given the important task of translating a passage from the Old Testament, which spoke of a prophecy: a Virgin would conceived by the Holy Spirit and bear a son named Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us.” Initially, Simeon struggled to accept this profound truth; he sought to change “Virgin” to “woman.” However, an angel of the Lord reassured him that the prophecy was indeed true, and he would not die until he witnessed its fulfilment. Remarkably, Simeon waited 250 years to see this promise come to fruition.
One day, when St. Mary and St. Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple to present Him according to the Law of Moses, Simeon took the child in his arms and looked up to heaven, proclaiming, “Lord, now you can let your servant depart in peace, for my eyes have seen the salvation you have prepared for all nations.” These sweet fruits of faith and patience were finally reaped after decades of waiting.
This story resonates with us all. Each of you has dreams and aspirations. Some may be earthly, focused on personal success, while others may be spiritual, aimed at glorifying God. The spiritual dreams, in particular, can yield abundant fruit in your lives. As young people, you are filled with hopes and ambitions for the future. I urge you to let those dreams reflect your desire to honour God.
Remember the journey of Moses, who waited 120 years to fulfil his mission of leading the people from the desert to the Promised Land. Likewise, you have a unique mission in life. Whatever you pursue, let it be done in Christ. Strive to glorify His name through your actions, be witnesses to His love and grace, and allow your achievements to shine as a testament to His glory.
As you continue your studies and navigate your paths, keep in mind that every effort you make, every challenge you face, and every success you achieve can be an offering to God. Let your hearts be open to His guidance, and trust that with faith and perseverance, you, too, can bear fruit that glorifies Him.
May God bless you all on your journeys.
Fr. Tadros Sharobeam
Head of College
Message from the Principal
Dear SMCO Community,
As we draw Term Four to a close and farewell another richly rewarding academic year, my heart is filled with deep gratitude for all that 2025 has brought to our College. This has been a year shaped by growth, faith, joyful learning and countless moments that reflect the vibrant spirit of SMCO.
Time and again, our students have reminded us why we do what we do; their curiosity, resilience and enthusiasm continue to inspire our shared mission. One of the great joys of November was welcoming our newest students during the Foundation Orientation Program. Across three beautiful mornings, our 2026 Foundation children stepped into their first classrooms with bright eyes and open hearts.
Watching them explore, create and begin forming their first
connections was a powerful reminder of the sacred trust we hold in shaping their early learning journey. Their excitement filled our corridors with warmth and hope. Our Year 1 students also engaged in a dynamic Building & Construction incursion, diving into engineering, design thinking and hands-on creativity. Their teamwork, problem-solving, and sense of wonder reflected exactly the kind of joyful, inquiry-driven learning we aim to nurture. In the same spirit, our College gathered for our end-of-year liturgy; an uplifting celebration attended by our dear priests. It was a spiritually anchoring moment for us all, reminding us that Christ remains at the centre of every endeavour in our College.
Our Year 6 students celebrated two significant milestones: their Graduation Dinner, an evening filled with pride, gratitude and family joy and their three-day camp at Mount Evelyn. The camp experience strengthened friendships, built resilience and gifted our students memories they will carry into their Secondary years. Their transition marks an important step in their formation.
This term also held a major milestone for our Secondary school as we
celebrated the Year 12 Class of 2025 at their Graduation Dinner. It was a moving evening that honoured their academic commitment, spiritual growth, leadership and perseverance. We commend every graduate and pray that God guides their next steps with clarity, courage and blessing as they begin their university and vocational journeys.
Our Music Department concluded the year with the Music Celebration Awards, a joyful acknowledgment of the talent, dedication and creative expression of our students. These artistic pursuits enrich our College culture and remind us of the many ways students can shine beyond the classroom.
To conclude the term, our Years 7–11 students enjoyed a spirited excursion to Funfields; an opportunity to relax, celebrate their efforts and enjoy time with their peers before stepping into a new year of learning and responsibility.
As we look back on 2025, I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to our
dedicated staff, our supportive families and our wonderful students. Every achievement of this community is shared and every step forward is made possible through your partnership, your hard work and your faith. Above all, I give the appreciation and the glory to our Lord Jesus Christ for His steadfast love and guidance throughout the year. We pray that He continues to strengthen our College, deepen our unity and illuminate our path as we prepare to welcome 2026 with renewed purpose and joy.
I wish every family a peaceful, restorative and joy-filled holiday season. May God keep you safe and bless you abundantly until we gather again for another year of learning, formation and growth at Saint Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College.
Blessings,
Germaine Saad
Principal
Social Media Minimum Age Legislation
A reminder to our college community that the Social Media Minimum Age legislation will take effect on 10 December, preventing young people under-16 from having accounts on certain social media platforms. The eSafety Commissioner advises that parents and carers can help their under-16s by talking openly about the age restrictions, finding out how they currently use social media and how that may be impacted by the new law.
There are no penalties for under-16s who access an age-restricted social media platform, or for their parents or carers. Penalties will apply to age-restricted platforms that fail to take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from having accounts on their platforms.
If your family is impacted by this change, information and support is available at the eSafety Commissioner website. It includes frequently asked questions, as well as tips and resources for dealing with the change.
It is important to remember that no matter how old your child is, let them know if they have a harmful experience online, they can reach out to you for support - even if it happens on an age restricted platform and they're under 16. You may want to show them eSafety’s help-seeking guide.
Information and resources to support parents and carers, and young people to prepare for the change are available at the eSafety Social media age restrictions hub.
Visit eSafety.gov.au.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
تذكير بقانون الحد الأدنى للعمر على وسائل التواصل الاجتماعي 
تذكير لمجتمع المدرسة بأن قانون الحد الأدنى للعمر على وسائل التواصل الاجتماعي سيدخل حيز التنفيذ في 10 كانون الأول \ ديسمبر، مما يمنع الشباب تحت سن 16 من إمتلاك حسابات على بعض منصات
التواصل الاجتماعي.
، بأنه يإمكان الآباء ومقدمي الرعاية eSafety Commissioner. ينصح مفوض السلامة
مساعدة أطفالهم تحت سن 16 من خلال الحديث بصراحة عن قيود العمر، ومعرفة كيف يستخدمون وسائل التواصل الاجتماعي حاليا وكيف قد يتأثر ذلك بالقانون الجديد.
لا توجد عقوبات على من هم دون 16 عاما الذين يستخدمون منصة تواصل إجتماعي مقيدة بالعمر، أو على والديهم أو مقدمي الرعاية. ستطبق العقوبات على المنصات المقيدة للعمر التي تفشل في اتخاذ خطوات معقولة لمنع من هم دون 16 عاما من إمتلاك حسابات على منصاتها.
إذا تأثرت عائلتك بهذا التغيير، تتوفر المعلومات والدعم على موقع مفوض السلامة الإلكترونية ، اللذي يتضمن الأسئلة المتكررة، بالإضافة إلى نصائح ومعلومات للتعامل مع هذا التغيير.
من المهم أن تتذكر أنه بغض النظر عن عمر طفلك، أخبره إذا مر بتجربة مؤذية عبر الإنترنت، يمكنه التواصل معك طلبا للدعم - حتى لو حدث ذلك على منصة مقيدة عمرا وكان عمره أقل من 16 عاما. قد ترغب طلب المساعدة في عرض ومناقشه دليل
تتوفر معلومات ومصادر لدعم الآباء ومقدمي الرعاية، والشباب للاستعداد للتغيير على موقع
eSafety Social media age restrictions hub
eSafety.gov.au قم بزيارة موقع
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
Important Information! Bus Driver Feedback
A Drivers’ meeting was conducted on Friday, 21st November, during which the Driver Code of Conduct and procedures for reporting student misconduct were revisited. The drivers also participated in a ‘What would you do if……?’ activity where they had to respond to each of the different emergency scenarios presented to them.
The majority of meeting time, however, was dedicated to drivers’ sharing of their experiences and the challenges they encounter while on the job; once again, the main concerns remain the same concerns discussed before:
1. Some students remove their seatbelts and walk around while the bus is in motion, putting themselves at high risk of injury.
Before each trip, the bus driver checks that all the students on his bus have fastened their seat belts, which is required of all College bus drivers, and they all do. Once the bus takes off, the driver’s focus will be on the road and driving to safely get the students to school in the morning, and home in the afternoon. We urge parents to talk to their children about their child’s responsibilities while travelling on the college bus. Working in partnership to educate children about their responsibilities will prevent accidents from happening and ensure safe travel for all involved.
2. Some parents collect their child from the college at the end of the day without informing the Driver or the College.
Parents and carers are expected to inform the driver or the College office every time there is a change to their child’s bus travel arrangements. This will save staff efforts and time looking around to locate the student and ensure that he or she is safe. The College bus service supports many families from our college community, as about half of the student population travel to and from school on the college bus. Having the drivers together in one place to share their experiences has been highly beneficial in developing and improving policies and procedures for safe bus travel. The parents and carers’ contributions to educating the children about their responsibilities will indeed support the drivers’ efforts for safe travel.
We take this opportunity to thank all the bus Drivers for their dedication and caring for the students under their care.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
ملاحظات سائقي حافلات المدرسه
عقد إجتماع للسائقين يوم الجمعة 21 تشرين الثاني \ نوفمبر، حيث تم إعادة النظر في مدونة سلوك السائق وإجراءات الإبلاغ عن سوء سلوك الطلاب. شارك السائقون أيضا في نشاط 'ماذا كنت ستفعل لو......؟' حيث كان عليهم الإسجابة لكل من سيناريوهات الطوارء المختلفه التي عرضت عليهم.
لكن معظم وقت الإجتماع كان مخصصا" لمشاركة السائقين لتجاربهم والتحديات التي يواجهونها أثناء
العمل؛ مرة أخرى، تبقى المخاوف الرئيسية هي نفسها التي نوقشت سابقا":
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بعض الطلاب يخلعون أحزمة الأمان ويتجولون أثناء سير الحافلة، مما يعرض أنفسهم لخطر الإصابه. .
قبل كل رحلة، يتحقق سائق الحافلة من أن جميع الطلاب على متن حافلته قد ربطوا أحزمة الأمان، وهو أمر مطلوب من جميع سائقي حافلات الكليه، وجميعهم يفعلون ذلك. بمجرد إنطلاق الحافلة، سيكون تركيز السائق على الطريق والقيادة لنقل الطلاب بأمان إلى المدرسة صباحا، وإعادتهم إلى المنزل بعد الظهر.
نحث الآباء على التحدث مع أطفالهم حول مسؤوليات أطفالهم أثناء السفر في حافلة المدرسة. العمل بالشراكة لتثقيف الأطفال حول مسؤولياتهم سيمنع وقوع الحوادث ويضمن السفر الآمن للجميع.
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بعض الآباء يستلمون أطفالهم من المدرسة في نهاية اليوم الدراسي دون إبلاغ السائق أو الكلية بذلك
من المتوقع أن يبلغ الآباء ومقدمو الرعاية السائق أو مكتب الكلية في كل مرة يحدث فيها تغيير في ترتيبات سفر طفلهم بالحافلة. سيوفر ذلك على الموظفين جهود ووقت البحث للعثور على الطالب وضمان سلامته.
تدعم خدمة حافلات الكلية العديد من العائلات من مجتمع المدرسة لدينا، حيث يسافر حوالي نصف عدد الطلاب من وإلى المدرسة بحافلات المدرسة. وجود السائقين معا" في مكان واحد لمشاركة تجاربهم كان مفيدا للغاية في تطوير وتحسين السياسات والإجراءات الخاصة بالسفر الآمن بالحافلات. مساهمات الآباء ومقدمي الرعاية في تثقيف الأطفال حول مسؤولياتهم ستدعم بالفعل جهود السائقين من أجل سفر آمن.
نغتنم هذه الفرصة لنشكر جميع سائقي الحافلات على تفانيهم ورعايتهم للطلاب تحت رعايتهم.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
Promoting Water Safety as We Enter the Summer Season
This week is Water Safety Awareness Week.
Royal Life Saving Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia advise people to:
- Always supervise children around water
- Swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags
- Learn swimming and lifesaving skills
- Wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing or on watercraft
- Avoid alcohol and drugs around water
- Know your limits and the conditions
VICSWIM Program
VICSWIM is a 5-day intensive learn to swim and water safety program for children aged 4 to 12 years, run in the summer holidays. VICSWIM is particularly helpful for those who may not access swimming lessons regularly. The Victorian Government subsidises the program, which is run by Aquatics and Recreation Victoria.
Dates: Monday 5 January to Friday 23 January 2026
Time: 5 lessons, 30 minutes each
Location: at 140 venues across the state. To find your nearest location, refer to VICSWIM 2026 venues
Cost: $43 per child for the week.
For more information and to book (log in required), refer to the VICSWIM website.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
Foundation Orientation Day
We are excited to welcome our newest Foundation students to our college. Over the past three weeks, our incoming students and their families have taken part in our Foundation Orientation Program, designed to help them feel confident, prepared, and excited for the year ahead.
The first session included a parent information session and a guided college tour, giving families a chance to learn more about our college. Across all three sessions, students enjoyed engaging, play-based classroom activities that introduced them to their new environment and new friends.
It has been wonderful to see our future Foundation students build connections, explore their classrooms, and begin their learning journey with enthusiasm. We look forward to welcoming them officially at the start of 2026!
Sarah Fraser
Foundation Classroom Teacher
Year 1 Science “Building and Construction” Incursion
An exciting Building & Construction Incursion had been arranged for all Year 1 students on Monday, 10th November 2025. This hands-on experience took students on an engaging adventure into the world of design, materials, and engineering!
Students explored how different materials and shapes can make structures strong or flexible. From testing the strength of eggshells to designing bridges that could hold toy cars, the day was filled with fun, creativity, and discovery.
Guided by the ‘Hands on Science’ educators, students predicted, tested, and reflected as they experimented with forces like tension, compression, and friction, all while learning what makes playgrounds, cabins, and bridges stand tall.
It was a fantastic experience that sparked curiosity and inspired our young designers and engineers, we loved seeing their creativity come to life!
Magi Shehata
Year 1 Classroom Teacher
Better Buddies
On 25th November 2025, our Foundation and Year 5 students enjoyed a fun and educational “Better Buddies” excursion to the zoo. The day was filled with excitement as students worked together, strengthened friendships, and learned about a wide variety of animals.
It was a wonderful opportunity to build connections, practise teamwork, and explore wildlife in a hands-on and engaging way.
Amanda Odisho
Foundation Classroom Teacher
Year 6 Graduation Dinner
The Year Six graduation dinner, held on Thursday, November 13, 2025, was a memorable occasion filled with joy and pride. The evening began with a heartfelt prayer from Father Tadros, setting a reflective tone for the celebration. Principal Germaine Saad then addressed the students, congratulating them on their academic achievements throughout the year.
The highlight of the night was the students’ musical performances, which showcased their talents through both group and solo songs. Their performances captivated the audience and added a lively spirit to the evening. It was a fitting way to honour their hard work and commitment as they prepared to embark on the next chapter of their journey.
Liz Robertson
Year 6 Classroom Teacher
Year 12 Graduation Dinner
The SMCO Year 12 graduation dinner was a heartfelt celebration of the students’ remarkable journey from their early days in prep to this significant milestone. Surrounded by family, friends, and dedicated educators, the evening was filled with nostalgia as graduates reflected on the friendships forged and challenges overcome throughout their years at SMCO College.
The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and pride, with speeches highlighting individual and collective achievements, from academic successes to personal growth.
Fr. Tadros delivered a poignant message, advising the graduates to remember their Christian values and to stay on God’s path, ensuring they remain under the protection of the Lord Jesus Christ.
As they shared stories and laughter, the graduates were reminded of the invaluable experiences that shaped their time at SMCO, marking not just the end of one chapter but the beginning of new adventures ahead.
Rimon Dinkha
Year 12 Coordinator
Amazing Animal Architects!
Our young explorers have been learning how different animals build and use shelters to stay safe, warm, and protected. After discovering the clever ways creatures survive in the wild, students planned, designed, and built their very own animal shelters using a variety of materials.
To bring their ideas to life, the children also created imaginative animal dioramas, showcasing their shelters in detailed, miniature habitats.
We are so proud of their creativity, curiosity, and hard work!
Marina Youkhana
Year 1 Classroom Teacher
Whole College Liturgy
On Friday 21st November, our whole college came together to celebrate the end of the college year with a beautiful liturgy. We were blessed to be joined by several priests from both the Coptic Orthodox Church and the Syrian Orthodox Church, making it a memorable and spiritually uplifting occasion for our college community.
CORE Department
Music Celebration Awards
Last week, we hosted our Music Celebration Awards 2025, an afternoon event dedicated to recognising and celebrating the achievements of our talented music students. This special event focused on acknowledging their commitment, progress, and contribution to the music program throughout 2025.
Students were honoured for their dedication, consistent effort, and the passion they have shown in developing their musical skills over the year. It was a meaningful opportunity to highlight their personal growth, perseverance, and the positive impact they bring to our creative community.
Congratulations to all our award recipients.
Sandra Mlikota
Head of Music
Year 6 Graduation Ceremony
The Year 6 students gathered last week for a vibrant and heartfelt graduation ceremony, celebrating their achievements with pride and excitement. Dressed in caps and gowns, they reflected on years of hard work, growth, and memorable milestones that have shaped their journey.
Here’s to new beginnings, big dreams, and the bright future that awaits each of them. Congratulations to the year 6 graduating class of 2025, your next chapter starts now!
Liz Robertson
Year 6 Classroom Teacher
Year 6 Camp
The Year 6 students enjoyed an exciting three-day adventure at Camp Oasis in Mount Evelyn on the 26th, 27th and 28th of November. The camp offered a fantastic mix of challenge, teamwork and fun, with activities including the giant swing, low ropes, a hands-on reptile experience, and a variety of other engaging camp programs.
Students built confidence, developed leadership skills, and created lasting memories as they celebrated their final year of primary school. It was a wonderful experience for our Year 6 cohort, and one they will remember for years to come.
Daniel Fornito
Year 6 teacher
Year 7 to Year 11 End of Year Excursion
The SMCO secondary students from Year 7 to Year 11 celebrated their end-of-year academic achievements with an exhilarating excursion to Funfields. This thrilling day was a well-deserved reward for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.
Students enjoyed a variety of rides and attractions, bonding over laughter and shared experiences as they embraced the excitement of the amusement park. This fun-filled day not only marked the culmination of their current academic journey but also provided a refreshing head start into the next level.
Mervet Boulos
Head of Primary
Christmas Present
To celebrate the joyous season of Christ’s birth, the CORE department prepared a small Christmas gift for all Primary students. Each child received a Nativity card along with a candy cane. The candy cane is a simple yet meaningful symbol in the Christian tradition, its “J” shape reminds us of Jesus, and its red and white stripes represent His sacrifice and His purity. This small gesture was a lovely way to help students reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
CORE Department
Term 1 - Teachers Return
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Term 1 - Students Return
Thursday, January 29, 2026
Reg. No. 1934
Address: 19-35 Thorpdale Ave, Coolaroo Vic 3048
Phone: (03) 9301 0999 I Fax: (03) 9302 2688
Email: info@stmarys.vic.edu.au