Newsletter
October 2024
Celebrating the Life & Grace that God offers Us
Dear College Community,
The peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. As we reflect on recent events, it’s important for all Christians in our College Community to understand the origins and deeper meanings behind certain traditions, particularly Halloween. Although celebrated as a fun, light-hearted occasion, it’s important to recognise that Halloween has roots that are contrary to our faith. The customs associated with this day, while often seen as harmless, can inadvertently honour influences that do not align with Christian values. As a community, it is crucial to remain discerning and uphold our spiritual beliefs.
Some may say, "We only do this for fun," or "We do not actually practice witchcraft." I often question how one justifies participating in Halloween, a day set aside by Satanists as their "holy day." I see children dressing up as witches, goblins, ghosts, and little devils—each costume a representation of Satan's darkness. Furthermore, Halloween festivals often feature games that promote fear, leading children through haunted houses decorated with skeletons, black cats, and bats. Does this portrayal of death and darkness truly seem like fun? It certainly does not to me.
The idea of carving pumpkins into faces may be seen as a harmless tradition, but let us remember that these faces are symbolic of skulls. Additionally, theatre and movies released around Halloween often celebrate a culture of death. I still struggle to find joy in any of this. Have you? Have your children?
To me, these traditions reflect a troubling fixation on death rather than the joy and life we are called to embrace.
God has visited His people, and in this divine visitation, you shall emerge in true happiness, sharing your joy and peace with everyone around you. I urge you to reach out to those still caught in sin, inviting them to turn away from the foolishness of their ways. For God loves His people deeply and desires to fill them with solace and joy.
Do you truly seek this joy? You will not find it in the fleeting pleasures of this world, but rather in God, who loves you and yearns for your salvation. He wants your return, to raise the dead within you, and to present you back to yourself alive, full of life and grace.
Let us choose to walk in the light, celebrating the life and grace that God offers us.
Fr. Tadros Sharobeam
Head of College
Acting Principal's Message
Now that we are well into Term 4, it is a fitting moment to reflect on the many exciting activities and achievements that have already enriched our college community this term. It has been a season filled with stimulating learning experiences, new adventures, and treasured growth moments. We are, indeed, privileged to have been able to host His Grace Bishop Daniel here in our college. His visit truly brought immense joy and inspiration among the students
and staff of the college, reminding us about the guiding principles which keep our community together.
Our English Enhancement students in Year 6 have been keeping busy and engaging our Foundation students with a special Storytime session. It was warming to see the older students sharing their love for reading and telling stories, further developing their own skills while mentoring our youngest learners.
As part of our integrated units in Geography, Health, and English, our Year 2 students recently went on an outdoors learning experience to a nearby park to further develop their understandings about community and environment. These types of experiences bring context to the lessons provided in the classroom and make them much more relevant to life.
We also celebrate success with Red House, having secured the most house points this term, another testament to the spirit and enthusiasm of our students. Moreover, we added to our Primary Library collection new books that will hopefully spark inquiry and a love for reading in our students.
Our secondary students have also continued to make the most of this term. The Year 11 Camp was an enjoyable retreat which enabled students to reflect upon and build resiliency as they head into the senior years of schooling. Meanwhile, our Year 10 students enjoyed their camp at Camp Marysville, where bonds were furthered and confidence developed further. None to be left behind, our Year 4 students started Term 4 with a great excursion to the Portsea Campsite where memories were made.
We also had another engaging Maths Week this year, filled with activities challenging and exciting our students. The Funfields excursion for Year 12 students was well-deserved, as they will be having their final exams and graduation.
We would like to take this opportunity to express our thanks as we progress through the second half of Term 4, knowing our parents, carers, staff, and students have continued to remain steadfast in their support. Your commitment is invaluable in creating the caring and vibrant community that SMCOC has become.
May we go forward with faith and purpose, guided by the words of Proverbs 16:9: "A man's heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps."
May we continue to walk this journey together, embracing the blessings and opportunities afforded to us each day.
Wishing one and all a productive and fulfilling remainder of the term.
Blessings,
Germaine Saad
Acting Principal
Stay Safe This Pollen Season: Preparing for Thunderstorm Asthma
Grass pollen season, which typically runs from October to December each year in Victoria, brings an increase in asthma and hay fever symptoms. It also increases the risk of thunderstorm asthma. For people with asthma or hay fever, especially those who experience wheezing or coughing with their hay fever, thunderstorm asthma can be sudden, serious and even life threatening.
St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College will implement a range of measures to keep our school community safe as the risk of thunderstorm asthma increases.
Our staff are trained in asthma first aid, and we will monitor the VicEmergency app to receive thunderstorm warnings, and, where appropriate, keep students indoors when weather forecasts identify greater risk.
During the season, there are some things you can do to prepare and protect yourself and your family:
- If your child has ever had asthma, talk to your doctor about what you can do to help protect them from the risk of thunderstorm asthma this pollen season, including updating your asthma action plan. Taking an asthma preventer properly and regularly is key to preventing asthma, including thunderstorm asthma.
- If your child has hay fever, see your pharmacist or doctor for a hay fever treatment plan and check if you should have an asthma reliever puffer. These are available from a pharmacy without a prescription.
- If your child has hay fever and experiences wheezing and coughing, it is important to make sure they don’t also have asthma. Speak to your doctor about an asthma action plan.
- Where possible, avoid being outside during thunderstorms from October to December, especially during the wind gusts that come before the storm. Go inside and close your doors and windows. If you have your air conditioning on, turn it to ‘recirculate’.
Protect yourself this pollen season – managing asthma and allergies matters.
For more information, speak to your doctor. You can also visit the Better Health Channel website.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
موسم حبوب اللقاح العشبية ، الذي يمتد عادة من أكتوبر إلى ديسمبر من كل عام في فيكتوريا ، يجلب
زيادة في أعراض الربو وحمى القش. كما أنه يزيد من خطر الإصابة بالربو الرعدي . بالنسبة
للأشخاص المصابين بالربو أو حمى القش ، وخاصة أولئك الذين يعانون من الصفير أو السعال مع
حمى القش ، يمكن أن يكون الربو الرعدي مفاجئا وخطيرا وحتى مهددا للحياة.
ستنفذ كلية سانت ماري القبطيه الأرثوذكسية مجموعة من التدابير للحفاظ على مجتمع مدرستنا آمنامع
زيادة خطر الإصابة بالربو الناجم عن العواصف الرعدية. يتم تدريب موظفينا على الإسعافات الأولية للربو ، وسنراقب تطبيق الطوارئ لولايه فكتوريا لتلقي تحذيرات من العواصف الرعدية ، وعند الاقتضاء ،
إبقاء الطلاب في داخل المباني عندما تحدد تنبؤات الطقس مخاطر اكبر VicEmergency
خلال الموسم ، هناك بعض الأشياء التي يمكنك القيام بها لإعداد وحماية نفسك وعائلتك
إذا كان طفلك قد أصيب بالربو من قبل، فتحدث إلى طبيبك حول ما يمكنك فعله للمساعدة في حمايته -
من خطر الإصابة بالربو الناجم عن العواصف الرعدية في موسم حبوب اللقاح هذا، بما في ذلك تحديث
خطة عمل الربو. يعد تناول مانع الربو بشكل صحيح ومنتظم أمرا أساسيا للوقاية من الربو ، بما في
ذلك الربو الناتج عن العواصف الرعدية.
إذا كان طفلك يعاني من حمى القش ، فاستشر الصيدلي أو الطبيب للحصول على خطة علاج حمى -
القش وتحقق مما إذا كان يجب أن يكون لديك بخاخ مسكن للربو. هذه متوفرة من صيدلية بدون وصفة
.طبية
إذا كان طفلك يعاني من حمى القش ويعاني من الصفير والسعال ، فمن المهم التأكد من عدم إصابته-
أيضا بالربو. تحدث إلى طبيبك حول خطة عمل الربو- حيثما أمكن ، تجنب التواجد في الخارج أثناء العواصف الرعدية من أكتوبر إلى ديسمبر ، خاصة أثناء هبوب الرياح التي تأتي قبل العاصفة. اذهب إلى الداخل وأغلق أبوابك ونوافذك. إذا كان لديك مكيف الهواء الخاص بك ، فقم بتحويله إلى إعادة تدوي
.إحم نفسك في موسم حبوب اللقاح هذا - إدارة الربو والحساسية مهمة
لمزيد من المعلومات ، تحدث إلى طبيبك. يمكنك أيضا زيارة موقع قناة الصحة الأفضل عبر الإنترنت
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
The Blessed Visit of His Grace Bishop Daniel
On Monday, October 21st, our college had the great honour of welcoming His Grace Bishop Anba Daniel, Bishop and Abbot of St. Shenouda Monastery in New South Wales. During a heartfelt assembly with the entire school, His Grace shared profound insights with our students on the importance of embracing love and compassion in today’s world.
We are deeply grateful for his visit and the wisdom he imparted. May God continue to protect and bless him in his ministry.
Madonna Kadas
CORE Teacher
Year 6 Students Inspire Foundation Readers
with Storytime Session
The College’s Year 6 English Enhancement class has been a cornerstone of our curriculum for advanced writers for several years now. This program is designed to support our advanced students in developing their writing abilities, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel in their writing as they prepare for Secondary education.
As part of the program, students have focused on crafting narrative stories and completed their own picture storybooks, specifically created with our Foundation students as the intended audience.
On Wednesday, October 9th, the Year 6 English Enhancement students had the wonderful opportunity to share and read their picture storybooks with our Foundation students. This experience was not only enjoyable for our English Enhancement students, who felt it boosted their confidence in public speaking, but also captivating for the Foundation students, who were fully engaged in the adventure stories and eager with questions afterward.
Mervet Boulos
Head of Primary
Park Explorers - Year 2's Journey into the Community!
As part of their integrated studies in Geography, Health, and English, our Year 2 students recently embarked on an exciting adventure to a local park!
The outing, held at Glenelg Ventnor Reserve, was a fantastic way for students to learn about local landmarks and develop a deeper sense of community. During their visit, they explored how local bushlands, parks, and reserves might have looked before European settlement, while also considering their role in today’s modern society. The students had an absolute blast exploring the park and playing together, making it a fun and educational experience for everyone involved!
Maria Amanatidis, Claudia Odisho, Amanda Odisho and Ria Celine
Year 2 Teachers
Celebrating Uniform Excellence with a Special Treat
As a well-deserved reward for consistently wearing the correct uniform throughout Term 3, students in 4B and 5C were treated to a special lunch featuring pizza, ice cream, and refreshing drinks. This celebration was a wonderful way to acknowledge their commitment to upholding the school’s uniform standards.
We extend our sincere gratitude to these students for their dedication and exemplary behaviour. Your efforts truly reflect the pride you take in being part of our school community. Keep up the excellent work—more opportunities for rewards may be on the horizon!
Sarah Fraser, Carla Maisano and Liz Robertson
Cluster Coordinators
Red House Winners!
Page Turners Galore: New Books Hit the Shelves!
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of a fantastic selection of new books in the Primary Library! Thanks to the generous commission earned through the Lamont Annual Book Fair held earlier this year, we’ve been able to expand our collection with an exciting range of sports and picture books.
These new additions are sure to inspire our young readers and foster a lifelong love of reading. Be sure to drop by the library soon to explore the latest titles waiting to be enjoyed by all our students!
Rosemary Sullivan, Deb Henwood, Stephanie Youil, Donna Marolla
Libray Team
Download SEQTA Engage Today!
SEQTA is our learning management system. Part of SEQTA is SEQTA Engage, which It is a powerful tool for parents and carers to have an overview of their child’s learning and assessments. It provides parents and carers with access to key information about their child's academic programs and progress, which is quick, easy and confidential. This includes access to their timetable, as well as attendance and punctuality records, assessment results, teachers’ feedback and College reports, enabling greater collaboration and enhanced learning outcomes for your children.
Both the SEQTA Engage and SEQTA Learn (for students) sites use the SEQTA Teach programmes as the primary vehicle, through which all the teaching and curriculum-related information are shared.
If you need any assistant, please do not hesitate to contact Dalal Youil.
As parents and carers, you can download SEQTA Engage below.
Year 11 Camp full of Adventure and Confidence
The Year 11 Camp was a fantastic opportunity for students to step back, reflect, and recharge. It was a time to build confidence and resilience, not just as individuals, but as a team.
The camp provided valuable skills in group collaboration, encouraging students to work together proactively while taking a well-deserved break from the pressures of VCE. Most importantly, it was a chance to unwind, connect with classmates, and simply have fun—fostering personal growth and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Chris Mathew
Year 11 Coordinator
Maths Week Mania: Puzzles and Prizes
We had another incredibly successful Maths Week in 2024! Each day featured exciting Sudoku competitions, with more students participating in our lunchtime activities than ever before. Winners were rewarded with canteen vouchers, making the challenge even sweeter!
To cap off the week, we were thrilled to welcome the World of Mathematics team on Friday. Our Year 7 students dived into hands-on activities, exploring the fun side of maths. Staff also got in on the action with their own activities, adding to the celebratory spirit.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of Maths Week. Special appreciation goes to the incredible Maths Team: Fiona, Lee, Michael, Eugene, Alan, and Sibi, who ensured the week was engaging and memorable for all!
The Maths Department
Year 12’s Funfields Adventure
Our Year 12 students recently made the most of their day at Funfields, enjoying a well-deserved break before the upcoming VCAA exams. The pleasant weather allowed them to take full advantage of a variety of rides, both wet and dry. For the thrill-seekers, the infamous Voodoo ride was a highlight, launching them 18 metres into the air with a 360-degree spin!
With plenty of water slides and excitement, the students enjoyed quality time with friends in a relaxed, carefree atmosphere. We’re pleased to report that they represented the College with pride and upheld the high standards expected of them.
Rimon Dinkha
Year 12 Coordinator
EQUIP 2: Year 9’s Day of Leadership and Teamwork
On Friday, 18 October 2024, Year 9 students took part in an exciting, full-day incursion held onsite at SMCOC. The program, known as ‘EQUIP 2’, was packed with high-energy, high-impact activities that encouraged every student to step up and contribute using their strengths, teamwork, and leadership skills.
The day was divided into three dynamic sessions:
Session 1: The Power of Influence
Students explored what influence truly means and discovered the difference they can make through their actions and choices.
Session 2: T.E.A.M.S.
A hands-on team-building session focused on creating synergy, improving communication, and working effectively together.
Session 3: Discovering Leadership Strengths
Students delved into three different types of leadership, gaining a deeper understanding of their own strengths and how to harness the strengths of others to achieve success as a team.
The workshop was a fantastic opportunity for students to develop key skills, build confidence, and understand the impact of positive leadership.
Mervet Boulos
Head of Primary
Year 10 Conquers Camp Marysville
During Week 4 of this term, our Year 10 students embarked on their annual adventure to Camp Marysville, returning with unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. The camp was filled with challenges, laughter, and camaraderie, all while surrounded by the scenic beauty of nature. Who could forget the steep 1.5-kilometre incline hike?
Despite a few unpredictable weather moments, our students approached every activity with enthusiasm and a great sense of humour. This year’s camp had a twist: students didn’t get to pick their activity groups, and all phones and devices were left behind to encourage deeper connections with each other and the environment.
The students worked together to conquer the high ropes course, improve their teamwork with initiative games, and enjoy the breathtaking bushwalks. Canoeing brought its usual share of hilarity, with staff and students deciding they weren’t quite wet enough—ending in spontaneous “dunking” sessions!
Evenings were just as lively, with activities like a Trivia Night and a classic campfire (where a few learned the hard way that marshmallows aren’t meant to be charcoal-flavored). The packed schedule ensured there was never a dull moment!
A big commendation goes out to all our students, who were consistently polite and courteous to their instructors and camp staff throughout the entire camp. This experience wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and support of our incredible teachers. A special thanks to Ms. Shemalah Anthony, Ms. Mariam Saad, Mr. John Saad, Mr. Paul Di Lizia, Mr. Alan He, and Mr. Sibi Isaac, whose tireless efforts made the camp a resounding success.
Reflecting on this experience, it’s clear that our students returned with a stronger sense of unity and newfound confidence after pushing their limits in activities they had never tried before.
Well done to everyone involved!
Evan Kasapis
Year 10 Coordinator
Year 4’s Portsea Camp: Fun and Unforgettable Moments!
At the start of Term 4, our Year 4 students kicked off an unforgettable journey to the Portsea Campsite!
The camp was packed with thrilling activities, including the Giant Swing, High Ropes Course, and an exhilarating Flying Fox. Students also enjoyed some well-deserved beach time and, to top it all off, a spontaneous dance party that got everyone moving. The celebrations didn’t stop there—they even marked two birthdays together during their stay!
Every activity was designed to boost confidence, resilience, and teamwork, helping students build lasting friendships while creating treasured memories. It was truly a camp to remember!
Carla Maisano
Year 3 & 4 Cluster Coordinator
A Night of Creativity and Technology
The Arts and Technology Exhibition and Concert at the college was a vibrant celebration of student creativity and talent. The event featured a stunning visual art exhibition, an impressive robotics display, and delicious treats crafted by our food technology students. Guests mingled while enjoying finger food and admiring the incredible art pieces, creating a perfect ambiance for the evening.
The night continued with a concert that showcased our students' diverse talents. From the energetic beats of the school band to the harmonious voices of the primary and secondary choirs, each performance captivated the audience. Soloists amazed with breathtaking guitar, piano, and violin pieces, while a singing duet left everyone in awe.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and supported this special event. We are incredibly proud of all our students and performers who made the night truly unforgettable!
Sandra Mlikota
Head of Music
Staff Spotlight
Every month, we're excited to shine a spotlight on staff members at SMCOC. This feature is a fantastic opportunity for our community to get to know the incredible individuals who help make our college a welcoming and vibrant place. In this edition, meet our the Teaching and Learning Leader (Primary), Kate Tsiolas.
Kate Tsiolas has been a cherished member of the SMCOC community since 2004. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of teaching across various primary year levels. Kate’s passion for education is driven by her belief that every student has the potential to succeed when provided with engaging, challenging, and effective learning experiences.
Over the years, her dedication has led her to take on increasing leadership roles within the College. Currently, Kate serves as the Teaching and Learning Leader (Primary). In this role, she works closely with staff to design, implement, and evaluate the curriculum while leading professional development to continuously enhance teaching practices. Kate also plays a vital role as one of the Foundation teachers, where she supports the growth and development of the College’s youngest learners.
For Kate, SMCOC has truly become like a second family over the last 20 years. The relationships she has built with staff, students, and the wider community have fostered a deep sense of belonging and shared purpose that extends beyond the classroom. She is grateful for the countless opportunities to make a difference and for the cherished memories created along the way.
Outside of school, Kate’s life is wonderfully busy. She is a proud mum to two energetic young boys who are passionate about sports, which keeps her frequently on the road across Melbourne. Whenever possible, she loves escaping the city to visit her family in NSW, where she enjoys the peace and quiet of the countryside.
Important Dates
Year 6 Graduation Dinner, Thursday, Nov 14, 2024
Year 9-11 Exams, Monday, Nov 18, 2024
VCE Exams Conclude, Wednesday, Nov 20, 2024
Foundation Orientation Day, Thursday, Nov 21, 2024
Exam Feedback Day, Monday, Nov 25 – 26, 2024
Year 11 Excursion to NGV, Tuesday, Nov 26, 2024
Year 2 & 3 Liturgy, Thursday, November 28, 8:30am – 10:00am
Year 6 Camp – City Experience Nov 27 – 29, 2024
End of Year Excursion, Wednesday, Nov 27, 2024
HEAD Start, Nov 28 – 29, 2024
Year 2 & 3 Liturgy, Thursday, November 28, 8:30am – 10:00am
Join Our Team: Bus Driver Wanted
We are reaching out to share an exciting job opportunity within our community that may be of interest to you or someone you know. Our College is currently seeking a dedicated and responsible Bus Driver to join our transportation team.
The role of the Bus Driver is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of our students as they travel to and from our College. This position requires a valid commercial driver's license, a clean driving record, and a working with children check.
This position requires the following key responsibilities:
- Safely transporting students on scheduled routes.
- Ensuring compliance with all traffic laws and safety regulations.
- Maintaining a clean and well-functioning bus.
- Communicating effectively with students, parents, and College staff.
If you or someone you know is interested in applying for this position, please contact Mr. Fadel Guirguis on 0403494122 for more details. We appreciate your support in helping us find the right candidate to keep our students safe and ensure a smooth transportation experience.
Fadel Guirguis
Bus Manager
Canteen Price Changes
As you have been informed the prices at canteen have changed, please make yourself familiar with these changes and ensure your child has the correct money to purchase from the canteen.
You can find out price updates on via the menu changes we circulated via SEQTA.
St Mary's Coptic Orthodox College
19-35 Thorpdale Avenu, Coolaroo 3048
93 - 301 0999
stmarys.vic.edu.au