COLLEGE NEWSLETTER
September 2025
Message from the Head of College
Dear College Community,
As we celebrate the Feast of Nayrouz, marking the beginning of the Coptic calendar, we reflect on the rich history of our faith, deeply rooted in the sacrifices of the Christian martyrs through out the history of the Coptic Orthodox Church. This significant occasion not only honours their courage and unwavering commitment to Christ but also serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy they left behind, and I am sure all the other churches celebrate their own martyrs who gave up their lives for Christ to keep their churches' faith alive.
The martyrs, through their steadfast faith, demonstrated the power of love and conviction, inspiring us to navigate our own trials with grace and determination.
As we embark on this new year, let us take a moment to recognise the achievements of our students, who embody the same spirit of resilience and dedication. Each accomplishment, whether in academics, sports, or community service, contributes to our collective identity and reflects the values instilled in us by our forebears.
Nayrouz is not just a time of remembrance; it is also a call to action for all of us to carry forward the torch of faith and excellence in our daily lives.
Let this celebration rejuvenate our spirits and strengthen our commitment to one another as a community. Together, we honour our heritage and support each other on our ongoing journeys of growth and accomplishment. May this new Coptic year be filled with blessings, opportunities, and the courage to pursue our goals with the same fervour as the martyrs we commemorate.
Fr. Tadros Sharobeam
Head of College
Message from the Principal
Greetings College Community,
Welcome back to Term 4! I pray you all enjoyed a restful and joy-filled term break and have returned refreshed, ready to embrace the final chapter of another blessed year at SMCO.
This edition of our newsletter captures the energy, learning and community spirit that filled the end of Term 3. Our Foundation students learned about fire safety with Fire Rescue Victoria, while our Year 3 students brought Mathematics to life by running their own classroom markets.
Year 4 students explored the fascinating world of Chemical Sciences and Year 5 stepped back in time at Sovereign Hill, discovering the richness of our nation’s Gold Rush history.
Our Secondary students also shone across many areas of learning and wellbeing. Year 8 students grew in confidence and resilience through their Mindset Masterclass, while our Year 11 Psychology students explored the science of perception during their ArtVo excursion.
In the Creative Arts, our talented Music students recorded original tracks at KoolSkools Studios; a wonderful celebration of their creativity, teamwork and dedication.
As a College community, we also came together to mark R U OK? Day, reflecting on the importance of kindness, compassion and checking in on one another. These moments remind us that every act of care helps nurture the loving and faith-filled environment we cherish at SMCO.
As we begin this final term, let us carry forward the same enthusiasm and gratitude that have defined our journey so far. May this be a term of celebration, growth and thanksgiving; a time to recognise how far we have come and to finish the year with purpose, joy and faith in all that God continues to do through our community.
Blessings,
Germaine Saad
Principal
Raising Concerns and Complaints - College Protocol Summary
Student
If the complaint is related to your safety and wellbeing, or the safety and wellbeing of another student or group of students, you may speak to any trusted adult or a Child Safety Champion at the College.
For a child-friendly version of this policy, click on the relevant link below:
If you are a student with a complaint about a member of staff, you should raise it first with your class teacher or Cluster Leader or Year Level Coordinator, as relevant.
If the complaint is related to your safety and wellbeing, or the safety and wellbeing of another student or group of students, you may speak to a trusted adult or a Child Safety Champion at the College.
For a child-friendly version of this policy, click on the relevant link below:
Complaints Process-Primary Students
Complaints Process-Secondary Students
Parent/Carer
If you are a parent/carer with a complaint about a student other than your own child, you should raise it with the Cluster Leader (in Primary) or the Year Level Coordinator (in Secondary).
Parents are advised not to approach the children of other families with a College-related complaint. This is often a sensitive area and in order to protect all the parties, it is advisable to work through the relevant teacher or members of the College Leadership Team.
If you are a parent/carer with a complaint about a member of staff, the issue should first be discussed with the relevant teacher, if appropriate, then if not resolved, should be discussed with the appropriate Cluster Leader or Year Level Coordinator, as relevant.
If the complaint is related to your child’s safety and wellbeing, or the safety and wellbeing of another student or group of students, you are encouraged to discuss with a Child Safety Champion or the Principal.
If you are a parent/carer with a concern about an academic issue, it should first be discussed with the relevant teacher. If this seems difficult, you may speak with the relevant Head of Department, or the VCE/VET Coordinator for Year 11 & 12.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
For the detailed policy and flowcharts, refer to the College’s Complaints and Grievances Policy. This policy is also available under the Home/College Policies page on our website.
للاطلاع على السياسة التفصيلية والمخططات الانسيابية ، يرجى الرجوع إلى سياسة الشكاوى والتظلمات الخاصة بالكلية. هذه السياسة متاحة أيضا ضمن صفحة سياسات الكلية على موقعنا على الإنترنت
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
Celebrating the Coptic New Year
SMCO would like to wish everyone a blessed Feast of Nayrouz, the Coptic New Year. This feast marks the beginning of the Coptic calendar and is a time when we remember the steadfast faith of the martyrs and saints who witnessed for Christ.
CORE Department
Foundation Incursion - RACV Road Safety
On Tuesday 2nd September, our Foundation students took part in an engaging RACV incursion focused on safety at home and in the community. Students learned about important road safety rules and road signs, as well as the importance of sitting safely in the car with a seatbelt connected.
They also explored how to stay safe around the home, including identifying safe areas to play, wearing a helmet when riding a bike, and avoiding unsafe household products. The session was a fun and interactive way to help our students build lifelong safety habits.
Sarah Fraser
Foundation Teacher
A Blessing and Goodbye: Class of 2025’s Last Liturgy
The Year 12 final liturgy at St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College was a reflective ceremony conducted by Father Peter. In his heartfelt sermon, he spoke to our students about the vital importance of continuing to walk on the path of the Lord, a path that has been illuminated for them since their early years at SMCO. He emphasised the significance of nurturing their faith and values as they prepare to embark on new journeys beyond college.
Father Peter urged the students to actively seek God’s wisdom in choosing their friends, reminding them that the company they keep plays a crucial role in their spiritual and personal growth. He encouraged them to surround themselves with individuals who inspire them to be the best versions of themselves and who will help them keep the light of the Lord Jesus Christ shining brightly in the world.
CORE Department
Booked for Fun! College Parade Brings Stories to Life
On Friday, 5th September, our College was transformed into a celebration of imagination as students and staff stepped straight out of the pages of their favourite books for our annual Book Week Parade. From wizards and wonderlands to detectives and dragons, the campus came alive with colour, creativity, and a shared love of reading.
The day was filled with laughter and storytelling flair as students showcased their favourite characters through clever costumes and spirited performances.
The gymnasium buzzed with excitement as each class paraded through, cheered on by their peers and teachers, surrounded by book-themed decorations that turned the space into a reader’s dream.
More than just a day of dress-ups, the parade was a joyful reminder of the power of stories to spark imagination, bring people together, and inspire a lifelong love of reading. It was truly a celebration of creativity, community, and the imagination found within the pages of a good book.
Honoring Fatherhood: A Heartwarming Celebration
This year, our college kicked off Father’s Day with a heartfelt breakfast that brought smiles, stories, and plenty of coffee to campus. The celebration honoured the incredible fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who play such an important role in our students’ lives.
The morning was filled with laughter and connection as those in attendance gathered to enjoy a delicious breakfast together.
The event was a joyful reminder of the strong bonds that shape our community. It was truly a morning to remember, celebrating fatherhood in all its forms and the many ways these remarkable men make a difference.
Germaine Saad
Principal
A Showcase of Stories: Primary Book Week Performances
Butterfly Fly Away: A Sweet Serenade for Our Super Dads
At the Week 7 Assembly and Father’s Day Breakfast on Friday, 5 September, our talented Year 4 students Rima Yousifany, Sinit Hselassie, Elilta Michael, and Mikayla Marooki took to the stage with a touching performance of “Butterfly Fly Away.” Under the guidance of their singing teacher, Miss Lim How, the group dedicated their song to fathers, grandfathers, and all the father figures who fill our lives with love and wisdom.
Their beautiful harmonies and heartfelt delivery captured the audience’s attention and emotion, creating a warm and memorable moment for everyone present. The song’s message of gratitude and appreciation resonated deeply, making it a highlight of our 2025 Father’s Day celebrations.
It was a performance that truly celebrated family and connection.
Sandra Mlikota
Head of Music
Aspire Higher: Year 5 Students Step Up as Future Leaders
On Tuesday, 9th September, our Year 5 students took part in a full-day leadership incursion presented by Unleashing Personal Potential. The program was designed to empower senior primary students with practical leadership skills, strengthen peer connections, and inspire them to lead with confidence and compassion.
The interactive “Aspire Higher” experience engaged students through storytelling, hands-on activities, teamwork, and reflection. Throughout the day, students discovered that true leadership isn’t about titles or recognition, it’s about actions, service, influence, and kindness.
A highlight of the program was a fast-paced outdoor team challenge that encouraged problem-solving, communication, and creativity. As they worked together to overcome obstacles, students developed greater self-awareness and learned to recognise and value their own strengths as well as the strengths of others.
By the end of the day, our Year 5 leaders had grown not only in skill but also in empathy, collaboration, and confidence vital qualities that will continue to guide them on their leadership journey.
Alicia Braakhuis
Year 5 Teacher
Strings of Joy: Year 4 & 5 Duo Hit All the Right Notes
At the Week 8 Assembly, Year 5 student Karas Aho and Year 4 student Essa Alnader wowed the audience with a delightful violin duet of “Bunion Tree.” Their performance was a true highlight of the morning, filling the room with energy, harmony, and smiles all around.
Known for their positivity, kindness, and dedication to their musical craft, Karas and Essa impressed everyone with the precision and vibrancy of their playing. Their uplifting duet not only brightened the assembly but also showcased the incredible talent and teamwork blossoming within our college community.
It was a wonderful reminder of how music can bring people together and these young musicians certainly struck a chord with us all!
Sandra Mlikota
Head of Music
2025 Choir Competition In Ballarat!
On the 9th of September, our Middle School Choir proudly represented our college at the Royal South Street Society Ballarat Eisteddfod Choral Competition. Competing in the Year 7–12 Secondary Schools Choir category, the students delivered an engaging performance of their three repertoire pieces.
The adjudicator, Ms Marianne Rigby, National President of the Australian National Choral Association, awarded our choir 3rd place in recognition of their musical excellence and artistry. Guided by Mrs. Sandra Mlikot and Miss Sabrina Lim How and accompanied on piano by Mr. Dimitri Ioannou, our choir students sang with passion and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to perform on stage.
Sandra Mlikota
Head of Music
Sparks of Excitement: Foundation Students Learn Fire Safety
Over the past few weeks, our Foundation students have been learning all about fire safety through the Fire Ed for Foundation program, delivered by Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV). This hands-on and engaging program helps young learners understand essential fire safety knowledge in a fun and age-appropriate way.
During the first visit, firefighters led an interactive classroom session on fire safety, teaching students what to do in case of a fire and how to stay safe.
The second visit was the highlight — the big red fire truck arrived at school! Students were thrilled to explore the truck up close and learn how firefighters use their equipment during emergencies.
A big thank you to Fire Rescue Victoria for providing such a valuable experience for our students and helping them become more fire safe.
Gold Fever at Sovereign Hill! Year 5 Camp Adventure
On Wednesday September 10th, our Year 5 students stepped back in time during their camp to Sovereign Hill, immersing themselves in the fascinating era of the Australian Gold Rush.
From exploring underground mines to watching a live gold pour demonstration, students experienced the excitement and challenges of life on the goldfields.
They tried their luck panning for gold, dressed in 1850s-style clothing, and even re-enacted the famous Eureka Rebellion, bringing history to life with passion and enthusiasm. A special highlight for many was seeing the original Southern Cross flag and learning about its powerful symbolism.
Of course, no trip to Sovereign Hill would be complete without a visit to the lolly shop, a definite crowd-pleaser that added a sweet finish to an unforgettable adventure!
Alicia Braakhuis
Year 5 Teacher
Science Sparks: Year 4 Dive into Chemical Creations!
On Thursday 11th September, our Year 4 students had an amazing time taking part in the Chemical Science incursion, focused on Natural and Processed Materials. The session was hands-on and highly interactive, with students engaging in a series of fun experiments that brought their learning to life.
They explored how different materials change when heated or cooled, investigated properties such as flexibility and transparency, and discussed how these characteristics make materials suitable for various purposes.
The incursion ignited plenty of curiosity and meaningful discussion, with students eager to share their observations and connect them to what we’ve been learning in class. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, many described the experience as “so much fun!” It was wonderful to see our budding scientists so engaged and excited about exploring the world of materials.
Nancy Turner
Year 4 Teacher
Year 11 Psychology Sees Through the Illusion at ArtVo
As part of Unit 2, Area of Study 2, our Year 11 Psychology students have been exploring the fascinating world of visual perception and illusions, discovering how and why our senses can sometimes be tricked.
To bring these abstract concepts to life, students took part in an immersive excursion to ArtVo, Melbourne’s interactive trick-art gallery. At ArtVo, they engaged with a range of large-scale visual illusions, learning how elements such as depth cues and Gestalt principles influence the way we interpret what we see.
Students had fun interacting with the artworks, posing strategically and capturing photos from specific angles to make each illusion “come alive.”
This hands-on experience offered a meaningful way to apply psychological theory to real-world contexts, as students used psychological terminology and concepts to explain the illusions they encountered.
Not only was the excursion highly educational, but it was also an enjoyable and memorable experience, allowing students to visualise complex psychological ideas in a creative, interactive, and truly mind-bending way!
Nardine Saad
Wellbeing Officer
Jumping Into Kindness: SMCO Celebrates R U OK? Day
On Friday 12thSeptember, St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College celebrated R U OK? Day. A national initiative that highlights the importance of mental health conversations and encourages Australians to check in with one another.
As a Christian College, we uphold the values of compassion, kindness, and respect, and this day served as a powerful reminder of how we can live out these values within our school community.
Our primary students took part in an exciting activity called R U OK? Hopscotch, where each class worked together to design and draw their own hopscotch pattern inspired by the R U OK? message.
The activity encouraged creativity, teamwork, and reflection, helping students think about ways they can support others and promote inclusion.
Meanwhile, our secondary students contributed to a vibrant R U OK? Graffiti Wall. A collaborative artwork filled with messages, drawings, and themes celebrating connection and kindness. This creative project gave students a meaningful way to express their understanding of mental health and the power of checking in with others.
It was a bright and positive day across the College; a true celebration of community, empathy, and the simple question that can make a big difference: R U OK?
Nardine Saad
Wellbeing Officer
Year 8 Thrive
On Friday 6th September, our Year 8 students took part in a full-day workshop at the College focused on building growth mindsets, grit, wellbeing, and leadership. Throughout the day, students explored a range of engaging and thought-provoking topics designed to strengthen their confidence, resilience, and personal growth. Sessions included:
- GROWTH MINDSET AND MY BRAIN
- GETTING GRITTY, SETTING GOALS
- WELLBEING AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
- MY MINDSET, MY PERFORMANCE
- GRIT, HABITS AND DELIBERATE PRACTICE
- WELLBEING WITH PERMAH
- DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP CAPACITY
- BUILDING STRONGER CONNECTIONS
The workshop encouraged students to reflect on their mindset, set meaningful goals, and understand how perseverance and positive thinking contribute to success, both in and out of the classroom.
Mervet Boulos
Head of Primary
Hitting All the Right Notes: SMCO Music Students Record at KoolSkools
Twenty-three talented students from the SMCO Music Enhancement Program, had an unforgettable experience at the KoolSkools recording studio in Heidelberg North during the final two days of Term 3.
Across the two-day excursion, students rehearsed, performed, and recorded an impressive 10 original songs and five covers, gaining firsthand experience of what it’s like to produce music in a professional recording studio. The atmosphere was filled with creativity, collaboration, and excitement, making it an inspiring and thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
In the coming weeks, we look forward to receiving the SMCO Music Album 2025, titled Just the Beginning, produced by the talented KoolSkools sound engineers.
The KoolSkools program is an annual initiative that celebrates and showcases young musicians across Victoria. Participants are recognised for their creativity, performance, and production skills, with awards presented across multiple categories, including the prestigious “Koolest Skool” title. If any of our students are selected for an award, we can’t wait to celebrate their success at the official ceremony on the 15th November 2025.
A huge thank you to Miss Lim How and Mr Scarpaci for organising this incredible opportunity and supporting our students in shining brightly through their passion for music!
Sandra Mlikota
Head of Music
Market Day Fun: Year 3 Students Cash In on Learning
After completing their unit on Money and Financials, our Year 3 students had the chance to put their learning into practice in a fun and engaging way, by running their very own classroom market!
Using the money they had earned through positive behaviour and classroom conduct, students enthusiastically took on the roles of buyers and sellers, trading a range of exciting items and putting their financial know-how to the test.
The market was filled with energy, teamwork, and smiles as students counted coins, made purchases, and experienced the joy of hands-on learning.
It was a wonderful day of fun, friendship, and financial discovery, and our young entrepreneurs loved every minute of it!
Nashwa Maroky
Year 3 Teacher
Important Dates
Term 4 - Teachers Return
Monday, October 6
Term 4 - Students Return
Tuesday, October 7
Year 4 Camp
October 8 – 10, 2025
Yr12 - Excursion to Parliament
Friday, October 10
PAT Primary
October 13 – 17, 2025
Foundation - Body Safety
Monday, October 13
Year 1 - Body Safety
Monday, October 13
Year 2 - Body Safety
Monday, October 13
Last Day for Year 12 Students
Friday, October 17
Year 7 - World of Mathematics Incursion
Friday, October 17
Year 9 - Equip 2 WorkShop
Friday, October 17
PAT Secondary
October 20 – 24, 2025
Foundation Swimming Lessons
October 20 – 22, 2025
Year 12 Fun-fields excursion (Year 12 Celebration Day)
Tuesday, October 21
Year 3 - Body Safety
Wednesday, October 22
Year 4 - Body Safety
Wednesday, October 22
Primary Athletics Carnival Excursion
Friday, October 24
Arts & Tech Week
October 27 – 31, 2025
Year 10 Camp
October 27 – 29, 2025
Foundation Swimming Lessons
October 27 – 28, 2025
VCE Exams Commence
Tuesday, October 28
Year 7 - Set Up
Wednesday, October 29
Nat. Sim. Story Time
Thursday, October 30
Year 7 Orientation Day
Thursday, October 30
All new enrolments Orientation Day
Friday, October 31
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