Newsletter

May 2024

Walk While You Have Light

Dear College Community,

“Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going” (John 12: 35). Job lived for 200 years and said of his time (on earth) “Are not my days few?” (Job 10:20). And Jacob lived for 130 years and said “few and evil have been the days of the years of my life” (Genesis 47:9). Despite this few is little but extremely little, how often one will waste this little time regardless how frequently one will say “time is short”, but even this short time, man makes it even shorter What do you do with this short and little time???


Jeremiah the prophet wrote his prophecy warning the Israelites and their king of their lack of restraints and evil doings. The scroll in which the prophecy was written, was taken to the king who sat by a hearth of fire for warmth (during winter) and after reading a few lines of the prophecy, the king cut the scroll with a knife and throw it in fire to burn and watched as it burned (Jeremiah 36). Perhaps, he thought that the prophecy will not materialize for a long period or maybe he didn’t think much of what it contained but, the reality is there was no time to spare. At the same time armies of the enemy were advancing toward the town (where he lived) and a few days later, he was captured and they blinded his eyes and taken as a prisoner in chains. King Belshazzar ordered for the vessels taken from the house of the Lord (the temple in Jerusalem) and given a great banquet in his palace drinking and getting drunk using the holy vessels. He was proud of his might and (earthly) fading glory and suddenly a hand appeared and written on the walls terrifying words no one could understand. Scared and terrified the king asked for some to interpret these writings and no one could interpret, but Daniel who read the writings for the king and refused to take any vain rewards (Daniel 5) and the words said “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN” You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting. Your kingdom has been divided, and given to the Medes and Persians (Daniel 5:25-28) and this will be done tonight. They were dancing and singing in Sodom. The presence of Lot the righteous among them was a warning and caution but they took no notice. The entrance of the two angels into the town was a warning. At last, they closed their eyes and followed their physical lusts and when morning dawned, the skies rained fire and sulphur on Sodom and it burned and the smoke of its fire rose like an incinerator.


In the days of Noah, they were drinking wine and getting drunk and merry and perhaps they took no notice of Noah and his warnings despite Noah was building his ark for about a hundred years (Genesis 19) and this was a little and short time but they did not benefit from it and when Noah and his sons went into the ark and the Lord shut the door on them and all the inhabitants at the time were destroyed by the flood. Beloved, this time is little and short, what do you do (to benefit) of this little time. The day which goes by will not come again. The hours you spend in laziness and sleep, shouldn’t you spend it in prayers and in the church (of God) It is a very valuable time. Do not waste it. Maybe you still in good health and can spend (time in prayers). Who knows what condition you will have tomorrow???


This time you spend in watching useless films or in idle chat with friends which has no value is a very valuable time. What do you say about times wasted on parties of dance and drunkenness and empty fun. What do you say of wasted life in gambling and a life of laziness separated from God.


Beloved, remember always “a little while longer the light is with you” and maybe a lot shorter than you think or believe.


Fr. Tadros Sharobeam

Head of College

Acting Principal's Message

As we continue our journey through Term Two, our calendar has been marked by a series of enriching activities, each contributing uniquely to the development of our incredible students. From our faith to educational advancements, the past month has truly reflected the vibrant life of our college.

We began with Coptic Resurrection Monday, honouring this significant time with a school-wide holiday. The subsequent Resurrection Celebration brought together students from Foundation to Year 12, and what a signification event it was.

The visit by Hon Evan Mulholland MP provided our Year 12 students with invaluable insights into governance and public service, nurturing future leaders with a sense of civic duty. 

Activities such as the Year 10 Wellbeing Day and the comprehensive Health & PE Week underscored our commitment to holistic education—caring for the mind, body, and spirit. These events, along with the first aid training and career expo, are pivotal in preparing our students for life beyond the college.

We also focused on health with the dental van visit and immunisations, ensuring our community remains vibrant and healthy. The National Simultaneous Storytime and Elevate Study Skills sessions enriched our students academically, while the outdoor adventure for Year 9 and various educational excursions provided practical learning experiences.

As we celebrated Reconciliation Week, we reflected on the Apostle Paul’s call for unity in Ephesians 4:3, “endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” This biblical principle guides us as we engage in reconciliation, embodying the spirit of community and understanding.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed their feedback through our recent survey. Your insights are invaluable as we strive to refine and enhance our educational environment.

Looking forward, let us continue to support each other in these enriching activities, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow. 

Germaine Saad

Acting Principal


COVID-19 Health Alert

COVID-19 Health Alert

The following health alert has been issued by by Dr Clare Looker, Chief Health Officer.

Victoria is currently experiencing increased COVID-19 activity in the community, resulting in an increase in people being hospitalised with COVID-19.

At the same time, we are seeing increasing cases of influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) as we head into winter.

During this time, it is especially important those at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses are protected – this includes people aged 65 and above, people with a disability or chronic medical condition and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Younger children aged 6 months to 5 years and pregnant women are also at greater risk of influenza and RSV.

These six steps can help you stay ahead of COVID-19:

1. Wear a mask: a high-quality and well-fitted mask can protect you and others from the virus.

2. Get vaccinated: stay up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine. There are new monovalent vaccines available that are highly effective at preventing severe disease. You should get a booster if you are over 75 and haven't had one for 6 months. Other groups are also recommended to get a booster. Vaccines are available at your GP or local pharmacy.

3. Let fresh air in: open windows and doors when you can – it reduces the spread of the virus. Meet outside when possible.

4. Get tested: if you have symptoms, take a rapid antigen test. If you test positive and are eligible for antivirals, take them as soon as possible.

5. Stay at home if you are unwell: if you have COVID-19, you should stay at home for at least five days and until you have no symptoms. Speak to your GP if symptoms worsen.

6. Take antivirals if eligible: if you are at risk of falling very sick, you may be eligible for COVID-19 antiviral medicines. You must take these within 5 days of developing symptoms - the sooner the better. See your GP for more information.

Yearly flu vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over and free for eligible priority groups.

For more information on how to stay healthy, visit Coronavirus (COVID-19) Victoria. For more information on how to stay healthy, visit:

 تنبيه صحي لكوفيد-19

تم إصدار التنبيه الصحي التالي من قبل الدكتورة كلير لوكير ، كبيرة مسؤولي الصحة في

.فيكتوريا

تشهد فيكتوريا حاليا زيادة في نشاط فيروس كورونا في المجتمع ، مما يؤدي إلى زيادة عدد في الأشخاص الذين يتم نقلهم إلى المستشفى بسببه، في الوقت نفسه، تشهد حالات متزايدة من

.الأنفلونزا والفيروس المخلوي التنفسي مع اقترابنا من فصل الشتاء

خلال هذا الوقت ، من المهم بشكل خاص حماية الأشخاص الأكثر عرضة للإصابة بمرض خطير من فيروس كورونا وفيروسات الجهاز التنفسي الأخرى - وهذا يشمل الأشخاص الذين تبلغ أعمارهم 65 عاما فما فوق ، والأشخاص ذوي الإعاقة أو الحالة الطبية المزمنة والسكان الأصليين وسكان جزر مضيق توريس

الأطفال الأصغر سنا الذين تتراوح أعمارهم بين 6 أشهر و 5 سنوات والنساء الحوامل هم أيضا أكثر عرضة للإصابة بالأنفلونزا والفيروس المخلوي التنفسي


:يمكن أن تساعدك هذه الخطوات الست للوقايه من فيروس كورونا

.١. إرتد قناعا: يمكن للقناع عالي الجودة والمجهز جيدا أن يحميك أنت والآخرين من الفيروس

٢. إحصل على التطعيم: إبق على إطلاع دائم بلقاح فيروس كورونا \ كوفيد-19 . هناك لقاحات جديدة أحادية التكافؤ متاحة فعالة للغاية في الوقاية من الأمراض الوخيمة. يجب أن تحصل على

معززة إذا كان عمرك أكثر من 75 عاما ولم تحصل على واحدة لمدة 6 أشهر. ينصح أيضا مجموعات أخرى للحصول على التطعيم الداعم. تتوفر اللقاحات في عياده طبيبك أو الصيدلية

. المحلية Other groups  

٣. دع الهواء النقي يدخل: إفتح النوافذ والأبواب عندما تستطيع - فهذا يقلل من انتشار

.الفيروس. إجتمع في الخارج عندما يكون ذلك ممكنا

٤. قم بإجراء الفحص: إذا كانت لديك أعراض ، فقم بإجراء فحص مستضد سريع. إذا كانت نتيجة الفحص إيجابية وكنت مؤهلا للحصول على مضادات الفيروسات، فتناولها في أقرب وقت ممكن

٥. إبق في المنزل إذا لم تكن على ما يرام: إذا كنت مصابا بفيروس كورونا، فيجب عليك البقاء في المنزل لمدة خمسة (5) أيام على الأقل وحتى لا تظهر عليك أعراض. تحدث إلى طبيبك إذا تفاقمت الأعراض٠

٦. تناول الأدوية المضادة للفيروسات إذا كنت مؤهلا: إذا كنت معرضا لخطر الإصابة بالمرض بشكل شديد، فقد تكون مؤهلا للحصول على الأدوية المضادة لفيروس كوفيد-19. يجب أن تأخذ هذه في غضون 5 أيام من ظهور الأعراض - كلما كان ذلك مبكرا كان أفضل. راجع طبيبك لمزيد من المعلومات٠

يوصى بالتطعيم السنوي ضد الإنفلونزا لكل شخص يبلغ من العمر 6 أشهر فما فوق ومجاني للمجموعات ذات الأولوية المؤهلة٠

للحصول على المزيد من المعلومات باللغه العربيه حول كيفية الحفاظ على صحتك ، إضغط على الرابط التالي

فيروس كورونا

Hanan Khreish

Policy & Compliance Leader

Safety Alert for Poisonous Mushrooms

Safety Alert for Poisonous Mushrooms

As part of our commitment to the college community, we would like to keep parents and carers informed of important health and safety alerts.

Parents and carers should be aware of the dangers of wild mushrooms.

This follows the health advisory issued by the Victorian Department of Health Chief Health Officer on Friday 5 April 2024 about the danger of eating potentially poisonous mushrooms. These include death cap mushrooms and yellow-staining mushrooms, which grow in both metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria. For images of these 2 mushrooms, see images below or refer to the Better Health Channel’s Mushroom poisoning webpage.

The toxin in death cap mushrooms remains even after cooking, peeling or drying. If eaten, poisoning can cause nausea, stomach cramps and/or long-term liver damage that may result in death.

Yellow-staining mushrooms look similar to field mushrooms sold in supermarkets but can be harmful if eaten. Symptoms experienced if eaten can include nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhoea. The severity of symptoms varies with the amount eaten.

What to do if you find mushrooms in your garden or while on a walk

Do not pick or eat wild mushrooms. Please let your children know about the dangers of these mushrooms and tell them not to touch any mushrooms. Parents and carers should:

  • while wearing gloves, pick and remove any mushrooms you may find in your garden,
  • carefully place mushrooms and used gloves in a bag and put it in a closed rubbish bin,
  • wash hands thoroughly.

If a mushroom is eaten

Do not wait for symptoms to occur before seeking medical attention.

If you suspect mushroom poisoning, phone Triple Zero (000) or the Victorian Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (24 hours, 7 days a week).

Carefully collect any remaining mushrooms using the same safety steps as above. Also, photograph a sample of the eaten mushroom in case further expert identification is required.

 We hope this information is helpful and wish all parents, carers, students and staff good health.

تنبيه السلامة للفطر السام

بموحب إلتزاماتنا تجاه مجتمع الكلية ، نود أن نبقي أولياء الأمور ومقدمي الرعاية على اطلاع بتنبيهات الصحة والسلامة المهمة٠

يجب أن يكون أولياء الأمور ومقدمو الرعاية على دراية بمخاطر الفطر البري السام٠

يأتي ذلك في أعقاب الاستشارة الصحية الصادرة عن كبير مسؤولي الصحة في وزارة الصحة الفيكتورية يوم الجمعة 5 نيسان \ أبريل 2024 حول خطر تناول الفطر المحتمل ان يكون ساماً. وتشمل هذه الفطر قبعة الموت والفطر تلطيخ الأصفر ، والتي تنمو في كل من ضواحي ملبورن وفيكتوريا الإقليمية. للحصول على صور لهذه الفطر ، انظر الصور أدناه أو الرجوع إلى قناة الصحة الأفضل على الصفحه التالية

Better Health Channel’s Mushroom poisoning webpage

يبقى السم في فطر قبعه الموت حتى بعد الطهي أو التقشير أو التجفيف. إذا تم تناوله ، يمكن أن يسبب التسمم الغثيان وتشنجات المعدة و / أو تلف الكبد على المدى الطويل الذي قد يؤدي إلى الوفاة٠

يشبه الفطر ذو البقع الصفراء فطر الحقل الذي يباع في محلات السوبر ماركت ولكنه قد يكون ضارا إذا تم تناوله. يمكن أن تشمل الأعراض التي تظهر إذا تم تناولها الغثيان وتشنجات المعدة والقيء والإسهال. تختلف شدة الأعراض باختلاف الكمية التي يتم تناولها٠

ماذا تفعل إذا وجدت الفطر في حديقتك أو أثناء المشي

لا تقطف أو تأكل الفطر البري. يرجى إخبار أطفالك بمخاطر هذا الفطر وإخبارهم بعدم لمس أي فطر٠

يجب على الآباء ومقدمي الرعاية

. أثناء ارتداء القفازات ، اختر وأزل أي فطر قد تجده في حديقتك -

.ضع الفطر بعناية والقفازات المستخدمة في كيس وضعه في صندوق قمامة مغلق -

.إغسل يديك جيدا -

إذا تم تناول الفطر

لا تنتظر حدوث الأعراض قبل التماس العناية الطبية٠

  واطلب خدمه الإسعاف ،Triple Zero (000) إذا كنت تشك في تسمم الفطر ، فاتصل ب

أو بمركز معلومات السموم الفيكتوري على 13 11 26 (24 ساعة ، 7 أيام في الأسبوع)٠

إجمع بعناية أي فطر متبقي باستخدام نفس خطوات السلامه المذكورة أعلاه. أيضا ، قم بتصوير عينة من الفطر الذي تم تناوله في حالة الحاجة إلى مزيد من تحديد الخبراء٠

نأمل أن تكون هذه المعلومات مفيدة ونتمنى لجميع الآباء ومقدمي الرعاية والطلاب والموظفين صحة جيدة٠


For the Better Health Channel’s Mushroom poisoning webpage please click on the link below:

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/mushroom-poisoning


Stay Connected:

Download the SEQTA Engage App Now

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.

Yr 12 Students Engage with Leadership:

MP Visit Highlights!

It was an inspiring session for our Year 12 students, who greatly appreciated the visit of MP Evan Mulholand. His profound knowledge and perspectives on politics, Parliament, and leadership left a lasting impression on our young minds.

The stories and advice he shared have ignited spirited conversations and enthusiasm among our future leaders. We deeply appreciate the time he dedicated to our students and the motivation he instilled in them to actively participate in our community. We eagerly anticipate further occasions where we can collaborate and create more such valuable experiences in the future.


Foundation's First Liturgy

On Thursday 9th of May, Foundation students attended their first Liturgy at SMCOC. Joined by their buddies in Year 5, students celebrated the Divine Liturgy with the presence of our college Chaplin Fr Peter.

Students were excited to see the joyous procession of the Resurrection and to receive Holy Bread at the end of the Liturgy. It was truly a day filled with Blessings.  

Celebrating Mums & Carers: A Special Mother's Day Performance

At this week's assembly, our college community paid a heartfelt tribute to mothers and carers. The assembly was graced by the angelic voices of Year 5 student Hiyab Hsellasie and Year 3 student Sinit Hsellasie, who performed Shawna Edward's "The Gift I'll Give." Their beautiful rendition captivated everyone, bringing a reverent silence and goosebumps to the audience. The performance by these talented young girls was a memorable and touching homage to the most important figures in our lives.

We hope all mothers and carers in our college community enjoyed a wonderful Mother's Day celebration.


Sandra Mlikota

Head of Music

What's On: Music Department

As Semester two is approaching, the music rooms have been buzzing with excitement from all our students, especially the ones involved in the enhancement music program and extracurricular music activities. They have

been hard at work preparing some amazing pieces which they will perform on various occasions next semester.


- The Upper Primary Choir and Middle School Choir are getting ready for the Victorian School Music Festival, Royal South Street Choral Contest and The Arts Night.

- Senior SMCOC band is working on a repertoire of songs for the Royal South Street Band Contest, The Arts Night and assembly performances.

- Students from a newly formed Year 6 band are practising their own parts with their instrumental teachers so they can start band rehearsals at the beginning of Term 3 and have their first performance next semester. How exciting!

- Our piano maestros are further developing their fingering and expressive techniques to master their chosen piano pieces enabling them to confidently share them with the SMCOC community.

- Singing students are warming up their angelic voices and learning new techniques to control and project their voices better, while singing solo or in harmony as members of a group.

- A few selected songwriting students and the school band are preparing for SMCOC first ever year of school songwriting competition ‘Kool Schools’ where students will go to a recording studio and experience the process of how professional musicians record their music in a studio. These students will get the opportunity to write and record their own songs.

- Our guitar enhancement program grew this year and all the students are working hard to build their skills, including strumming, fingerpicking and playing melodies, with a big focus on playing together in a group.

- The drum students are learning a range of rudiments and sticking patterns which will equip them with the musical words needed to make musical sentences on the drums. These stepping stones improve their ability to translate their ideas onto the drum kit and give them creative freedom to express themselves.

- After searching for a violin teacher for a while, finally we welcome Miss Laura Pollock who is a perfect addition to our music team. Miss Laura is working hard to help students develop proper violin and cello playing techniques, finger placement and musical expression. Students are developing a repertoire of solo pieces and duets which we will enjoy next semester.

- In their weekly music lessons, all primary and secondary students focus on honing their aural skills through diverse ear training exercises, enhancing their analytical abilities by examining musical elements, and developing their singing and instrumental playing skills. Students also engage in improvisation, composition, and performance.


May the sounds of music make Semester two inspiring, happy, productive and blessed!


SMCOC Music Department

Sandra Mlikota - Head of Music

Joshua Scarpaci - Guitar Teacher

Dimitri Ioannou - Piano Teacher

Tony Mlikota - Drum Teacher

Sabrina Lim How - Singing Teacher

Laura Pollock - Violin/Strings Teacher


Harmony & Heritage: The College Coptic Choir

The College Coptic Choir shared the spirit of Resurrection during this week's assembly by performing a medley of joyful Resurrection hymns. May the joyous spirit of the Resurrection fill our hearts and lives.


The choir has been diligently preparing for this special performance, practicing their harmonies and perfecting their vocal techniques. They have poured their hearts and souls into this hymn, and we are confident that their passion and dedication is shinning through in their performance.


The Resurrection hymn holds great significance in the Coptic tradition, symbolising the triumph of life over death and the hope that comes with the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a powerful and joyous song that celebrates the core beliefs of our faith.



Religion Department

Get Active! Celebrating Health and PE Week

What an amazing time we had during Health and PE Week this year!

Throughout the week, students engaged in a variety of fun activities and competitions, earning prizes and canteen vouchers for their victories. The excitement kicked off with a basketball free-throw competition, drawing participation from over 60 students and several teachers.

The enthusiasm continued with a table tennis competition that attracted over 75 students. Volleyball was a midweek highlight, while the Fitness Challenge featured intense competitions in the Beep Test, sit-ups, and push-ups. The week concluded with highly attended final soccer matches. Additionally, we promoted healthy eating by providing fruit each day at lunch for all secondary students.

The energetic and joyful atmosphere was palpable throughout the week, as students eagerly participated and strived for victory.

While there were individual winners for each event, the true champions were all the students who took part.

A HUGE thank you goes to the Health and PE teachers, particularly Mr. Farag and Mr. Paul, for organising these activities and ensuring a memorable Health and PE Week 2024.

 

Hayley Tronson

Acting Head of Health and Physical Education 

Smiles on Wheels: The Dental Van Rolls In

The Australian Dental Van initiative offers a free program for schools, dedicated to the early detection and treatment of dental disease among Victorian Primary students.

Emphasising proactive dental care, this initiative plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of primary-aged students. It aligns with our college community's commitment to student health. Upon receiving parental consent, students are scheduled and added to the list for consultations with visiting dentists.


It was heartening to see the significant turnout of students taking advantage of the opportunity to have their dental health checked by the Dental Van.


Mervet Boulos

Head of Primary

National Simultaneous Story-time for Primary

We are very proud to have participated in National Simultaneous Storytime on Wednesday 22nd May, a day dedicated to promoting the joy of reading and literacy across the nation. 

At 12:00pm, primary school students across the nation gathered to read the same book at the same time, fostering a sense of community and a love for literature. This year's featured book is "Bowerbird Blues" by Aura Parker, a delightful story filled with stunning artwork.

This beautiful story encourages adventure, imagination, a search for longing and connection, reminding all readers big and small of the true treasures that bring us fulfillment in life.

The occasion was celebrated with a beautiful display prepared by our wonderful library staff as well as each class participating in wonderful interactive activities such as creating bowerbirds and bowerbird nests!


Resurrection Celebration

On Tuesday 7th of May, we came together to celebrate our incredible Resurrection Celebration Feast at SMCOC.


From 12 pm to 3 pm, our school grounds were buzzing with excitement and smiles. The turnout was spectacular, with students and families. The children, donned in their white Resurrection Feast T-shirts, enjoyed a myriad of activities—from jumping castles to delightful treats like lollipops and more!


The sun was shining bright, adding to the splendour of a day filled with laughter and community spirit.


Thank you to everyone who came out to make this day memorable. It was wonderful to see all the happy faces, and we look forward to more celebrations like this! Let's cherish these moments and keep the spirit alive in our hearts in Jesus’ name.


Exploring Futures: Year 10 & 11 Career Expo Unveiled

Victorian Careers Show 2024 - 16th May

Once again in 2024, as part of our Senior pathways program, all Year 10 and 11 students travelled to the Melbourne Showgrounds in Flemington to visit the annual Victorian Careers Show.

Our students had the opportunity to meet with representatives from all the Universities and the

TAFE providers, (as well as collecting some welcome merchandise to take home).

There were also fun and interactive activities hosted by the Emergency Services, namely Ambulance Victoria and Victoria Police. In addition, the simulators and fitness trials run by the Australian Defence Forces, proved to be extremely popular.

The students had a wonderful day where they enjoyed quite a bit of independence as they discussed their future study options and vocations. This event is an important first step towards the exciting process of making informed subject selections.

I believe all the students benefited from attending and collected a wealth of information to consider their “dream” career.


God Bless,

Gavin O’Sullivan

VCE Coordinator / Careers Adviser

Adventure Unleashed: Highlights from Year 9's Camp Experience

The Year 9 students had an exhilarating camp to Anglesea on Monday, May 27th. They had a great time engaging in a range of exciting activities, including high ropes, archery tag, raft building, canoeing, and team initiatives. These activities not only challenged their physical abilities but also fostered teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The students thoroughly enjoyed the camp and returned with unforgettable experiences and a stronger sense of camaraderie.

Farag Saad

Health & PE Teacher

Year 9 Coordinator

Staff Spotlight:

Nermien Hanna, College Receptionist

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. Join us as we explore their roles and the unique touches they bring to SMCOC.


In this edition, meet our College Receptionist, Nermien Hanna whose enthusiasm and welcoming nature brighten our days.


Q1. What is your role at SMCOC and what part of it do you enjoy the most? 

My role at SMCOC as the College Receptionist, gives me the opportunity to help parents, students and visitors with their enquiries, which makes my job very joyful.


Q2. Can you share a fun or interesting fact about you?

A fun fact about me is having a bubbly personality that creates a positive atmosphere.


Q3. What approach do you take to ensure everyone feels welcomed as soon as they walk through the doors?

Approach & welcome everyone with a genuine smile.


Q4. Aside from your role at the college, what are some hobbies or activities you enjoy in your free time?

I enjoy walking, going out for coffee with friends and exploring new places.

Important Dates

Monday 3rd June: Reconciliation Week.

Monday 3rd June: Language Week.

Monday 3rd June: Mabo Day.

Wednesday 5th June: Year 10 BM Incursion.

Thursday 6th June: 8:30 am Year 2 & 3 Liturgy.

Friday 7th June: Well-being Day – Excursion.

Monday 10th June: King’s Birthday – Holiday.

Thursday 13th June: Year 9 - 11 Exams

Thursday 13th June: Year 4 Humanities incursion

Friday 14th June: Year 6 Wellbeing Day

Monday 17th June: YEAR 7 Camp - Lady Northcote

Monday 17th June: Year 9-11 Exams.

Tuesday 17th June: GAT Exam.

Wednesday 19th June: Year 9-11 Exams.

Wednesday 19th June: Year 3 incursion - Didgeridoo Australia - Aboriginal Culture Experiences.

Friday 21st June: Year 12 La Trobe Visit – Excursion.

Friday 21st June: Year 9 City Cite Induction Day at SMCOC.

Monday 24th June: Year 10 Work Experience.

Tuesday 25th June: Debating.

Thursday 27th June: End of Term 2 - Last Day for Students.

Thursday 27th June: Semester 1 Reports Released.

Thursday 27th June: 8:30 am Year 6 Liturgy.

Friday 28th June: End of Term for Teachers.

Friday 28th June: Semester 1 Parent/Teacher Interviews.

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