Newsletter
November/ December 2024
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
Dear College Community,
I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the commencement of the Advent fasting period. For our Coptic community, this meaningful observance began on November 25th. Following this, on December 1st, our other college communities also began their Advent fast. As we embark on this spiritual journey together, let us embrace the values of reflection, unity, and preparation that this season brings.
A profound period of fasting leading up to the celebration of the Holy Nativity, commonly known as Christmas. During these 40 days, we engage in a spiritual journey that culminates in the remembrance of a remarkable miracle—the movement of a mountain that occurred in Egypt. Historically, this miracle took place in Cairo when the prayers of Christian Egyptians, under the leadership of Patriarch Anber Ebraam in the middle ages, led to the gradual relocation of a mighty mountain now known as Almoqatam Mountain. This extraordinary event was a result of the Coptic community's fervent fasting for three days, which invoked divine intervention to protect them from persecution.
This season serves as a poignant reminder of biblical teachings about bearing one's cross. Carrying the cross transcends the literal interpretation; it symbolises the essence of nurturing genuine faith within our hearts and embracing life's challenges for the sake of our faith.
In the context of student life, this Advent season can inspire resilience and determination. Just as the Coptic community demonstrated unwavering faith during their trials, students can draw strength from their studies and personal challenges. Embracing difficulties—whether they be academic pressures, social dynamics, or personal growth—can lead to profound development and achievement.
May this season of fasting and reflection bestow blessings upon us, encouraging each student to carry their own cross with grace and perseverance, while celebrating the virtues of faith, dedication, and the achievements of our great Saints we honuor during this time.
I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
Fr. Tadros Sharobeam
Head of College
Acting Principal's Message
As we wrap up Term Four and the 2024 school year, it is with immense gratitude that I reflect on the extraordinary achievements and milestones we’ve shared at St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College. This term has been a time of celebration, growth and reflection, setting a strong foundation as we enter the summer holidays and the Christmas season.
We are thrilled to congratulate our VCE Class of 2024 on their exceptional results. Their dedication and resilience have been truly inspiring and we are confident they are well-prepared for the exciting journeys ahead. A special mention to our dux, Rosalinda Sawa, for her outstanding performance and to all Year 12 graduates for their leadership and contributions to our community.
Our Year 6 Graduation was another highlight, marking an important milestone in our students’ educational journey. Their enthusiasm and accomplishments were celebrated with joy and gratefulness as they prepared to transition into Secondary School.
This term also showcased the incredible talents within our student body. From the Kool Schools Awards, where Tiana Kadas earned the Special Judges’ Award for Best Singer-Songwriter Original Song, to the Year 6 excursion to Melbourne, which combined fun and learning in our vibrant city, our students have continued to impress with their creativity and curiosity. Our chess champions deserve recognition for their achievements in the Lunchtime Chess Club. The strategic thinking, camaraderie and dedication they demonstrated throughout the year were commendable.
The joyous carols sung during our Nativity Celebration reminded us of the true spirit of Christmas—the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. This event brought our community together in faith, gratitude and love, beautifully setting the tone for the holiday season. We were also pleased to support the Coptic Orphans Fundraising Gala on November 16th. The incredible performance by our students at this event exemplified the strength of our community and our commitment to giving back.
As we reflect on this term and year, I am reminded of Matthew 5:16: Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. This verse beautifully reflects the spirit of our students, whose achievements, talents and compassion light up our community and serve as a testament to the values we uphold at SMCOC.
As we have closed the college gates for the summer, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our students, staff and families for their unwavering support and dedication throughout the year. May your summer holidays be filled with rest, joy and the love of family and friends.
On behalf of everyone at St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College, I wish you all a blessed and peaceful Christmas and a wonderful start to 2025. We look forward to welcoming you back in the new year for another chapter of growth, learning and faith-filled achievements.
Blessings,
Germaine Saad
Acting Principal
Medical Information & Emergency Contacts Annual Update
Dear Parents and Carers,
Please be advised that in preparation for the new school year, you will receive a letter and Student Medical Information Annual Update Form. We kindly ask you to complete, sign and return your child’s Form by Monday 2nd December 2024.
Your action on this matter will ensure that we have accurate information when responding to emergencies.
Thanking you for your cooperation and support for your child’s health as well as for the College efficient response to student medical and wellbeing emergencies.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
نموذج التحديث السنوي للمعلومات الطبية وجهات الاتصال في حالات الطوارئ
أعزائي الآباء ومقدمي الرعاية ،
يرجى العلم أنه استعدادا للعام الدراسي الجديد ، ستتلقى رساله ونموذج التحديث السنوي للمعلومات
الطبية وجهات الإتصال في حالات الطوارئ للطالب. نرجو منك إكمال نموذج طفلك وتوقيعه وإعادته
بحلول يوم الاثنين 2 كانون الأول \ ديسمبر 2024
سيضمن الإجراء الذي تتخذه بشأن هذه المسألة توفر معلومات دقيقة لدينا عند الإستجابة لحالات
الطوارئ.
نشكرك على تعاونك ودعمك لصحة طفلك وكذلك لدعمك لإستجابة الكليه الفعالة لحالات الطوارئ
الطبية ورفاهية الطلاب.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
A Blessed Visit: His Grace Bishop Nufer at the College
On Thursday, 5th December, St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College had the honour of welcoming His Grace Bishop Nufer for a special visit.
During his address to the college community, His Grace expressed his joy in visiting SMCOC, stating: "Any institution of education and knowledge serves as a beacon of light to the world. This college evokes memories of St. Mark, the great saint who journeyed to Egypt to spread the word of God, teach the Christian faith, and establish Coptic education."
Bishop Nufer reflected on the significance of St. Mark’s role in founding the first theological college, which welcomed learners from all over the globe. He went on to highlight how St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College, established decades ago by Fr. Tadros, continues in this tradition—serving as a light to all who come seeking knowledge and spiritual growth.
His Grace concluded with a heartfelt blessing: "May the Lord bestow upon you grace, blessings, and wisdom, empowering you to serve your Church and community effectively." The Bishop’s visit was a truly special occasion, reminding us of the college’s mission to nurture both the minds and hearts of our students in faith, love, and knowledge.
Checkmate Champions:
Celebrating Lunchtime Chess Club
This year, the Lunchtime Chess Club was buzzing with activity during Terms 2 and 3, as students across multiple year levels put their skills to the test on the chessboard. With 31 students participating, the club saw an exciting mix of players, with Year 8 students leading the charge and a balanced representation of both boys and girls—a big shift from last year when boys dominated the board.
It was fantastic to see students not only sharpening their strategies but also supporting each other in learning the game. Chess, a timeless favorite, continues to teach students valuable skills like logic, forward thinking, and planning ahead—all while having fun!
In Term 4, the club celebrated its standout players with well-earned prizes:
Participation Winners of $20 Canteen Vouchers:
- Year 10: Adrian MARBEEN
- Year 9: Esther HOMA
- Year 8: Kyrillos YOUSEF
Overall Champion ($30 Canteen Voucher):
- Year 10: Adrian MARBEEN
A special congratulations to Adrian for winning the most games this year and claiming the overall champion title!
Chess continues to be a favorite pastime, offering both relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious beginner, the Chess Club remains a great place to connect, learn, and challenge yourself.
We can’t wait to see what strategies and champions emerge next year!
Lee De La Cruz
Mathematics Teacher
Adrian Marbeen
Esther Homa
Kyrillos Yousef
Students Hit the Right Notes
at Kool Schools Awards
On Saturday, November 30th, the college made its mark at the Kool Schools Awards with a standout performance by one of our talented music students, Tiana Kadas. Representing the college at Empire Studios, Tiana performed her original song and wowed the judges, earning the prestigious Special Judges’ Award for Best Singer-Songwriter Original Song. Competing against students from several schools with years of experience in the program, Tiana delivered her performance with immense pride and remarkable talent.
But that’s not all—our school was also nominated for Best Indie-Pop Track for the song "Fairy Lights," written collaboratively by the talented team of Jessica Farah, Jean-Paul Boulos, Trinity Bayona, Hiyab Asmelash, Esther Homa, Tayla Elias, and George Halabi.
As this was our first year participating in the Kool Schools project, we are absolutely thrilled with the incredible achievements of our students. Their creativity, hard work, and passion for music have truly shone, putting the college on the map in the music scene.
We look forward to seeing even more of our students' musical talents showcased in the future. Congratulations to everyone involved!
Music Department
Caps, Gowns & Big Smiles: Year 6 Graduation
On November 14th, the Year 6 graduation ceremony at St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College was a joyous celebration of hard work, achievements, and bright futures.
Dressed in their graduation gowns, the students radiated pride as they received their Certificates, marking the culmination of years of dedication and growth. The hall was filled with the cheers and applause of families and friends, their hearts bursting with pride as they celebrated this special milestone.
The ceremony featured inspiring speeches from faculty members and heartfelt performances by the students, highlighting their incredible talents and the strong sense of community at the school.
This momentous occasion was not just about honouring the students’ accomplishments but also celebrating the exciting new journeys that lie ahead. Congratulations to our Year 6 graduates—you’ve made us all proud, and we can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve next!
Liz Robertson, Daniel Fornito, Dina Yousif,
Year 6 Classroom Teachers
Hats off to the Graduating Class of 2024!
On Thursday, November 21st, we gathered to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College Class of 2024.
Through resilience, dedication, and an unwavering spirit, this incredible group of graduates has truly left their mark as the leaders of tomorrow.
As you embark on the next chapter of your journey, may you carry with you the cherished friendships you’ve made and the faith that has guided you along the way.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
We are so grateful for the Lord’s work through you and look forward to seeing what the future holds for each of you! Always remember, you’ll forever be part of the St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Colege family.
Congratulations, graduates—this is just the beginning! God bless you all.
Germaine Saad
Acting Principal
Foundations for the Future:
Welcoming Our Youngest Learners
Thursday, 14th November, marked an exciting milestone for our new Foundation students as they attended their very first orientation at St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College.
The transition from kindergarten to school is a big step, and these sessions are designed to help every child feel comfortable and excited about starting their educational journey with us.
This year’s orientation program included three on-site sessions during Term 4. These sessions gave our future students the opportunity to meet their Foundation teachers and the Head of Primary, explore their classrooms, and start building friendships with their new peers.
The first session was just as valuable for parents, who had the chance to meet other new families, learn about the college, and hear tips on how to support their child as they begin this important chapter.
A big thank you to all the parents and students who participated in the Foundation Orientation days. We are thrilled to welcome you to the community and look forward to partnering with you to ensure your child thrives in their first year of school. Here’s to an exciting year ahead!
Kate Tsiolas
Head of Curriculum (Primary)
Foundation Teacher
Give the Gift that Gives Back:
Coptic Orphans Event
On November 16th, we had the privilege of collaborating with the incredible organisation, Coptic Orphans, for their annual Christmas Dinner in Melbourne. Held under the inspiring theme “Give the Gift that Gives Back,” the evening was a true celebration of generosity and community spirit.
Our talented choir and musicians were honoured to perform at this special event, adding a touch of music and joy to the occasion. It was a meaningful opportunity to support the vital work Coptic Orphans does in uplifting and empowering families and communities in need.
We are deeply grateful to Coptic Orphans for inviting us to be part of such a remarkable night. We look forward to continuing this wonderful partnership and working together to inspire and create lasting change.
Download SEQTA 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 6 Take on Melbourne: A Day of Fun, Food &
Fascinating Adventures
The Year 6 excursion to Melbourne was nothing short of unforgettable! Packed with excitement and learning, the students explored the city’s iconic landmarks, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Their adventure began with a thrilling tour of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where they delved into the rich history of Australian sports. From there, they soared to new heights at the Eureka Skydeck, taking in breathtaking views of the city from above.
Adding to the fun, the students hit the lanes for some friendly bowling, building teamwork and sharing plenty of laughs. To top it all off, they enjoyed delicious meals at local restaurants, savoring the diverse cuisines that showcase Melbourne’s vibrant multicultural spirit.
Every stop on this exciting journey offered a blend of entertainment and education, deepening the students' understanding of Melbourne’s culture and history. It was a day to remember—filled with discovery, camaraderie, and a whole lot of fun!
Year 6 Teachers
Singing Nativity Carols:
Heartwarming End-of-Year Celebration
On the 5th of December, the college marked the last day of school with a festive and heartwarming celebration that embodied the true spirit of Christmas.
Students gathered to sing nativity carols, filling the air with joyful melodies that brought the entire school community together. Dressed in festive attire and singing under twinkling lights, the children harmonised beautifully, celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
This special event united students, teachers, and families, fostering a sense of togetherness and reflection. It was a moment to express gratitude for the friendships formed, the memories created, and the blessings of the year gone by.
As the college year concluded, this joyful celebration served as a reminder of the love, hope, and community that make St Mary’s so special—setting the perfect tone for the holiday season ahead.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Year 12 students in their VCE results for 2024.
Your hard work, dedication, and resilience have truly paid off, and we commend each and every one of you for your efforts.
We are especially proud to share that among our top achievers, the average ATAR was an impressive 95.45 – a testament to the incredible commitment and excellence of our students and staff.
To all our students, we wish you every success in your future endeavours. Remember, you will always be part of the St Mary’s Coptic Orthodox family.
Congratulations once again and God Bless you all.
Germaine Saad
Acting Principal
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.
Fadel Guirguis
Bus Manager
Important Dates!
Australia Day - Public Holiday Monday, January 27, 2025, Students Free Day Free Day
Term 1 - Teachers Return, Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Students Free Day Free Day
Staff Planning Day, Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Students Free Day Free Day
Staff Planning Day, Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Students Free Day Free Day
Term 1 - Students Return, Thursday, January 30, 2025
Labour Day - Public Holiday, Monday, March 10, 2025
Year 4 Swimming Lessons, March 11 – 12, 2025
Year 6 Swimming Lessons, Thursday, March 13, 2025
Year 6 Swimming Lessons, Monday, March 17, 2025
Year 4 Swimming Lessons, March 18 – 19, 2025
Year 6 Swimming Lessons, Thursday, March 20, 2025
Year 6 Swimming Lessons, Monday, March 24, 2025
Year 4 Swimming Lessons, Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Year 6 Swimming Lessons, Thursday, March 27, 2025
Last Day for Students - Term 1, Friday, April 4, 2025
Last Day for Teachers - Term 1, Friday, April 4, 2025
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