COLLEGE NEWSLETTER
March 2025
February
Message from the Head of College
Dear College Community,
In our modern lives, we often find ourselves surrounded by distractions that cater to our immediate gratifications, such as food and superficial pleasures. These temptations can significantly impact our health and well-being, both physically and spiritually. As we continue our journey in this season of Lent, it’s essential to reflect on how we can draw strength from the example of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, especially during His time of temptation.
Just as Jesus faced the temptation of hunger in the wilderness, we too encounter moments where our desires may lead us astray. In the face of Satan’s challenge to turn stones into bread, Jesus responds, “It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4). This powerful reminder emphasises that true nourishment comes not just from physical sustenance but from our spiritual connection to God.
The second temptation was for Jesus to throw himself from the highest point of the temple and order angels to catch him. Jesus replied “Do not put the Lord your God to the test.” (Mathew 4:5) This moment highlights the struggle between pride and faith. In our lives, we may similarly face pressures to engage in behaviours that compromise our values, such as seeking attention or approval through risky actions. However, Jesus’ response serves as a reminder that our worth is not defined by external validation but by our faith and commitment to God.
Finally, the devil offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world in return for worshipping him. Jesus replied, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and serve only Him!’” (Matthew 4:10). In this temptation, Jesus teaches us to prove our devotion to God and to reject the desire for political power by choosing God’s kingdom first. Furthermore, we should learn from Jesus’ response to each temptation using quotations from the Old Testament, the book of Deuteronomy. So, when we are tempted and feel that we are in a difficult situation, we should look to God’s word for guidance.
This Lent, I encourage you to contemplate the lessons from Jesus' temptations. Use them as a source of strength to overcome your own challenges. Just as Jesus emerged from the wilderness empowered and focused on his mission, so you too can navigate your academic and personal journeys with purpose and conviction.
May this season be a time of growth and renewal as we strive to embody the principles of self-discipline and faith in our everyday lives.
Wishing you all a meaningful and reflective Lent.
Fr. Tadros Sharobeam
Head of College
Message from the Acting Principal
Greetings College Community,
As we reflect on the recently concluded term one, it’s clear we’ve had a wonderfully busy and productive few weeks! Our students have thrived across a diverse array of activities, marking the term with significant growth and learning.
We celebrated many highlights, such as the Northern Leadership Award for Social Justice, underscoring our commitment to fostering inclusivity and understanding. The informative session with Victoria Police provided our students with crucial insights into cyber safety, equipping them to navigate the digital world responsibly and so much more.
Our younger students developed important social skills through activities focused on kindness and friendship, showing that emotional intelligence is as crucial as academic success. Meanwhile, our Year 11 students broadened their perspectives through artistic explorations at the National Gallery of Victoria, with the year 12 and year 8's having engaging experiences at their respective camps.
Athletic accomplishments also highlighted this term's successes, with Year 9 showcasing their tennis skills and our college proudly hosting the interschool sport table tennis tournament during the final week of term, producing wonderful results.
Year 1's visit to Bundoora Farm provided a hands-on history lesson, and the entire school immersed itself in the rich cultural experiences of Language Week.
We also celebrated a turning of the soil ceremony for the Foundation to Year 2 Learning Centre development, symbolically laying the groundwork for educational growth and innovation.
We are also thrilled to announce that students have started contributing articles to this March edition of our newsletter. Moving forward, their contributions will become a regular feature, enriching our newsletter with their unique perspectives and diverse voices.
Reflecting on Psalm 23:1-2, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures," let us use this holiday to recharge and prepare for the opportunities that lie ahead in Term two. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all staff, students, and parents/carers for your enthusiasm and dedication. Your efforts are the cornerstone of our vibrant college community.
Blessings,
Germaine Saad
Acting Principal
Bus Drivers Meeting - For Safe School Bus Travel
On Thursday 27, March, a meeting with the College bus drivers was conducted, which forms part of the College’s efforts to meet its obligations when it comes to raising drivers’ awareness and understanding of bus regulations and College related policies. This meeting also aims to assist in ensuring safe bus travel for students and drivers involved.
The meeting was conducted in English and Arabic, where important College policies and procedures were discussed to raise drivers’ awareness and understanding of the College bus related policies and expectations of bus drivers. Drivers also had an opportunity to provide feedback and ask any questions regarding the topics discussed or any matter related to school bus travel.
Topics discussed during this meeting were as follows:
1. Child Safety Code of Conduct and Bus Driver’s Conduct.
2.Incident Reporting and Investigation Policy, protocol and procedure.
3. Driver’s Emergency Management Plan.
4. The College protocol for Student Misconduct.
Drivers’ feedback
A common concern raised by most drivers was related to students who regularly take their seatbelts off and move out of their seat while the bus is in motion, which puts the student’s safety at risk. Despite many attempts by drivers and College leaders to change this behaviour and educate students about the risks and consequences involved in such behaviour, some students are still not getting the message. We therefore, urge parents and carers of students who use the bus service to support us in this matter by explaining the risks and consequences to your child.
The College appreciates the parents and carers’ support in this matter. Your support and educating your child about safe travel will minimise the risks to their safety while traveling on the school bus.
Hanan Khreish
Policy and Compliance Leader
إجتماع سائقي الباصات - من أجل السفر الآمن على متن باص المدرسة
لقد تم عقد اجتماع مع سائقي باصات الكلية يوم الخميس الموافق 27 اذار \ مارس
، والذي يشكل جزءا من جهود الكلية للوفاء بالتزاماتها عندما يتعلق الأمر بزيادة
وعي السائقين وفهمهم للوائح الباصات والسياسات المتعلقة بالكلية. يهدف هذا
الاجتماع أيضا إلى المساعدة في ضمان السفر الآمن للطلاب والسائقين
وعقد الاجتماع باللغتين الإنجليزية والعربية، حيث تمت مناقشة سياسات وإجراءات
الكلية الهامة لزيادة وعي السائقين وفهمهم للسياسات المتعلقة بباصات الكلية
والتوقعات من سائقي الباصات. أتيحت الفرصة للسائقين أيضا لتقديم ملاحظات
وطرح أي أسئلة بخصوص الموضوعات التي تمت مناقشتها أو أي مسألة تتعلق
بالسفر على متن باص المدرسة.
:وجاءت الموضوعات التي تمت مناقشتها خلال هذا الاجتماع على النحو التالي
.مدونة قواعد سلوك سلامة الطفل وسلوك سائق الباص -
.سياسة وبروتوكول وإجراءات الإبلاغ عن الحوادث والتحقيق فيه -
.خطة إدارة الطوارئ للسائق -
.بروتوكول الكلية لسوء سلوك الطلاب -
ملاحظات السائقين
كانت إحدى المخاوف الشائعة التي أثارها معظم السائقين تتعلق بالطلاب الذين يخلعون أحزمة الأمان في معظم الرحلات ويخرجون من مقاعدهم أثناء السفر ، مما
يعرض سلامة الطالب للخطر. على الرغم من المحاولات العديدة من قبل السائقين
وقادة الكلية لتغيير هذا السلوك وتثقيف الطلاب حول المخاطر والعواقب التي
ينطوي عليها مثل هذا السلوك ، إلا أن بعض الطلاب ما زالوا لا يفهمون الرسالة.
لذلك نحث أولياء الأمور ومقدمي الرعاية للطلاب الذين يستخدمون خدمة الباصات
على دعمنا في هذا الأمر من خلال شرح المخاطر والعواقب للأطفالهم.
تقدر الكلية دعم أولياء الأمور ومقدمي الرعاية في هذا الشأن. سيؤدي دعمك
وتثقيفك لطفلك حول السفر الآمن إلى تقليل المخاطر على سلامته\سلامتها أثناء
.السفر على متن باص المدرسة.
Debating Association of Victoria - Rounds 1 & 2
Round 1: 3 March 2025 at St. Bernards, Essendon
I have been privileged to accompany a group of nine debaters to two rounds of the Debating Association of Victoria inter-school competition. In Round 1 we managed to win two of our three match ups but all of our teams have represented the school with dignity, pride and enthusiasm.
In the D Grade debate we were arguing for the negative stance on the topic: ‘That the government should prohibit all businesses from being cashless’. This topic was a very complicated one for a D grade team and it was hard to know how to approach the topic in a successful manner. Noah Moucha, Clara Tadrus and Matthew Toma were all first time representatives for the school inDebating. They were all brave, thoughtful and passionate in their efforts in preparing for and delivering their debates. We lost the debate 228 points to 223 to Catholic Regional College, but the team were much better for the experience.
In the C Grade we had better fortune. We won by 227 points to 222 against Bacchus Marsh Grammar. Jonathan Shaker got best speaker in the debate and Eman Morgan and Tiana Kadas both spoke with great confidence and consideration of their topic which we argued in the negative for. The topic was: ‘That tickets to all sporting events should be free’. It was the calm, considered approach to their debating material that appeared to give them the edge over their opposition.
In the B Grade we were arguing in the negative for the topic: ‘That all schools and university exams should be open book’. Merola Youssef achieved a best speaker award for the debate and Tatiana Issa and Maria Abdel-malak had a similarly high score. Not only had they prepared their material well but they all spoke with conviction, sincerity and flair.
Murray Stone
Director of Debating/English Teacher
Round 2- 31st March 2025 at St. Bernards, Essendon
Our debate teams faced a mix of challenges and triumphs in Round 2. Starting with the D Grade team, they showcased resilience and strategic thinking, clinching a narrow victory over Bacchus Marsh Grammar with a score of 221-220. This match featured Virginia Hano in her debut role as the first speaker, who delivered a compelling argument on the affirmative side of the topic: ‘That phone use should be taught as a learning tool in schools’.
Her confident performance, alongside Clara Tadrus who put aside her initial nerves to present a strong case, contributed significantly to the team's success. Noah Moucha’s meticulous preparation and effective rebuttals were key to sealing this hard-fought win.
In the C Grade competition, our debaters took on Ave Maria, arguing affirmatively that all children aged 16-22 should receive a universal basic income from the government. Despite the well-prepared efforts of Cassandra Sawa, Tiana Kadas, and Jonathan Shaker, we faced a very strong opposition and narrowly lost with a score of 228-224. The debate concluded with some controversy, prompting me to lodge an appeal regarding the result. We are awaiting the outcome but remain committed to demonstrating grace in the face of adversity.
The evening’s standout was undoubtedly the B Grade debate against P.E.G.S. (LC) 1, where our team argued that all childcare centres should be government-funded. Merola Youssef, Kyrollos Borham, and Maria Abdel-malak were up against an exceptionally skilled team from Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School and managed to make the debate extremely competitive, losing by just one point. The quality of the debate was so high that the adjudicator specifically praised it as ‘very high quality’.
As we reflect on Rounds 1 and 2, I am filled with optimism for the remaining three rounds. Special thanks to Mr. Ashraf Hanna for his dedication in accompanying and preparing our students for each debate. We are eager to continue our journey, building on our strengths and learning from each experience.
Starstruck Young Explorers: Year 2's Astronomical Adventure at Scienceworks
As part of their Earth Science unit, "Patterns in the Sky," our Year 2 students embarked on an enlightening excursion to Scienceworks. This visit to the Scienceworks Planetarium gave the students a fantastic opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the moon, stars, and their celestial patterns.
They gained insights into Earth's role within the solar system and observed the dynamic patterns of the sun, moon, planets, and stars as they shift across the sky. This excursion was not only educational but also an immensely enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Ria Celine De Leon
Year 2 Teacher
Celebrating the Northern Leadership Award for Social Justice
We are excited to reflect on a memorable event where Evan Mulholland MP, Liberal MP for the Northern Metropolitan Region and Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, honoured a distinguished member of our community at St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox College. During the ceremony, Mr. Mulholland presented the Northern Leadership Award for Social Justice, an accolade that underscores his commitment to fostering equality and opportunity.
In his compelling speech, Mr. Mulholland articulated the core values of social justice, stressing the significance of creating opportunities for all, rather than merely ensuring equal outcomes. His call for virtue to be recognized by others, rather than self-proclaimed, resonates deeply with our ethos at SMCO.
This prestigious award was awarded to Year 10 student, Jonathan Shaker, in recognition of his exemplary leadership both within and outside our college walls. Jonathan, a respected Deacon at St. Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church and a role model at our college, has distinguished himself through his dedication to social justice. His consistent efforts, from his impeccable presentation in school uniform to his respectful interactions with peers, exemplify his commitment to positive community values.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Jonathan for his well-deserved recognition. His example inspires each of us to lead with integrity and contribute to our community with a spirit of genuine care. Let’s continue to celebrate Jonathan’s remarkable achievements and Mr. Mulholland’s dedication to nurturing future leaders. Here's to cultivating an environment where every student can emerge as a force for positive change!
Primary Students Dive Into the Art of Being Great Friends
This term, our primary students engaged in a vibrant psycho-educational session aimed at deepening their understanding of what it means to not only create meaningful friendships but to be a meaningful friend themselves. The session combined reflective discussions with practical activities, where students delved into the values of empathy, integrity, and kindness, learning how to navigate friendships with thoughtfulness and care.
The learning extended beyond the classroom through a three-week friendship initiative. Each student established personal social goals such as including others in play, making a new friend, or offering kind words. Over the initiative's duration, they actively worked towards these goals during their daily interactions, capturing their journey through written reflections, drawings, or vlogs.
We're thrilled by the positive changes already evident and look forward to seeing how this growth enhances our college's sense of connection and compassion.
Here’s what some of the students had to say about their experience:
“In the wellbeing session, we learned about friendship. It's about being loyal, nice, and being brave to one another. Having a best friend can boost your bravery and confidence, and it helps you be nicer to others. What I enjoyed most about this session was writing about what my friends mean to me and what they do for me.” - Alec Elias (Year 5)
“I learned that a simple word can change someone's day. Giving compliments can make others happy. I also learned that when people feel sad, they can talk to a friend about it. I really enjoyed the compliments people gave me in the activity and seeing how people's faces lit up when they read the compliments on their paper.” - Isabella Jarjis (Year 3)
Merean Isaac & Nardine Saad
Wellbeing Department
Victoria Police Engage Our Students: A Safety & Awareness Initiative
In early March, the college was privileged to host officers from Victoria Police for an educational programme aimed at students in Years 7 through 10. This initiative is part of our commitment to provide education that addresses
real-world issues alongside traditional academic subjects.
During these sessions, our students engaged in discussions on critical topics, tailored to meet the specific needs and concerns of each year group. The focus areas included bullying, crime offending, and drug awareness, with an emphasis on prevention and understanding the legal consequences of these behaviours.
Year 7 and Year 8 students explored the complexities of bullying and crime offending, gaining insights into the consequences of these actions and the support systems available to help them.
Year 9 and Year 10 students participated in more in-depth discussions about drugs in addition to bullying and crime offending. These sessions were designed to provide a thorough understanding of the legal and social impacts of these issues.
The feedback from our students was overwhelmingly positive. They appreciated the honest and informative nature of the sessions, which were both eye-opening and thought- provoking. The presence of Victoria Police not only deepened their understanding but also helped to demystify the roles and responsibilities of law enforcement.
Following the successful sessions for a middle and senior students, Victoria Police returned on 11 March to extend the educational program to our Year 4, 5, and 6 students. The focus for the younger students was on bullying and Cybersafety. These sessions have further enriched our students’ knowledge and awareness, reinforcing our college's efforts to foster a safer and more informed community.
We are immensely grateful to the officers who took time out of their schedules to educate and interact with our students. Their dedication to community engagement is commendable, and their efforts to educate our students on these pressing topics play a crucial role in fostering a safer and more informed community. We look forward to continuing this valuable partnership with Victoria Police.
Mervet Boulos
Head of Primary/Acting Head of Middle School
Year 11 Art Excursion to the National Gallery of Victoria – Ian Potter
On Wednesday, 5 March, our Year 11 VCE Art Making and Exhibiting students went on an enriching excursion to the National Gallery of Victoria's Ian Potter Centre. This visit was integral to their coursework, providing deep insights into Australian art, and supporting their research for the Unit 1, Outcome 3 summative assessment task.
The students are tasked with curating an exhibition proposal that includes works from three Australian artists, with a requirement to feature at least one Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander artist. During their visit, they meticulously examined various artworks, taking detailed notes on the artists' techniques, materials, and processes. This hands-on exploration allowed them to understand how artists develop themes and impart meanings through their creations.
Guided by their research goals, the students delved into the thematic connections across artists, which is crucial for their curatorial strategies and exhibition planning. They also participated in discussions about the nuances of exhibition design and the pivotal role galleries play in presenting and interpreting artworks.
This excursion not only complemented their classroom studies but also sparked inspiration as the students prepare their exhibition brochures and presentations. We eagerly anticipate their creative and analytical showcases in the weeks ahead.
Alberto Moreira
Head of Art and Technologies
Year 12 Camp Chronicles: Student Update
Written by Year 12 Student:
Chanel Bebawi
Written by Year 12 Student:
Katelyn Youil
Our last camp ever! Our year 12 camp at Angahook Holiday Camp was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, teamwork, and fun. We took part in a variety of exciting activities, including bush and beach walks, giant swings, archery, mountain bike riding, kayaking, and climbing towers with zip lines, along with the leap of faith. We spent an evening by a campfire with marshmallows, which created an atmosphere of team-bonding and reminiscing on our school years. We spent more bonding time together by huddling up in the games room and putting on a movie which we quietly watched together whilst enjoying our popcorn!
The campsite was clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable space for everyone to socialise, and have fun, which we definitely used to our advantage!! The friendly and engaging staff made the experience even more enjoyable, fostering a welcoming, and safe environment for both students and teachers. It was a camp to remember, filled with laughter, challenges, and great memories.
Our Year 12 camp was an incredible experience that brought us closer together as a cohort. The students participated in all kinds of different activities together including mountain bike riding, kayaking, rock climbing, archery and the giant swing. The camp site was very resourceful as it provided the students with a basketball court and a game room where they were able to pass time between activities.
On the last day of the camp, the students and teachers walked to the beach which was near by. The scenery of the beach was breath-taking and was a perfect way to end the trip before returning home. The camp wasn’t just about the activities, but also about the bonds we formed through teamwork, laughter, and shared challenges. Memories were created that we will carry with us long after graduation. A big thank you to the staff for making it such a memorable and meaningful experience.
Tennis Program: Year 9 Aces It
Last week of term one, our Year 9 students wrapped up their Tennis program, showcasing incredible skill, determination, and sportsmanship on the court.
This program was part of the Tennis in Secondary Schools Program, a fantastic partnership between our college, Tennis Australia and Hume Tennis & Community Centre. Through this initiative, students had access to high-quality tennis training, making this an invaluable opportunity to develop both physical and social skills in a fun and supportive environment.
A huge thank you to our dedicated coaches and staff for making this program such a success! Well done, Year 9 – we hope to see you continue your tennis journey.
Farag Saad
Physical Education Teacher
Year 8 Camp: Student Update
Written by Year 8 student:
Edom Firew
Reflecting on my Year 8 camp at Iluka Retreat on the Mornington Peninsula, which is just 100km from Melbourne, I can definitely say it was a highlight of term one. From Wednesday 19th to Friday 21st of March, we had an amazing adventure filled with unforgettable experiences in such a beautiful setting.
Its 36 acres of land provided the best experience with a fresh water lake, numerous activities and a place to camp. Its various activities accomodated for everyone from its award winning lake activities to team building games. Not only was the natural environment beautiful, but on top of that, the catered food was delicious and nutritious.
The meals at Iluka Retreat were amazing. The breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even the morning and afternoon teas were served with so much warmth and love in the large open dining area. They had something for everyone, from sausages to vegan pasta, and they even catered to those who were fasting. The cabins where we slept were spacious and comfy, and the camp team was super friendly, making sure we all had the best time. Those three days and two nights at Iluka Retreat are definitely an experience I'll cherish forever.
Written By Year 8 student:
Gabriella Shehata
Our Year 8 camp at Iluka Retreat was amazing! We got to try so many cool activities. Stand-up paddleboarding was a highlight, where we all tried to keep our balance and paddled around the water.
Canoeing was also a blast as we teamed up to paddle across the lake. During bush cooking, we made damper bread, which tasted delicious, especially with jam on top. The tree climbing was a fun challenge; we climbed a massive tree and even did some crate climbing. We played initiative games too, which were all about solving problems and working together.
Another fun activity was raft building, where we constructed rafts from logs and raced them across the lake. It was an epic experience, and I had so much fun!
Year 6 School Captain Report
Welcome to Year 6: full of fun, excitement, and new experiences! This term has been PACKED with incredible learning moments, friendships, and unforgettable memories. Here’s a sneak peek at what we’ve been up to.
Swimming Through Life’s Currents! – Weeks 6 - 9
Swimming lessons were a HUGE highlight this term. We perfected our strokes, built water confidence, and learned lifesaving skills, all while cheering each other on!
Cyber Safety & Questions Galore! – 11th March
We had a special visit from the police, who taught us about cyber safety and being responsible online. Of course, we had plenty of questions—including whether their favourite food was donuts. Spoiler alert: we got some FUNNY answers! We even got to check out their cool gear, what an educational and entertaining session.
Kindness in Action – Week 7
This term, we focused on friendship and kindness. We designed ‘Buy a Friend’ advertisements to celebrate what makes our friends unique. Later, we walked around writing compliments on each other’s papers, spreading positivity and brightening everyone’s day.
Big Dreams Burning Brighter!
Term one has been an incredible journey, filled with laughter, learning, and lifelong memories. We can’t wait to see what’s in store next! Year 6, let’s keep dreaming big and soaring high!
Ryan Yousifany and Amani Alqas-Mousa
Grade 6 School Captains
Time Travelers: Year 1's Adventure into the Past at Bundoora Farm
On Friday, 28th of March, our Year 1 students took a fascinating trip back in time at Bundoora Farm – Heritage Village. This excursion wasn't just a field trip; it was a portal to a century ago, providing a hands-on learning experience that allowed our young learners to step directly into the lives of their ancestors.
Throughout their journey, the students tackled traditional chores like washing clothes with a washboard, churning butter, and even writing with ink and quills. They explored how families managed their daily lives without the conveniences of modern technology, learning about the school life of a past era, understanding old-fashioned kitchen setups, and the workings of a printing press.
More than just a history lesson, the visit ignited a curiosity and appreciation for the past, helping students grasp the transformation in daily life over the decades. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to connect with history in a tangible, engaging way.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff at Bundoora Farm for creating such an immersive and memorable experience for our students!
Grade One Teachers
Marina Youkhana
Paddles Up: Showcasing Skill at the Table Tennis Tournament
In the final week of term, our college proudly hosted the Interschool Sport Table Tennis Tournament, where students from several schools across the region gathered for a spirited half day of high-energy rallies and exemplary sportsmanship.
The tournament showcased fierce competition and incredible displays of skill, with our own SMCO students particularly stanIding out. The boys' team fought valiantly and secured the runner-up position, with notable performances from Joseph Gorges, Mario Sadik, Joseph Goga, and Mark Hakim. Meanwhile, the girls' team triumphed, clinching the winner's title thanks to outstanding efforts from Claudia Tower, Kenora Afram, Angela Shmoon, Marta Alfadil, and Abigail Yacoub. The victorious girls' team will now progress to the next round, carrying forward their momentum and enthusiasm.
The atmosphere throughout the event was electric, as students cheered each other on, fostering a robust sense of camaraderie and pride among participants. For many, it was an opportunity to showcase the hard work and training they have put into their sport, while others enjoyed the chance to participate in competitive sports in a supportive environment.
Massive congratulations are due to our SMCO Physical Education Department for their outstanding coaching and performance, and a heartfelt thank you goes out to all the staff and volunteers who made the event such a success.
Paul Di Lizia
Physical Education Middle & Senior School
Exciting Beginnings: Official Soil-Turning Ceremony for the New Junior Learning Centre
We recently celebrated a significant milestone at the College with the official soil-turning ceremony for our new Junior Learning Centre, designed for our Foundation to Year 2 students aiming to be open early to mid 2026.
The ceremony was marked by a special prayer, blessing the site and setting the stage for a project that will support our college's growing community. Fathers Tadros, Father Peter, and Father Habib, alongside our Acting Principal Germaine Saad, led this prayer, joined by student and leadership representatives, as well as our building partners from Harris HMC and Crosier Scott Architects. This united display of faith and commitment highlights our dedication to the spiritual and educational growth of our students.
A highlight of the event was the burial of a time capsule, creating a lasting connection between past, present, and future generations at SMCO. This act weaves our stories and aspirations into the very foundation of the new centre.
We are filled with anticipation as we look forward to delivering a space where future generations of SMCO students can learn and thrive. This project not only represents a significant expansion of our facilities but also reaffirms our dedication to providing an enriching, faith-based education.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to nurture every child’s growth, harnessing their God-given potential at St. Mary's Coptic Orthodox College.
Language Week Highlights: A Journey Through Arabic and French Cultures
Language Week was a vibrant celebration of Arabic and French cultures at our school, marked by an array of activities that showcased customs and traditions. Throughout the week, our students immersed themselves in diverse cultural expressions, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of these rich heritages.
The week featured a variety of engaging activities, including captivating presentations in the MPRA, the broadcast of a French documentary, and live performances of classic Arabic songs. Our students also had the opportunity to participate in hands-on cooking classes, where they prepared and enjoyed traditional Arabic sweets and French cuisine.
The event was brought to life through the dedicated efforts of our staff and the enthusiastic participation of our students. From the meticulous planning and creative direction to the technical support and artistic performances, every contribution was invaluable. The week concluded with a melodious performance by the Deacons, who delivered traditional liturgical music.
We are grateful to everyone who played a part in making Language Week a success, providing our college community with a memorable experience that celebrated cultural diversity and educational enrichment.
Adel Botros
Head of Language
Colours in Arabic and French
Hymns in Arabic
Days of the week in Arabic
"Purple" Tops Bestseller List in Biblical Fiction & Christian Poetry
We are proud to share the remarkable achievement of SMCO's educator John Saad with his best-selling novelette, "Purple." This powerful Coptic Orthodox fiction explores a transformative journey from brokenness to healing through the Divine Liturgy, set on the streets of Melbourne.
"Purple" has touched many and is now a bestseller in Biblical Fiction & Christian Poetry. John's distinct approach to integrating theological concepts into engaging stories has not only attracted a broad readership but also established him as the only known Coptic Fiction writer in Australia, with few peers globally.
Currently, John is working on his next novel, continuing to contribute to the niche genre of Coptic Fiction. Join us in celebrating John's success and his unique ability to bring theology to life through literature.
Important Dates
Term 2 - Teacher Return
Tuesday, April 22
Term 2 - Students Return
Wednesday, April 23
Year 11 Fit to Drive Incursion
Thursday, April 24
ANZAC Day - Public Holiday
Friday, April 25
English Week
April 28 – May 2, 2025
Liturgy - Year 7
Thursday, May 1⋅8:30 – 10:00am
Year 10 Career Expo Excursion
Thursday, May 1
Yr 2 Werribee Mansion Excursion
Thursday, May 1
Year 1 Activity Fit Incursion
Friday, May 2
Year 11 Career Expo Excursion
Friday, May 2
Debating
Monday, May 5⋅6:00 – 9:00pm
Year 5 Incursion - Wildlife Exposure
Wednesday, May 7
Liturgy - Year 8
Thursday, May 8⋅8:30 – 10:00am
Year8 Swimming Carnival
Thursday, May 8
Bus Captain Ceremony
Monday, May 12⋅8:30 – 9:00am
Liturgy - Year 3 & 4
Thursday, May 15⋅8:30 – 10:00am
Dental Van Visit
May 19 – 23, 2025
Health & PE Week
May 19 – 23, 2025
Year 7 & 10 Immunisation
Wednesday, May 21⋅12:00 – 1:00pm
Primary - Simultaneous Story
Wednesday, May 21⋅12:00 – 1:00pm
Liturgy - Year 9 & 10
Thursday, May 22⋅8:30 – 10:00am
Year 9 – 12 - Elevate Study Skills
Friday, May 23
Year 9 Camp
May 26 – 28, 2025
Sorry Day – Uluru Statement of the Heart
Monday, May 26
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