The war in the Middle East is very concerning to all.  I know that for many of our families, there is concern for loved ones and concern about the future.  Our children are exposed to much talk about the war, content on the TV news and of course what is being posted on social media.  Much of it can very traumatic for young people especially those who have either experienced war and conflict firsthand or generationally.
It is important that we continue to pray with our children, letting them see us relying on the Prince of Peace. Modelling for them how to take our worries, our burdens and fears, our concerns and heartache over a deeply divided and hurting world and give them to God through prayer.
Some suggested focus points for prayer at home could be:

1. Pray for the safety of those impacted. Have your kids pray for kids just like them, that God would protect them from harm and fear. “The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe” (Proverbs 18:10).

2. Pray for those who mourn. Ask God to comfort those experiencing the loss of friends and family, their homes, and sense of security. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4).

3. Pray that believers would not lose faith but maintain hope. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).

4. Pray for peace when life feels chaotic. “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).\

Also, each month the Pope chooses a focus for prayer.  For March it is, 'For disarmament and peace'.  I invite you and your families to join the Pope in his prayer for peace particularly in the current world situation.  Maybe during the remainder of Lent, we can all find time to be still and pray in unity for peace. Click on the image to Pray with the Pope.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amén.

Lord of Life,
you shaped every human being in your image and likeness.
We believe you created us for communion, not for war,
for fraternity, not for destruction.

You who greeted your disciples saying, “Peace be with you,”
grant us the gift of your peace
and the strength to make it a reality in history.
Today we lift up our prayer for peace in the world,
asking that nations renounce weapons
and choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy.

Disarm our hearts of hatred, resentment, and indifference,
so we may become instruments of reconciliation.
Help us understand that true security
does not come from control fueled by fear,
but from trust, justice, and solidarity among peoples.

Lord, enlighten the leaders of the nations,
so they may have the courage to abandon projects of death,
halt the arms race,
and place the lives of the most vulnerable at the center.
May the nuclear threat never again dictate the future of humanity.

Holy Spirit,
make us faithful and creative builders of daily peace:
in our hearts, our families,
our communities, and our cities.
May every kind word, every gesture of reconciliation,
and every choice for dialogue be seeds of a new world.

Amen.
 

Our Faith means that we always have Hope and our children need to see that we have hope as well. May we see Peace soon.
This newsletter highlights all the exciting learning activities over the last few weeks.  Our students have excelled in so many areas!  Please take the time to read and view our newsletter as it is a celebration of all that has been achieved.

- Ms Joanne Bacash

Our annual school photos have been taken and are now ready to order.

Arthur Reed Photos uses an online ordering system where you can view your photos prior to ordering.

Students will receive a flyer which includes a code unique to them - You will require this 2026 code to view and order your photos.

If you misplace your registration code, please contact the Arthur Reed Photos customer service team directly on 5243 4390 (option 1) or customerservice@arphotos.com.au

All photo packages will be sent directly to your nominated address, so please ensure that you enter the correct details and nominated shipping address upon checkout.

If you require any assistance ordering your photos, please contact Arthur Reed Photos directly on 5243 4390 (option 1) or email customerservice@arphotos.com.au

NAPLAN
This week, our students in Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 have been participating in the annual NAPLAN assessments. NAPLAN helps schools, families and teachers understand each student’s progress in key areas of literacy and numeracy. While it is just one measure of learning, it provides useful information that supports planning and ongoing improvement across the school.
In preparation for NAPLAN, students have been developing test‑taking strategies, familiarising themselves with the online platform and practising how to manage their time calmly and confidently. We are incredibly proud of the positive attitude and effort students have shown throughout the week.
 

NAPLAN Interruptions 
Families may be aware that yesterday’s NAPLAN sessions were impacted by unexpected interruptions. These included  technical issues that affected the online testing platform, causing delays for some classes. Our staff responded quickly to ensure students remained calm and supported while the issues were resolved. All students were able to complete the test with extra time available for students.
 

Looking Ahead
As always, we remind families that NAPLAN is only one snapshot of a child’s learning. Results will be shared later in the year and will help our teachers continue to tailor teaching and support to meet the needs of every learner. What matters most is the effort students put in and the confidence they continue to build.

Year 7-9 Maths Workshops 
Each cycle, students in Years 7–9 spend one of their timetabled Maths lessons taking part in a Maths Workshop. These workshops involve team teaching and place a strong emphasis on Problem Solving and Mathematical Dispositions, which are key elements of our Maths is Reasoning pedagogical approach. Students engage in challenges, hands‑on activities, and collaborative tasks designed to build their mathematical thinking in a fun, games‑based environment. 

The photos included show our Year 8 students participating in the Card Pyramid game. Working in pairs, students compete to create a target number (20) using the cards flipped from the top of each pile. They can use any of the four operations—addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division—to reach the target. Students keep the cards they successfully use, and the winner is the player with the most cards once the deck has been exhausted. 

- Ms Ria Coffey

It is hard to believe that Autumn has arrived, and it is already Week 7 of Term One. It has been a positive start to the year, and I have been so impressed with the level of learning and engagement that I witness on a daily basis. The dedication of our teaching staff in meeting the individual learning and social needs of our students is outstanding. It truly does take a village to raise a child, so keep up the great team effort.

It has been wonderful to see children wearing their school uniform with pride and I am grateful to the teachers with following up with students regarding the expectations of our uniform. We have had queries regarding socks. 
Please note:

• if your son is wearing their academic uniform the colour of the socks is grey.

• if your daughter is wearing the school dress as their academic uniform the colour of the socks is white.

• if your child is wearing their sports uniform the colour of the socks is always white.  

Thank you for your cooperation with this.

Over the year I will be sharing with you information about the Child safety standards that we as a school community must follow. 
The Child Safe Standards are a set of 11 requirements that organisations must follow to create a culture and environment that is safe for children. These standards aim to prevent, respond to, and report child abuse by requiring organisations to implement policies, procedures, and practices that put children’s safety and well-being first. They were developed in response to inquiries and recommendations from Royal Commissions and aim to drive cultural change within organisations that provide services or facilities for children. 
In this newsletter is information about Standard 1, which is “Organisations establish a culturally safe environment in which the diverse and unique identities and experiences of Aboriginal children and young people are respected and valued”. I invite you to take the time to read this information as I share each standard with you during the year.

https://ccyp.vic.gov.au/child-safe-standards/the-11-child-safe-standards/standard-1/

Open Morning Classroom Visit
I sincerely thank our families for taking the time to visit and see your children engaged in school life.  What made it even more special was seeing our parents getting involved in the classroom activities. The children absolutely loved sharing their learning and engaging alongside you.  A reminder if parents wish to see teachers, please contact the office and arrange for a meeting.  Staff cannot meet with parents in the morning or after school without an appointment.  We will do or best to work around your schedule and arrange for parent meetings.

Click here for photos

Practice Emergency Evacuation Drills
Throughout the year we will carry out planned evacuation drills. Practicing emergency response procedures enables staff and students to understand their roles and responsibilities in an emergency situation in accordance with our schools Emergency Management Plan.
What happens in a practice evacuation drill? 
Our school Emergency Management Plan is enacted, and students follow the instructions of the classroom teacher to evacuate the building. Students make their way to the designated assembly point. Once everyone has been accounted for, students return to their learning. Students are notified of the practice evacuation as it starts and are notified when the practice has ended.

- Mr Abraham Diab

It was an amazing turnout this week, and we sincerely thank our families for taking the time to visit and see your children engaged in school life.  What made it even more special was seeing our parents getting involved in the classroom activities. The children absolutely loved sharing their learning and engaging alongside you.

- Mr Abraham Diab

On Tuesday 4th March, parents of students preparing to celebrate their First Holy Communion at Antonine College and through our Saturday program were invited to attend an information session.

This year, we have 81 students receiving this special sacrament. Thank you to the parents who were able to attend and mark the beginning of this important faith journey with your child.

We look forward to celebrating the milestones along the way.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

This term in Year 6 we have been trialing the new Religious Education Curriculum unit of “Jesus, the Fullness Revelation”. Students have explored the concepts of Natural and Special Revelation and how God is the ultimate expression of love. As part of this learning, students have deepened their understanding of the Trinity by analysing religious icons and unpacking the meaning of the Nicene Creed.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Our Year 7 retreat at Our Lady of Lebanon Church was a meaningful and memorable experience for all of us. We participated in four different activities, all organized and led by the Year 12 students. Our activities involved mask making which showed the difference between how others see us, we looked at the lives on different saints in the chapel and how we can follow in their footsteps, we explored the church and the symbols inside and finally we listened to scripture and created leaves with messages about our future to put on display. My favourite part of the retreat was the Mass because we were all together and felt deeply connected with God. The retreat helped all of us Year 7 students learn more about our Church grow in our faith. It made us feel ready to face any challenges ahead. 

- Sandra A, Yr 7 

The Year 12 Spiritus Group had the privilege of leading the Year 7 Identity Retreat, creating a day that was both meaningful and enjoyable. Following Mass celebrated by Monsignor Joe, students rotated through four engaging activities centered on identity and faith. In “Tree of Dreams,” students reflected on the story of David and wrote personal goals on paper leaves, In “Masks,” students explored the difference between how others see them and who they truly are in God’s eyes, designing masks to represent both their outer and inner selves. In the church, they learned about significant symbols and the history of the sacred place, deepening their understanding of its meaning and importance. Finally, in “Called to Greatness,” students reflected on being the “salt and light” of the world and were inspired by the lives of saints all around the world. It was a day of reflection, connection, and community, and we thank all those who made it possible and memorable. 

- Isabella I, Yr 12 

On Tuesday March 10th, students in Year 8 and 9 celebrated mass and reflected on the Gospel of the Prodigal Son. This powerful parable reminds us of God’s endless mercy and forgiveness. Just as the father welcomed his son home with love and compassion, we are reminded that God always welcomes us back when we make mistakes. The Gospel also challenges us to show the same forgiveness and understanding to others in our daily lives.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

This Lent, Antonine College will be taking part in The BIG Water Walk - a Caritas Australia initiative that challenges school communities to walk in solidarity with the 292 million people worldwide who walk long distances daily just to collect water.
Sisilia’s Story: 

Our walk this year is dedicated to students like Sisilia, a 13-year-old from rural Tanzania who regularly missed school to collect water for her family. Thanks to Project Compassion, her community now has clean water close to home - giving Sisilia back her education and her future. Every dollar our school raises brings more students like her one step closer to that same gift.

How Can Families Help?

• Share Sisilia’s story with your family and pray together for those without access to clean water. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIH3CgX4VxY 

• Donate online through our school’s Project Compassion fundraising page at https://www.projectcompassion.org.au/fundraiser/antoninecollege or scan the code below:  

- Mr Fadi Elbarbar

We have been having a fantastic turnout in the Year 11 cohort with 34 students currently completing the Spiritus program, with numbers increasing by the week. It’s incredible seeing so many students sacrifice one of their break times to listen and discuss their deepest questions about the faith. Together these students are learning what it means to become disciples of Christ. 

We have explored questions around the problem of evil, the meaning of forgiveness and some difficult passages in the Bible. 

As part of the program these students will be attending and running their own retreats as well as completing at least one of the seven corporal works of mercy. 

- Mr Daniel Saliba 

On Monday  23rd February our Year 12 Spiritus Youth Academy students participated in their retreat. The retreat was codesigned by the students, with several topics covered throughout the day, including the importance of discipline during Lent, commitment to Christ, the power of prayer, and a workshop on testimonies. The day began with a rosary in the ACU Chapel, before enjoying talks by Deacon Rhys Lowther, Youth Minister Kyle Correya and participated in mass at St Patrick's Cathedral.

- Mr Fadi Elbarbar

Students pray the Rosary every day during Break one.

We began praying the Rosary when the war started, especially asking for peace in our world. This daily prayer has become a special moment where we unite our hearts and intentions for those suffering and for an end to all violence. 

- Sr Veronique Karam

Our parents and friends are preparing tickets and items for the Easter raffle. Our fundraiser will go towards two statues at the College: St Maroun at St Joseph, and St Charbel at Cedar Campus.
Thank you to all our parents for their generosity and ongoing support for our school you truly make a difference.

- Sr Veronique Karam

Last week, our Year 6 students enjoyed an exciting visit to the Victorian Parliament building. They stepped inside the Legislative Chambers where laws are made, uncovered the mystery of the stolen mace, and even sat in a Member of Parliament’s chair to learn about the Westminster style of Parliament.

Students admired the portraits of past Premiers lining the walls and explored the historic Library, which played a key role in persuading the Federal Parliament to occupy the building from 1901 to 1927.

A special highlight was meeting Anthony Cianflone, State Labor Member for Pascoe Vale, who spoke with students about his role in state politics and answered questions about how Parliament works and how young people can get involved.

It was a wonderful opportunity for students to see history, democracy, and public service come alive!

- Mr Hayden Wyllie

On the 5th of March our Year 5–8 students enjoyed a fantastic day at the Coburg Olympic Swimming Pool for our annual Swim Sports. The weather was perfect, with plenty of sunshine, creating great conditions for both competitors and spectators.

Students competed in a range of swimming events in the pool, including freestyle, backstroke, and a kickboard race. It was fantastic to see so many students getting involved and giving their best in the water.
There were also plenty of activities happening around the venue throughout the day. Students enjoyed taking part in the egg and spoon race, water volleyball, soccer shoot out on the grass area, a variety of physical challenges in the activities pool, and a diving competition, which drew lots of excitement from the crowd. 

It was great to see strong participation, encouragement between houses, and excellent sportsmanship displayed across the day.

Congratulations to Maroun House, who finished the day as our overall Swim Sports champions. A big thank you to the staff and students who helped make the day such a success.

- Mr Hayden Wyllie

Year 7 students have had the opportunity to use the Science lab facilities to conduct experiments related to forces. Students first completed some introductory activities to explore and understand the basics of working in a science lab, including safety, equipment, and measuring.
Students then conducted experiments to learn about friction, as well as balanced and unbalanced forces.

Students thoroughly enjoyed these experiments, and we look forward to more opportunities like this in the future.

- Ms Indira Natoli

The Year 8’s had the privilege of attend their Surf Camp this term. Traveling down to Angelsea and participating in a variety of activities and growing together as a year level. Some year 8’s have shared their experience of camp with us. 

Student Reflection

Day One:
On the first day of camp when I arrived to school in the morning, I felt and urge of excitement and was ready to go on this fun and exciting adventure. Once we arrived at the tree surfing me and my friends were so excited and couldn’t wait to get up on the course and once the teachers explain how we are meant to do the tree surfing We went and did all of the courses and had so much fun. The teachers at camp took good care of us and enjoyed the experience alongside us. Overall, we had an amazing, cool and memorable camp.
- Jaad Abou-Haila

Day Two:
On the second day of camp, students woke up in their cabins and got ready for an exciting day ahead. After breakfast and completing their duty groups, everyone was split into groups for activities. Some students tried archery and mini golf, while others worked in teams, with boys and girls competing to build the best bush shelters using twigs and branches. In the afternoon, students enjoyed surfing, boogie boarding, paddle boarding, and kayaking, while also having a break and enjoying the wonderful sandwiches. We had dinner and time to get ready, to end the day with a fun disco night where everyone got to wear costumes, danced and celebrated together.
- Yolita Hanoona

Day Three: 
On the third day of camp, we packed up our cabins and make sure they were spotless. After that we went to the dining room to have some breakfast before we went to the chocolate factory. We tasted a variety of chocolates there. We also got to buy stuff and try free samples. As we headed back to camp, we were full of energy. When we headed back to camp we at lunch and played for a little bit before we headed back to school. Thank you for all the teachers that came to camp with us, Mrs Hartnup, Mr Wagner, Ms MacAleese, Ms Manariti, Mr Fakhry, Ms O’Mera and Ms Uribe. Also, Coastal Forest Lodge for making this happen.
- Mason Elkhouri
 

- Ms Stephanie Hartnup

We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Year 8 students. The following students achieved an average grade of 80% or higher on their Semester Two Report in 2025. Their strong results reflect consistent effort, dedication to their studies, and a commitment to doing their best throughout the semester.
•    Jaad, A 
•    Rachelle, A 
•    Eliana, A 
•    Alexander, A 
•    Elissa, A 
•    Daniel, B 
•    Teresia, E 
•    Paola, E 
•    Crystal, F 
•    Gabriel, H 
•    Yoli, H 
•    Chanel, H 
•    Nicole, M 
•    Mary, R 
•    Bridgette, S 
•    Alyssa, T 
•    Vostina, T 
•    Maria, T 
•    Marsela, Y

We congratulate the following students who achieved 95% or higher attendance in Semester Two, 2025. Being present at school plays an important role in building positive relationships and ensuring students have every opportunity to strengthen their learning and skills.
•    Marco, B 
•    Marwan, D 
•    Paola, E 
•    Dominic, K 
•    Mary, R 
•    Maria, T 
•    Marah, B 
•    Zeenab, I 
•    Emmanuel, J 
•    Elijah, M 
•    Yoli, H 
•    A J, K 
•    Alistair, M 
•    Cristiano, S 
•    Nabil, M 
•    Anna, J

- Ms Stephanie Hartnup

Music Excursion - Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (student reflection)
On Wednesday 4th March, the Year 9 Music Elective class and several Instrumental Music students attended an open rehearsal of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. The rehearsal took place at the renowned Hamer Hall, in the Arts Centre precinct, Southbank. The orchestra was conducted by Spanish-born conductor Jaime Martín, who has led the group since 2022. In between pieces, Jaime addressed the students and explained the workings of a large ensemble, likening it to being on a football team. To achieve powerful, dynamic and harmonious performances, each player needs to be aware of both their own playing and everybody else’s.

The orchestra was rehearsing sections from Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances, for the opening gala performance the following night. The level of ability and the group’s synergy was astounding. This behind-the-scenes insight into the work of a top-level ensemble was a valuable experience for our school’s musicians. Thank you to Mr Kerr for leading the excursion.

Attending the MSO to watch open rehearsal with conductor Jamie Martín was truly a memorable experience! It was amazing to see the orchestra rehearse in a professional setting, and observe how the auditorium allowed the music to carry clearly without microphones. Hearing all the different instruments come together to create such a powerful sound was incredible to experience live. Overall, the excursion gave us a great understanding of how a professional orchestra works. A big thank you to Mr Parker, who organised this fantastic opportunity for us!

⁃ Marisya 10A

Instrumental Music Lessons

The program is almost at capacity, with only limited places remaining on certain instruments. Please see the enrolment link on PAM for all vacancies.

Our newest program, Voice, is quickly filling up with enrolments, but there are a few places still available at both campuses. Singing teacher Jacinta Elarmaly will soon be preparing performance pieces for the Term 2 Soiree and we encourage any aspiring singers to enrol.

- Mr Lee Parker

Year 9 Food Technology students recently took part in a practical session making sushi, where they put their kitchen safety knowledge into practice.  During this lesson, students demonstrated safe food handling as well as precision cuts and knife skills while preparing their ingredients and creating their sushi rolls.  It was great to see how proud they were of their efforts!

- Ms Norma Francis 

Year 10 students recently took part in a practical cooking workshop where they made cookies and cream biscuits. This session proved to be an enjoyable experience for all, and students had the opportunity to learn new skills and enjoy the process of making and tasting their own creations. 

- Ms Norma Francis 

Year 10 Food Technology students recently prepared vegetable noodle stir fry as part of a practical lesson which allowed them to demonstrate hygienic kitchen practices and knife skills when preparing their ingredients.  In the process of sautéing their vegetables, students learnt about the order of preparation when cooking vegetables and appropriate cooking methods while creating their dishes.  

A great effort by all!

- Ms Norma Francis

In Health and Wellbeing, students have been exploring the internal and external obstacles that can impact goal achievement. Through discussions, real-life scenarios and problem-solving activities, students analysed how various challenges influence their ability to reach their goals. Working both individually and in groups, students identified practical strategies to overcome these obstacles.  

To reinforce their learning, students participated in a hands-on challenge where they worked in teams of 3 or 4 to construct the tallest possible pasta tower using only marshmallows, spaghetti, and tape. With a strict 10-minute time limit, they were required to think creatively, collaborate effectively and continuously. This activity encouraged the development of problem-solving skills and resilience equipping students with strategies to navigate real-world challenges. 

YEAR 10 PE 
In PE, students have recently completed a SEPEP basketball unit. SEPEP is a student-centered curriculum model that mirrors real-life sports by having students manage, coach, referee and collect data for long-term competitions. Students take on a variety of roles within their team, such as: 

• Player

• Coach or team captain

• Referee or umpire

• Statistician or scorekeeper

• Manager or equipment organiser

This helps students develop leadership, communication, responsibility, teamwork and decision-making skills whilst improving their physical skills. This has been a very successful unit of work amongst the homerooms and I thank PE staff for their constant motivation and preparation with this unit of work. Students will now move into an athletic unit for the remainder of the term.   

- Miss Isabella Athaide 

During our Year 10 assembly in week 5 we recognised the outstanding achievements of some students from Semester 2, 2025. This group of students obtained an average result of 80% or higher across all subjects in Semester 2 of last year which showcased their ongoing commitment to their studies. I congratulate the following students on this achievement:

• Charbel A

• Gabriel M

• Tatiana E

• Malak S

• Sarah F

• Catalina K

• Katya R

• Shahad T

• Maria K

• Zeina A

• Emily J

• Mariam S

• Marisya Q

• Esther E

• Gazl R

• Joud R

• Josephine M

• Dianne Y

Thank you to all parents/carers of year 10 students for your ongoing support. I look forward to getting to know you all individually over the coming year. 

- Miss Isabella Athaide

As part of Year 11 English, students have been studying The Longest Memory by Fred D’Aguiar. Throughout the unit, students have explored the text’s themes, values and experiences, making meaningful personal connections to their own lives, other literature and broader society.

It has been incredibly pleasing to see students actively applying their critical thinking skills to draw thoughtful parallels and contrasts between the world of the text and the world around them.

In class, students recently participated in a Jigsaw Reading activity. This involved:

• Working in small groups

• Analysing different passages from the novel

• Collaboratively unpacking key ideas and language

• Presenting their findings to the class

This approach allowed students to closely dissect a range of passages while developing their collaborative skills and confidence in oral presentations. It has been a fantastic way to deepen understanding of the text and support preparation for upcoming SAC revision.

- Miss Tania Aoun

11 - 23 March: NAPLAN Year 3, 5, 7, 9
20 March: Cedar Athletic Day
25 March: F-3 Palm Sunday Prayer Service
27 March: Stations of the Cross Procession
2 April: Year 4-6 Holy Thursday Mass
2 April: Saint Joseph Athletic Day
2 April: Last Day of Term One
For more dates please visit Upcoming events

God is Love - College Theme 2026