Opening College Mass – Feast of St Maroun

On the Feast of St Maroun, Monday 9 February, all students from Year 1 to Year 12, staff and parents gathered for the College Opening Mass in the Mother Isabelle El Khoury Stadium.  It was wonderful to see the whole College come together for Mass.   As the only Maronite College in Victoria, it was fitting that the Opening Mass is on the Feast day of the Founder of the Maronite Church, a clear statement of our Maronite Identity.

I share with you some of my Introduction to the Mass explaining the 2026 College Theme – God is Love.

The College theme this year is simply ‘God is Love’.  Simple yet very deep in meaning.  We see this statement in the John’s Gospel, ‘ Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love’.

Note he doesn’t just say God is loving, he says God is love; it's not just an attribute but who He is, the source and definition of all true love.
This refers to a selfless, unconditional, and sacrificial love that values others for their intrinsic worth, not their performance. While human love is a faint reflection; God's love is perfect, constant, and endures despite human failings. 
The verse in John’s gospel links knowing God with the ability to love others; if you truly know God (who is love), you will express love. And by believers loving each other, they reflect God's own love. This love is demonstrated by God sending Jesus (John 3:16) and forgiving sins (1 John 1:9).
His Excellency, Bishop Tarabay has announced that The Maronite Eparchy of Australia, will observe 2026 as the Year of Prayer for Peace under the theme: “My peace I give to you” (John 14:27).
Launching today on the Feast of Saint Maroun, this year invites our families, parishes, and communities to become true instruments of Christ’s peace through prayer and action. We can show God that we love him by being peacemakers and spreading God’s love.
And so as we begin our school year, I invite you to reflect on the theme and ask yourselves these two questions:

•    What is one way we can show God’s love and bring peace into our homes and within our families?
•    What is one way we can show God’s love and spread peace at Antonine College?

I pray that St Maroun, St Anthony and all the saints intercede on our behalf and pray for our Antonine College.  I wish you every success for the 2026 school year.  

May St Maroun intercede on behalf of our College protecting all our students, staff and families.

Enrolments for 2027 and 2028
Please note that we are currently finalising enrolments for Foundation and Year 7 for 2027 and we are accepting applications for 2028.  We do have some availability at other year levels but please put applications in now to avoid disappointment.

Students’ Identity and Gender
The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference released the following document: Created and Loved:  A Guide for Catholic Schools on Students’ Identity and Gender (2026)
As a Catholic school, Antonine College follows the guidelines of the Australian Catholic Bishops and of the Maronite Bishop.  I encourage parents to read this document which was first published in 2022 and has just been recently revised. 
 

Role of Catholic Education
In October last year, on the 60th anniversary of Gravissimum Educationis, Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic letter ‘Drawing New Maps of Hope’, re-emphasised the importance of Catholic Education in the context of the modern world.  I encourage you to click on the links to read the references above.  Again, these documents guide all Catholic schools as they share in the Mission of the Catholic Church.

I wish you all a great 2026!

- Ms Joanne Bacash

Antonine College were thankful for the opportunity to host the Federal Minister for Education the Hon. Jason Clare. The Hon. Peter Khalil MP, the Federal Labor Member for Wills and current Assistant Minister for Defence, supported the visit and both Ministers shared their experiences of schooling and moving into politics. 

Students asked questions and Minister Clare was able to share his thoughts on the use of AI in schools (we need to focus on safety and using it to help learning not to learn for us), how to get into chosen university courses (there's lots of pathways to access degrees) the future of education (there'll be more not less) and what students need most in schools (support for their health and wellbeing).

Antonine is grateful to Peter Khalil to reaching out to us for the visit.

A reminder to sign into PAM https://pam.antonine.catholic.edu.au to keep up to date with excursions, school reports, attendance and also to update your child's medical information. If need help signing into PAM please click here for instructions https://bit.ly/PAMinstructions . 

Please note: If you have a bigpond or telstra email address linked with your PAM account, please change use an alternative email address such as gmail or hotmail

If you require any assistance in setting your PAM account, please visit the office or call us on 9354 1377 (option 3)

This year we continue to focus on our College Goals identified during our School Review in 2024. 
Our school review goals include a focus on student achievement, engagement, and numeracy outcomes and strengthening our Maronite Catholic identity.
From our school review goals, we create an annual action plan and use this to guide our focus areas each term.  You can see listed below each school goal are the opportunities we will focus on during 2026.

School Goal – To improve student engagement 

• Students and teachers are using conferencing and data to set learning goals each Semester based on school instructional approaches 

School Goal – To improve student achievement  

Consistent classroom routines and the College Instructional Model are embedded across the College  
Professional learning for teachers in explicit instruction 
 

School Goal – To strengthen the Maronite Catholic Identity  

• Develop Staff Faith Formation 

• Trial the new Religion units developed by Melbourne Archdiocese of Catholic Schools & support Religion teachers to build their understanding of Religion instructional practice, curriculum, assessment and reporting against Religious Education standards 

• CSYMI / Spíritus Program is implemented across the College 
   

School Goal – To improve student numeracy outcomes  

• A lesson structure and unit planning approach that includes daily review and workshop is implemented. The College Instructional Model for Numeracy – Mathematics is Reasoning - is reflected in the planning template and process.  \

• Targeted intervention groups are developed with a maths focus  

Curriculum Overviews
Teachers have prepared Curriculum Overviews and communicated these to families for Term 1. These include Important Dates and Information for upcoming events. 

I have linked our College Curriculum F-10 Overview. It’s nice to see the progression of topics across Foundation to Year 10 and the range of subjects our students can engage with on their learning journey.
We look forward to Cedar families joining classes during the Open Mornings. Any opportunity to celebrate and share student learning is welcome.

- Ms Ria Coffey

Students across F-12 spent time in their Pastoral Care class reading, discussing and signing the Digital Technologies Acceptable Usage Agreement. Parents have been requested to provide consent through PAM Activity Permissions. This agreement is designed to ensure we are working together in partnership to ensure online safety and the appropriate use of digital technology. The agreement is available to view in the Digital Technology Handbook.  

https://bit.ly/DigitalHandbook25 

The safe and appropriate use of digital devices is important, and we request that devices are used in moderation and boundaries are set by students, teachers and parents as we work together in partnership. The College expectation is that responsibility for the entire program is shared amongst parents, students and the College.  

Parent responsibility  

Parents are encouraged to direct, create and implement their very own family rules and expectations for devices used at home. Set some clear non-negotiable rules, to support acceptable online safety practices. Clearly communicate your rules and expectations regarding screen time and access to age-appropriate content (i.e. games, apps and social media) and revisit them when necessary.  While the school network system will provide some Internet security through Internet content filtering there is no substitute for parental supervision when using a device. Parents are ultimately responsible for monitoring student use of their devices and Internet at home.  

Education is about empowering your child, not just disciplining them. To help your child be empowered in the online world, ensure that your child feels safe to talk to you about anything that might upset them online. Let them know that they should seek you or another trusted adult whenever they are unsure.  Please support your child to understand the Social Media Delay which was implemented on the 10 December. The delay in creating accounts on some social media platforms aims to protect Under-16s from pressures and risks they can be exposed to while logged in to social media accounts. We will continue to provide educational support at school. 

The Digital Technology Handbook explains the safe and responsible use of technology at school and encourages families to access resources and information to support healthy and positive use of digital technology at home. If any parent is experiencing difficulty, they may wish to seek IT support from school or speak to a Learning Leader. 

https://bit.ly/DigitalHandbook25 

Set Up Parental Controls 

eSafety parent resources and webinars 

Family Sharing  

Set Up Screen Time 

- Ms Ria Coffey

Welcome to the Start of Term 1:

Our Ongoing Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing
As we begin the 2026 academic year,  I warmly welcome back all students, families, and staff. This is always a time filled with anticipation and renewed focus, and it offers the perfect opportunity to reaffirm one of our most important responsibilities at Antonine College,  the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of every young person.

In my role as Deputy Principal and Child Safety Officer, I remain committed to fostering a culture where students feel safe, respected, and ready to learn. This term, we continue strengthening our practices in line with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.

Highlighting Child Safe Standard 1
Alongside this article, you will find a Child Safe Standard 1 poster from the latest MACS Parent/Carer Newsletter. I encourage all families to take a moment to read it.

This poster summarises how schools create culturally safe environments where the identities and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are honoured and valued. It outlines practical examples, such as celebrating culture, taking a clear stance against racism, working in partnership with families, and ensuring staff engage in ongoing learning that help guide our approach here at Antonine College.

By drawing attention to this resource, I hope families gain a deeper understanding of the essential role each of us plays in upholding a community where every child feels they belong.

Our Child Safety Commitment
Antonine College continues to uphold:

• The right of every student to feel safe, respected, and protected

• A culture where child safety is a shared responsibility

• Clear and accessible reporting processes

• Engagement with students so their voices guide our decisions

These commitments are reflected in our Wellbeing for Learning Expectations, which reinforce behaviours and relationships that nurture safety, readiness, and respect which are all essential components of Child Safe Standard 1.

Upcoming Wellbeing Initiatives This Term
This term, students will engage in a range of initiatives that support their wellbeing, confidence, and learning success, including:

• Health and Wellbeing lessons, focused on motivation, managing procrastination, building self efficacy‑efficacy, and developing strong study routines

• Careers and VCE guidance, helping students set clear goals and understand future pathways

• Year-level wellbeing activities that strengthen peer relationships and belonging

• A focus on calm and structured learning environments across classrooms

These initiatives reflect our belief that wellbeing is foundational to academic growth and personal development.

Policy Reminders
At the start of term, families are encouraged to revisit the following policies on our website:

• Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy

• Child Safety Code of Conduct

• Complaints Handling Policy, including steps for raising child safety concerns

Together, these documents outline how we uphold our legal and ethical responsibilities to protect every child in our care.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership in ensuring Antonine College remains a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment for all.

MACS Care CSS 1 Parent Carer Newsletter Final PDF January 2026

Wellbeing for Learning Expectations

- Ms Helen Diab

Lord God,
We give thanks for this new school year and pray for energy and patience through changes for students, teachers and families.
We pray for compassionate hearts to reach out to those in need.
We pray for unity as we work together for a safe community. We pray that all people will treat others with kindness and respect.
We pray for those who are sad, sick or lonely that you will give them hope.
We ask for wisdom for those who make decisions for our futures.
We pray that we continue to be intentional collaborators, guided by your spirit.
We give thanks for all the blessings you have given us.
We ask this through Christ our Lord,
Amen

Welcome back to school. 
I hope you all were able to have some time to relax and spend time together with family and friends. It has been great to see all the children returning to school during their testing days and also having our new Foundation and families join us. I am sure the Antonine community will make all new staff, children and families feel very welcome at our school.

At Antonine, we strive to provide the best education for every student, and daily attendance is crucial to achieving this goal.  I’d like to emphasise the importance of being at school every day.

Why is attendance so important?
Each school day matters because students learn new skills and concepts that build upon one another. Missing even a single day can leave students behind in vital areas like numeracy, writing, and reading. Patterns of regular absence in the early years can often lead to ongoing challenges in later schooling.

Here are some tips to ensure your child is at school every day:
Establish a Routine: Create consistent bedtime, wake-up, and morning routines to make school preparation smoother.
Prioritise Health: Encourage a healthy lifestyle with good sleep, balanced nutrition, and physical activity to minimise illness.
Plan Ahead: Schedule vacations during school holidays and avoid taking days off unless absolutely necessary.
Stay Positive: Highlight the fun aspects of school to keep your child motivated to attend.

Car Park Area – Thank You 
I would like to thank all families for following the new pick-up and drop-off arrangements at school. The safety of our children is our highest priority, and these changes have also helped improve the flow of traffic.

We have listened to feedback from families and have opened an additional section at the bottom of the staff car park to provide more space.

Thank you again for your cooperation. Please continue to drive safely and ensure you park within the marked bays when dropping off and picking up your children.

School Schedule and Timetable
8:20am School Gates Open -  (Children should not be at school before this time)
8:40am  - 9.40am   Period 1
9:40am – 10.40am  Period 2
10:40am-10.50am  Eating Time 
10:50- 11.20am       Break One
11:25am-12:25pm  Period 3
12.25pm-1:25pm    Period 4 
1:25pm-1:30pm      Eating Time
1:30pm-2:00pm      Break Two
2:00pm - 3:00pm    Period 5
Dismissal (Children need to be picked up at this time)

School Bus Service Reminder
The safety of our students is our highest priority. We will not tolerate any student misbehaving on the school bus or distracting the driver from concentrating on the road. All incident reports are taken very seriously, and students may be suspended from using the bus service if expectations are not met.

Our goal is to ensure that all students travel safely, and that other road users remain safe as well.

Please remind your children of the following expectations:

• Remain seated while the bus is moving.

• Scan your cards on and off the bus.

• Seat belts must be worn at all times.

• Cooperate with and respect the bus driver.

• Cedar students are encouraged to remain seated at the front of the bus.

• Students should sit separately from St Joseph students.

• No student has permission to take photographs or record other students.

• Do not talk to strangers through the window.

• Keep hands and arms inside the bus at all times.

• Do not throw rubbish inside the bus or out of the window.

We appreciate your support in reinforcing these expectations to ensure a safe and respectful journey for everyone.

Birthday Treats
We ask families to provide non edible treats for birthdays and other celebrations. Families are to be commended for the way they have taken up this challenge and are being very creative in this space. With the growing numbers of dietary restrictions, this has been very welcomed. If as a school we have a special food event, such as  hot food days, fundraisers, special events, icy poles we will always seek parent permission prior and have adequate controls in place for our students with allergies or special dietary requirements. To assist parents, I have brainstormed some ideas with our Year 5 and 6 students that you can include for Birthday or Christmas treats that are non-edible and still bring joy and happiness to our children. I ask families to keep this simple and I thank you for your support.

• Pencil topper (Eraser)
• Pen or pencil or ruler
• Slinky
• Hair accessory
• Christmas straws
• Christmas ornament or Holy
• Key chain
• Bouncy ball
• Stickers- Christmas, animals, dinosaurs etc.- (Children love stickers)
• Bubbles
• Tiny colouring book packs or tiny notebooks
• Mini play dough
• Paper aeroplane templates/origami set or bookmarks.

Transition into a new school year
Settling into a new school year can be an exciting yet challenging time for both children and parents. Here are some tips for parents to help their children adjust and thrive:

Establish a Routine: 

• Set a consistent daily routine that includes a balance of homework, playtime, and relaxation.

• Ensure your child gets enough sleep by enforcing a regular bedtime.

Open Communication: 

• Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns about the new school year.

• Stay involved in your child's school life by attending parent-teacher meetings and staying in touch with their teachers.

Encourage Independence: 

• Teach your child age-appropriate skills, such as organising their school bag, managing their chores, and completing homework independently.

• Foster a sense of responsibility by involving them in decision-making processes.

Stay Positive: 

• Maintain a positive attitude about the new school year, and express enthusiasm about the opportunities and experiences your child will have.

• Remind your child that it's normal to feel a mix of emotions when starting something new.

Create a Homework-Friendly Environment: 

• Establish a quiet and organised space at home for homework and studying.

• Set aside a specific time each day for homework and help create a routine that works for your child.

Promote Healthy Habits: 

• Encourage healthy eating habits by providing nutritious meals and snacks.

• Emphasise the importance of physical activity and playtime to support overall well-being.

Build Social Skills: 

• Help your child develop social skills by arranging playdates or participating in school-related activities.

• Teach them how to make friends and navigate social situations positively.

Monitor Screen Time: 

• Set reasonable limits on screen time, especially during school nights.

• Encourage activities that promote creativity, learning, and social interaction.

Engage in School Activities:

• Participate in school events, such as school masses, parent-teacher conferences, PA (Parent Auxiliary) meetings, and school fundraisers.

• Volunteer for classroom activities, excursions, or special events (Sports Day) to actively contribute to your child's school community.

Be Patient: 

• Understand that the adjustment period may take some time. Be patient and supportive as your child settles into the new routine.
• Stay engaged with their experiences, and address any concerns or challenges together.
• Remember that every child is unique, so adapt these tips to suit your child's individual needs and circumstances.
• By providing support, encouragement and a positive environment, you can help your child navigate the new school year successfully.

House Captains:
Faith and Social Justice Captains

• Marita Maarawi
• Nicolina Gorevski

MacKillop House Captains

• Mikayla Escaross
• Gabriella Elley

Maroun House Captains

• Maria Essey
• Ibrahim El Saleh

Nassar House Captains

• Rafqa Nasr
• Joseph Ibrahim 

Paterson House Captains

• Joey Kanati
• Layla Kahla

Disruptions 
To minimise disruptions to valuable learning time, we kindly request all student appointments be scheduled after school hours whenever possible.  Frequent interruptions can impact on a student’s education.  Scheduling appointments after school hours helps ensure students receive the full benefits of their education.  If any early pick up is unavoidable, please allow our office staff sufficient time to locate your child and have them ready.  Your cooperation helps us maintain a smooth and efficient school day for all students.

Cedar Campus Photo Day - Thursday, 26th February 2026 – Cedar Campus
Arthur Reed Photos uses an electronic system where all ordering is done online after photo day and includes being able to view your child’s images.

There will be no need to order or return any forms to the College prior to photography.

Unique image codes will be issued to all students on/after photo day so families can register online to view images when they become available in the webshop.

 ALL Students to be in FULL academic school uniform, no PE uniform.

 https://www.antonine.catholic.edu.au/enrol/uniform

Cedar Campus students:  

• FULL academic school uniform (no jackets, white shirts or dresses only)
• Black shoes
• White socks (girls)
• Grey socks (boys)
• Hair FULLY tied up (no half up half down will be permitted) - come to school with your hair ready to go
• NO makeup 

Open Morning

Teeth on Wheels visiting Antonine College

-Mr Abraham Diab

An exciting week we have had! We have welcomed our students at both ends of their educational journeys: Foundation students on their first day of school, and our Year 12 students on their last first day of school.

We hope all our students have a year full of learning, growing and thriving

On Monday 9th February, we gathered as a whole college in prayer to mark the beginning of the school year with the Opening School and Feast of St Maroun Mass. Together, students, staff and families gave thanks for the gift of our community and asked for God’s blessing and guidance for the year ahead. This special celebration invited us to reflect on the values that unite us and to draw inspiration from the life of St Maroun, whose faith, humility, and trust in God continue to guide our journey. As we begin the year together, we are reminded to live our faith each day through kindness, perseverance, service, and love.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Monday 16th February marked the beginning of the Maronite Lenten season. Students in Years 5-8 attended Mass with our parish, while students in Foundation-Year 4 gathered for a prayer service at Cedar Campus, and Years 9–12 participated in a prayer service at St Joseph Campus. 

Across all campuses, this sacred day reminded us to pause, reflect, and turn our hearts back to God as we begin our Lenten journey.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Towards the end of 2025, Antonine College joined forces with the Maronite Youth of St Charbel to collect items for families in need over the Christmas season. Thank you once again to our generous families. Your support never ceases to amaze us. 

May God bless you all

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Our Year 5 & 6 students explored the life of Saint Maroun through a creative emblem design task. By combining symbols such as the mountain, cedar tree, cross, and light, students reflected on his life of prayer, faith, and holiness. The activity encouraged creativity while deepening students’ understanding of the Maronite tradition.

Student artworks; Natalia K (5B), Leo I (5B), Melissa A (5B), Martin A (6A)

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Inspired by our theme God is Love, students in Years 7–9 reflected on how love is communicated in everyday life. Their conversation-style love hearts express messages of hope, respect, and God’s presence in our community

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Rosary Club – Praying the Rosary Every Day During Lent

As we journey through the sacred season of Lent, our Primary students are invited to take part in our Rosary Club, held every day during Break 1 in the chapel. This special time of prayer offers our children a gentle space to pause, reflect, and deepen their friendship with Jesus through the loving intercession of Mary. Students will also have the opportunity to offer a special prayer in the prayer book. May this Lenten season lead us all closer to Christ and fill our school with hope, peace, and renewed spirit.

Amen.

- Sr Veronique Karam

Antonine College is proud to launch Spiritus in 2026 - a whole-school youth ministry pathway that walks alongside every student from Year 7 to Year 12 in their spiritual, personal, and leadership formation.

Spiritus is the College's implementation of the CSYMI model - a structured approach to Catholic school evangelisation built around faith formation, student ministry, and leader formation. It is a living pathway that students enter and grow through, experiencing prayer, Bible study, service, and retreat leadership along the way.

Three Strands, One Vision

Spiritus is built around three interlocking strands that work together to create a rich and flexible formation experience:

1. Spiritus Groups: Extra-curricular gatherings for community, prayer, formation and service - running across all year levels.     

2. Spiritus Electives: Timetabled subjects offering a deeper, structured formation pathway for students who want to go further.          

3. Youth Academy: For Years 11 and 12: senior leadership formation, student-led ministry, mentoring, and mission responsibility.

The Spiritus Journey: Year by Year

Each year level has a tailored offering:

• Years 7 & 8 - Faith Club: Weekly gatherings for community, prayer, and discussion. Year 8s can also take The Amazing Race elective in Semester 2.
• Years 9 & 10 - Catch the Wave + Bible Study: A semester elective on identity, discipleship, and service, alongside a year-long Sermon on the Mount study group.
• Year 11 - Growing Leaders: Students step into leadership roles in prayer, service, and retreat coordination.
• Year 12 - Youth Academy: Senior students mentor younger cohorts, lead retreats, and carry real ministry responsibility.

Faith in Action: Service Learning and the Corporal Works of Mercy

Faith must be lived, not just learned. Across 2026, Spiritus intentionally walks the whole school through all seven Corporal Works of Mercy, with each year level engaging in tangible service experiences through partners including Caritas Australia, St Vincent de Paul, and ACRATH.

Retreats: Student-Led Encounters with God

All students are actively involved in planning and leading retreats for junior year levels — a powerful expression of peer ministry and the Spiritus journey coming full circle.

What Can Families Expect?

In 2026, families will see Spiritus come to life through regular group meetings, timetabled electives, and retreat events across the year. Student voice is built in from the start, and the College is committed to ensuring the program stays rich and relevant. More details - including retreat dates and group schedules - will be shared as the year unfolds.

- Mr Fadi Elbarbar

Learning Diversity Leader - Dan Filippini

My name is Dan Filippini, and I am the College Campus Learning Diversity Leader at Antonine College. I have been part of the Antonine community for 18 months, and during this time I have come to truly appreciate the unique and enriching culture that defines our school. The foundation of Antonine College in the Maronite Faith, through the Antonine Sisters, has been a deeply faith‑renewing experience—one I did not anticipate when moving from New Zealand. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity.

As Learning Diversity Leader, I bring five years of experience in learning diversity from my previous role as Deputy Principal: Guidance and Support. At Antonine College, I work closely with teachers and school leaders to ensure learning environments are inclusive, responsive, and genuinely supportive of a diverse range of learning needs. My role is grounded in collaboration, working alongside staff to problem‑solve, clarify expectations, and implement practical adjustments that enable students to access learning with confidence and dignity.

I place a strong emphasis on clarity and consistency, supporting colleagues to navigate processes related to learning adjustments, documentation, and shared responsibility. Central to my approach is the belief that learning diversity is not an “add‑on”, but an integral part of effective teaching practice—embedded in thoughtful planning, flexible pedagogy, and strong professional relationships.

Above all, my work is guided by advocacy, realism, and care. I aim to support staff in making informed decisions that are sustainable, purposeful, and centred on student wellbeing, while fostering a school culture in which differences are understood, respected, and supported across the wider community.

Education Support Officers
Education Support Officers (ESOs) play a key role in supporting inclusive classroom environments by working alongside teachers to implement planned learning adjustments and support student engagement. They contribute to consistency, structure, and wellbeing by reinforcing routines, assisting students to access learning tasks, and responding flexibly to needs as they arise. The role is grounded in collaboration and clear direction, with ESOs supporting learning as guided by teachers and established plans, while offering valuable insight through their day‑to‑day observations. Strong partnerships between teachers, ESOs, and leaders ensure the role remains purposeful, professional, and focused on enabling students to participate confidently in learning.

Antonine College’s ESOs:

Gillian O’Connor

In my role as an Education Support Officer at Antonine College, over the course of ten years, I have supported students with a diverse range of needs from Year 7 through to VCE and VM with expertise primarily in English and Humanities.  The focus of my role is to ensure an inclusive environment whereby students reach the lesson learning Intention and achieve the success criteria within a learning area. I value my role in developing students' learning to reach their goals and increase their motivation, confidence and well-being. An important aspect is building communication with teachers, which is open and effective, leading to greater understanding, engagement and success of students. Developing students' learning through various methods, such as written, verbal and visual and witnessing their success is central to my role and continues to be motivating and rewarding.

Dolly Pichardo

Witnessing the joy in students’ achievements is the highlight of my job. I feel blessed to be part of this and surrounded by students' academic growth and maturation. As an ESO, I get the opportunity to work with individuals with additional needs one on one and in a classroom setting, mainly with Maths and Science. The rapport built with students makes my job even more enjoyable as I am able to nurture and strengthen the existing skills present in the students. Our support as an ESO goes beyond just helping them learn; it also benefits their physical, mental and psychological well-being.

Leah Sassine

Hi, I’m Leah! I’ve been working at Antonine College for the past three years as a part-time Education Support Officer. As a past student of the college, it’s really special to be back in a place that played such a big role in my own schooling. I love supporting students in their learning, building positive relationships, and watching their confidence grow as they become more independent and take on challenges they once found difficult. I’m currently studying a Bachelor of Teaching (Primary and Secondary), specialising in Health and Mathematics, and I really enjoy putting what I’m learning into practice in the classroom while helping students. I especially enjoy working in Maths and Humanities classes alongside students.

Josephine Zabboughi

Hi, I'm Josephine, some of you may know me from Antonine Sisters Childcare Centre, where I worked for several years before coming to Antonine College. This is now my 3rd year as an ESO at St Joseph's campus and quite possibly my most favourite role. The bulk of my time is spent assisting in our wonderful Food Tech Kitchen, and when I'm not there, I will be in the classroom. Religion classes are my favourite as I can almost guarantee there's something new to learn in each lesson - even after 3 years!

I am very proud to work with such dedicated staff and students. The satisfaction and gratitude I receive from being part of the Antonine community make getting up in the morning that bit easier.

Karina Diab

Hi everyone, this is Karina Diab here from the Education Support team.
Most of you know me as Miss Karina. I enjoy everything biology, environment, science, and math. My Lebanese background gives me the ability to provide support in the Arabic language. I work closely with teachers to support students and provide them with individual support where needed. I am patient and passionate about education and assisting others to receive the learning they deserve, since with education comes knowledge and success in life. Helping others is one of my strong points, and I’m more than happy to offer a hand where I can. I’m interested in reading, travelling, and spending time in nature - if you ask my mom, at one stage, I was interested in becoming an actress in Hollywood and going to NASA. Working with Antonine College and its community is a heartwarming experience, and I am glad to be part of this thriving organisation.

Mariam Wehbe

I’ve been working at Antonine College for the past three years and am currently entering my fourth. While obtaining my Bachelor of Education (Secondary), my role in education support has shone a new light on the importance of education for all types of students through differentiated learning and ensuring that they can reach the academic standard. Specialising in Math and Science, I aim to help students complete their coursework by working one-on-one or teaching small groups. The Maronite community at Antonine is one like no other. Bonded by the college’s motto - Faith, Hope and Love, the college works together to promote religious values while ensuring that the students are learning a vide variety of subjects.

Sally Fedhail

Hi, my name is Sally, and I’ve been working at Antonine College since 2023. I really enjoy being part of Antonine because of the strong sense of family and faith within the community. As a former student, it is nice to now work in a place where my colleagues know me, have seen me grow, and were a part of that journey. My role in the library allows me to utilise and showcase my creativity through designing displays and creating inviting spaces that spark interest for students. I enjoy finding new ways to encourage their curiosity and help them develop a love for reading and learning. Additionally, I assist students with Religion during exam periods, helping deepen their understanding of the life of Christ and the Catholic Church. Being able to support them, build positive connections, and watch them grow is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. It’s really special to come full circle and give back to a school that helped shape who I am today.

F-2 Parent Classroom helpers
The classroom helpers program is back for 2026 from Term 2. If you are the parent of a student in F-2 and would like to help out during the Literacy block, please register your interest below by completing the form by Friday 27th February:

Expressions of interest Classroom helpers 2026 – Fill in form

Helpers will assist for an hour in the Literacy block on a weekly or fortnightly basis for one term. The frequency and length of time depends on the number of parents assisting in that classroom. The Literacy block runs from 8.40am-10.40am and parents assist by reading with children, swapping home readers, supporting children with their letters and sounds or assisting the teacher with group work activities. Having parents in the classroom strengthens the relationship between home and school and offers children extra opportunities for support with their reading. We appreciate parents giving up their time to support the children with their learning. Parents must have a valid WWCC in order to help in the classrooms. We also ask parents to come in for a short information session before starting in the classroom. Information sessions will be offered again in Term 3.

Term 1 information session dates:

1. Thursday 12th March 9.00-9.40am

2. Monday 16th March 10.00-10.40am

There will also be opportunities for parents of students in Year 5 and 6 to assist with Food Technology in Semester 2. More information about this will be available in Term 2.

We look forward to working with you in 2026!

- Ms Jessica Hine

On Wednesday 18 February we are delighted to welcome the 2026 Parents and Friends Committee and look forward to a wonderful year. We are grateful to the parents who have generously offered their time, talents, and support, and we appreciate their commitment to strengthening our school community. 

Our first meeting set a joyful tone for the year, filled with enthusiasm and laughter as we worked together on a fun team‑building activity, constructing the tallest tower! It was a wonderful start that highlighted the creativity, teamwork, and positive spirit of our Parents and Friends Committee.

- Sr Veronique Karam

Our Foundation students have completed their very first week at school. They have been exploring their classrooms, making new friends, and learning all about the school rules and routines. Some of their favourite activities have been drawing, playing outside, and making crafts. We are so proud of how brave and excited they have been starting this new adventure.

- Ms Jessica Doumit

Last year, all students at Cedar Campus were part of a very exciting art project, led by the SRC, or Student Representative Council. The SRC gathers ideas from each class about ways to improve the school, and then meets to act on these suggestions. One of the suggestions was to make the school fence more colourful and attractive by adding some student artworks. Students brainstormed ideas and decided to use the fence art as an opportunity to care for our local environment, which in our case is the Merri Creek area and its plants and animals. We looked up a list of endangered plants and animals in and around the creek, and each class voted for their favourite one. Then each class held a drawing competition for their chosen plant or animal, and the best drawing from each class was painted onto corflute (corrugated plastic) by all members of the class, with the support and guidance of Ms Luca Uribe, the arts teacher.

The completed artworks now hang on the school fence on both sides of the main gate to Cedar Campus on Harding Street in Coburg, where the school community and any visitors can view them upon entering or even when passing by the school. Importantly, we have noticed many members of the local community including cyclists, joggers and dog-walkers stop to admire the artworks as they make their way to or from the Merri Creek Trail. These colourful paintings will hopefully remind our community to look after Merri Creek and its beautiful native plants and animals.

- Ms Mori Milholland

At our Cedar campus, the library is more than just a place to borrow books - it's a vibrant, ever‑changing space designed to spark curiosity, imagination, and a love of reading. Throughout the school year, students are welcomed by a range of creative and engaging displays that reflect seasonal themes, curriculum learning, and the rich experiences of our school community. These displays are thoughtfully designed and brought to life by Mrs Georgette El Hajj, our dedicated campus library technician, whose creativity and passion help transform the library into an inspiring environment for all learners.

The purpose of library displays is to: -

1. Promote reading and engagement

2. Connect books to students’ real-life experiences

3. Support curriculum and wellbeing learning

4. Build a sense of place and community

5. Encourage imagination and creativity

6. Showcase the library’s collection

7. Create a welcoming, inspiring space

The current library display explores the season of summer. This library display brings together the iconic seaside atmosphere of Brighton, during the Australian summer period; however, the inclusion of Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide reinforces vital safety habits and supports ongoing wellbeing education, showed by beloved characters from Australian children’s books.

The aim is to connect children’s real-life experiences of summer with the stories they encounter in the library, fostering recognition, imagination, and a sense of place.

- Mr Gavan Kelly

YEAR 10 SCIENCE 

In science, students are currently exploring a biology unit on genetics and inheritance. In class, students recently completed a practical experiment where they learned how to extract DNA from a strawberry using dishwashing liquid, salt, and rubbing alcohol. This activity demonstrated how DNA can be isolated using common household materials, helping students connect scientific theory with hands-on investigation.

YEAR 10 ART

In art, students are working on deconstructed faces inspired by Loui Jover. Using magazine cut outs students are working hard to visually represent each of the art elements including line, shape, colour, form, tone and texture. 

YEAR 10 ELECTRONICS

In electronics, students are learning about circuits and electrical currents. Using a combination of theoretical and practical components students are learning how to design a circuit, understand symbols and using a diode to allow electrical flow. 

I am grateful to the Year 10 staff for guiding these valuable learning experiences for our students.

- Miss Isabella Athaide

This year we have two students in Year 11 VCEVM completing a School based Apprenticeship with Reece. Daniel Meilak and Mariecella Jabanian.

Daniel Meilak in year 11 is completing the Certificate II Supply Chain Operations in an Australian school based apprenticeship with Reece Plumbing Irrigation and training with Murray Valley at the Sunshine branch.

Daniel was keen to explore options for pathways, different industries and make the most of VCEVM. During year 10 he completed work experience and then used the Structured workplace learning portal to find opportunities with Reece Plumbing who were seeking school based apprentices.

Daniel completed a further week of work experience to discover the world of warehousing, plumbing parts and customer service. He was successful with an interview and assessment and offered the 2year position which means Daniel works every Wednesday and Saturday, is paid award wages while completing the certificate in supply chain and VCEVM at Antonine.

Daniel is regarded as being among the better apprentices, demonstrating maturity, willingness to learn and apply his new skills and knowledge.

Daniel is so happy working at Reece he did extra shifts over the summer break. He learned even more about plumbing parts, processing customer orders, locating the parts in the warehouse and meeting plumbers to provide them with the parts they need. He is also making manifolds for plumbers.

Daniel is finding the ASBA a great way to complete VCEVM, by the end of two years he will also have the Certificate in Supply Chain with the option of continued work with Reece or be offered another apprenticeship with a plumber as Daniel is already familiar with the tools of the trade and confidence working with others.

You are welcome to make a time with me to discuss your child pathway options.

- Ms Josie Rovetto
 

An update from VCE 
The corridors have been ablaze with happy faces, chatting and coming together as a cohort.  In classes, the VCE students have been keeping up to date with coursework, seeking feedback from teachers and being attentive in class.  All VCE teachers have been impressed with how committed the VCE students are to their studies over the past few weeks. 

VCE FLEXIBLE LEARNING DAYS 
From Monday February 23, all VCE students will have flexible learning days.  These days are to be used for school events, excursions and activities.  If your son and/or daughter, does not have any event listed above, then they are required to complete a minimum of 3 hours of study at home.  Starting Monday February 23, special online classes will begin with Ms Adamson.  These special classes will tackle highly effective study strategies that VCE students can implement throughout the next 12 – 24 months to all their subjects.  Students who have signed up to be a part of the 40+ club will be required to attend these lessons; however, they are open to any student to attend.  I highly encourage as many VCE students to attend these 1-hour sessions as they can to build and develop their study skills. 

VCE and VM ATTENDANCE 
The VCE handbook on the college website outlines the requirements from the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) for all students undertaking VCE and VM.  All staff, students and parents are expected to read through the handbook to ensure they are aware of all of requirements for a successful VCE journey.  The link below clearly outlines the requirements to complete VCE or VM including the importance of attendance.  Please note that when a student has an activity scheduled on a VCE Flexible Learning Day, attendance is compulsory otherwise this will impact on their attendance.  VCE students are required to have a minimum attendance of 90%.  When your son and/or daughter has an attendance of less than 90%, you will be sent a letter via PAM. 

Module 1 - VCE Attendance 

- Ms Laura Adamson  

This term I had the pleasure of running a practical cooking session for the Year 12 VCE VM students who took part in a lesson making pizzas.  This was an opportunity to develop real-world skills to be used in their everyday lives, further training or possible future employment. 

Students followed instructions to a recipe where they successfully planned, prepared and presented their final products to their teacher Mr. Joaquin Wagner with pride and confidence.  This class was a great success and an opportunity for students to increase their independence and knowledge of practical life skills, which they will hopefully benefit from beyond the classroom setting. 

- Ms Norma Francis

23 -27 February: Year 8 Camp

26 February: Cedar Campus Photo Day

4 March: First Holy Communion Parent Information Evening

5 March: Year 5-8 Swimming Carnival

9 March: Labour Day Public Holiday

10 March: Teeth on Wheels - Cedar Campus

11 March: NAPLAN begins