麻豆国产AV

Advent - not just waiting: acting

The Advent season is a time of hope and wonder as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus. His words and deeds have inspired humanity for two millenia, urging each new generation to action in improving our world to bring forth the Kingdom here on Earth. In an address on education at the Vatican in November, , 'There is no need for educational models that are mere "achievement factories" without a cultural plan that enables the formation of people capable of helping the world turn over a new leaf by eradicating inequality, endemic poverty and exclusion'.

The Spirit of Aquinas value of Stewardship was through the work of our Year 10 Environmental Science educating younger students about wildlife conservation. Students from the class were invited to present their work at Zoos Victoria鈥檚 Fighting Extinction Schools Showcase at Melbourne Zoo, where they received positive feedback from zoo staff and visitors. Like so much of our sustainability and intercultural learning in the curriculum as well as social justice, Global Green and Catholic Life initiatives, these students reflect Pope Francis鈥檚 call that schools must teach people 鈥渢o desire, to stay thirsty, to have dreams鈥� rather than to 鈥減assively accept鈥� the current state of the world. 鈥淭he world does not need sleepwalking repeaters of the status quo,鈥� he said, 鈥渂ut new choreographers, interpreters of the potential within humans, new social poets鈥�.

Community

On the evening of Wednesday 27 November we had a quintet of college events that both book-ended our year and prepared for next year. Celebrated by Fr Dispin, our final Family Mass was well-attended, with many staying on for the Family BBQ afterwards. We then had our newest and oldest 2025 families stay for the Year 7 Talking Transition and Year 12 Information evenings. It was a pleasure to be able to pop into each event to chat with families and also listen to our talented students at the concurrent Voice and Piano soiree evening, finishing the year with a tuneful bang!

Christmas & holiday blessings

On behalf of the College, I thank all students, staff and families for the ways you have enriched our Aquinas community across 2024 and wish all members of our community a happy and holy Christmas, and a safe and refreshing holiday break.

David Broadbent

Principal

Young people and trust: why it is essential that young people trust adults

In reflecting over a long career as an educator, I have reached the realisation that the power of trust is essential for teachers to build good learning environments for their students. Yet the power of trust extends beyond the classroom. It is necessary that young people also trust their coaches, employers, parents and role models. It is important for teenagers to trust adults because trust forms the foundation of healthy relationships, guidance, personal development and respect. Unfortunately, trust is not something that can be demanded; trust emerges from authenticity, respect and honesty. Equally, adults must trust young people, and this can be challenging for society. Recent proposed amendments to federal policy will prohibit young people from accessing social media platforms. Although, in principle, this will help protect young people, having trust in the capacity of the person to develop the right moral values is a key to best protect young people from harm.

So why is it important that teenagers have adults in their lives who they trust, and who trust them?

Adults, such as parents, teachers, or mentors, have life experiences that can help teenagers navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and avoid pitfalls. This is because trusted adults provide a safe space for teenagers to share their thoughts and feelings, helping them manage stress, anxiety, and other emotions. This is how our moral development occurs, as we learn to appreciate right from wrong on the basis of what constitutes good for all. When teenagers trust adults, they feel supported and valued, which boosts their self-esteem and confidence in their abilities. Equally, they learn to value the opportunities that open up in front of them as they navigate their lives. Adults can affirm young people鈥檚 strengths and encourage their potential, fostering resilience and positive ambition.

In a recent article, I wrote about the importance of building resilience. The development of resilience is enhanced by the role modelling that we give young people. Setting goals and helping them navigate the ups and downs in the journey to achieve such goals gives plenty of opportunity for resilience to be built. Through this process, young people learn to trust us, this enables them to seek help from adults in situations where their safety or well-being is at risk, such as bullying, abuse, or peer pressure. Imagine if young people always reported a concern to a trusted adult if they faced negative experiences on social media, rather than engaging and making the situation worse? It is because trusted adults can advocate for teenagers, that we protect them, and connect them to resources they may need. This is significantly more powerful than just asking them to not be on social media. Teaching them to navigate use of technology is far more powerful than abolishing something that they will inevitably face in the future.

Trusting adults helps teenagers understand what healthy, respectful relationships look like because it teaches them that communication skills, empathy, and how to establish boundaries are critical for their future relationships and function as members of communities. We must understand that adolescence is a time of experimentation and risk-taking and the role of a trusted adult can provide sound advice to help them weigh the pros and cons of their choices. Good role models should model good decision-making, teaching teenagers critical thinking skills, empathy and compassion.

I believe that trust encourages teenagers to communicate openly with adults without fear of judgement or punishment. This is critical because at times, young people need help and support as they navigate the challenges that life inevitably brings. A respectful and clear openness in the relationships between adults and young people allows for better understanding and collaboration in solving problems or addressing concerns. Ultimately, trust creates a supportive environment where teenagers can grow, learn, and thrive while navigating the complexities of adolescence.

If you require any assistance in knowing how to communicate with your teenager, please contact your child鈥檚 pastoral leader and/or the YFC for support. When young people trust, and feel trusted, there is no need to navigate through life alone.

Nap Rodezno

Deputy Principal

Last edition I spoke about the upcoming Jubilee year and the theme 鈥淧ilgrims of Hope鈥�. In that edition I mentioned that sources of hope would be discussed in this Lighthouse. I will begin with an experience while I was on yard duty.

It was November 11 and I had duty on the soccer oval at recess. Part way through duty, the primary school over the road had their remembrance service. Every student on the playing field heard the last post being played, stopped their game and waited. We had already had our service earlier but they still stopped and paid respect. A sign of hope for many who may think the 鈥測outh of today鈥� are not respectful.

Last week we also had our thanksgiving mass with Fr Dispin. In his homily, he discussed the first reading which was from the letter of St Paul to the Colossians. In the reading he says, 鈥淕od loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle, kind, humble, meek, and patient.鈥� Dispin spoke to the students about who they are, the person they want to be. How one of his parishioners saw the Year 12鈥檚 at the graduation mass and went away with a feeling of hope for the future. He also pointed out that they are the hope and to believe in that hope for the future.

Finally, I turn to the scripture. I decided to google 鈥渉ope in the scriptures鈥� to see what would be the result. Naturally, there were many, many quotes on just as many sites. To be honest, I was not that surprised. The bible itself is meant to be one of hope, Jesus is the Good News, the one who brings hope for us all. So today I leave you with a couple of quotes from the many sites. I am sure some of you may have your own favourites.

Jeremiah 29:11

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

Romans 12:12

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer."

Romans 15:4

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope."

Psalm 147:11

"The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love."

Proverbs 23:18

"There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off."

Romans 15:13

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

Tania Grace

Assistant Principal Mission

Senior Years Report

This week marks the conclusion of the VCE exams, the final secondary school requirement for our Year 12 students. Further communications will be sent regarding student results and the VTAC Change of Preference period. For now, we look forward to celebrating the achievements of our 2024 graduating cohort and their families at the Valedictory Dinner, hosted this evening at The Pullman, Albert Park.

Year 11 students have completed their final semester exams and will soon commence VCE Transition Week. This program formally introduces students to the expectations and requirements of Units 3 and 4. Students will also receive holiday homework to help them prepare for their final year.

A reminder to all 2025 Year 12 parents: you are warmly invited to the Parent Information Evening on Wednesday, November 27, at 7:30 PM. The session, tailored for parents of both VCE and VCE VM students, will provide important information about the year ahead. Please refer to the recent email from the Registrar for further details.

Next week, Year 10 students will undertake their first examination block. This experience will provide valuable insights into managing senior-level assessments. VCEReady students will balance their exams alongside Year 12 Transition classes. If any scheduling conflicts arise between the exam timetable and the Transition timetable, students are encouraged to contact their year-level leaders, Mr. Watkins or Ms. Kearney, for support.

Rachel Crawley

Head Senior Years

Middle Years Report

This is the last reference to my travels last term, I promise.

In our treks we were very fortunate to see some absolutely stunning and picturesque landscapes. Some of the scenery was not very far from the car park which meant that the views were accessible to a lot more people than if you had to walk a few hours to get there. Picturesque landscapes and easy accessibility is a perfect storm for what we might refer to as 鈥業nfluencers.鈥� There to look their best in a stunning environment for a very short time was seemingly their aim.

At first it was mildly annoying but I figured they were as entitled to the space as me and on several occasions it was very amusing.

In talking to the Year 9 cohort at their final assembly yesterday I put it to them that whether they/we like it or not, we are all influencers. I am influenced by those that I spend a large part of my week working with. I am influenced by their creativity, their wisdom, their dedication to their craft, their growth mindset, their willingness to try new things, the respect they show for those around them and the appreciation they show for the environment they are blessed to be able to be in every day at Aquinas. That鈥檚 just the students! I feel exactly the same influence from the amazing staff I work alongside.

As staff we also realise the responsibility that goes with being an 鈥榠nfluencer鈥� of the young people in our care and are continually working to ensure that this is a positive one.

Of course we can feel a negative influence from those around us. It is a constant challenge for us as Staff of the 12 to 15 year olds in our care to continually work with them to assist them in deciphering the difference of positive/negative influence. To also assist them in being bold enough in a world and age bracket where certain influences can seem irresistible, to make brave and wise decisions and choices around this.

I will leave you with the final photo I will show from our trip. You cannot tell from the photo but there were many people at the view, all vying for the perfect snap (many in their perfect attire!) There was one particularly amusing tale of an 鈥業nfluencer鈥� that I will happily share with you if our paths meet. It requires a demonstration!

As the year is drawing closer to an end, I hope the young people in our lives see and be great 鈥業nfluencers鈥� that help make our community flourish.

I hope that they are 鈥業nfluencers鈥� that count.

Phil Box
Head Middle Years

The future world of work is a rapidly changing environment. As such, the Careers Experience Program endeavours to equip students to develop key transferable skills in an authentic environment and to see the connections between different study areas. Students are encouraged to undertake a work placement in an area of their future career interest and we dissuade students from settling for placements at their part time job or in fast food or large retail outlets, (unless this supports their post schooling career plans).

In 2025, students in Year 10 will be supported to undertake a week of Careers (work) Experience. This Program is also an area where we would like to further establish links with our current and past parent community and alumni.

We are looking at ways to assist students to source meaningful Work Experience placements;

• would you or your workplace be in a position to facilitate a Careers Experience placement for an Aquinas student?
• within your network, are there contacts you could recommend?

In 2025, the dates for Careers Experience are Monday June 30 鈥� Friday July 4, which is the last week of Term Two. For students to obtain meaningful placements, they have been encouraged to investigate possible locations well in advance of the program and have completed introductory tasks in class. Students will research and make contact with potential employers to arrange their own placement as this forms a key part of the learning process.

More information will be given in the upcoming weeks via the Lighthouse, emails from Year Level leaders and the Careers team.

Vanessa Ramsay

Careers Counsellor

 Wishing Tree Update

Our Wishing Tree Appeal is well underway, and we are grateful for the gifts and donations that have already started arriving.

School Fundraising Projects

Thanks to the enthusiastic participation in our bake sales and the staff car wash fundraiser, we have raised nearly $1,000 so far! These funds will go directly towards purchasing additional gifts and vouchers for families in need.

Several homeroom classes are also working on their own initiatives to raise funds or buy gifts to contribute to the appeal.

How You Can Help

If you haven鈥檛 yet had the chance to contribute, it鈥檚 not too late!

• Buy a Gift: Place an unwrapped gift under the Wishing Tree in the ARC.
  
• Make a Cash Donation: Use the envelopes on the Christmas Trees in the ARC or other buildings and hand them in to the Catholic Life Office.
• Drop Off a Gift Voucher: A simple and meaningful option for teenagers and adults, capped at $20.

Fundraising at Home

Students and families are invited to organise their own fundraisers at home. Whether it鈥檚 a lemonade stand, a neighbourhood bake sale, or simply gathering donations from family and friends, every little bit helps. This is a wonderful opportunity to embody the spirit of giving and make a meaningful contribution outside of school!

Just a reminder that all donations should be delivered to the school by Friday, November 29th.

Thank you for your ongoing support of this important initiative. The generosity of our school community ensures that Christmas is a time of joy for everyone, especially those facing difficult circumstances.

For any questions, feel free to reach out to me at mugamumn@aquinas.vic.edu.au.

Martha Mugamu
Justice & Outreach Coordinator

This holiday season, we have countless opportunities to make a positive impact. Let鈥檚 embrace the spirit of giving by creating a greener and more meaningful celebration!

Here are some practical tips to help reduce your environmental footprint during Christmas and the holidays.

1. Support Local Growers and Producers: Source your festive feast from local farmers' markets. Buying seasonal and locally grown produce reduces the carbon footprint associated with imported goods.
2. Choose Native Plants as Decorations: Decorate your home with Australian native flowers and plants, like wattle, eucalyptus, or banksias.
3. Opt for Sustainable Wrapping: Use reusable gift bags, fabric wraps, or recycled paper.
4. Give Experiences, Not Things: Consider gifting experiences such as a wildlife park visit, surf lesson, or tickets to a cultural event, which are meaningful and often more sustainable.
5. Choose Energy-Efficient Lighting: If you鈥檙e using fairy lights, go for solar-powered or LED options to reduce energy consumption, and remember to switch them off when not in use.
6. Recycle and Compost Properly: Ensure you recycle all appropriate packaging and compost food scraps.
7. Shop Secondhand or Handmade: Explore local op shops, artisan markets, or online platforms for pre-loved or handmade gifts that are unique and eco-friendly.

By incorporating these simple, local-minded ideas, you can enjoy a holiday season that鈥檚 kinder to the environment. More ideas and tips can be found here at and .

Karyn Myers

Sustainability Coordinator

On  Monday, 34 year 10 VCD students travelled to the city on an architects studio visit, that being Kosloff architects. It was an exhilarating day for a range of reasons. The students were impeccable with their behaviour and respect towards all adults on this day. This included Stephanie who is one of the senior architect鈥檚 in her studio. She prepared an extensive inviting and engaging itinerary including a bunch of design-oriented exercises for all students to complete. Students were divided into 2 mini groups one for 2D design and one for 3D design. All students spent time walking near the studio in the city looking at various examples of existing architecture from which they were invited to complete a series of drawings. After their explorative walk they returned back to the studio where they were invited to share their thoughts on what they discovered. This tied in nicely with Stephanie explaining the role of an architect in a studio such as Kosloff. I wish to thank Sam Smith for her infectious engaging personality with the students. They embraced her presence with utmost respect. In addition, thank you to Rose Stewart who was also sensational with the students due to her kind caring and supportive engagement with the students. Overall, it was a wonderful day with many groovy experiences and tasty observations of architecture in the city of Melbourne.  

Dennis Sartory
Teacher

As part of their final unit of work, the year 10 Environmental Science students investigated their role in promoting environmental science and conservation. The students looked at conservation and education programs, analysing how they connect with people, improve understanding, and promote action. Part of their assessment involved research into two threatened Victorian species. This also required them to justify why conservation is important, which animal (of the two they researched) they would prioritise for conservation, and argue whether it鈥檚 too late to save some species.

As part of this program, the year 10 students also created board games or picture story books for Primary School and Year 7 students about an aspect of environmental science to promote connection and understanding of environmental issues. On November 14th, some students in 7 Orange were given the opportunity to play the board games and provide feedback to the year 10 students, which formed part of their overall mark. The year 7 students thoroughly enjoyed playing the board games, and provided lots of positive feedback to the year 10s.

In addition, we were invited to Zoos Victoria鈥檚 Fighting Extinction School Showcase to present the work of the year 10 students. Ms Karyn Myers took the class representatives to Melbourne Zoo on November 15, where the students participated in presentations and were able to share and showcase their work. They received lots of positive feedback from Zoo staff and students from other schools. As a result of our participation in this event and actions towards promoting environmental thinking, 麻豆国产AV has now been recognised by Zoos Victoria as a Fighting Extinction School for the second year.

Ms Kate Chamberlain
Environmental Science teacher

Last friday ten of us from Ms Chamberlain's year 10 enviro class went to Melbourne zoo to participate in the fighting extinction showcase. The day started with a presentation when we met other schools and even got a mention thanking us for being one of the older year levels participating and being role models for younger children. We then showcased our recent board game project which aimed to teach people about the very real threats of extinction to visitors and other schools, where we got very good feedback and some people played our game. We also got some time to look at our favourite animals at the zoo before we made our way home. At the start we met the mascots of this event, the Eastern Barred Bandicoots and learnt that they have been saved by the efforts of Zoos Victoria. We also learnt about many other clever conservation strategies developed by other schools and the day was overall very intriguing and eye opening. ~ Maria and Kiah

We went to the Fighting Extinction Schools Showcase to learn more about conservation and share our learnings. At the zoo, we explored a range of animal exhibits including Australian wildlife and different species worldwide. We also presented our work, 鈥淟ife the Wrong Way Up,鈥� a picture storybook about conserving grey-headed flying foxes, where we explained our book and taught children about the species and why it's important to conserve them. While we were not presenting, we had the opportunity to walk around the area to see the creations of other students. We became more educated about conservation, and how to prevent extinction. - Lachlan and Nick

Last Friday 10 of us from the Year 10 Environmental class went to the Melbourne Zoo for the showcase 鈥楩ighting Extinction鈥�. For our term 4 assessment we had the option to make a board game, book, or video based on the topic of fighting extinction to educate younger people on the environment and get them to connect and understand the issues we're facing. We were able to listen to a presentation about the risks of extinction, visit the animals and present our projects too. We were also able to look at the other schools that attended, amazings projects they had created and got feedback from them and the Zoo keepers. It was an amazing experience to see what everyone else is doing to fight extinction and to learn more about what we can do to help our wildlife and environment. We also loved visiting all the animals at the zoo, especially the cute red pandas. -Ruby and Freya

On Friday the 15th of November, 21 Students from Years 7-12 participated in a Interschool Mountain Bike competition at the nearby Silvan Bike Park. The students participated on three different courses and they could complete as many runs as possible with the fastest on each run added together to give an overall time. We had some amazing results individually from numerous students including:Heath Fleming 1st- Senior Male

YR 9 EISM GRAND FINALS

Congratulations to these teams that will be playing next Thursday in the Yr 9 EISM Grand Finals

BOYS
LAWN BOWLS v Mt Lilydale
HOCKEY V Mt Lilydale
SOFTBALL V Emmaus
ULTIMATE V Mt Lilydale

GIRLS
LAWN BOWLS V Mt Lilydale
NETBALL A V Luther
NETBALL B V Mt Lilydale
SOCCER V Luther
SOFTBALL V Luther

Bernie Brummell

Sports Coordinator

Year 10 students embarked on a day-long retreat on November 15, with each team sent to a different location. students enjoyed the beautiful sunshine, taking time to reflect, connect, and dream big for the future! As they prepare for the exciting journey ahead in VCE and beyond.

One of the students' key activities was to write a letter to themselves discussing what it was they were hoping for and what they were planning to do to achieve their dreams. These letters have been gathered and stored away for safe keeping until their Year 12 retreat.

The 2024 Cafe N9ne program has wrapped up for the year. This year we have seen incredibly resilient and resourceful students who have produced restaurant quality food and drinks. They have managed challenging busy periods with confidence and excellent teamwork skills.

Thankyou to all the staff (and incoming year 12 students) who make the program work so successfully, by visiting the cafe you are showing support for the program and students and keeping them busy is the key to a rewarding week, that's not possible without all of your support.

In our last week of cafe this year we took a total of $3,865.50 and we sold 135 pieces of caramel slice! That has to be a record!

Julie McConchie

Cafe N9ne 

Teacher & VET Trainer

The Spirit of Aquinas section will focus on one core value from our mission statement and ways this value has been demonstrated at school.

Stewardship: We encourage our community to respond to the need for sustainability in our contemporary world in the light of the Gospel and its call to action.

The 2024 Aquinas swimming carnival was held yesterday at Aquanation.

Rice who won the past 2 years were eager to continue their dominance of the pool.

Students had the opportunity to participate in all 4 different strokes in 25m races with every competitor earning points for their House. Lots of the students in attendance took the opportunity to compete in as many different events as they could. As well as the races, students were able to use the 2nd half of the pool for novelty events which also earned points for their House.

The fastest 8 competitors from the heats of the 25m races then swam off in a 50m final to find our fastest swimmers in each stroke and age group. These finals were very exciting with lots of close finishes.

After the individual events the carnival concluded with 6 x 25m relays, which saw in many cases the lead changing often across the races.

In the end Rice held on to win from Mackillop who came home hard in the relays and Dominic 3rd.

The Rice students were ecstatic when it was announced that they had won again and I heard they are already planning on how to win again next year.

The top swimmers from the carnival will be invited to be part of the Aquinas Swim squad for 2025. They will start training for the EISM carnival at the start of term 1 next year.

Thank you to all the staff who helped make the day be such a success for all the students who participated.

Congratulations to these students who were our top 3 competitors in each age group.

U13 GIRLS

1ST Thannicha Prarom

2ND Abbigail Garbellini

3RD Megan Kearsley

U13 BOYS

1ST Gabriel Hew

2ND Jack Armarego

3RD James Yu

U14 GIRLS

1ST Maddison Brown

2ND Chloe Vickery

3RD Amelia Watson

U14 BOYS

1ST Patrick Conboy

2ND Joseph Harvey

3RD Darcy Storey

U15 GIRLS

1ST Zoe Fabre

2ND Charlotte Jones

3RD Liana Aloi

U15 BOYS

1ST Ryan Martin

2ND Henry Wassenberg

3RD Blade Platt

The 2024 Middle Years swimming carnival was a great success for Rice house. We had many people participating from all year levels and had many students from Rice house representing the house in finals, and winning too. The relay teams were fast and efficient; further leading us to a win against Dominic and Mackillop. Finally, it was great to see many people from Rice attending the carnival and wearing red to support the house. Thanks to all Rice house members who helped us to a victory on the day! Go Rice! - Zac P & Charlotte 

There was a great turnout at the 2024 year 7-9 swimming carnival yesterday, with everyone getting in the pool to race and have some fun. And while not racing, everyone had a great time cheering for their friends and their houses. Overall the carnival boosted school moral and brought friends closer together -  Amelia W

The swimming carnival was an enjoyable event, with different races and activities to suit everyone. No matter what your strengths were, there was a reason for you to get into the pool and participate. It was great to see everyone having a go and supporting their peers, and we all had a great time - Amelia M

Mr Brummell

Sports Coordinator

On Sunday 17th November 2024, 麻豆国产AV hosted the VEX V5 and VEX IQ Robotics State Championships, welcoming 45 teams from across Victoria. The event was filled with excitement as teams competed in teamwork challenges, aiming to score high through collaborative robot missions, and skills matches, where they tackled VEX Robotics鈥� autonomous coding challenge.

麻豆国产AV School teams delivered outstanding performances, with Team 52020D (Robbie Plato,  Cooper Maxwell) winning Tournament Champion, Team 52050A (Brayden Waddell, Pip Wilhelmsen, and Cameron O鈥橩eefe) winning the Design Awards, and Team 52050B (Sean Miller And Will Hayes) winning the Innovate award for excellence in engineering solutions.

This was the final tournament of the year before four Aquinas teams, who have qualified to represent Victoria, travel to Sydney in December to compete in the Vex Australian Championships in Sydney. In Sydney, they will fight for the opportunity to represent Australia in the World Championships.

Andrew Russell

Technology - Learning Area Leader

Year 7 student, Finn Williams recently competed in the Super Sprint triathlon challenge in Canberra.

He came an incredible 10th overall, 8th position in the men's placings and 2nd in his age group.

Congratulations Finn on your amazing results! 

Here are more details on his stats and the event.

 Average pacers:
Time: 56:03
Distance: Swim 300m, Ride 10km, Run 2.5km.
Swim pace average: 4:18 min/100m
Ride pace average: 27.0 km/h
Run pace average: 6:03 Min/km
Total times:
Swim total time: 12:56
Transition 1: 04:25
Ride total time: 22:29
Transition 2: 01:56
Run total time: 14:17

Places

10th overall
8th mens
2nd in age group

In early Semester 2 Year 11 Visual Communication Design student Ayanna Patel
entered the 2024 Monash Design Prize. In this annual competition students from
years 10-12 are encouraged to design to address a particular challenge. Students
can address any issue from sustainability and climate action to social equity and
healthy communities. Ayanna鈥檚 entry was the 鈥楳别诲颈搁虫翱谤驳补苍颈蝉别谤鈥�:

鈥淚t is designed to help people who sometimes forget to take their medications,
especially elderly individuals. It features a digital screen that flashes the light
indicator along with alarm sound when it's time to take medication. The box has
compartments for medication, a foldable case, and a secure button that opens the
box. It is battery-operated and includes a plastic lid to protect the medicine.
Additionally, it has features that allow users to listen to music, check the weather,
make support dials, and schedule appointment reminders. The time and date are
displayed in a large font for easy visibility.鈥�

The judges considered all the entries very carefully and were impressed by the
thoughtfulness of Ayanna鈥檚 concept. At-home care frequently requires diligent
delivery of medication, and the judges observed that her project tackles this
challenge with a range of sensory prompts to remind people to take their medication.

She certainly met the competition鈥檚 central challenge of 鈥渄esigning for good鈥�. As
runner up, Ayanna secured a $200 VISA/Mastercard voucher. The Monash Design
Prize Celebration took place at the Caulfield Campus of Monash University on the
morning of Thursday 21 November, attended by Ayanna, teacher Mark Groves and
Ayanna鈥檚 supportive family.

Mark Groves

Teacher

Congratulations to these students who competed recently in the Victorian All Schools Athletics Championships and finished top 3 in the events they competed in

Ben Tornatora (Yr7) - U14 1st -100m ( 11.75s), 1st -200m (23.74s), 1st - 400m (55.43s)

Eden Smith (Yr11) - U18 1st Shot Put ( 14.93m)

Callum Settle (Yr 10) - U17 3rd 3000m (8.50.30)

Ben and Eden in all their events broke their own Aquinas records they set this earlier this year at the EISM carnival - congratulations on a superb performance

Bernie Brummell

Sports Coordinator

YEAR 9  - EISM SEASON 3 AWARDS  

YEAR 10 -  EISM SEASON 2 AWARDS

We celebrated a beautiful whole school Thanksgiving Mass. A heartfelt thank you to Fr. Dispin for his time, wisdom, and the sound words of encouragement he shared with us. 

A thanksgiving blessing was given to students and staff who are leaving the school. As well as Prayers of thanks to Dr Napoleon Rodezno for his contribution to the Aquinas Community with blessing for his future role as Principal of the Caroline Chisholm Catholic College.

We are grateful for the opportunity to come together in reflection and thanks.

Remembrance Day was commemorated this year with a memorial slide show in the Classrooms. The students paused to remember and honour the courageous men and women who served and sacrificed for our freedom.

As a College community, we have created a Garden of Poppies as a symbol of remembrance鈥攁 place to reflect on the sacrifices made and to inspire us to contribute to a more peaceful future.

Ms Crawley escorted the 2025 College Captains with Ruth Tawang, Faith Captain and Grace Rider, Social Justice Leader to the Ringwood RSL Remembrance Day Service held at the Ringwood Clock Tower. Standing together to honour those who have given so much.

Lest we forget