Another Exciting Year of Music!

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Welcome to another school year! Our department has hit the ground running with the Year 3 String Programme and the Year 6 Band Immersion Programme commencing in Week 2.

We have had some very excited students take up new instruments, and I thank all the families in advance for your patience as your child develops their music skills and literacy throughout the year. Please encourage their regular practice, as it is essential to their progress.

If you have nominated your child to take part in an ensemble, or to participate in private instrumental lessons with one of our dedicated tutors, please read the following information so that our programmes run smoothly and your child makes the most of their lessons.

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Enrolment in Private Music Lessons

The recommended year level for students to begin instrumental lessons is Year 2. An online instrumental nomination form must be filled out prior to your child being allocated an Instrumental Tutor. The form can be found by clicking here.

Commitment
Music skills take time and dedication to develop. It is recommended that students commit to lessons for the whole year. Instrumental Tutors provide a programme of eight private lessons per term for students who wish to learn a musical instrument.

All lessons are half an hour in duration. Lessons take place during school hours and parents enter into a direct agreement with the pertinent Instrumental Tutor. Small group lessons are offered at the individual tutor’s discretion, according to age and ability. There will be a maximum of 32 lessons over the school year.

Cost
Individual lessons are $30 per half hour, and paired lessons are $16 per half hour. Lesson fees will be added to your College account at the start of each semester.

Cessation of Lessons
Students wishing to cease lessons must inform their Instrumental Tutor and Music Coordinator in writing before the current term ends.

Communication
It is expected that students check their lesson times in advance and attend promptly for every timetabled lesson. If a student does not attend their lesson and does not inform the Tutor of their absence in advance, they will forfeit that lesson and the fee associated.

Tutors will make every effort to arrange make-up lessons where advance notice is given, however, no guarantees can be made for alternative arrangements due to the variety of commitments undertaken by individual Instrumental Tutors.

Please communicate directly with the respective Instrumental Tutor or Ensemble Director. If there are any issues with contacting the appropriate professional, please communicate with me, the Coordinator of Music and Performance R-12, in a respectful and courteous manner and I will do my best to attend to your enquiry as swiftly and thoroughly as possible. However, be mindful that I am also a full-time class teacher and, likewise, have responsibilities outside of the Music Department that may result in minor delays on occasion.

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Equipment

It is the student’s responsibility to attend their lessons with all the necessary equipment: instrument, practice diary, instrument resource book (recommended by tutor), student planner, display folder, and water bottle (optional).

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Ensembles

Most ensembles have commenced in Week 2 and 3. Students are encouraged to further their musical development by joining an ensemble. A list of our ensembles can be found here.

Also, the schedule for ensemble rehearsals in Term 1 can be found here.

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Instrument Hire

The College will not be facilitating the hire of instruments other than for the Year 3 Strings and Year 6 Band Immersion Programmes. Students are required to procure an instrument either through hire or purchase.

Mercedes College has a long-standing relationship with DB Music Solutions. If you would like to hire an instrument through them, please read the information on the hire form, which can be found here.

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Instrumental Staff

We have a diverse and talented group of Instrumental Tutors and Music Staff across the College. Within each issue of the Mercy Vine, in the Music News section, we will feature some of our Tutors so that you may learn more about them. This week we are featuring Levi Kalmar and Emma Woolcock.

Meet Levi Kalmar!

1. Your favourite book (the one you are currently reading):  Harry Potter series but my favourite in the series is the Prisoner of Azkaban
2. A favourite movie:  Pan, with Robin Williams – a severely underrated feel good movie
3. Favourite outdoor activity/ies):  It’s so cliché but walking along the beach is the best
4. A TV show you never miss:  I’m always changing TV shows, but Simpsons is my go to series when I don’t know what to watch. But only the earlier seasons!
5. What pets do you have:  My husband and I have two cats, a big black and white tomcat, and a gorgeous grey and white female cat, and yes, she knows she’s gorgeous
6. What made you want to become a teacher? I think I always knew I was going to be a teacher, it just depended what I was going to teach. Music became my forte.

Meet Emma Woolcock!

1. List of Hobbies - photography, writing music, cooking
2. A favourite movie - Julie and Julia
3. What pets do you have - I have two ferrets called Gertie and Otto.
4. Favourite thing to do at the weekend - play at the playground with my son, Max.
5. What made you want to become a teacher - I wanted to pass my love of music and violin to others, and bring out people's own special talents!

We look forward to a vibrant year of music and events. Please do not hesitate to contact me by email, or my ESO, if you have any further inquiries.

Sincerely
Jennifer Trijo
Coordinator of Music and Performance R-12

Sports are a Great Teacher

By

Sports are such a great teacher. I think of everything they've taught me: camaraderie, humility, how to resolve differences.
- Kobe Bryant, Basketball player

Girls' Sport has officially started for 2017. The girls at Mercedes College are being represented across 20 sporting teams. Swimming, tennis, waterpolo and softball have already begun, with touch football, basketball and volleyball beginning tomorrow.

This afternoon, the Mercedes Girls' Cricket team will compete in their very first game! They play each Friday afternoon at Scotch College from Week 3 to Week 8.

I am very excited to see them develop.

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Training and Games

All information regarding training and games can be found on Managebac, Team App and on the College website. Information is also communicated via the Student Bulletin which is read to students during Home Group.

It is important for your child to take responsibility for providing you with the information you need. If your child cannot make it to a training or game, it is important that I am notified as soon as possible.

A signed note in their planner must be provided, alternatively you can contact me via email or phone. The students are aware of the College Sport expectations, however a reminder of these can be found in the Student Planner.

You can view the College Sport Policy here. This document includes expectations of students and parents, as well as weather and selection policies.

I will be visiting all teams during the season, therefore I am hoping to meet as many parents and friends as possible. From my involvement in the sport programme thus far, I am looking forward to the year ahead!  I very much value the contribution of family and friends of the College. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any queries you may have. I can be contacted by email or on my mobile 0406 256 827.

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Team App

As mentioned above, Team App is the most efficient way to get information directly from me. If there are changes to draws, team lists, trainings etc, all information goes on this App. It can be downloaded on all smart phones.

Alternatively you can use the Team App website here. Please click here for more information on how to download this App.

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Winter Sport Nominations

Winter Sport begins in Term 2. The nominations were completed online. If your daughter no longer wants to participate in a a particular sport, or alternatively they want to participate, please let me know as soon as possible. I must have written or verbal consent by a parent/guardian.

Trials will be held later this term, and all information will be in the next Mercy Vine and communicated to the students via the bulletin, Team App and Managebac.

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Coaches Wanted

Please contact me if you are interested in coaching Winter Volleyball (games are held on Tuesday 3:30pm-4:30pm) or Netball (games are on Saturday mornings).

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Swimming

Sessions are on Monday mornings (7.00 am- 8.15 am)  and Wednesday mornings (7:00am-8.00 am) at Unley Pool, Ethel St Forestville (off Leader St). Students with a season pass for Unley Pool are asked to bring it along as it negates the charges for entry associated with that student. 

A bus transports students back to Mercedes departing from the car park on the western side of the pool at 8.15am sharp.

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Athletics

Last week Athletics training commenced on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for all Years 8-12 students in preparation for the 2017 Sports Day at Athletics SA Stadium on Friday 10 March (Week 6). Well done to all the athletes who attended these sessions however, we would like to see more participants out at training in the coming weeks.

This is a great opportunity to work with expert coaches to improve in all aspects of Athletics. In addition to attending training, students receive points for their House which go towards the House Spirit Award with extra points going to Year 8 and 9 students who attend.

We look forward to seeing more students out next week.

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Results

Click here to view the results.

Jessica Fanto
Girls' Sports Coordinator

A Great Year to Come

By

I hope everyone had a great break and is looking forward to another big year for Mercedes in the sporting arena.

Due to the hot weather last weekend, most sports were cancelled and will start this weekend. We are looking forward to seeing the students get out there and represent the College.

Please email me if you have any questions about the Boys' Sport programme.

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Cricket V MOSA 

On Friday 3 February our Mercedes First XI team took on the old scholars in a trial game to prepare for the season ahead. It was a terrific experience for the boys to play against some of the best cricketers to come out of Mercedes including Joc O’Connell. It was also good to play against some ex-teammates who have recently graduated and to meet some new old faces.

The standard of cricket overall was strong and despite the loss, it was good for the team to play against some quicker bowlers and harder hitting batsmen. Thanks to Anne Morse and the rest of the Mercedes Old Scholars' Association for making the event possible.

Oliver Cheesman (First XI Captain).

Final Score: MOSA 129-7 (20 overs), *2016/17 MC 1st XI 95-6

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Team App

Team App is an exciting application that you can download on your smart phone to access the most recent news, events, fixtures and results for Mercedes College. All information is kept confidential to relevant access groups organised by the Sport Coordinators. Follow the steps on this link to start using ‘Team App’.

Click on ‘Mercedes College Boys Sport’ and choose the access groups that relate to your son.

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Fixtures and Training 

Due to a change in the sports association staff, there has been a delay with the fixtures being published. As soon as the information is received we will endeavour to have it released to the students via Managebac, Team App and the College Website.

Thank you for your patience with this.

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Star Profile  – Harry May

Congratulations to Year 11 student Harry May who has been selected in the Australian Under 19 Mens Softball Squad. This is as a result of the National tournaments Harry participated in during January, the Under 17 and Open Men in Canberra playing for SA and the Under 19 tournament in Brisbane playing for WA.

Harry will now travel to Brisbane in July for a camp and then a tournament against other International teams. He is now in the running to make the Australian Under 19 team to play in the World Cup in 2018. 

Congratulations Harry from everyone at Mercedes. What an outstanding achievement.

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Week 1 and 2 Sport Results

Click here to see how the boys went in their last rounds.

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Training times and Important dates 

Click here to see training times and other important dates.

Daniel Caire 
6 - 12 Boys' Coordinator 

Cinema Under the Stars

By

A fantastic, family friendly event is what we all experienced for the first time at Mercedes College engaging together at an outdoor movie night to watch Back to the Future in the Rose Garden.

We required significant time and effort in preparing for the event and I would like to thank the following groups;

• The Ground Staff Team
• MP&FA Committee Representatives
• MOSA Committee Representatives
• Marketing Team
• All Volunteers

Our promotions effectively achieved a crowd of approximately 260 individuals and attracted sponsorship from the following businesses:

• Old scholar and current parent Tania Ciaramellano from Ferry’s Table
• Current parent Rachel Trott from Macro Meats
• Romeo’s Foodland at Mitcham
• Festival Photography

The event attracted a wide audience in the community and it was wonderful to connect with extended family members and friends on the night.

Our catering included a great range of food from BBQ, hot chips, popcorn, fairy floss and wine and craft beer.

The atmosphere was so magical with picnic blankets, bean bags and chairs scattered on our beautiful grounds, lovely aromas of popcorn and eager children waiting to enjoy a splendid night with their loved ones under the stars.

We are so blessed to have such a united, caring and supportive community at Mercedes College, thank you to all who attended and we will definitely look at running another movie event in the future!

Finally, I cannot name all and thank individually, but I would like to acknowledge our core volunteer team for their amazing work in setting up the event, running the stalls and packing up at the end on the night. I am so delighted to work with such a remarkable team of individuals.

Olga Trouptsis
MP&FA Chairperson

College Leadership

Welcome to our New Students

By

Dear Parents, Caregivers, Staff and Students of the Mercedes College Community,
Each year it is my pleasure to welcome our new students and their families to our community. The cycle of a school is fascinating; not long ago we farewelled our Year 12 Graduates, some of whom had commenced in Reception at the College in 2004. At that stage they were feeling the same excitement that our new Reception class is feeling.

Thirteen years later they are young adults ready to face whatever confronts them in their future. Much will happen for our new Receptions over the next 13 years but one thing is for certain, Mercedes will do all they can to make sure that each student has every opportunity to become the best they can be in all they do.

Of course we have also been joined by a number of new students at other levels of the College and hopefully all have settled well and are enjoying the new opportunities that come with new beginnings.

My prayer for all of our students, whether new or continuing, is that each will feel safe, cared for and challenged throughout their time at the College and be educated in an environment where they can confidently strive to reach their full potential in all aspects of their humanity.

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Enrolments

Our total student enrolment number at the College continues to remain in the range that we classify as full enrolment with 2017 seeing a small increase. This does not mean however, that there are not vacancies in some year levels.

If you know of anyone interested in a Mercedes College education in the future, please encourage them to contact our Registrar, Mrs Rita Micale as early as possible as this will definitely improve their chances of gaining entry.  

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New Staff Members

Each year I am also pleased to welcome new staff members to our College. The new staff members joining us this year are:

• Ms Noelia Carvajal Balbin, Senior Spanish Teacher.
• Ms Laura Bartholomew, Mathematics Teacher.
• Ms Jennifer Chan, Biology/Chemistry and General Science Teacher.
• Mr Lachlan Jones, Physical Education/Humanities Teacher.
• Ms Sarah Rance, Business and Enterprise Teacher.
• Ms Stephanie Bordignon, English Teacher.
• Ms Jade Lauer, Biology/General Science Teacher.
• Ms Tanya Bahnisch, Middle School Teacher.
• Ms Suzanne Zhao, Maths Teacher.
• Mr Jack Carter, JS Physical Education Teacher (Term 1).
• Mr Andrew Khabbaz, JS Teacher.

We also welcome back Ms Teresa Pepicelli and Ms Jodie Papadopoulos who both return to us from Maternity Leave and Ms Niamh O’Brien who returns to us after illness.

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The Tuck Shop

The new Tuck Shop is now in operation. Some change has already occurred with better flow through the servery and checkouts and some improved food offerings. Change will continue throughout this term and we should be in full service by the beginning of Term 2.

Thank you for your support when the Tuck Shop was closed on the first two days of school, we will give ample prior notice should any future disruptions to service occur through this term. 

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Wonderful Results

We were very pleased with results achieved by our 2016 Year 12 Class.

The highlights included one student, Lucas Di Ubaldo achieving the highest possible ATAR score of 99.95. Overall 35% of our students gained an ATAR above 90. We were also delighted that 95% of our Year 12 students received a first round tertiary offer with most being able to study their first choice course.

Congratulations to all our students who achieved to the best of their abilities in 2016. Year 12 can offer all sorts of challenges and it is a pleasure to see the staff and students work so hard together to ensure that each student is provided with the best possible opportunity for success.

As pleasing as these ATAR results are it is even more important that our Mercedes College Graduates graduate as young men and women of fine character with a commitment to the service of others and the confidence to make a positive difference in the future world in which they will find themselves. 

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Use of Email

A Commitment to Quality Communication but not 24/7

Email is a very valuable communication tool and a very efficient way for teachers and parents to keep each other informed. One factor that makes emailing so effective is its ease, however this is also one of its greatest problems. Email makes communication possible 24/7 but it is unreasonable that anyone work 24/7.

Even though our teachers are committed to working in partnership with parents and students they must be able to enjoy some ‘out of work’ family time. Unless it has been previously arranged please do not expect an instant response to an email.

Emails sent outside of the hours of 8.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday will be responded to as soon as possible the following work day.

I thank you for your consideration of this matter.

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Safety Issues

Yard Supervision
Please note that the College grounds are formally supervised between 8.20am and 3.50pm.

• Students in Reception to Year 7 who need to be dropped off at school before 8.20am, and are not part of an organised College activity, must attend Out of Hours School Care (OHSC).
• Students in Years 8 to 12 who are not involved in an organised College activity, should not arrive until after 8.20am.
• Students in Years 6 to 12 who are leaving the school grounds between 3.50pm and 5.00pm, and are not part of an organised College activity, can study in the Library until 5.00pm.
• Students in Reception to Year 5 must attend OHSC from 3.30pm until collected by a parent or caregiver.
• Students in Year 6 and 7 who are not able to leave the College by 5.00pm must attend OHSC from 3.40pm.

If you have any further queries regarding this matter please contact your child’s Head of School:

Mrs Julie Hann
Reception to Year 5

Mr Jarrad McCabe
Years 6 to 9

Mr Michael Francis
Years 10 to 12  

Driving in the Vicinity of the College
I ask that all drivers in the vicinity of the College show the utmost care. Too often speed limits are not respected and cars are parked in unsafe locations. Both these choices cause safety risks for our students.

Please keep the safety of all students, and indeed all members of our community in mind when driving and parking in the surrounds of the College.

Driving on College Grounds
Please follow all speed limits and parking restrictions when driving on College grounds. The grounds are first and foremost for the students and not cars and the students are potentially present on the school grounds at all times.

Vehicular entry (except for staff members) to the College grounds at the Carrick Hill Drive entrance is barred from 8.20am to 8.45am in the morning and from 3.15pm to 3.35pm in the afternoon.

Another Parking Responsibility
Please respect the neighbours of the College and ensure that you park in the allocated parking spaces and do not restrict access to their driveways. 

I ask for your support with all these very important issues.

I wish everyone a happy and successful 2017.

Yours sincerely

Peter Daw
Principal

Junior Journeys

Warm Welcome

By

It is always so exciting to start a new year. The children have returned with such enthusiasm and energy, and many have noticeably grown. Fifty three new students have joined us and it has been wonderful to see how well they have settled, being nurtured and cared for by both staff and students.

International mindedness through the Mercy Key of Mutual Respect is the focus for the College this year. Through our International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme, we will be specifically focussing on the Learner Profile and our class Essential Agreements to strengthen our children’s knowledge and understanding of international mindedness and being a global citizen, respecting others and their environment.

It is always a joy to witness so many students greet and interact with their peers and teachers in such respectful ways, something that Mercedes College is well recognised for. Whilst we work on values, manners and have high expectations of our students, I commend you as parents for the way you teach your child/children these important skills, enabling success both now and into the future.

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New and Returning Staff

I would like to welcome Mr Jack Carter (Physical Education for Term 1) and Willow Wudke (Education Support Officer) who are new to the Junior School. We welcome back Mr Andrew Khabbaz (4KB), Mrs Teresa Pepicelli (2BP) and Ms Niamh O’Brien (Psychologist) who have returned to the Junior School.

Each staff member brings a passion for teaching, learning and wellbeing, possessing a range of individual skills, interests and talents that will be shared not only with students, but with staff. They are welcome assets to our highly professional and passionate Junior School team, and I look forward to the many successes that will be achieved throughout the year as they work closely with our students.

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Congratulations

The community was so excited to discover that Emma McInerney married Andrew Grant over the school break. Staff and children enjoyed a mock wedding ceremony at our first assembly in recognition of this special occasion.

Congratulations Mrs Grant!

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New Students

A number of new students have joined the Mercedes College community. On behalf of the College, I wish these students every success with all aspects of their learning and development. We also welcome their families to the College, we hope you are beginning to feel more ‘at home’ and we look forward to working in partnership with you.

It has been wonderful to see so many smiling faces and hear the enthusiastic comments from the children and parents.

Year 5

• Jackson May
• Darryl Lee
• Felix Fenton
• Julius Franchi

Year 4

• Tess Gallagher
• Jack Rivers
• Ivy Carr
• Sienna Hentschke
• Christian Smith
• Raphael Mondol
• Chase Stronach

Year 3

1. Bailey Aistrope
2. Molly Kuchel
3. Rowan Batra
4. Lachlan Mills
5. Grace Smith
6. Hugh Mahney
7. Madeleine Scott

Year 2

• Isabella May
• Abigail Scott
• Cailin Mills
• Ruby Beesley
• Luca Carr
• Rebecca Lanzilli
• Elizabeth Woods
• Sophie Coppin
• Mikhail Sidhwani

Year 1

• Mikhail Sidhwani

RBC

• Lily Bickle
• Massimo Tropeano
• Aidan Baynes
• Tate Aistrope
• Eliza Dann
• Winston Schunke
• Sienna Marciano
• Ranbir Grewal
• Victoria Huckel
• Annabelle Brooke-Smith
• Priya Batra
• Gabrielle Lefevre
• Thomas Woods

RLC

• Tyler Procter
• Atticus Kitto
• Kian Bilsborow
• Hayden Nguyen
• Sebastian Ascott
• Mia Pivato
• Nicholas Oleksyn
• Isaiah Gilbert
• Eadie Taylor
• James Fogarty
• Jonah Zandona
• Scarlett Brooke-Smith
• Gabrielle Mondol

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Junior School Inaugural Mass

The Junior School Inaugural Mass is an important celebration at the start of the school year and will take place on Friday 24 February at 10:00am in the Junior School Hall.

The blessing and presentation of our leadership badges to our newly elected Junior School Student Representative Council Leaders, Music and Student Mentor Programme Leaders will also take place. Parents of elected students will be notified prior to the Mass so that work commitments can be rearranged should they wish to attend.

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Parent Information Evening

On behalf of Class Teachers, I thank you for the excellent attendance at our recent Parent Information Night. The positive feedback from many of you was greatly appreciated and we look forward to working in partnership with you during the course of the year.

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Year 2-5 Swimming Lessons

We are hoping for perfect weather for our Years 2-5 swimming lessons which take place from Monday 20 to Thursday 23 February at the Unley Pool. Please ensure that you have carefully checked the information sent home to ensure your child is well prepared. For legal reasons, students without signed permission slips will be unable to attend.

Thank you very much to the parents who have volunteered to support the required adult/student ratios by travelling on the buses. We greatly appreciate any support with dressing your own children once the swimming lesson has concluded.

Thank you to Mrs Tracey Cramond and Mr Jack Carter for the planning and organisation of the week.

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Uniforms / Hats / Hair

The students have looked very smart in their uniforms and we thank you for supporting our uniform policy. Please note that in cooler weather students must wear their blazer, not their jumper, as an outside garment.

Our Sun Protection Policy requires students to wear their College hat during recess and lunch times, along with all PE or outside activities. Should a student not have a hat, they will be directed under the Marquee during play times, or under a shaded area during PE/outside activities. The College Shop has a range of College hats for purchase should additional hats be required. 

Hair needs to be tied up if longer than shoulder level, and only College coloured ribbons may be worn. These can also be bought at the College Shop. Clips and hair ties need to be unobtrusive (hair colour, brown or Mercedes green).

We look forward to your continued support with uniform expectations throughout the year.

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Friday Bulletin

Please check the Friday Bulletin each week for up-to-date information. Diary dates are included below however; additional dates may be added throughout the term. Notification of these will be via the Friday Bulletin.

The Junior School staff and I are looking forward to a wonderful term ahead.

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Dates to Remember

Please make sure you mark the following dates in your diary.

Julie Hann
Assistant Principal
Head of Junior School

Middle Moments

Year of International Mindedness

By

Welcome to the start of the 2017 academic year. In particular, I would like to welcome all Middle School students and families joining our community this year, and I trust their association with the College will be an enjoyable and rewarding one.

As we begin a new year together – the Year of International Mindedness through Mutual Respect – I pray the opportunities throughout the year enable our students to live with intent and relate to one another in a manner that remains faithful to our Mercy Keys.

I would like to introduce a number of new staff members who commence positions in the Middle School this year. Tanya Bahnisch (Year 7), Laura Bartholomew (Year 8), Lachlan Jones (Year 8), Stephanie Bordignon (Year 9) and Suzanne Zhao (Year 9) have taken up roles as Middle School Home Group teachers. New staff members Jade Lauer (Science) and Jennifer Chan (Science) will also teach some Middle School classes.

I wish these new staff members well in their association with Mercedes College and hope their time here is personally and professionally rewarding.

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Middle School Coordinators and Home Group Teachers for 2017

In the Middle School, students are supported through a Pastoral Care structure that includes Home Group teachers and Year Level Coordinators. Home Group teachers are a significant adult presence in the school life of our Middle School students and are the first point of contact for parents.

Year Level Coordinators work closely with Home Group teachers, students, parents and the Head of Middle School – Pastoral to further develop the level of pastoral care and personal responsibility in the Middle School.

Below is a summary of the Middle School Year Level Coordinators and Home Group teachers for 2017.

Year 6

• Coordinator – Jason De Luca
• 6CO  Colleen O’Connell
• 6FF  Fernando Farrugia
• 6JD  Jason De Luca

Year 7

• Coordinator – Daniel Jones
• 7TB  Tanya Bahnisch
• 7LH  Logan Hill
• 7SW  Stuart Wuttke
• 7DJ  Daniel Jones

Year 8

• Coordinator – Caty Jarvis
• 8LB  Laura Bartholomew
• 8IB  Ilinca Bocse
• 8CF  Daniel Caire/Jessica Fanto
• 8LJ  Lachlan Jones
• 8DR  Dennis Russell

Year 9

• Coordinator – Holly Potter
• 9SB  Stephanie Bordignon
• 9GB  Georgina Burgess
• 9JR  James Reichstein
• 9DV  Damian Vahlis
• 9SZ  Suzanne Zhao

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Student Transition and Progress

The first few days of the academic year can be exciting for students, given there are new classmates and teachers to meet. The start of the year is a significant transition period for all students, and they will each cope differently with the challenges this period brings. In fact, many students may be more frightened of the possibility of failure than they are thrilled by the possibility of success!

If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact the Home Group teachers and/or Year Level Coordinators to discuss how your child is settling in over the first few weeks.

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Swimming Carnival

It was wonderful to see so many Middle School students involved in the events at our Swimming Carnival on Friday 10 February, with many parents also in attendance. Swimming can provide us with a wide range of “I can do this” experiences that can lead to personal growth and development. Even the simple thought, “I can swim” can have a huge effect on an adolescent’s self-image.

I would like to thank Mr Bill Gaynor for his coordination of the event, along with Mr Matt Smith and Mrs Sue Guerin for their work in ensuring the event ran smoothly. I also acknowledge our Physical Education staff and Sport Coordinators for their significant input into the carnival, along with the other staff involved in carrying out duties on the day.

We now look forward to the Year 8-12 Athletics Carnival (Friday 10 March, SA Athletics Stadium) and the Year 4-7 Athletics Carnival (Wednesday 12 April, Mercedes College). I encourage parents to come along to these events and cheer from the sidelines!

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Inaugural Mass

Our 2017 Inaugural Mass was celebrated on Thursday 16 February,2017. This occasion allowed staff and students to celebrate the start of the new academic year and congratulate students who have taken on senior leadership roles within the College.

During the Mass, the badges of student leaders were blessed, including those of our Middle School Leaders (Elizabeth Chisholm, Isobel Dyson, Henry Baker and John George). Each of these leaders brings their own unique gifts and talents to their leadership role, and we wish them well in their leadership of the Middle School student body throughout the year.

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Middle School Parent Information Evening

On Monday 13 February, many Middle School parents gathered at the College to meet Year Level Coordinators and Home Group teachers and discuss Middle School expectations, policies and procedures. This information evening is one way the College actively seeks collaboration with families to enhance student learning and wellbeing, and there will be other similar opportunities throughout the year. Parents are always encouraged to make contact with the College regularly to discuss student learning and wellbeing.

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Student Absences

I would like to remind Middle School parents that student absences need to be phoned through to McAuley Office on 8372 3241. A note explaining the absence should also be written in the student’s personal planner on the day the student returns to school.

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Drop Off and Pick Up

Thank you to students and parents for the smooth start to the year in the drop off and pick up zones. The College is committed to providing a safe and secure environment and the following drop off and pick up arrangements are in place to ensure safety for students and efficiency for parents. 

Middle School (Years 6 – 9) students being transported to and from school by car should be dropped off and picked up just outside the College gates on Delamere Avenue or on Rectory Walk (east of the tennis courts, with entry off Fullarton Road). 

Middle School students with siblings in Years R-5 can use the Kiss and Drop zone for drop off and pick up.

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Middle School Dates to Remember

• Friday 10 March Year 8-12 Athletics Carnival (SA Athletics Stadium)
• Friday 17 March Year 6 and 8 Family BBQ (Junior School Hall, 6:00pm – 8:00pm)
• Friday 12 May Year 6-9 Mix and Mingle (7:30pm – 10:30pm)

If you need to contact me at any time, please do so.

Jarrad McCabe
Head of Middle School - Pastoral

Senior Stories

New Beginnings

By Michael Francis

The 2017 academic year has started well, and I would like to thank all students, parents and staff for their enthusiasm in the way they have approached the first weeks of school.

We are fortunate to have a number of new members of the Mercedes community join us this year, and to those new students, parents and staff who are part of the Senior School for the first time in 2017, I hope that the year ahead is an unbridled success and that you enjoy what it is that the Senior School has to offer.

Over the summer break, I have been thinking about what it means to be a member of the Mercedes College Senior School. There are a number of key aspects, I believe, and these have been communicated to staff and students in the Senior School over the first few weeks.

Over the course of the year, these aspects will be revisited and used as a reminder for staff and students to be unified in their approach to their interactions in the Senior School. The major elements of the Senior School can be expressed in the following points:

• It’s built on the MERCY KEYS
• It’s being ACCOUNTABLE
• It’s EXCITING
• It’s part of a TRADITION
• It means being OPEN to growth
• It means looking to be INTERNATIONALLY MINDED

As parents involved in the Senior School, I welcome your thoughts and feedback on these points and am happy to discuss these with you further if you would like. The Senior School Information Evening on Tuesday February 14 provided an opportunity for this and I thank those parents who attended this evening – even on Valentine’s Day!

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Party Guidelines for Families of Mercedes College

Toward the end of 2016, both Mr Jarrad McCabe (Head of Middle School – Pastoral) and I included in our Mercy Vine articles a link to a document that outlined intended guidelines for parents around the hosting of parties involving Mercedes College students. These guidelines were revisited at the recent parent information evening and are included here for your reference also.

I would like to stress that these guidelines have been developed in conjunction with Senior leadership staff at our College, and reference practices that are similar to other schools and colleges across Australia. In order for us to continue to provide an educational experience that nurtures the whole person, I would like to ask for your support in reading through these guidelines and being mindful of them when planning a social occasion that involves your children. Of course, I am happy to discuss this with you if you wish for clarification or to make a suggestion for improvement.

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Swimming Carnival 

A big congratulations must go to all students for their participation and involvement in the 6-12 Swimming Carnival held on Friday 10 February, 2017. Under some trying conditions due to the heat and humidity, students were fantastic in the way they approached the carnival with such enthusiasm.

The student Sport House Leaders worked extremely well with the staff involved in organising the event and I am so proud of the spirit in which the competition was held. Well done, and I look forward to seeing more of this when the Athletics Carnival takes place in March.

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Student Attendance

As a reminder to students and parents, if a student is to be absent from school for any period of time, please contact the student's Tutor Group teacher and/or the McAuley Office Administrative staff so that our duty of care can be maintained for your children. This is particularly pertinent if a student is to be leaving the school (or school activity – like a sporting carnival or excursion) for any reason during the school day, as we must be aware of the student absence for our records. 

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Senior School Spirituality

Throughout the year, students in the Senior School will have a number of opportunities to engage in developing their understanding of their faith and spirituality. Whether through class prayer in their Tutor Groups, through their Religious Education programme or through retreats and masses, students are expected to participate actively and to be mindful of the Catholic Mercy traditions that are the bedrock of our College.

Many wonderful opportunities exist at Mercedes College and certainly the capacity to reflect on one’s relationship with their God is one that is very special and important in our College.

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Looking Ahead…

In the coming weeks there are a number of activities involving students across the Senior School and as always these key dates are available on the School Calendar located the College website or through the calendars provided by Year Level Coordinators for their respective year levels.

I welcome your participation as families in the Senior School and look forward to seeing you throughout the year. I wish you all the very best for a successful and rewarding 2017.

Michael Francis 
Head of Senior School 

Director of Mission

Looking at the Year Ahead

By

Welcome to a new school year, a year full of anticipation, of discoveries to be made and milestones to be achieved.

With the world moving through uncharted waters following Brexit in the UK and President Trump’s presidency of the United States of America, developing an understanding of the diverse cultures and religions throughout the world, may remove the ignorance and fear of people culturally different to us and lead us towards an harmonious living with all global citizens. With this in mind, the College has taken as its focus for the year International Mindedness through the Mercy Key of Mutual Respect.

Peter, the Apostle, to whom Jesus said ‘you are Peter, the rock, and on this rock I will build my Church’, was internationally minded as demonstrated when he accepted the centurion Cornelius, a gentile and not kosher in his cuisine, to be baptised as a follower of Jesus. 

St Paul then went further by going on an international travel making known the one true God revealed through Jesus. Paul did not seek to change the culture and celebrations of people in surrounding nations but to offer the peace of the monotheistic God of Abraham. (When in Rome, do as the Romans do. – St Ambrose).

As we go about our study and our work this year, let us be a people who are welcoming of others, respect differences in cultural backgrounds and learn from the riches that diversity offers us. As Australians we can indeed rejoice the cosmopolitan nature that our society has evolved into.

God Bless.

Pat Terminello KHS
Director of Mission

Good Sports

Swimming Carnival

By

The Swimming Carnival held on Friday 10 February at Marion Aquatic Centre saw students from Years 6-12 come together for a day of competitive fun.

Barry House took home the overall Shield as a result of their talented swimmers and commendable participation. For their courageous cheering, raucous singing and unmissable motivation McAuley House was awarded the Spirit Shield.

The day ran smoothly with students participating in competitive 50m events, enjoyable 25m races, care free year level novelties or marshalling and spectating. We would like to thank Mr Caire, Ms Fanto, Matt Smith, Sue Guerin and a BIG special mention to Mr Gaynor for the work he put into organising such a successful event.

The participation was outstanding and Mercedes College should be proud of the talent and personalities found within our community. Again, thank you to everyone involved including the House Leaders, teachers and 'The Sports Squad' for your assistance on the day.

Well done Barry!

Arabella Prowse 
Sports Leader

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Athletics Training

Athletics training has started with high levels of enthusiasm and good numbers participating. The coaches and I have been very encouraged with the efforts of all athletes.

Training Times

The athletics programme is open to all students who would like to try out any event. Training for sprints, hurdles, middle distance, shot put, discus and the jumps are on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and pole vault and javelin on Wednesday mornings. All training sessions start at 7:20am and finish at 8:20am.

Year 8-12 Sports Day

Throughout this term we are not only training for the Year 8-12 Sports Day, but for some they will also be selected to compete for the school at a range of inter-school athletics events during Term 1, including the State Schools Knockout, the Catholic Co-educational Carnival and SASSSA A1 Carnival.

Passing of the Baton

This year we have seen the passing of the baton. I would like to thank Mr Peter Thornton for his contribution to the athletics programme as the Coordinator for the past 18 years, and his continual support through both coaching and mentoring me in my new role. He continues to use his expertise in athletics as the Javelin Coach.

I look forward to seeing anyone interested in athletics out at training. If there are any questions about inter-school athletics feel free to contact me via email.

Mary Lange
Athletics Coordinator

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Team App

Please refer to both the boys or girls sport page for information on Team App and how to download it. This is the best way to stay in touch with up to date sporting fixtures, training times, team lists and a great way to hear if trainings have been cancelled or changed.

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Sport Training Tops 

The Training tops are now available to purchase from the College Shop. There is a singlet and short and long sleeve shirts to be worn in either summer or winter. We encourage all students to purchase one of these tops for trainings. Prices are below:

• Singlet - $34
• Short Sleeve - $46
• Long Sleeve - $52

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Year 8 - 12 Swimming 

Sessions are on Monday and Wednesday mornings (7.00am-8.00 am) at Unley Pool, Ethel St Forestville (off Leader St).  A bus brings students back to Mercedes departing from the car park on the western side of the pool at 8.15am sharp.

This is a great opportunity to meet new people, work on your fitness or to have some fun. Everyone is welcome to join in these sessions.

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Sport Squad 2017

On Wednesday 1 February we met with the new Sports team for 2017. At this time we talked about what we wanted to achieve this year as a group and general expectations. We also presented the students with their tops.

Please click here to see the sports team for 2017 and a list of all leadership positions in sport for this year.

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Important Dates

Please click here to view important dates.

Daniel Caire and Jessica Fanto 
8 - 12 Sports Coordinators 

Wellbeing

A Positive Start

By Anne Way

The College Psychologists extend a warm welcome to all families for the 2017 school year, particularly those who are new to the Mercedes College community this year.

We are absolutely delighted to welcome back Niamh O’Brien following her year’s leave. Niamh will be working predominantly with our Junior School students and staff two days each week initially and Anne Way will be continuing to work across the College on a fulltime basis. Our primary role is to provide confidential counselling support to students, liaise with parents and teachers and assist with external referrals where appropriate.

The foundations for wellbeing are laid in the development of positive relationships between staff, students and families, and these relationships are essential when concerns about student progress arise. We strongly encourage parents to initially raise relevant information with the Class or Home Group Teacher which may impact upon the academic progress, health and wellbeing of students such as changed family circumstances, student or family health issues, or emerging mental health concerns. Sensitive or personal matters may be directed to us.

We also encourage parents to provide Josi Labozzetta, Inclusive Education Co-ordinator with copies of Psychological and other professional assessment reports, which can better inform how we support student learning. Please be assured that this information is managed in a sensitive and confidential way, with respect for student and family privacy.

Given the size of our community and the diversity of needs, our priority focus will be on the provision of time-limited individual, confidential student counselling determined on a needs-basis. Older students may self-refer for this support and where indicated, parental consent will be obtained for support for younger students. Where more intensive support may be required we will assist families with accessing external providers.

Please be assured that counselling contact is managed in a sensitive and confidential way. Written records of contact with students are maintained for professional use and are kept in secure files. We work to ensure that students understand the confidential nature of the counselling relationship and the circumstances under which information must be shared with parents and relevant others.

This year we would like to use the Family Matters column to provide information to parents about a range of resources, programmes and services that can support the challenging role of parent. If there are particular topics or services that would be helpful to know more about, please feel free to send through an e-mail with your suggestion. To initiate this information flow, we refer your attention to the Peach Lifestyle Programme flyer attached to this edition of the Mercy Vine and the guided back to school Smiling Mind mediations available on this widely used app.

Anne Way   
Director of Wellbeing
College Psychologist (R - 12)

Niamh O’Brien
College Psychologist (R - 5)