Tuesday was Remembrance Day, and at OLMC, our community paused to recognise those who have fought in World Wars and, in particular, those who did not return. We also held in our prayers those still grappling with the ravages of war. A team of students led our prayer and remembrance service very ably and reverently. For Catholics, November is the season of remembrance, and so we hold in our prayers all in our community who are remembering loved ones no longer with us.

For OLMC, 11 November is also a significant date for us as a Mercy community, as it marks the anniversary of the passing of Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy.

On Thursday evening, we welcomed the parents of the Year 7 class of 2026. It was wonderful to see parents excited about the next stage in their child’s educational journey. The night also marks the beginning of our transition to the 2026 year.

This week is also a big week for the cast and crew of our junior production, Into the Woods Jnr. The students performed to some of our Primary feeder schools on Thursday to great applause and praise. We are very much looking forward to a wonderful opening night on Friday. We wish all involved in the production all the very best.

All year levels are now approaching the end of their formal assessments whether that be in class or through the exam process. Soon they will be involved in Orientation or transition activities in readiness for 2026. This is a great time of reflection on the successes of 2025 and hopes for 2026. For all students, it is a time of excitement and anticipation. The program over the coming weeks has been carefully curated to provide opportunities for students to understand the expectations and possible coping strategies for the next phase in their journey. We expect all students to be present and fully involved in all aspects of the program and thank our families for your support in this area.

The year is rapidly coming to an end and we will soon move into the season of Advent, where we begin our preparations for Christmas. However, we still have some work to do and I encourage all of our students to make the most of the next few weeks continuing to strive to achieve their best.

As I do each year, I share this prayer for exams in the hope that you might also share it with your child. In a small way it may help to bring calm in the exam room.

Prayer For Exam

Come still my heart,
O Lord Calm my nerves and focus my mind.
Father, I lay before you everything I have studied.
May I channel all I have learnt into this exam.
Please give me the faith to believe I can pass this test,
Yet the peace to know that all is well.
Thank you that you are with me no matter what the result,
Thank you that your friendship is eternal.
Amen.

Source: www.lords-prayer-words.com

November invites us to pause and remember. In our Catholic tradition, this is a month of prayer for the Holy Souls, when we hold in our hearts all those who have died and who shaped our lives by their presence, love, and example. At the same time, we mark Remembrance Day, honouring all who served in times of war and conflict, and those whose lives were forever changed by it. We also remember Catherine McAuley, who died on 11 November 1841, leaving a legacy of compassion and mercy that continues among us. As we gather in prayer, we do so with gratitude for the past, hope for those who have gone before us, and a renewed commitment to live with courage, gentleness, and peace.

Loving God,
November is a month of memory.
We pause to remember those who have died:
family members, friends, mentors, Sisters of Mercy and all who shaped our lives.
Grant them the light of your presence and the peace of your eternal rest.

We remember, too, all who have died in war and conflict.
On Remembrance Day, we honour the courage and sacrifice
of those who served, those who returned changed,
and those who never came home.
May their longing for peace live on in us,
in the choices we make and the way we treat one another.

We remember Catherine McAuley,
whose life drew others toward mercy, hope and welcome.
Her final days were marked not by fear,
but by trust in your love and tenderness.
May her spirit of compassion continue to shape us
as we seek to serve others with dignity and joy.

God of all time and all generations,
comfort those who grieve,
strengthen those who care for the dying,
and guide us to live gently, generously and with open hearts.
May our remembering lead us not to sorrow alone,
but to gratitude, faith, and deeper love.

We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Venerable Catherine McAuley - pray for us.
Mother Ursula Frayne - pray for us.
Mother Basil Emoe - pray for us.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace.
Amen.

This week, at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, our school community gathered to mark Remembrance Day with prayer and reflection. Together, we paused to honour all who have served in times of war and conflict, and to remember those who lost their lives in the hope of peace. The Last Post and a minute of silence invited us into stillness, gratitude and respect. In recalling their sacrifice, we also renewed our commitment to peace in our own relationships, our community and our world.

Lest we forget.

Our Year 9 students recently held a bake sale to support the Opening the Doors Foundation, an Aboriginal-led organisation that provides educational support for First Nations children across Victoria. The students worked together to plan, bake and run the stall, offering everything from cupcakes to homemade slices and savoury snacks.

The bake sale was about more than fundraising. It invited our community to learn more about the work of Opening the Doors Foundation and the importance of equal access to education. Through posters, announcements and conversations, students helped raise awareness and encourage others to stand alongside First Nations families in practical and respectful ways.

We are grateful for the generosity of everyone who supported the stalls. The funds raised will contribute directly to school uniforms, books and learning resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Most importantly, the experience helped our Year 9s deepen their understanding of justice, partnership and walking together.

A warm congratulations to all involved, especially the Horizon team and Ms Galli, our Social Justice Coordinator.

https://www.openingthedoors.org.au/

The Academy of Mary Immaculate in Fitzroy hosted our final Seeds of Justice event for the year - the Year 7 and 8 Conference. We asked the question, as a group of Mercy schools, what it means to be and live mercy for those who have insecure housing and also experience food insecurity.

"I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in" (Matthew 25:35).

We talked about stereotypes and reflected on inner and outer perceptions. We then heard from Holly at St Mary's House of Welcome, a very long-running and well supported drop-in centre that provides material and social support for those who need it. Students asked so many questions, and Holly commented on how diverse and thought-provoking they were.

Students had been asked to bring specific items and we then made small, portable hampers for easily made and single serve food and drinks. In the OLMC minibus, we delivered these hampers, so we were able to see St Mary's in person and what a great community space it is.

Soon, at OLMC, we begin our Christmas Hamper collection for our local Exodus community. Please keep an eye out for notices about which items each year level can bring to support our drive - we are aiming for 40 hampers, a new record!

Anita Galli
Social Justice Coordinator

Last week, as a part of our Japanese class, we were visited by Leanne O'Sullivan from Kimono House. Both Year 9 Japanese classes were able to take part in this experience and spend some time learning about this traditional Japanese dress.

We started with learning about the history and tradition behind the kimonos and yukatas. Kimonos are a type of traditional dress in Japan, usually worn on special occasions and vary due to age and status. Kimonos are quite formal and are usually made of silk. However, yukatas are the more casual version of a kimono and they're worn in summer, due to them being made with cotton. The yukatas and kimonos are then secured around the waist with an obi (waistband).

With the help of Leanne, we learnt how to put on a yukata with an obi. We had a lot of fun dressing each other up and tying the obi around each other. It was a good experience that allowed us to enjoy Japanese in a different manner and to learn more about culture and tradition in Japan. It was a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience for all of us.

Philippa M 9A & Emily W 9B

As exams approach, students are encouraged to focus on building confidence through consistent practice and understanding key concepts. Maths success comes from doing, not just reading — so students should aim to practise problems daily, review errors, and connect new ideas to what they already know.

Specific Maths Revision Tips:

• Review key formulas: Revise and practise using area, volume, and trigonometry formulas — don’t just memorise them, understand when to apply each.
• Algebra accuracy: Check brackets, signs, and like terms carefully when simplifying or solving equations.
• Graphs and relations: Practise sketching straight-line, quadratic, and exponential graphs; know how to find intercepts and turning points.
• Trigonometry practice: Revise SOH CAH TOA and angle of elevation/depression problems.
• Units and conversions: Always include correct units and convert consistently in measurement and finance questions.
• Show full working: Write clear, logical steps to earn method marks.
• Simulate the exam: Complete at least one past paper under timed conditions and review every mistake.

Shirley Wu
Mathematics Learning Leader

Exam Preparation

The Year Nine classes 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D, are beginning their preparation for their first ever exams. On Friday 21 November the Maths exam will take place and then on Tuesday 24 November the Science exam will commence. The students have been showing an immense amount of determination and dedication to their studies in the lead up, and are continuously pushing themselves to produce their best results.

Evie C 9B

Camp

This year, 9A, 9B, 9C, and 9D all went to camp in Term 2. It was a wonderful experience and we had so many amazing and memorable experiences with our friends and peers. There were so many new connections made with our classmates and this camp will definitely be remembered. Everyone contributed with the cooking as well as cleaning and we all played board games and were involved with all of the fun and different activities. At this camp, we all had to learn how to be more independent, as we all brought our own food, as well as cooked, and cleaned. The activities were such a great experience, as there were not many camp instructors, so it meant that it was up to us and the teachers for some activities. The overall camp experience was amazing, because it taught us all the value of independence and spending quality time with our friends and peers.

9E, 9F, 9G and 9H are excited for camp next week and have been busy preparing for it over the past couple of weeks.

Claudia C 9C

Into the Woods Jnr

This term, many Year 9 students had the exciting opportunity to take part in the College’s production of Into the Woods Jnr. After months of rehearsals, singing practices and choreography sessions, the cast and crew are now in their final week of preparation. The energy has been high and everyone involved has shown real dedication, creativity and teamwork. With opening night this Friday, the anticipation is building and we are all so proud of the hard work that has gone into bringing this musical to life.

Scarlett W 9A

Real Industry Job Interviews (RIJI)

Taking part in RIJI was a wonderful experience and opportunity for all Year 9 students. It was a great way to plan and organise our resumes for future casual employment and to experience the type of questions that we will be asked in actual interviews. We hope that we represented OLMC with pride. We were pleased with our performance and effort. So many Year 9 students have already received casual jobs, so the experience was definitely worth it.

We have loved Horizon this year and we can’t believe we only have 3 more weeks of Year 9. We are now focusing on assessments and tests. We are already showing the Christmas spirit by decorating our pastoral rooms. There is a healthy competitive drive to have the best decorated room.

We would like to thank all of our Year 9 pastoral teachers for their guidance, support and leadership this year. Year 9 has been a fantastic year.

Written by the Class Captains and SRC

Last month, our consultant with Real Schools, Jemma Rust, hosted an information session for parents and guardians about Real Schools and how this organisation is supporting our work at OLMC. Thank you to those who could join us on the night.

In her presentation, Jemma referenced one of the books that has been written by the founder of Real Schools, Adam Voight. In his book Restoring Teaching, Adam reflects on his experience of teaching and leading school communities as principal. This book also gives an insight into the principles that have guided his work in establishing Real Schools and what this model of restorative practices is about. Many of the examples do not only apply to a school setting, but also have relevance when building strong relationships with young people in other environments too.

A link to the audio book of Restorative Teaching can be found at the link below:

Restoring Teaching Audio

Teen Mental Health Matters presented by The Black Dog Institute

The Black Dog Institute is presenting a free online session 'Teen Mental Health Matters' exclusively for parents and guardians of OLMC students. This webinar will take place on Tuesday 25 November at 7.00 pm. Please see the flyer below to register.

Time and Space Evening

A reminder for all parents and carers of our current Year 11 students that on the evening of Tuesday 2 December, we will be having an event hosted by Time and Space. Students of the Class of 2026 and at least one parent or guardian will be required to attend. This night signifies the beginning of this cohort’s final year at OLMC. Information about this event was emailed out to families last week but please also see the flyer below for further details.

To prepare for the upcoming Social Media Ban on Wednesday 10 December, the eSafety Commissioner has provided resources in relation to the ban. Please follow the links below for more information and to access the free webinars for parents and guardians:

Social media age restrictions hub | eSafety Commissioner

Social media age restrictions webinars | eSafety Commissioner

Our Year 7-9 Musical Showcase held on Tuesday 11 November was a wonderful celebration of talent, dedication, and the joy of music. With around 90 students performing and showcasing their skills across three venues, audiences were treated to a diverse program featuring a wide range of instruments and vocal performances by those students who have been part of the Instrumental Music program this year. The varied repertoire and skill level required in all pieces highlighted the creativity and hard work of our students in conjunction with their teachers.

Family and friends filled each venue with warmth and support, enjoying the opportunity to see the growth and achievement of our young musicians. Their performances reflected countless hours of practice and the enthusiasm that makes music such a special part of school life.

Music is an integral part of learning, helping students build confidence, concentration, and emotional well-being. It provides a unique way of thinking and expressing ideas, and we know that making music together can bring great joy and help ease the stresses of daily life.

Congratulations to all of the performers on their courage, outstanding efforts and achievements, and a huge thank you to the parents and families who continue to support their children’s musical journey at OLMC. We can’t wait to see how their skills further develop in 2026!

Jo-Anne Mileto
Instrumental Music Coordinator

Don't miss the chance to see the talented students from OLMC and Marcellin College take to the stage this weekend for the enchanting Junior Production of Into the Woods Jnr! The cast and crew have worked tirelessly to bring this beloved musical to life. The story, a witty and moving adaptation of the musical by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine, intertwines the plots of several classic Brothers Grimm fairytales.

The show centres on a Baker and his Wife, who wish to have a child, and their quest to reverse a Witch’s curse. Along the way, their journey 'into the woods' brings them into contact with characters like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, and Jack (of Beanstalk fame), Their stories intertwine in an entertaining and magical journey.

With only three performances of Into the Woods Jnr scheduled this weekend, seats are strictly limited.

https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1488544

Madalena Broadbent
Performing Arts Learning Leader

Each year the Parents’ Association run a Lucky Fees Raffle to raise funds that support and enhance educational opportunities and the community life at OLMC. First prize is $4000 off your school fees for 2026 and second prize is $2000 off the fees – wouldn’t that be amazing!

Tickets are $10 each, 10 for $70 or 15 for $100

To purchase the tickets please click here - https://www.trybooking.com/DFNTT

1st prize: $4000 Voucher for 2026 School Fees

Or Shopping Vouchers to the value of $4000

2nd Prize: $2000 Voucher for 2026 School Fees

Or Shopping Vouchers to the value of $2000

3rd Prize: Snap Fitness Heidelberg Performance Pack 3-month membership

plus unlimited group fitness classes, a personal training session, a 12 week nutrition personal program and workout plan via the app Value $499

4th Prize: Noone Uniform Vouchers valued at $400

5th Prize: Mystery Melbourne Hotel Stay to the value of $300 Donated by Meridian Travel Heidelberg.

6^th Prize: Christmas turkey Donated by Oroso Poultry & Meats

The raffle will be drawn on Friday 21 November at the College. Winners will be notified by phone or email and results published in the newsletter.

Your support in the sale of the raffle tickets is gratefully appreciated.

OLMC Parents’ Association

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