E-News

Welcome to This Week's College E-Newsletter!

Welcome to the second edition of our 2025 e-newsletter! In this issue, we’re excited to share a collection of stunning photos from the Year 12 Ball, capturing the elegance and celebration of the evening. Plus, we have plenty to look forward to with a range of upcoming College events, including key parent meetings and exciting activities for our students. Stay connected as we keep you updated on all the latest happenings in our vibrant school community!

Message from the Principal

Events Calendar

Important Notices

Junior School Notices

Secondary School Notices

Library News

Student and Staff Achievements

Community News

Parish News

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Message from the Principal

Mr. Jay Sutton
Principal

Dear Parents and Caregivers of Mother Teresa Catholic College,

As we step into the new school year, I am delighted to share that 2025 has begun with a wonderful sense of energy and enthusiasm. It has been heartening to see our students return with smiles on their faces, eager to reconnect with friends and embrace the learning opportunities ahead. Our new students, whether in Kindergarten or joining us in other year levels, have settled in well, and we warmly welcome them and their families to our College community.

The dedication of our staff has been evident in the seamless start to the year. Their careful planning and commitment to student learning and well-being have ensured that classrooms are thriving and students feel supported as they transition into their new routines. I extend my gratitude to all staff for their hard work in preparing for a successful start.

I would also like to thank our parents and carers for their ongoing support. Your partnership in your child’s education is invaluable, and we look forward to working closely with you throughout the year.

With the year ahead full of promise, I am excited for the opportunities we will share as a College community. I look forward to meeting many of you at upcoming events and working together to ensure that 2025 is a year of growth, learning, and faith for all.

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2025 Events Calendar

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Important Notices

Prioritising Safety at Our College

Keeping Our School Safe – Important Guidelines for Families

The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families remain our highest priority, and we appreciate your support in following these important guidelines to ensure a safe and efficient school environment.

🚲 E-Scooters & Bikes – To prevent accidents and maintain a safe space for all, students are not permitted to ride e-scooters or bicycles on school grounds.

🚦 Children’s Crossing Guard – For pedestrian safety, families are strongly encouraged to use designated crossing areas when arriving at or leaving the school.

🚗 ‘Kiss and Drive’ Zone – This zone is closed after morning drop-off and will reopen at 3:00 PM. If you arrive early, please park and walk to collect your child. Waiting along Eighty Road or in the College driveway is not permitted, and Rockingham City Council Rangers may issue fines.

🚫 Restricted Parking Areas – Please avoid parking in the following areas to ensure accessibility for parishioners attending daily Mass and funeral services:

• The gravel driveway and car park

• The Priest’s House/Parish Office

• The grassed area between the Church and the Priest’s House

🚸 Updated Exit Procedures – To ensure student safety, all students must exit via designated pedestrian crossings and cannot use vehicle entry/exit gates. Staff will be supervising to assist with a smooth transition. Parents and caregivers, please set an example by using pedestrian crossings when collecting your children.

🚧 Gate 4 Exit Closure – 2-Week Trial – In response to community feedback on traffic concerns, Gate 4 will be closed for exiting during pick-up times over the next two weeks. During this trial, students and parents will need to use alternative exit points.

We are actively listening to our community and working with local authorities to explore further improvements for safety and traffic flow. Your cooperation and support in following these guidelines are greatly appreciated as we strive to keep our school a safe place for everyone.

Thank you for your understanding and commitment to safety!

Exciting Opportunities for Aspiring Creatives:

Are you a passionate artist, performer, or aspiring creative looking to take your talents to the next level? The 2026 Music Tuition Scholarships and Arts Curriculum Scholarships are officially open, offering an incredible opportunity to nurture your artistic dreams and achieve your educational goals.

These prestigious awards are designed to support individuals pursuing excellence in the arts, whether in visual arts, music, theatre, dance, or media.

Applications are open to current and future students passionate about the Arts. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative initiative.

Deadline for submissions: 11 April 2025

For more details on eligibility, application requirements, and how to apply, visit https://www.motherteresa.wa.edu.au/scholarships-bursaries

Seize this opportunity to bring your artistic vision to life—apply today!

Academic Scholarships—Apply Now!

We are thrilled to announce our Academic Scholarships for 2025 and 2026, available to students entering Year 7 or Year 10 at Mother Teresa Catholic College in 2025 and 2026!

📌 Who Can Apply?

• Current students moving into Year 7 or Year 10 in 2025

• New and existing students who will be in Year 7 or Year 10 in 2026

Apply today at https://www.motherteresa.wa.edu.au/scholarships-bursaries, for more information, contact Mrs. Paige Alava at (08) 9591 7100 or via email at Paige.Mckenzie@cewa.edu.au.

Please note there is an application fee of $110.00 AUD to sit this exam.

Supporting Defence Families: The Role of Our Defence School Mentor

Do you have a family member currently serving in the Australian Defence Force (ADF)? We understand that military life comes with unique challenges, especially for children transitioning between schools or coping with parental absences due to deployment.

That’s where our Defence School Mentor (DSM) comes in. The DSM Program is designed to support students from ADF families, helping them settle into their new school environment and providing guidance during times of change.

Our dedicated DSM, Mrs. Rachel Esler, is here to assist Defence students and their families, offering a friendly point of contact and additional support as needed.

If your family could benefit from this program, feel free to reach out at Rachel.esler@cewa.edu.au.

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Junior School Notices

Junior School Parent Information Evening

Please join us for the Junior School Parent Information Evening on 18 February. This is an opportunity to meet your classroom teachers and learn a little more about what school life will be about for your children this year. There are two opportunities to attend.
Session One 5.30pm - 6.15pm
Session Two 6.30pm - 7.15pm

Health Screening for Children: Important Updates

Ensuring children's health and development is crucial for their well-being. Early screening for common conditions such as undescended testes, colour blindness, and scoliosis can help detect potential issues and provide timely intervention. Below, we outline important information on these conditions, how they may impact children, and where to seek support.

Undescended Testes & Colour Blindness

Screening for undescended testes is recommended for boys around 4-5 years old, as approximately 2-4% are born with this condition. In some cases, a testicle may later move up into the groin or abdomen due to uneven growth of its supporting cord. While not painful, undescended testes can increase the risk of fertility issues and testicular cancer, often requiring surgery between ages 5-10. Similarly, colour blindness, which mainly affects the ability to distinguish red and green, can impact school activities like drawing and sorting. Though it does not affect clarity of vision, early awareness is helpful for adapting learning materials.

For more details, visit the Raising Children Network and encourage self-checks for both conditions. If you have concerns, consult your GP, an optometrist, or Community Health Nurse, Wendy Darcy, at 9419 2266.

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine that can be detected with a simple back examination. While the spine naturally has three curves when viewed from the side, it should appear straight from behind. If a sideways curve is present, scoliosis may be the cause. Early detection is crucial, as untreated scoliosis can impact posture and comfort.

For further information, refer to the Raising Children Network and check your child for signs as described. If you have concerns, contact your GP or Community Health Nurse, Wendy Darcy, at 9419 2266. Additional parenting, child health, and development resources are available through the Child and School Health resources page.

Child and Adolescent Health Service | CAHS - Resources

Child and Adolescent Health Service | CAHS - School Entry Health Assessment

Reconciliation Commitment Mass 

A reminder that all those students who are preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation should attend the 6pm Parish Mass on Saturday, 15th of February, for their commitment to the program.

Message from Head of School [Pre-Kindy to Year Two]

What a wonderful start we’ve had to the new school year in the Pre-Kindy to Year 2 cluster! It has been fantastic to see our students so eager to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones, and settle into their new classroom routines. The joy and excitement in the air has been contagious, and it’s been a privilege to watch our young learners begin this exciting journey.

The smiles on everyone’s faces truly reflect the welcoming, caring, and friendly community we have here at Mother Teresa Catholic College. We are excited for all the learning, growth, and friendships that will unfold this year.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to an amazing year ahead!

Warm regards,
Gemma Johnston
Head of School Pk-2

Secondary School Notices

Year 12 Ball

The Class of 2025 celebrated their Year 12 Ball in style at the stunning Fremantle Sailing Club! This special night was a time for students and teachers to come together, celebrate the journey ahead, and create lasting memories.

As they step into their final year, this event marked the beginning of new friendships, personal growth, and exciting opportunities. Wishing our Year 12s all the best for the year to come!

Breakfast Club is Back!

We are excited to announce the return of Breakfast Club!

📍 Location: Old Canteen (across from the café in the high school) 
🕗 Time: 7:45 AM – 8:15 AM
📅 Every Wednesday from the 19/2
🎉 Open to all students – FREE of charge!

Breakfast Club provides a welcoming space for students to enjoy a nutritious start to their day. We encourage all students to come along, grab some breakfast, and start the day off right!

We look forward to seeing you there!

We are also looking for students who would like to help with running Breakfast Club. If you’re interested in volunteering, please send Mr. Fassom a Direqt Message.

MTCC Secondary Swimming Carnival [28 February 2025]

Get ready to dive into the excitement—big changes are coming to this year’s MTCC Secondary Swimming Carnival! This year, EVERYONE is going to be part of the action, no matter your swimming ability. You don’t need to be the next Ariarne Titmus & Kyle Chalmers—this is all about getting involved, showing school spirit, and having a blast!

Whether you're racing in the pool, cheering on your housemates, or bringing the energy from the sidelines, there’s a place for everyone. All students are expected to attend and take part in this event—so grab your goggles or your house shirts, rally your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable day!

Let’s make this a carnival to remember—bring your house colours, your loudest cheers, and let’s create an atmosphere of fun, teamwork, and friendly competition!

RKAS Basketball – Season Two Begins!

MTCC is gearing up for its second season in the Rockingham and Kwinana Associated Schools (RKAS) Basketball Competition! In Term 1, our Senior Boys and Girls teams will take on other Catholic, Anglican, and Christian schools in the area, all vying for a chance to qualify for the ACC Championship Playoffs.

• Game Time: 4:00 pm tip-off (after school)

• Boys’ Games: All home games at MTCC

• Girls’ Games: A mix of home and away fixtures

Check the College calendar for game dates and come along to support our teams. Let’s go MTCC! 🏀🎉

Exciting Start for Year 11 KIC Pre-Apprenticeship Students at TAFE

On Friday, 7 February, our Year 11 students enrolled in the Kwinana Industries Council (KIC) Engineering Pre-apprenticeship and the KIC Female Engineering Pre-apprenticeship attended an informative orientation at South Metropolitan TAFE. This event provided students with the opportunity to meet their lecturers and explore the campus, helping them feel more comfortable ahead of their official start on Friday, 14 February.

The same day also marked a significant milestone for our Year 11 KIC Heavy Diesel Plant Mechanic Pre-apprentices, as they commenced their studies at Thornlie Campus. Described as a fantastic group of students, they embraced the first day of their TAFE journey with enthusiasm and determination. Be sure to check out the photo of our dedicated Year 11 students—Zane, Ethan, and Macey—on their first day of training.

We extend our best wishes to all our new and continuing Vocational Education and Training (VET) students as they embark on their studies at North or South Metropolitan TAFE. Additionally, we acknowledge those completing a Certificate II in Sport and Recreation at the College under the guidance of Mr. Godfrey and Mr. Norris. We look forward to seeing their growth and achievements throughout the year!

Library News

Celebrating Library Lovers’ Month! 📚❤️

The library has kicked off the year by celebrating Library Lovers’ Month, a time to appreciate books, reading, and the special place libraries hold in our lives. Every year, Library Lovers’ Day falls on February 14th, offering a chance for students and staff to share what they love most about libraries.

Our junior school students have been sharing their favourite books, adding a splash of literary love to our circulation desk. Meanwhile, high school students have enjoyed guessing which books are beloved by staff members—sparking great discussions and new reading recommendations!

Students have also been exploring our newest arrivals, with plenty of fresh reads ready to be borrowed and enjoyed.

Additionally, the first edition of Book Club has been distributed, with all orders due by Thursday, February 20th. Don’t miss the chance to grab some exciting new reads!

Happy reading, everyone! 📖✨

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Student & Staff Achievement

Celebrating Our Community’s Success!

At Mother Teresa Catholic College, we take pride in celebrating the achievements of our students and staff. Whether it’s academic excellence, sporting victories, creative accomplishments, or acts of kindness, we love sharing these moments with our community.

If you have a story to tell, we’d love to hear it! Send us your achievements, along with photos, to marketing@motherteresa.wa.edu.au, and let’s celebrate together.

Every success—big or small—deserves recognition, so don’t hesitate to share your journey with us! 🎉

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Community News

Unlock Your Child’s Potential with the Murdoch After School Program

Is your child aged 10 or older and passionate about science or mathematics? The Murdoch University After School Program in Mathematics and Physical Sciences is the perfect way to nurture their interests and set them up for success!

Held three days a week, these interactive two-hour sessions cover Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, providing engaging learning experiences designed to spark curiosity and inspire exploration.

Key Details:

• Who Can Join: Students aged 10 and over

• When: 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm, starting in the second week of term

• Frequency: Attend 1 to 3 sessions per week based on your child’s interests

• Led By: Murdoch University staff offering one-on-one guidance and support

This program introduces students to the exciting world of university-level learning, helping them build essential skills for future studies and careers in STEM fields.

Ready to enrol? For more information or to participate, email AfterSchoolProgram@murdoch.edu.au or [click here] to download the flyer. Spaces are limited, so secure your child’s place today!

Set them on the path to success with this enriching educational opportunity!

Join the Mother Teresa Catholic College Netball Club!

The Mother Teresa Catholic College Netball Club is more than just a sports team—it’s a vibrant, inclusive community where students can develop their skills, build friendships, and stay active. Netball is a fantastic way to boost fitness, enhance coordination, and develop teamwork, all while having fun.

Beyond the physical benefits, our club fosters confidence, social skills, and a strong sense of belonging. Players not only grow on the court but also in their personal development, making lifelong memories along the way.

Run by dedicated volunteers, we rely on the support of our College community. Whether you're interested in coaching, managing, or lending a hand at events, there’s always a place for you!

Come join us and be part of something special. Let’s play, grow, and succeed—together!

https://www.motherteresa.wa.edu.au/netball

In the Navy - Community Event!

Join us for an exciting afternoon at the Rockingham Naval Association as we celebrate our Navy community with a day full of fun, entertainment, and connection!

This family-friendly event is a fantastic opportunity to meet and engage with Navy members and their families, including those from HMAS Stirling. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and exclusive base tours, offering a unique insight into the vital work our Navy does.

Whether you’re a Navy veteran, active-duty service member, or a proud supporter, everyone is welcome to take part in the festivities.

📅 Date: Friday, 7 March 2:00pm to 5:00pm
📍 Location: Rockingham Naval Association

Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this special day of community, celebration, and appreciation for our Navy personnel! ⚓✨

Tickets are FREE but you must book to attend the event.

City of Rockingham Quiz Day

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Parish News

MASS TIMES

MONDAY: NO SERVICE

TUESDAY: 9:00AM

WEDNESDAY: 9:00AM

THURSDAY: 8:00AM

FRIDAY: 9:00AM

SATURDAY: 6:00PM

SUNDAY: 9:30AM & 5:00PM

RECONCILIATION

SATURDAY: 5:30PM TO 5:50PM

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