Celebrating Excellence at MSM
The commencement of Term 4 has truly been a season of celebration and recognition of excellence within our college community.

At our recent Co-curricular Celebration Assembly, we proudly acknowledged exceptional levels of student engagement. These awards acknowledge students who have demonstrated outstanding commitment—maintaining over 85% attendance, exhibiting positivity, and providing  leadership within their groups. It was a privilege to recognise over 250 students for their remarkable contributions during this inspiring event. We also celebrated our 2025 co-curricular captains and formally commissioned the 2026 captains for these groups, marking a significant milestone in student leadership.

Last night, MSM Celebrates was an uplifting occasion honouring excellence across academic, service, and co-curricular domains. Our students continue to impress with their capabilities, talents, and generosity in sharing their gifts with the community. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to parents for their unwavering support. The evening was also an opportunity to acknowledge our dedicated staff, both teaching and non-teaching, who work tirelessly in partnership with students and families. Their commitment ensures our students are challenged, supported, and empowered to develop their full potential.

A special thank you is extended to all student award recipients and performers whose efforts made the evening truly memorable.

World Teachers’ Day
Next Friday, 31 October, we celebrate World Teachers’ Day. This year’s theme, “Recasting Teaching as a Collaborative Profession,” highlights the vital importance of teamwork, shared expertise, and mutual support among teachers, schools, and all stakeholders. Collaboration not only strengthens teaching practices and enhances professional fulfilment but is also essential for the growth and success of our students.

Thank you to everyone—students, families, and staff—for your ongoing dedication, enthusiasm, and support. Together, we continue to build a vibrant and caring community where every individual is encouraged to strive for excellence and flourish.

Year 5 and 9 Socktober – Catholic Mission
October is World Mission Month, celebrating the work of the global Church in addressing poverty and structural injustice through mission work. Catholic Mission, the Church’s active mission arm, supports thousands of mission projects across the world. In his inaugural address on World Mission Sunday, Pope Leo XVI reminded us that we are called to be missionaries of hope, by spreading the Gospel of love and helping to care for the health and education needs of the world’s poor.

On Friday, our Year 5 CAN Group, MSM Cares, launched our first Socktober fundraising event, in support of Catholic Mission’s global advocacy work. MSM Cares partnered with their Year 9 Big Sisters to celebrate Socktober. Our Campus was filled with laughter, joy and lots of snazzy sock combinations, with all funds going to Catholic Mission. Sincere thanks to our Year 5 MSM Cares students for their exceptional leadership of this fundraising activity.

Missions of St Vincent Christmas Appeal
Missions of St Vincent will launch their annual Vinnies Christmas Appeal next week. MSM has collected donations for local families in crisis for many years, and our community’s generosity grows with each year. With the cost of living at an all time high, many families are facing impossible choices this Christmas. Our donations will ensure that there is food in the pantry and special gifts under the tree.

Donations can be left in the provided baskets in your daughter’s homeroom. All non-perishible, non-alcoholic donations are gratefully received, with a particular focus on the following areas for year level groups:

• Year 5: Christmas treats (e.g. fruit cake, fruit mince pies, chocolates, lollies, seasonal treats)
• Years 7 & 8: toiletry items (e.g. hair products, deodorant, razors, body wash, soap, dental care etc – for women and men)
• Years 9 & 10: non-perishable pantry items (e.g. tinned goods, pasta, rice, coffee, tea, biscuits, crackers, cereal, sauces etc)
• Year 11: Christmas decorations & Christmas treats (e.g. Christmas crackers, Christmas decorations, table decorations, serviettes, fruit cake, fruit mince pies, chocolates, lollies, seasonal treats)

We will accept donations until Friday 21 November.

Social Justice Council Homelessness Guest Speaker: 3 November
Our Social Justice Council has arranged for a special guest speaker to visit the College at lunchtime on Monday 3 November. Dr Cam Parcell (University of QLD) is an expert in homelessness, and will speak about the issue of homelessness in Brisbane, and how awareness, empathy and action can lead to lasting change.

Dr Cam is an engaging, kind and thoughtful speaker who will share real stories of his work with our community. We encourage all members of the community to join the SJC for this special event. More information about this visit will be provided through the Daily Notices and on Year Level Teams in the week prior to his visit.

Digital Safety for Our Young People
From 10 December, Australian young people under 16 will not be allowed to create or hold accounts on certain social media platforms. This is not a ban, it’s a delay to having accounts. Being logged into an account increases the exposure under-16s have to design features that encourage them to spend more time on screens, while serving up content that can harm their health and wellbeing. The delay is an opportunity for them to build their digital literacy skills and resilience.

Information and resources to support parents and caregivers, and young people to prepare for the change are available at eSafety's Social media age restrictions hub.

Here are three things you can do:
1.            Read eSafety’s frequently asked questions for parents and carers to find out what’s changing and why.
2.            Register for an eSafety live webinar.
3.            Use the eSafety Get ready guide for parents and carers, and conversation starters to start preparing for the change.
 
Visit eSafety.gov.au
 
Wellbeing support: Partners in Parenting (PiP) with Headspace
Parents are the most common source of emotional support for young people, but it can sometimes be difficult to know what to do, what to say or where to get information. Headspace and Monash University have launched an online parenting programme to equip families with the confidence to care for their young people’s mental health.

Learn more about PiP via this link.

Late Arrivals to the College
A reminder to parents/caregivers and students that Homeroom begins at 8:30am. All students are expected to be onsite at the College for the first bell at 8:20am. Over the year we have noticed an increase in the number of students signing into Student Reception after Homeroom has started without permission or due cause. Please be aware that if your daughter is arriving late to the College a parent/caregiver note or email to studentabsentees@msm.qld.edu.au is required. Students with a pattern of unexplained late arrivals will be required to make that time up.

It is essential we equip our young women with skills in personal organisation to prepare them for the responsibilities to come in their futures. If you are concerned that your daughter could be arriving late to the College without your knowledge, you can check student attendance on Parent Lounge.

Year 12 External Examinations
Next week marks the beginning of our Year 12 external examination block, which will run over the next three weeks. I encourage our Year 12 students to approach this final stage of their schooling with focus, confidence, and determination. They have worked hard to prepare, and I am certain that the study strategies and revision techniques shared by their teachers will serve them well.

This time of year also coincides with World Teachers’ Day on Friday 31 October - a timely opportunity to recognise and thank our teachers for the expertise, care, and encouragement they have provided to our senior students throughout their learning journey.
 
Year 11 Unit 3 Summative Assessment
Our Year 11 students are preparing to complete their first piece of Unit 3 summative assessment. These tasks mark the beginning of their internal assessment program that contributes to both their ATAR calculation and QCE certification. Consistent revision and consolidation of class content remain key to success at this level. Students are encouraged to maintain a steady study rhythm and use this time to refine their skills and deepen their understanding.

2026 Subject Confirmations
Families will receive confirmation of 2026 subject selections within the next two weeks. This communication will include details of confirmed electives, booklists, and key deadlines. If students wish to request a change to their chosen subjects, they should contact me as soon as possible. Please note that class structures have been developed based on selections submitted in Term 3, so while every effort will be made to accommodate changes, they may not always be possible.

Homework Expectations
A consistent homework routine helps students build confidence and stay on top of their learning. As a guide:

• Years 7–8: 1 to 1½ hours per night
• Year 9: 1½ to 2 hours per night
• Years 10–11: 2 to 3 hours per night

When students maintain regular homework and revision habits, they are better prepared and less likely to feel stressed when assessments approach. On evenings without set homework, students should use this time productively - completing assignments, reviewing notes, or preparing for upcoming exams.

Extensions
We understand that from time to time, students may fall behind due to illness or unforeseen circumstances. In these cases, students may apply to adjust their assessment deadlines if there is a valid reason. Students in Years 7 - 9 should speak with Mrs Larkings, and those in Years 10 - 11 should contact Mrs Kean, who can determine whether an adjustment is appropriate. I encourage students to reach out early if they are concerned about meeting a deadline.

Revision Techniques
As we move into the final weeks of term, students in Years 7–11 should begin revising the key content covered so far. Revision helps students:

• Consolidate and check their understanding
• Revisit material that may have been forgotten
• Reinforce key concepts
• Identify areas needing clarification before exams

Effective revision involves structure and variety. Encourage your student to:

1. Create a revision timetable that allocates balanced time across subjects—and stick to it.
2. Set up a focused study environment free from distractions.
3. Mix up their study material, alternating between more challenging and familiar topics.
4. Take regular, purposeful breaks to maintain energy and focus.
5. Vary their revision style, studying independently at times and collaboratively with peers to share ideas.

Active learning techniques are proven to enhance retention. Some useful approaches include:

• Mind maps: Visually connect ideas and processes using colours, images, and keywords.
• Flash cards: Summarise key information, definitions, or questions to test recall.
• Audio notes: Record summaries or explanations on a phone and replay them during travel or downtime.

Beginning revision early allows students to approach assessments calmly and with confidence. I wish all students the very best as they prepare for this important stage of their learning.

Eureka Excursions
On Wednesday, the Year 5 staff and students participated in an engaging excursion at ‘Eureka Creek’, an interactive learning program at Eureka Excursions. Students were immersed in Australia’s history and culture through role-plays, gold panning, tent-making and mapping activities.

The students are to be commended for their exemplary behaviour at the excursion.

Term 4 MSM Cares Project – Socktober
Our Term 4 MSM Cares Project Team (Savannah, Charlee, Georgie, Jojo and Audrey) organised for students in Year 5 and Year 9 to participate in Socktober today. Socktober is an initiative of Catholic Mission. This year, Catholic Mission encouraged us to participate in Socktober to raise awareness and funds for communities in Zambia, Africa. We were dazzled by the colourful and creative socks for Socktober! We thank all students who participated for their spirit and generosity today.

Year 5 Term 4 Gala Day
The Term 4 Year 5 Gala Sports Day will be held on Friday 14 November (Week 6). This will be a full school day for all Year 5 students to enjoy, and will provide each student with the opportunity to engage with their MSM cohort in a fun-filled day of friendships and physical activities. We ask that parents and caregivers please identify the option in which your daughter would like to participate via Parent Lounge – CaSSSA Interschool Basketball Competition or Active Games and Recreational Activities at Dorrington Park.


Junior School Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards
Congratulations to the following students for receiving Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards at our last Junior School Assembly:

Abigail (5H) - Abigail, your diligence and care is demonstrated in all you do. You are commended for the effort and attention you put into your learning each day at MSM. This was particularly evident in HASS this week, where you composed thoughtful responses to explain the human, capital and natural resources needed for your 'Paradise Island' community. Keep up the super effort.

Asher (5H) - For the enthusiasm and joy you bring to our 5 Hope learning community each day. Asher, your care and consideration for others, along with your diligence shown towards your learning are true assets to our class.  Your exemplary behaviour and compassionate heart allow you to shine at MSM.

Ariana (5L) - Ariana, you approach every task with care and determination. Your steady effort in Maths and your consistent approach to homework completion are to be commended. You are a diligent student who is a fantastic role model for your classmates.

Aria (5L) - For approaching learning with courage and confidence. Aria, you are organised, persistent and always willing to take on new challenges. Even when things don’t go as planned, you bounce back with a smile and keep giving your best effort — a true example of resilience!

Katie Jordan
Head of Junior School