Term 1, Edition 5 - 2 April 2026
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In Faith and Love
Sharon Volp
UPCOMING EVENTS

We are delighted to invite Year 5 and 6 students and their mothers to a special Mother’s Day Breakfast and Liturgy on Friday 8 May from 7:00 to 8:15am in the Sophia Centre.  

Join us for this memorable occasion and enjoy a delicious breakfast and the lovely company of fellow Year 5 mums, in a pre-Mother's Day gathering. 

Tickets are $25 per person, with bookings closing on Thursday 30 April at 5pm.

To purchase your ticket, click here!

MSM is proud to present the annual Dance Showcase, to be held in the Sophia Centre on Thursday 21 May, from 6:00pm–7:30pm. We warmly invite our MSM community to join us for this vibrant evening of entertainment, showcasing the talent and dedication of our curriculum and co‑curricular dance students. Performers from across all year levels will take to the stage, presenting a diverse range of dance works in group performances. We look forward to seeing you there!

 

We are pleased to invite the grandparents of our Year 5 students to a special Grandparents’ Morning 2026, hosted by our Year 5 students. This much‑anticipated event will be held on Wednesday 27 May 2026, from 8:30am to 10:30am, at the College.

Guests will enjoy a meaningful morning that includes a visit to the College Library, a range of interactive classroom craft and trivia activities, and a shared morning tea to conclude. We look forward to seeing you there!

2026 MSM Fathers’ Golf Day – Register now to attend the MSM Fathers’ Golf Day on Friday 22 May. The event is open to all parents, regardless of golfing ability and is a great chance to meet or reconnect with other school parents. Register Now!

Can’t attend the Golf Day? Why not consider becoming a hole sponsor and get great exposure! 

For more information or to secure your hole sponsorship, click here!

MusicFest 1 – Take to the Skies lands on Thursday 28 May at the Sophia Centre.
From 6:00–7:30pm, our community is invited to enjoy a spectacular evening of music showcasing the talent and dedication of our college choirs, orchestras, bands and ensembles.

This vibrant Co‑Curricular concert promises an uplifting program as our MSM students take to the stage in a celebration of creativity, teamwork and musical excellence.
COLLEGE LEADERSHIP TEAM
As we reach the conclusion of a very busy first term, the approach of Easter and the welcome pause of the school holidays invite us into a sacred time of reflection.  Easter is the heart of our faith and celebration of new life.

A Term Rich in Learning, Community and Connection
Throughout the term, our community has been enriched by many moments of learning, celebration and connection. We welcomed new staff and students, hosted Year 5, 6 and 7 Parent Welcome Evenings, and journeyed together through year level retreats. Our Year 5, 7 and 9 students completed NAPLAN, while Year 11 students enjoyed their Semi-Formal. Our swimming team trained, bonded and represented the College with pride at the CaSSSA swimming competition.

Fathers shared in the Foundation Year 7 Father–Daughter Breakfast, and mothers and daughters gathered for the Foundation International Women’s Day High Tea. Year 11 and 12 Hospitality students prepared and served a delicious lunch for staff, while students participated enthusiastically in sporting competitions, performed in Soirée 1, and demonstrated skill and confidence through debating. We celebrated International Pi Day and warmly welcomed Japanese host students, further strengthening our global connections.
Gratitude for a Faith-Filled Community
As we bid farewell to Term 1 and embark on a well‑deserved break, I extend my sincere thanks to our dedicated staff for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts. I also thank our students, families and wider community for the trust, partnership and collaboration that continue to sustain and strengthen our College.

In the spirit of Easter, we are reminded that gratitude is itself an act of faith—an acknowledgment of the gifts we receive and the people who walk alongside us.

Caring for the Wellbeing of Our Young People
As we approach the school holidays, we remind families that recent Australian changes require social media platforms to provide greater protection for young people under the age of 16 by limiting account access. This approach reflects a shared commitment to the dignity, wellbeing and healthy development of our students. It is grounded not in blame, but in care—recognising the importance of allowing adolescents time to grow in confidence, resilience and self‑understanding before navigating highly influential online spaces.

We encourage families to continue conversations that are grounded in trust, compassion and mutual respect, and to seek support whenever students need guidance during the break. In this way, we model the Gospel call to accompany one another with patience and love.

A Blessing for the Easter Season
As we prepare to commemorate the culmination of our Lenten journey, may this Easter be a time of joy, renewal and deep peace for all. May the hope of the Resurrection restore our spirits and strengthen our sense of purpose as we look ahead.

We look forward to welcoming our refreshed and eager students back on Tuesday 21 April.

Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Easter, filled with peace, hope and the promise of new life.
 
Year 5 Retreat
Our smallest MSM students set sail for a wonderful day of reflection and fun at our Year 5 Retreat Day. Using the film Moana, the girls reflected on their first term at MSM, exploring the key concepts of welcome, courage and hope. At our moving liturgy, each girl was welcomed into the MSM family by her class teacher and was adorned with a handmade lei containing messages of connection and hope. We sincerely thank Ms Jordan, our College Counsellor Milena and the marvellous Year 5 team for supporting the girls at their first MSM Retreat.
CAN – Easter Donations to St Vincent’s Health
In the weeks leading up to the feast of Easter, our Interact and Missions of St Vincent CAN Groups have been preparing some lovely seasonal gifts for our friends at St Vincent’s Health. It has become a cherished tradition for our Interact students to prepare Easter washer bunnies, and this year the students chose to gift these to the hard-working nursing staff at St Vincent’s Kangaroo Point. Representatives from Interact visited St Vincent’s Hospital on the final day of term to deliver these lovely gifts. Our Missions of St Vincent students, mindful that the holiday season can be lonely for some people living in care, prepared easter eggs and handmade card bundles for the residents of St Vincent’s Care Mitchelton. MoSV have enjoyed a long relationship with St Vincent’s Care, and the students were eager to show their care for residents by participating in this lovely activity. We thank our CAN Staff Ms Atkins, Ms Larkings, Ms McLaughlin, Ms Devenish-Meares and Mr Kelly for their support of these initiatives.
Easter Liturgy
Our term concluded with a beautiful Easter Liturgy featuring the combined talents of 129 students. It has been a number of years since we finished Term 1 on Holy Thursday, the day on the Christian calendar that marks the beginning of the Triduum, the three days that lead to Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday. On Holy Thursday evening, the Gospels tell us that Jesus and his friends gathered to eat a Seder meal to mark the Jewish Passover. Grounded in the fellowship of friends gathered around a table, this year’s liturgy told the story of Jesus’ passion from the perspective of those who loved him most. We traced the story from the shores of the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus first called to his disciples, to the cross, then the tomb, and then – perhaps most importantly – to what happened next. The disciples, profoundly changed by their encounter with the risen Christ, were then called to carry on his work.

Our liturgy concluded with these words of blessing:

Beloved one,
The risen Jesus calls your name,
Asking you to carry on his work.

May your gaze be loving
May your words be gentle
May your actions be sincere
And may your heart beat for justice.

May the Holy Spirit embolden you
May the saints of heaven strengthen your resolve
And may God’s peace rest with you always.

Go now and roll away the stones.
In faith and love, we pray
Amen.
Living our Mission in Term 2:

As we prepare to begin Term 2, we warmly invite members of our community to join us in supporting these important service and outreach initiatives:

Join us for the RSL Ashgrove ANZAC Day March & Service:
MSM proudly joins the wider Ashgrove community to commemorate ANZAC Day. Students and family members are invited to join the College at this year’s RSL Ashgrove events. We will gather outside St Finbarr’s at 7:15am on ANZAC Day morning to march under the College banner through the streets of Ashgrove, and will then gather in ANZAC Park for the main RSL Service, commencing at 7:45am.

In recent years, we have had approximately 200 MSM girls joining us for these events. Further information can be found in the letter that has been sent home via email. To assist us in our planning, please register your daughter’s attendance through Parent Lounge. Students who attend must wear their formal uniform and hat – including blazer for students in Years 10-12. If you have any questions about this event, please contact our Program Leader Service Learning, Mr Clayton Kelly.
Join our team for the Mother’s Day Classic!
For the first time, MSM will be entering a team in the Mother’s Day Classic on Sunday May 11th, a 4km walk in support of people who have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer. So many families in our community have a cancer story, and we want to show our support for them by walking together. Information has been sent home to all families via email, outlining the registration process and details of the event. We encourage whole families to join us on this special day, and for family members to bring photographs or memorabilia of loved ones lost to illness with them. For MSM this is a solidarity event – an opportunity for us to wrap our arms around those bravely battling these illnesses. If individual families wish to privately fundraise, this can be managed through the event registration process. If you have any questions about this event, please contact Mr Clayton Kelly, Program Leader, Service Learning.
Charity Ball – Raffle Prize Donations request
Our Year 12 Charity Ball will be held early in Term 2. To support Emmanuel City Mission through our Fundraiser Project Safe Haven, we are holding a raffle on this evening. 100% of the ticket sales will go to ECM. If your family or business is in a position to donate a prize to this event, we would be most grateful. Donations can be given to Year 12 students or handed to our Receptionists by 24 April.
From the Program Leader Service Learning:

Student Leadership of CAN Groups
Spending a term engaged with our Community Action Network, I have seen that that the strength of the program is in the servant leadership that has been displayed by the passionate students involved. Each meeting sees these students prepare games, discussions and activities for the group, and more importantly they spend time welcoming those who have come along to be involved.  Passionate about helping others, these students have decided to use their own interest and style to learn how to influence positive change; a skill that will serve them well in any walk of life. This is also thanks to our mentor teachers from each group who encourage these students to try out their ideas, find their style and provide guidance and support where it is needed. Thank you to all who have taken the time to support these groups across Term 1, from allowing students to help out at the Open Day fundraiser to purchasing goods for drives such as the Interact and Missions of St Vincent Easter gifts which are heading to St Vincent's hospital and St Vincent's aged care respectively later this week.
Supporting Presentation, Belonging and Flourishing as We Approach the Break 

As we move towards the end of term and look ahead to the upcoming break, it’s timely to pause and reflect on how we continue to support our students not only academically, but also in their wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging within our community.

A Few Practical Reminders
In the spirit of helping students feel organised and prepared, we ask families to please take a moment to check that school totes are in good condition and remain both functional and presentable. If a tote no longer meets these expectations and your daughter wishes to continue using one, replacements are available for purchase from the Kaf. As a reminder, laptops and laptop bags should not be carried in totes, as any resulting damage cannot be covered under our policy.

We also appreciate your continued support with uniform and presentation standards. Please note that any new or existing piercings—other than one earring in each ear lobe—should be removed before returning to school. Small hoops must fit within the diameter of a five-cent piece and be no wider than 2mm. While decorative styles such as tear-drop or diamond designs may be appealing, they do not align with our uniform guidelines.

These shared expectations are not about restriction, but about fostering equity, safety, and a strong sense of collective identity for all students.

Holiday Time: An Opportunity to Reconnect and Flourish
As the term draws to a close, many families find themselves balancing relief, fatigue, and anticipation. Our students have been working hard through assessment periods and are often counting down to a well-earned pause. School holidays provide a valuable opportunity to reconnect with family and friends, rest, and reset.

At the same time, unstructured time can bring its own challenges for parents and carers — particularly when it comes to managing screen time, social connections, routines, and expectations. If this resonates, please know that you are not alone. These experiences are common, and navigating them is part of the shared work of parenting adolescents.

Drawing on current insights from adolescent wellbeing research and our school’s Flourishing framework, a few gentle reminders may be helpful:

• Be present – Even when they don’t say it explicitly, young people deeply value your time and attention.
• Be the parent – Adolescents still need guidance, boundaries and reassurance.
• Be consistent – Clear expectations only work when they are reinforced calmly and regularly.
• Be persistent – Teenagers are learning, testing limits, and sometimes forgetting expectations altogether.

Above all, extend kindness to yourself. Parenting is complex and demanding, yet deeply meaningful. Progress is rarely perfect — and that’s okay.

As one school community, we wish you a restful and restorative break, and we look forward to continuing our shared work of supporting young people to grow, belong, and flourish.

As the term draws to a close, I extend my sincere gratitude to the teachers at MSM for their professionalism, expertise, and unwavering dedication to our students. Their commitment continues to enrich the learning experiences of every young person, fostering curiosity, confidence, and a strong foundation for ongoing academic growth.
 
Teachers play a vital role in each student’s educational journey, and it is important that students recognise and value the depth of expertise their teachers bring to the classroom. Through years of study, professional learning, and classroom experience, teachers develop a rich understanding of their disciplines and of how students learn best. This expertise supports students to grow academically, personally, and spiritually, often in ways they may not initially anticipate. Beyond classroom teaching, teachers dedicate significant time to thoughtful lesson preparation, providing timely and meaningful feedback on assessments, evaluating final submissions, and offering ongoing guidance. Acknowledging and respecting this commitment is essential to fostering a strong learning culture.
 
Teachers also provide valuable insight to help students navigate both the challenges and opportunities of their learning journey. So, how can students show respect for their teachers’ expertise at MSM? There are three practical ways:

  • Come to class prepared and ready to learn, including completing homework and bringing required materials.
  • Ask questions confidently when concepts are unclear, knowing that teachers are there to support learning and help students succeed.
  • Communicate respectfully by engaging politely, listening attentively, and contributing positively to the classroom environment.
 
By valuing and respecting the expertise of our teachers, we strengthen a positive, purposeful learning community and help develop positive learning environments where trust, engagement, and high expectations enable every student to flourish.
 
Year 7 – 12 Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-Teacher Conferences for students in Years 7 – 12 will take place on the following dates next term:
  • Monday, 20 April (8:00 am – 4:00 pm,  face-to-face in the Sophia Centre). Please note this is a student-free day
  • Tuesday, 5 May (4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, online via Teams)

 
These conferences provide a valuable opportunity for parents and caregivers to connect with teachers, gain insights into their child’s academic progress, and discuss strategies for further development. They also serve as a forum to address any concerns related to learning, engagement, or wellbeing. Students are encouraged to attend these conferences alongside their parents and caregivers.
 
If you have missed the booking deadline, please contact Ms Tanya George on (07) 3858 4272 during term time. She can assist with manual bookings for the 5 May event up to Tuesday, 28 April.
 
In the event of any teacher cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances, parents will be notified via email. Detailed instructions on accessing the online conferences on 5 May via Teams can be found here.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Parent Presentation
 
We are pleased to invite you to our first Parent Academy Online presentation for 2026, focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in teaching, learning, and assessment. This online session will be held on Thursday 23 April from 5.00pm – 6.00pm via Microsoft Teams and will be presented by Janelle O'Neill (Program Leader – Strategic Projects) and John Hamilton (A/Dean of Teaching and Learning). The session will provide clarity and reassurance about the College’s approach to Generative AI, with a strong focus on student learning, wellbeing, and academic integrity.
 
At MSM, our vision is for AI to be used as a learning partner that supports students’ thinking rather than replaces it. We aim to empower students to be thoughtful, ethical, and discerning users of AI. These skills will be essential for future learning, future workplaces, and responsible participation as citizens.
 
Clear structures are in place to ensure ethical and responsible use. These include approved AI tools, the AI Assessment Scale, and updated assessment and reporting processes from 2026. Together, these measures promote fairness, transparency, and genuine student learning as we prepare students for a future shaped by AI.
 
Click here to join the online event on Thursday 23 April 2026 at 5.00pm.

I wish all students and their families a joyful and restorative Easter break, a time to pause, reflect, and be renewed. May this season bring a deep sense of hope and peace, grounded in the message of love, new life, and the resurrection of Jesus, which continues to inspire faith and love in our community.

As we approach the end of term, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated Junior School staff – Ms Weston, Ms Toohey, Mrs Marsh, Mrs Wild and Ms Roberts. Their professionalism, care and unwavering commitment to our students has been evident in every lesson taught and every conversation shared. The energy and expertise they bring to the Junior School enriches our community in countless ways, and I am deeply grateful for their hard work throughout Term 1.
I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to our parents and caregivers for your ongoing support throughout Term 1. Your partnership—whether through encouraging routines at home, communicating with teachers or simply cheering your daughter on—makes an enormous difference. We deeply value the trust you place in us and the shared commitment we hold to helping every girl flourish.
 
End of Term Assessments
We wish to acknowledge the tremendous effort our Year 5 and 6 students have invested in their end‑of‑term assessments. They have approached each task with determination and a genuine desire to demonstrate their best learning. It has been encouraging to see the girls persevere through challenging moments, apply feedback thoughtfully and take pride in the progress they have made. Their commitment to their learning reflects their growing maturity and resilience, and we are incredibly proud of all they have achieved.

Year 5 and 6 Wellbeing Activities – Last Day of Term
This morning, our Year 5 and 6 students took part in dedicated wellbeing activities. These were planned by our enthusiastic Year 6 Class Captains to foster connection between both year levels. Students worked in groups of four (one student from each Year 5 and 6 class) to participate in activities that encouraged conversation, teamwork and a sense of shared community.
 
Students enjoyed answering icebreaker questions and creating a collaborative puzzle that celebrated what they value about life at MSM. It was a wonderful opportunity for the girls to build rapport and deepen their connection with one another.

Happy Easter
We wish you and your families a very Happy Easter. We encourage our Year 5 and 6 students to rest, reconnect with family and recharge over the break so they can return ready for the opportunities that Term 2 has in store.

Junior School Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards

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

Maya (5H) – Maya, you demonstrated remarkable diligence and resilience during NAPLAN this year, even when persistent technical difficulties made the process especially challenging. You stayed calm, focused and determined, showing maturity well beyond your years. Your positive attitude and persistence reflect your determination to succeed and commitment to doing your best. You should be incredibly proud of the courage and perseverance you displayed! Keep shining bright like the star we know you are!
 
Greta (5H) – Greta, you consistently demonstrate respect and inclusiveness in everything you do. You show genuine care for those around you, work collaboratively with your classmates and confidently stand up for your peers whenever they require support. Your kindness, empathy and strong sense of justice make you a cherished member of our Year 5 community. Thank you for being a magnificent friend to your peers. You should be very proud of the positive impact you have on those around you. 

Ellie (5L) – Ellie consistently demonstrates outstanding respect during learning, particularly in Maths and English group work. She actively contributes by sharing thoughtful ideas, offering helpful answers and supporting her peers with kindness and patience. Her positive attitude and collaborative approach make our classroom a better place for everyone. Well done, Ellie!

Emme (5L) - Emme demonstrates resilience and a strong commitment to learning. She puts forth her best effort even when the task is challenging, showing perseverance and a positive attitude in the face of difficulty. Emme confidently seeks help when needed, showing maturity, self-awareness and a desire to deepen her understanding. Keep up the great work, Emme!

Lilly (6C) – Lilly, you are a valued member of our Junior School community at MSM. Your thoughtful and considerate ways shine through in all you do. In the classroom, these qualities help you to complete all work to the best of your ability, demonstrating diligence each and every day. Keep up the super effort. 

Sienna (6C) – Sienna, you approach each day with a positive attitude and diligence. You are organised and efficient, working hard to complete tasks to the best of your ability. These qualities have a positive influence on those around you. Keep up the super effort. 

Mila (6J) - Mila has shown impressive diligence in her learning, approaching each task with thoughtfulness and care. This was especially seen in Religion, where her responses reflected a deep understanding of the concepts and a genuine connection to the ideas explored. She is to be congratulated for her consistent effort and the meaningful way she engages with her learning.

Isobel (6J) - Isobel is a respectful and diligent learner who always approaches her work with independence and gives 100% effort. She remains consistently engaged in her learning, demonstrating strong organisation and a positive attitude. Her respectful interactions with classmates and commitment to doing her best make her a wonderful role model in our classroom.
 
Katie Jordan
Head of Junior School
 

AROUND THE COLLEGE

Year 9 Positive Education – Leading with Heart in Term 1

Throughout the term, our Year 9 students have been engaged in their Positive Education learning through the Leading with Heart program, exploring what it means to be a positive leader within our community. Students have reflected on key leadership qualities such as empathic listening, courage, drawing on our strengths, connection, trust-based actions and inclusion, recognising how these qualities help to create environments where others feel safe, respected and valued. A key message throughout the program has been the understanding that our choices create culture, and that leadership is shown through everyday actions and the way we treat others.

A highlight of the term has been witnessing the interactions between 84 of our Year 9s and the Year 5 students as they embrace their role as Big Sisters. Through these relationships and connections, students have come to understand that leadership is not about power, but about using influence to support, include and stand alongside others. This learning reinforces the important role leaders play in challenging unkind or exclusionary behaviour and in shaping a culture of trust and belonging. The term concluded with our cohort Cookie Bake off Challenge, some fundraising for Project Safe Haven and a meaningful Easter gratitude activity. These activities invited students to pause, reflect, and give thanks for their relationships, growth, and the opportunities they have shared this term. This reflection also marked the close of our new Leading with Heart leadership program, a formative journey that has encouraged our Year 9 students to see leadership not as a title, but as a way of being, grounded in compassion, responsibility and everyday choices that build a positive culture.

Jo Devenish-Meares
Pastoral Leader- Year 9 

Year 10 Positive Education: Building Mental Toughness

 
In a world of increasing pressure and rapid change, our Year 10 Positive Education program focuses on developing mental toughness, a set of skills that support students’ resilience, achievement, and wellbeing.
 
Throughout the year, students engage with a Mental Toughness framework built around the 4Cs: Control, Commitment, Challenge, and Confidence. This model helps students better understand the relationship between life control, emotional regulation, interpersonal confidence, and achievement, equipping them with practical strategies they can apply both inside and outside the classroom.
 
Control explores the extent to which students feel in control of their lives, circumstances, and emotions, supporting emotional awareness and self‑regulation.
 
Commitment focuses on goal setting, persistence, and the ability to take purposeful action towards achieving personal and academic goals.
 
Challenge encourages students to embrace change, take healthy risks, and view obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.
 
Confidence develops students’ belief in their own abilities, as well as their interpersonal confidence in working with and relating to others.
 
Importantly, mental toughness is not only a tool for managing stress or adversity. It is also essential in supporting students as they navigate new learning experiences, build independence, and develop the skills required to thrive during adolescence and beyond.
 
Through this program, Year 10 students are supported to grow into self‑aware, resilient, and confident young people, equipped to meet challenges with optimism and purpose.

Olivia Lennon
Pastoral Leader- Year 10

Year 12 Positive Psychology 

MSM’s framework of Positive Psychology is not just the domain of classroom activities, as evidenced by the experience of our Year 12s so far. From the very beginning of the year, students have been invited to focus on what matters most, so they can become who they want to be, through academic success, social and emotional wellbeing, or sporting accomplishment in the present. At our first year-level assembly, we spoke about the importance of focusing on the now. We all know that when students anchor their attention in the present, rather than ruminating on the past, they strengthen positive emotions and create opportunities to thrive. This is Positive Psychology in action: not a theory, but a way of showing up to life.

We have already seen this across the cohort. From students stepping up to choreograph the traditional Year 12 dance at the swimming carnival, to practising with commitment and delivering a polished performance, students have demonstrated engagement, courage, and accomplishment. We have also seen our Senior Leadership Team give their all to launch their vision of justice to the College through their theme, “Bring the Mix in 2026”, brilliantly supported by the cohort’s powerful and inspirational rendition of “Make Your Own Kind of Music.” These moments build more than school spirit: they build connection, identity, and a shared sense of purpose.

This was complemented by two Pos-Ed lessons that encapsulate this perfectly. First, the concept of the “Best Possible Self” asked students to imagine their future self, building a realistic understanding of happiness: one that includes courageous audacity, growth, and challenge. This lens helps students connect daily choices to long-term direction: Who do I want to be, and what do I need to practise now to become that person? From this comes “Flow.” When students explore questions such as “How do you show up for life?” they begin to understand the difference between simply pleasure-seeking and the deeper, more powerful experience of pleasure through flow: when our minds are focused and happily engaged in a task, boosting self-control, relaxation, and motivation. It is in these moments that students operate at their optimal best, challenged by the task, but confident in their ability to reach the goal at hand.

If we unpack the activities that Year 12 have engaged in this term, it is clear that becoming their Best Possible Self and finding happiness through flow and purpose embody the elements our Positive School framework espouses. In visible, practical ways, our Year 12s have been living PERMAH: building positive emotion, deep engagement, strong relationships, meaning grounded in justice and service, genuine accomplishment, and the habits that protect wellbeing and health.

Paula Brydon
Pastoral Leader- Year 12

YEAR 12 POPUP BISTRO

Our Year 12 Hospitality students recently ran a lunchtime popup Bistro for staff, offering freshly prepared meals and professional service in a relaxed dining setting.

This authentic experience allowed students to showcase their skills in food preparation, safe work practices and customer service while creating a welcoming bistro atmosphere.

Staff enjoyed a delicious lunch while supporting students as they applied their learning in a real-world hospitality environment.

YEAR 7 CONSENT & RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS PRESENTATION

Recently, Ms Caitie Humphrey from Catholic Education Queensland delivered an engaging and age-appropriate session for our Year 7 students focused on Consent and Respectful Relationships.

During the presentation, students learned about the importance of making decisions that are free from pressure and respectful of themselves and others.

They were introduced to the ‘Ask, Listen, Respect’ approach, which encourages clear communication, attentiveness to others, and respect for personal boundaries.

Students also explored ways to recognise and listen to their own body signals, helping them identify when a situation may feel uncomfortable and understand that it is okay to pause, seek support, or speak up.

This session supports our ongoing commitment to student wellbeing and aligns with our focus on helping students build healthy, respectful relationships grounded in dignity, care and mutual respect.

YEAR 11 SOR & R&E EXCURSION 

YEAR 11 SOR & R&E EXCURSION | Recently our Year 11 SOR and Religion & Ethics students visited Chung Tian Temple, where they experienced and partook in meditation, tai chi, and calligraphy.

These experiences gave our MSM students the opportunity slow down and learn through hands-on practices in a sacred space.

Additionally, the students visited Holland Park Mosque to learn more about Islam, helping deepen their understanding of faith through encounters, questions and respectful dialogue.

YEAR 7 DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

MSM Year 7 Textiles students demonstrated impressive sewing abilities as they crafted their very own bucket hats. Their creativity really shone through as each student developed a unique and personal design.

YEAR 10 LIFE SCIENCE

Year 10 Life Science students recently began a unit on DNA and genetics, starting with the structure of DNA and how this remarkable molecule carries the instructions for all living things.

To bring their learning to life, students built colourful candy models of the iconic double helix, reinforcing their understanding of base-pairing and the overall DNA molecular structure. They also enjoyed extracting real DNA from strawberries and kiwifruit, an activity that allowed them to see genetic material first-hand. While the cloudy strands of fruit DNA can be viewed with the naked eye, the precise, twisted ladder structure shown in textbooks can only be revealed at the molecular level, highlighting the difference between what we observe experimentally and what science uncovers through advanced technology.

YEAR 7 JAPANESE

Year 7 Japanese students made their very own “kyaraben” or character bento, a lunchbox in which ingredients are meticulously arranged into characters from anime, animals, or nature. Originally designed to encourage children to eat varied diets, these visually appealing lunches are a creative way to show love and care.

MISSIONS OF ST VINCENT EASTER INITIATIVE

The Missions of St Vincent C.A.N. group have spent recent weeks preparing gifts for the residents of St Vincent’s Aged Care, Mitchelton. Each gift contained a palm cross to commemorate Good Friday and easter eggs to celebrate Easter Sunday.

The MSM community hopes these gifts bring joy to the residents over the Easter season.

MSM LIBRARY EASTER COMPETITION WINNER

Congratulations to Georgia, the lucky winner of the Library’s Easter Raffle!

A big thank you to everyone who borrowed, hopped in, and entered—your participation made this egg‑stra special.

Happy reading!

YEAR 11 ECONOMICS EXCURSION

Our Year 11 Economics students participated in an immersive excursion designed to connect the economic models and concepts studied in Unit 1 with real-world applications.
 
The day began with a visit to Morgans Financial, where students took part in a guided tour of both the front and back offices, offering valuable insight into the fast-paced nature of the finance industry. This was followed by three engaging presentations from key Morgans staff members, exploring the state of the Australian economy, career pathways within finance, and the growing leadership, impact, and opportunities for women shaping the future of the finance industry.
 
The excursion concluded with a walk through the new Waterfront Brisbane development. This site provided a practical case study for students to consolidate their understanding of economic impacts using relevant models, theories, and concepts explored in class.

JAPAN CLUB 

White Day was recently celebrated in Japan Club with the making of an origami heart. Held exactly one month after Valentine’s Day, White Day is a special Japanese tradition that encourages people to reciprocate Valentine’s gifts as a gesture of appreciation and kindness.

Students enjoyed learning about this cultural celebration while taking part in a hands-on activity that reflected the spirit of gratitude and connection.

YEAR 11 RELIGION AND ETHICS SACRED STORIES UNIT

As part of the Year 11 Religion and Ethics Sacred Stories Unit, students are re-imagining sacred stories from various faith traditions and spirituality into a storybook, video, dramatic movement or a dance for a younger audience.

During the initial drafting stage, Year 5 students worked with the Year 11 students to provide feedback on their story ideas. It was an energetic and productive session where the Year 5 students provided some of their own personal touches to the students' stories and together, they co-created possible images through the responsible usage of AI tools.

SES RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS

Our Sisters Empowering Sisters (SES) CAN Group has been exploring respectful relationships this term.

The group has discussed what a healthy and respectful relationship looks like and feels like.

In the group’s efforts to ensure that everyone here at the College feels safe and comfortable around others, they designed posters to encourage everyone to “bring their whole self to school”.

FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

French students from Years 10, 11 and 12 enjoyed watching “Treasure Hunters: On the Tracks of Khufu” at the Palace Barracks as part of the annual French Film Festival.

The girls followed spirited archaeologist father, “bureaucratic archaeologist” daughter and her teenage son as they chased the lost treasure of Pharaoh Khufu, not through the sands of Egypt, but through the museums and stunning landmarks of Paris.

YEAR 9 RELIGION

MSM Year 9 Religion students made palm crosses, reflecting on faith, tradition and meaning. 

SERVICE
Be Part of the Fun – Join the Mt St Michael’s Mother’s Day Classic Team!

We’re excited to announce that Mt St Michael’s College is coming together for the 2026 Mother’s Day Classic! Grab your friends and family and join us for the 4km walk at South Bank on Sunday, 10 May, kicking off at 8:20AM for the 'Embrace and Honour' event.

This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a morning out, support a meaningful cause, and make a difference as a community. Everyone is encouraged to sign up for our team, join in the walk, and optionally, fundraise to show your support.

Please remember, students will need to accept the invitation which has been posted to Parent Lounge as well as register for the run through the Mother's Day Classic webpage (link below).

Ready to join the fun and make a positive impact? 

Let’s come together, walk together, and create some wonderful memories this Mother’s Day!
MSM SPORT

WATER POLO

Congratulations to our MSM Water Polo teams for their outstanding performances in both the Grand Final and Bronze Medal matches held recently. Our Under 14 team showcased impressive skill and determination, ultimately securing the GOLD medal after a hard-fought and highly competitive match. The Under 16 team also delivered a remarkable effort, earning the SILVER medal in their game. In a dramatic finish, the Under 13 team battled fiercely and, after an intense extra time period, narrowly missed out on gold, awarded the SILVER medal following a shootout.

Well done to all teams on their fantastic results:

U18 – BRONZE MEDAL
U16 – SILVER MEDAL
U14 (1) – GOLD MEDAL
U14 (2) – BRONZE MEDAL
U13 – SILVER MEDAL

CASSSA TENNIS 

The Term 1 CaSSSA Tennis season has now concluded after an exciting finals round on Saturday. Our MSM teams put in a top effort all term, despite some challenges with the weather.

Congratulations to our Open A team for finishing runners up in the Open A Reserve Division, to our Primary A team for taking out the premiership, and to our Primary C team who also finished as runners up.

This year marked the introduction of the CaSSSA Primary Cup, awarded to the top-performing school. We're thrilled to announce that our MSM primary teams have made history by becoming the very first winners of the Primary Cup in 2026. This outstanding accomplishment is thanks to the hard work and dedication of our Year 5 and 6 students and their coaches.

Well done to all MSM primary tennis players for your efforts and for contributing to this prestigious achievement.

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING TRAINING 

MSM students have been participating in S&C training at two amazing gyms this term, which is available again for registration in Term 2 with the social sports programs. Places are limited for both gyms - please register via parent lounge (Perform 360 – Monday and Wednesday mornings; Universal S&C – Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons).

The S&C programs offer our athletes valuable opportunities to build strength and improve their performance, laying the foundation for lifelong fitness and wellbeing. Starting early helps develop lasting physical capability that carries on well into adulthood.

The girls have thoroughly enjoyed their training this term and have already noticed positive changes in their bodies and their sporting achievements.

STUARTHOLME INVITATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY RELAY EVENT

Our MSM cross country team recently had the opportunity to compete in the Stuartholme Invitational cross country relay.

With the cross country season now underway, the relay event format, with teams of three students, each completing a 3km circuit provided a fun and energetic atmosphere for many of our run club members.

A huge congratulations to Mila O, Eve S and Ellery O, who took out first place in the 13/14 Years race!

THE ARTS

THE WEEK THAT WAS IN THE ART DEPARTMENT

WELLBEING
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ON THE CALENDAR
MSM COMMUNITY

Our Light the Way legacy wall illuminates our valued donors who are assisting us to light the way for future generations of MSM students through the enhancement of new educational facilities.

Find out more about securing a permanent spot on our Light the Way Legacy Wall by visiting our College website.

NOTICES


Back to School Boost – Update for Families

The Queensland Government’s Back to School Boost (“Boost”) provides a $100 annual credit for families of primary school students (Prep–Year 6) to assist with school-related costs. The payment is not cash and is applied directly to a student’s school account, where it can be used for items such as school fees, excursions, camps, uniforms or stationery charged by the school.  This is the first year the Boost has been received.

We confirm that the Year 6 Back to School Boost payment has now been received and applied to family accounts and payment schedules.  We will apply the Boost payment to Year 5 family accounts as soon as it is received by the College.

Secondary students (Years 7–12) receive the Queensland Government Textbook and Resource Allowance, which has already been applied to student fee accounts for this year.

 

Families who have paid their school fees in advance and would like to discuss how these credits have been applied are welcome to contact Emma Grimson, Director of Finance – egrimson@msm.qld.edu.au

Winter stock has arrived at the MSM Uniform Shop!             

  • Blazer                $170.00
  • Pullovers            $75.00
  • Vest                    $70.00
  • Hoodie                $59.50
  • Sports Jacket      $62.50
  • Track pants         $49.50
  • Stockings            $13.50/pair
  • Scarf                    $13.50
Please note that Blazers are compulsory in Terms 2 and 3 for all students in Years 10-12. The College blazer is optional for other year levels.

For more information or to view the full Uniform Shop pricelist, click here

If you would like to contact the Uniform Shop please contact 
msm_uniforms@juniorsenioruniforms.com.au
Help Support the MSM Environment Group

Support the MSM Environment Group by donating your eligible containers! Bring your containers to school or use our scheme ID when returning to your local depot. Your donations will go towards funding our current and future environmental initiatives.

Mt St Michael's College scheme ID: C10333591
PARKING NOTICE
In the interest of keeping everyone in our community safe and traffic flowing freely, please refrain from double parking in the pick up zone outside the Ionian on Aloomba Road.
IMPORTANT LINKS
Mt St Michael's College
67 Elimatta Drive
Ashgrove, QLD 4060
Australia

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