Primary School News

Acting Head of Primary – Gareth Kolkenbeckruh 

Following on from our Founder’s Day Mass and celebrations to mark Champagnat Day and looking ahead to the next three weeks, it is timely to reflect on the partnership that exists between home and school. 

At Marist Primary School, we hold firm that educating boys is not just the work of the teachers here at school - it’s a shared mission that flourishes through partnership between all our staff and you, the parents. Grounded in the values of St Marcellin Champagnat, our approach to education nurtures the whole child: head, heart, and hands. 

We know that boys thrive when the adults in their lives work together with consistency, warmth, and a clear sense of purpose. When parents and teachers speak the same language, set shared expectations, and model the values we want our boys to live by - respect, perseverance, empathy, and faith - they begin to see the world as a place where they are supported, understood, and called to be their best selves. 

 At school, we provide a structured environment where boys are encouraged to grow in confidence, curiosity, and resilience. But this journey is most powerful when echoed at home - when boys hear the same messages from their parents that they hear from their teachers. Whether it’s about kindness in the playground, responsibility in the classroom, or perseverance in learning, our united voice has a profound impact. 

 Working together also means listening and learning from each other. Teachers bring professional expertise and a deep understanding of boys’ development, while parents offer insight into their child’s personality, strengths, and challenges. When these perspectives meet with mutual respect, we build a learning environment that honours each boy’s individuality. 

St Marcellin often spoke of loving children "as Mary would" - with gentleness, patience, and a guiding hand. In our modern context, this means being allies in helping our boys navigate a complex world, reminding them always that they are known and loved. 

Thank you to all our families for your ongoing partnership. Together, we continue to shape young men of character, compassion, and courage, just as Saint Marcellin did all those years ago in Southern France.

Primary Pastoral Leader – Anthony Graham 

Champagnat Day 

Last Friday we celebrated Champagnat Day, one of the most important days on the Marist calendar. I would like to congratulate our boys on the way they conducted themselves throughout the day. Whether it was during Mass, sharing lunch together or participating in the day's activities, the boys represented both themselves and Marist College Ashgrove with pride. 

Their behaviour was outstanding and was a wonderful reflection of the values we strive to develop within our Primary community. It was a fantastic day and one that showcased the very best of our boys. 

Building Connections 

This week provides two fantastic opportunities for our boys to strengthen connections across the College community. 

On Tuesday morning, students will join their Secondary House for the annual House BBQ breakfast, while on Thursday afternoon they will reconnect with their Year 12 buddies. These experiences continue to be a highlight of our pastoral program, helping foster a strong sense of belonging and connection between our Primary students and the senior leaders of the College. 

Finishing the Term Strong 

As we move towards the final weeks of Term 2, there is often a noticeable shift in energy levels amongst students. The excitement of upcoming holidays, combined with a busy term of learning can make it tempting to start looking ahead rather than focusing on the present. 

One of the messages we continue to reinforce with the boys is the importance of finishing well. Finishing well is not about being perfect; it is about continuing to make positive choices, showing respect to others, taking pride in our work and maintaining the high standards that have helped make this such a successful term. 

As we approach the end of term, I encourage families to continue conversations at home about organisation, effort and respectful relationships. Small reminders around sleep routines, preparation for school and treating others with kindness can make a significant difference during what is traditionally a very busy time of the semester. 

Let's continue working together to ensure the boys finish Term 2 with the same enthusiasm, pride and positivity that they have demonstrated throughout the year. 

Primary Learning Leader – Jen Little 

Progressive Reporting

As I write, teachers are busy marking and providing progressive feedback and reporting to students and parents for assessments already completed. As part of our progressive reporting process, we encourage all families to take the time to regularly check in on student results and feedback. This can be found in both Student Café and the Parent Orbit App. Progressive reporting is designed to provide timely, ongoing insights into your child’s learning journey, rather than a single snapshot at the end of a term. By reviewing this information consistently, parents can gain a clearer understanding of strengths, areas for growth, and how learning is developing over time. These insights are most powerful when they are revisited often, allowing for meaningful support and celebration of progress along the way. 

Equally important is the role of open discussion and dialogue between parents, students, and teachers. Conversations about feedback and results help students understand their learning more deeply and take ownership of their progress. We encourage families to use reporting as a starting point for positive, forward-looking discussions—asking questions, reflecting on achievements, and identifying next steps. When students are actively involved in setting goals for the future, they build confidence, motivation, and a sense of responsibility for their learning. Together, through strong communication and shared understanding, we can support every child to achieve their personal best.  

Round Robin Public Speaking – MCA/SLC/PC/LC  

Congratulations to the following boys who competed in the final round of Public Speaking at St Laurence’s last Tuesday evening: Robert Neller, Owen Frost, Nicholas Rush, Harrison Dillon, Lachlan Bradford, Arahan Bhatia, Luca Mian and Monty Walsh. The boys have represented their school admirably and developed their skills when addressing an audience. Special congratulations are extended to Lachlan Bradford for winning ‘Speaker of the Night.’  

Round Robin Debating – MCA/SLC/PC/LC  

Although both Year 6 debating teams were unsuccessful in their third and final round of their debating competition against St Laurence’s College last Tuesday, they should be very proud of the way they represented the school. Each team presented well-structured arguments, spoke with confidence, and demonstrated strong teamwork throughout their debates. While the result did not go our way, the students' effort, growth, and commitment to improving their debating skills were outstanding and should be celebrated. 

Team 1  

The team consists of Ben Cipriano, Preston Gallagher-Beck, Ryan Noronha and Seb Baker. 

They debated the affirmative. 

Congratulations boys!  

Team 2  

The team consists of Colin Cooper, Henry Krinke, Andre Dua and Case Purcell. 

They debated the negative. 

Well done boys!  

Morning Study

Please note an updated time for our supervised Morning Study arrangements. Morning Study will operate in the Primary CLE from 7:40–8:10am, Monday to Friday. This space provides a quiet environment for students to complete homework and/ or study.   

Morning Study is open to all students; however, the level of support offered will vary depending on the number of students attending on any given day. Students who wish to enhance their learning through a regular weekly study routine, particularly by using resources from their OneNote, will find this an ideal venue. 

Literacy and Numeracy Trophy Winners

Literacy and Numeracy continue to be a focus in the Primary. Congratulations to the following classes for their success last week. 

Primary Sport - Mr John Lambourne – Head of Sport (Primary)

Marist Primary Athletics Carnival

Please note that the Primary Athletics Carnival scheduled in the College Calendar for Thursday, 18 June has had to be postponed to Term 3, Thursday, 16 July.

The decision to postpone the carnival was taken out of my hands and therefore I apologise for the lack of communication and confusion around the carnival.

Please see below for details regarding Track and Field Age Championship registration.

Achievements

Congratulations to Leo Mylne (6W) who has been selected to represent Queensland at the School Sport Australia National AFL Championships (10-12 Years).

Congratulations to Arlo Swenson (5M) who has been selected to represent Met North at the Queensland School Sport State Cross-Country Championships (10-12 Years).

Australian Little League Baseball Championships

Kai McKenna (6R) and Anderson Wild (6W) recently represented Brisbane Metro at the 2026 Australian Little League Baseball Championships, stepping up against some of the best young talent in the country. Across a hard-fought tournament, the team secured 4 wins and narrowly missed a finals place with 3 losses - an outstanding effort at such a high level of competition.

Both boys were pivotal to their team’s success. On the mound, Kai and Anderson delivered strong pitching performances, showing composure and skill under pressure. At the plate, they were equally impressive, combining for multiple big hits and consistently driving in runs to keep their team competitive in every game.

Beyond the results, the experience was about far more than wins and losses. Kai and Anderson built strong connections within their squad and formed friendships with players from across Australia. A fitting end to the tournament saw teams swap jerseys, a special moment symbolising respect, camaraderie, and memories that will last well beyond the competition. 

It was a fantastic achievement and an experience they’ll carry forward. There’s no doubt we’ll see them back in the national stage again on the future.

AIC Cross Country Championships

Congratulations to all the Marist College Primary cross-country athletes for winning the AIC Cross Country Championships. The Primary Aggregate Shield was shared with Iona for the second year in a row; Marist College Ashgrove has now won the Primary aggregate four years in a succession. Special congratulations to the Year 5 team for winning their age group.

AIC Cross Country Championships Results

Year 5

Top Six Marist Placegetters

1. George O’Brien – 5th
2. Phoenix Bryant – 6th
3. Jacob Ortiz – 7th
4. Nate Langham – 9th
5. Arlo Swenson – 10th
6. Josh Chapman – 15th

Year 6

Top Six Marist Placegetters

1. Geordie Egerton – 3rd
2. George Limbrick – 8th
3. Cooper Kadri – 10th
4. Luca Bryant – 13th
5. Cian Dillon – 25th
6. Charlie Davis – 42nd

Term 2 AIC Sport

Rugby

Football

Primary Athletics Age Championships

Nominations are open for boys wishing to compete for Track and Field Age Champion.

10 Years – boys born 2016, 11 Years – boys born 2015 and 12 Years – boys born 2014.

Age Championship events are used as qualification events for selection to attend West District Track in Field in Term 3. Please note that nomination for district trials is not guaranteed.

Boys may also nominate to for 1500m and discus, both of which are not part of T&F Age Championship but are district events.

Please be aware of the qualification standards when nominating for age championship events.

Depending on the number of boys who nominate for each event boys may be required to qualify to participate in Age Championship events.

Marist Primary Track & Field Age Championships Nomination

Term 3 AIC Sport

Term 3 sports on offer are Basketball, Rugby League and Tennis.

Please note that numbers are limited in each of these sports and that boys are only able to participate in one Term 3 AIC team sport.

Parents, please find the Extra-Curricular tile on Parent Orbit to find information regarding sign on. Students can sign up via the Student Café. Once your son/s have signed up parents or caregivers MUST approve the signup and edit or update any medical details.

This assists the College in organising the appropriate number of coaching staff and to deliver the necessary resources, and ensures all relevant information is forwarded to you via communication channels. 

Boys may also choose to participate in track & field; boys of all abilities are welcome to attend track training sessions. Please see below for further details relating to track & field.

Basketball – Maximum 36 boys / grade

Trial Details – Week 8 and Week 9

Year 6

Tuesday – 6:45-8:00am

Thursday – 3:30 – 5:00pm

Year 5

Tuesday – 3:30 – 5:00pm

Friday – 6:45-8:00am

Internal trial fixtures to be played Friday, 19 June

All Players must be signed up to trial.

Uniform: Marist Basketball singlet, Marist Sport shorts & blue Marist Sport socks

Fixtures Friday evening.

Training twice / week.

Tennis – Maximum 8 boys / grade

Teams to be announced Week 9

Uniform: Marist Tennis polo, Marist Tennis shorts & white Marist Sport socks

Fixtures Saturday morning – please be aware that there may be Friday evening fixtures in 2026

Training twice / week.

Rugby League – Maximum 30 boys Year 5 and 34 boys Year 6

Trial Details – Week 9

Year 6

Tuesday – 6:45-8:00am – Des Connor Park – Flat #5

Thursday – 6:45-8:00am – Des Connor Park – Flat #6

Following Thursday morning’s trial, the boys will share a BBQ with the Open Rugby League Confraternity Shield team.

Year 5

Monday – 6:45-8:00am – Des Connor Park – Flat #5

Thursday – 6:45-8:00am – Des Connor Park – Flat #5

Following Thursday morning’s trial, the boys will share a BBQ with the Open Rugby League Confraternity Shield team.

Internal trial fixtures to be played Saturday, 20 June

All Players must be signed up to trial.

Uniform: Marist rugby league jersey, Marist rugby shorts & Marist team sport socks

Fixtures Saturday morning.

Training twice / week.

Track & Field

There are 4 AIC T&F meets scheduled at the end of Term 3.

These meets are conducted as time trials for boys wishing to qualify for AIC Championships.

• Thursday, August 27
• Wednesday, September 2
• Thursday, September 10

• Wednesday, September 16

   

AIC Championships – Thursday, 8 & Friday, 9 October – QSAC.

Uniform: Marist Athletics singlet, Marist Sport shorts & white Marist Sport socks

Track and Field training begins in Term 3; T&F training is twice a week.

Boys wishing to be considered for AIC selection should also be aware that there will be training and meets conducted over the Term 3 holidays.

Track & Field

Sunday Sessions

Sunday sessions are an excellent introduction to Marist Track & Field. We have some exceptional coaches leading these sessions and creating an environment of learning and enjoyment.

Some benefits include:

1. Improvement in technique and speed.

2. Technical development for throws.

3. Improved repeat speed / conditioning.

WHEN: Sunday afternoons

WHERE: Hayden Oval

TIME: 3:15-4:45pm 

DRESS: Marist Sport shirt, Marist Sports shorts, Marist Sport white or blue socks.

Sports Training and Clashes

With a myriad of opportunities on offer for the students, clashes are unavoidable but never a problem if communicated.

Families are reminded that cocurricular activities should not impede on any student’s academic performance.

If sports training clashes with music or morning tutoring it is asked that boys alternate from week to week.

Sports Photographs

We are always on the look-out for photos and action shots to be used for the Blue & Gold, other College publications, season or end-of-year wrap-ups etc. Please follow this link and add your photos. 

Marist College Ashgrove Primary Sports Photos

Parent Orbit App

Please ensure that you download the Parent Orbit app to your smart phone. This app will be used to inform you of sporting fixtures, cancellations and bus arrival information.

Late Pick Up After Sports Training

“PLAN B”

It is important that both parent and student are aware of the pick-up procedure if afternoon sports training is cancelled or if parents are running late for pick-up. As soon as a decision is made to cancel a sporting fixture or training, a message is placed on the Parent Orbit app. If training is cancelled, boys can remain in the primary school or walk to an arranged pick-up point when the time arrives.

Afternoon sports training sessions are scheduled to finish by 5:00pm. We ask that boys are picked up at this time. Any boy who is still at their training venue at 5:15pm will be directed to the After Hours Boarding Reception area / College Health Centre so that he may be collected from there. After Hours Boarding Reception can be contacted on 07 3858 4619.

In the case of bus arrivals from external sporting venues, boys will be sent to After Hours Boarding Reception 15 minutes after the bus arrives back at the College. Parents are asked to collect their sons from this location.