Magis report 

Magis students prepared this morning’s Community Mass – and it was a wonderful way for us to come together in celebration and support of our Gifted and Talented Program.  Many thanks to Ms Lumley and our students who assisted in the beautiful liturgy and to the staff, students and parents who attended. It was a lovely way to finish the term, and what a term it has been! Jam-packed with competitions, academic seminars, House challenges, and culminating in our Personal Project Exhibition last week.

Congratulations to our Year 7 and 8 students on successfully completing their Magis Elective Course. We look forward to welcoming a new cohort of students next Semester. 

Zachary Sartorello (Year 7): I have loved every single moment of Magis! From Ms Farley’s enthusiastic and passionate teaching to the wide range of assessments and extension programs. I have learnt so many valuable skills which I have utilised across my other subjects including how to develop a persuasive argument, how to express myself verbally, and the importance of preparation and multitasking. It has been my favourite subject, and I can’t wait to continue the course next year. 

Charlie O’Toole (Year 7): I’ve had so much fun being a part of Magis this Semester and I’ll definitely continue with the course next year. I’ve enjoyed extending my knowledge and skills by learning about topics such as philosophy, ethics and debating in class. My favourite part of Magis has been entering different academic competitions, such as Da Vinci Decathlon and World Scholars. When you compete for your school, you get the opportunity to problem-solve, challenge yourself and make new friends. I strongly encourage everyone to give it a go.

Lily King (Year 7): I agree with Zachary and Charlie. I have thoroughly enjoyed class in particular debating. The best parts are working together as a team and rebutting your opponent’s arguments. I’m looking forward to building on what I’ve learnt this year when I continue with the elective in Year 8. I think the course has challenged and extended my knowledge and skills, at the same time, it’s been a lot of fun to work alongside like-minded people.

Round 3 of the 2023 Law Society of Western Australia Mock Trial Competition took place on Tuesday evening at the WA Supreme Court. Our team went up against Carine Senior High School - appearing for the Plaintiff who sought an injunction and an award of damages against the defendant, who was alleged to be guilty of nuisance. Our team claimed that our client had suffered loss and damage by reason of the defendant’s malicious and unreasonable acts of annoyance. The defendant denied the claim of nuisance and counterclaimed for an award of damages against the plaintiff. 

While Mock Trials is certainly a team effort, a special mention must be made to Felix Frichot, a Year 11 student who, unfamiliar with court proceedings, took on the role of Witness (“The Plaintiff”). Felix channelled the character of the incensed neighbour flawlessly and was commended by the judge for bringing drama to court. I would also like to acknowledge Lucy Galvin (Year 11) and Yvie Rigg (Year 12), who stepped into the role of Solicitor and Junior Barrister on the morning of the trial, as team members were absent due to illness.  There is a lot of preparation involved in the lead-up to a trial, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students who, despite their busy schedules, enthusiastically attended lunchtime meetings. 

Our Round 3 Team included: 

• Barrister 1: Yvie Rigg
• Barrister 2: Daniel Doran
• Solicitor: Lucy Galvin
• Witness 1: Felix Frichot
• Witness 2:  Joanna Negus
• Court Orderly:  Rachel Flavell

The College Creative Writing Competition is now open! Students from Years 7 to 12 are invited to submit an original poem or short story. This competition encourages imagination, innovation, and creativity. There are great book prizes and trophies to be won. Further details can be found on Magis Teams, our Noticeboard or by clicking on the below link.

What’s in store in Term 3?

• House Challenges: Creative Writing, STEM, and Music;
• FameLab Academy and Curtin Science Day;
• WA Debating League continues;
• British Parliamentary Debating;
• Creative Edge;
• Tournament of Minds;
• Junior Ethics;
• Model UN Club;
• Shakespeare Club; and
• Our Senior World Scholars Teams will be competing in the Global Round of the World Scholars Cup. They will be heading to the Gold Coast in the Term 3 holidays.

Lastly, thank you to all students and staff for another outstanding Term. Wishing everyone a happy and restful term break!

Daisy Farley

Magis Coordinator – Gifted and Talented