From the Deputy Principal

Smart Watches and Wearable Technology

As families are aware, the Catholic Education Tasmania Mobile Phones, Devices and Wearable Technologies Policy applies to all students across Catholic schools. A reminder that smart watches, Fitbits and other wearable technologies that can connect to the internet or telecommunications networks are covered by this policy, just like mobile phones. These devices must be switched off and securely stored during school hours unless an approved exemption has been granted. 

We understand that some students may require a smart watch or other wearable device for reasons such as health, wellbeing, learning support, or other exceptional circumstances. The policy allows for the Principal to grant exemptions where it is reasonable and necessary to do so. Any exemption must be documented and clearly communicated to families and staff. 

If your child needs to wear a smart watch or similar device during school hours, parents and guardians are required to submit a written exemption request form to the Principal. Approved exemptions may include circumstances related to medical conditions, diagnosis, learning, caring responsibilities, or other individual circumstances. 

If your child currently brings a smart watch to school and you believe an exemption is required, please fill out the form below. We appreciate your support in helping us maintain a learning environment that is focused, safe and free from unnecessary distractions.  Students who do not comply with this expectation will have this recorded as an infringement in line with the policy and communication to this effect will be issued to parents or guardians.

Thank you for working in partnership with us to support all students' learning and wellbeing.

Uniform and Presentation Reminders

School Bags

A friendly reminder that all students are expected to use an MCC logo school bag as part of our school uniform requirements. We have noticed an increase in students bringing large branded bags and other non-school bags to school.

The College school bag has been designed to be practical, durable and easily identifiable, helping students keep track of their belongings while maintaining a consistent College-wide appearance. We ask parents and guardians to support this expectation by ensuring your daughter brings their College school bag to school each day.

Hair Expectations

We also remind families that long hair must be tied back while at school or half up/half down style. This expectation applies to all students with hair long enough to fall across the face or shoulders.

Keeping hair tied up promotes safety in practical learning activities, supports good hygiene and ensures students present themselves neatly in line with College expectations.

Thank you for your ongoing support in helping students take pride in their appearance and uphold our personal presentation standards. '

Caring for Our Shared Learning Spaces

Over the recent break, our maintenance staff invested a significant amount of time and effort refreshing learning spaces throughout the school. Classrooms, corridors and common areas were repainted and renewed to provide welcoming environments that support student learning and wellbeing.

Unfortunately, it has been disappointing to discover that some of these newly refreshed areas have already been damaged by graffiti. While repairs can be made, addressing this damage requires additional time and resources that could otherwise be directed towards further improvements across the school.

As a community, we all share a responsibility for the spaces we use every day. We ask parents and guardians to reinforce the importance of respecting school property and taking pride in our surroundings. Simple actions, such as caring for facilities, disposing of rubbish appropriately and reporting damage when it occurs, help maintain a positive environment for all students.

Our College grounds and buildings belong to the whole community. The care shown by students towards these spaces reflects the respect they have for one another, for staff and for the many people who work to maintain our facilities. We appreciate the support of families in encouraging students to value and protect the environments in which they learn.

We thank the many students who consistently demonstrate pride in their school and contribute positively to keeping our shared spaces clean, welcoming and well cared for.

Winter Months: Supporting Study and Wellbeing

As we move through the colder winter months, it is important for students to maintain healthy routines that support both their learning and wellbeing. Shorter days, colder weather and seasonal illnesses can sometimes make it more challenging to stay motivated and engaged.

Winter is a great time for students to establish positive study habits. Setting aside a regular time each day for homework, revision or reading can help build consistency and reduce stress around assessment periods. Even 20 to 30 minutes of focused study each evening can make a significant difference to a student's confidence and academic progress.

Looking after wellbeing is equally important. Adequate sleep, regular physical activity and nutrition all contribute to improved concentration, memory and energy levels. While it can be tempting to spend more time indoors on devices, students are encouraged to remain active, enjoy time outdoors when possible and stay connected with friends and family.

Parents can support their children by creating a quiet study space, encouraging balanced routines and checking in regularly about how they are managing both school and personal commitments. A simple conversation about their day can often help identify any concerns before they become overwhelming.

We also ask families to be mindful of winter illnesses. If students are unwell, please keep them at home to rest and recover. This helps protect the health and wellbeing of the wider school community.

As a College, we encourage all students to approach the remainder of the term with determination, balance and a focus on personal growth. By nurturing both academic effort and wellbeing, students are better equipped to achieve success and enjoy a positive school experience throughout Term 3.