From the Head of College

Welcome to Our Week 2 Newsletter

It has been a busy and positive start to the term, and I would like to begin by extending a warm Marist welcome to our new Acting Deputy Head of College Ms Danielle Greig, who has joined the Marist College Ashgrove family this week. We are delighted to have Danielle with us and look forward to the experience, energy and leadership she will bring to the role. 

We have also had the pleasure of welcoming Mr Matthew Hutchison, the new Marist Schools Australia Regional Director to the College. Matt brings more than 38 years of experience in congregational boys' education, including the past nine years as Head of College of Marist College Canberra. We are grateful for the wisdom, support and guidance provided by Matt and the Marist Schools Australia team as we continue to strengthen and grow this great College. 

On a personal note, I would like to sincerely thank members of our community for the many messages, prayers and expressions of support my family has received following the passing of my mother-in-law Denise Andersen last week. We will gather to celebrate her life with a prayer service in the Marist chapel this Thursday. One of the great blessings of belonging to the Marist College community is the genuine care people show for one another during life's significant moments. The kindness extended to our family over the past week – through prayers, meals, flowers and thoughtful messages – has been deeply appreciated and will not be forgotten. Thank you for keeping Denise and our family in your prayers. 

All the best for the week ahead, Paul.

Year 8 PAT Testing 

Year 8 students commenced the Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) last week and will continue participating in the assessments through to Friday 31 July. 

PAT testing provides valuable information about each student's current level of understanding and skills, assisting teachers in tailoring learning programs to support continued academic growth. The assessments are designed to complement classroom learning and provide insights into student progress over time. 

We encourage all Year 8 students to approach the testing with confidence, do their best, and ensure they are well rested and prepared each day. We wish our Year 8 students every success as they undertake these assessments.

Year 12 Optimus Breakfast and Awards

On Thursday 23 July, our Year 12 students will come together for the annual Optimus Breakfast and Awards, a special occasion that celebrates the achievements, leadership and contribution of the graduating cohort.

The event provides an opportunity to recognise students who embody the Marist values and the spirit of Optimus through their commitment to academic endeavour, service, leadership, faith and community involvement. It is also a time for students to reflect on their journey at Marist College Ashgrove and the positive impact they have made during their final year.

We look forward to celebrating the accomplishments of our Year 12 students and acknowledging those who have distinguished themselves through their dedication, character and pursuit of excellence. The Optimus Breakfast and Awards is a valued tradition that recognises not only individual success, but also the strong sense of brotherhood and community that defines the Marist experience.

I sincerely thank Sharon Vassallo for her outstanding work in coordinating this important event and acknowledge the many staff members whose support and commitment make it possible. Their efforts are greatly appreciated and contribute significantly to the success of the morning.

Head of College Tour

On Friday 24 July, we look forward to welcoming prospective families to our Head of College Tour, providing an opportunity to experience first-hand the vibrant learning environment and strong sense of community that defines Marist College Ashgrove.

Led by members of the College Leadership Team and our student ambassadors, the tour offers families an insight into the academic, co-curricular, pastoral and faith opportunities available to students across the College. Visitors will have the chance to explore our facilities, meet members of the Marist community and learn more about the values and vision that underpin a Marist education.

The Head of College Tour is an excellent opportunity for families considering a Marist education for their son to discover what makes our College such a special place to learn, grow and belong. We look forward to sharing the Marist story and welcoming guests to our campus.

Year 9 Performance and Pathway Conversations 

From Monday 27 July to Thursday 13 August, Year 9 students and their families will participate in Performance and Pathway Conversations, an important opportunity to reflect on progress, celebrate achievements and discuss future learning goals. 

These conversations encourage students to take an active role in their learning journey by reflecting on their strengths, areas for growth and aspirations for the years ahead. Working in partnership with families and staff, students will explore pathways, set meaningful goals and consider the opportunities available to them as they continue their secondary education at Marist College Ashgrove. 

The Performance and Pathway Conversations play an important role in supporting student growth, engagement and success. We encourage all families to make the most of this valuable opportunity to discuss progress, future aspirations and the steps required to achieve personal and academic goals. 

I sincerely thank Mr Ashley Hutchings for his leadership and coordination of this important initiative, and acknowledge the staff who support these conversations. Their commitment helps ensure every student is encouraged to reflect, plan and make informed decisions about their future pathway.

Year 12 Retreat

Last week, our Year 12 students participated in their annual Year 12 Retreat, a significant milestone in their final year at Marist College Ashgrove. Over three days, the young men stepped away from the demands of everyday school life to reflect on their personal journeys, relationships, aspirations and the values that will guide them beyond their time at the College.

Grounded in the Marist charism, the retreat provided valuable opportunities for students to explore what it means to be men of faith, service, leadership and compassion. Through a variety of presentations, discussions, group activities and moments of personal reflection, the boys were challenged to deepen their understanding of themselves, strengthen their connections with one another and consider the legacy they wish to leave as the graduating class of 2026.

The retreat was a memorable and meaningful experience, offering moments of laughter, gratitude, reflection and connection that will remain with the students long after they leave the College. We extend our sincere thanks to Daniel Bull, Scott Minogue, Liz Walsh and Kathryn Badini for leading their retreats as well as all the staff who generously volunteered to attend. In particular, we acknowledge the Campus Ministry team Clare Locke, Jenna Harding, Ben Mead and Lachlan Vink, for their planning and leadership, as well as the many staff members whose commitment helped make the retreat such a positive experience for our senior cohort. Their dedication ensured our young men were able to fully engage in this important part of their Marist journey.

Primary Athletics Carnival

Last week, our Primary Athletics Carnival brought together students, staff and families for a wonderful day of competition, participation and House spirit. Blessed with great weather and an enthusiastic atmosphere, students embraced the opportunity to challenge themselves across a range of track and field events while demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship, determination and encouragement of one another.

The carnival showcased the many talents of our young athletes, with students giving their best effort whether competing, officiating or cheering on their House from the sidelines. The energy, enthusiasm and House pride on display throughout the day made for a memorable celebration of Primary School sport and community.

Congratulations to all students for their participation and commitment. A special congratulations to our Age Champions:

• Under 10: Arlow Swenson
• Under 11: Cooper Kadri

• Under 12: Geordie Egerton

   

Congratulations also to Blue House, who were crowned Overall House Champions for 2026.

Our sincere thanks are extended to Matt Green, Program Leader: Primary Sport, for his outstanding organisation and coordination of the carnival. We also acknowledge the many staff, parent volunteers and student helpers whose support contributed to the smooth running and success of the day. Their efforts ensured a fantastic experience for all involved and highlighted the strong sense of community that exists within our Primary School.

Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival

On Tuesday 28 July, Marist College Ashgrove’s Big Band 1 will participate in the Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival at St Peter’s Lutheran College. They will be joining talented young musicians from schools across South-East Queensland in a celebration of jazz performance and musical excellence.

The festival provides a valuable opportunity for students to perform in front of industry professionals, receive expert feedback, and develop their skills through collaboration with other young musicians. It is also a wonderful chance for students to build confidence, broaden their musical experiences and showcase the talents they have developed through the College's Music Program.

We wish our students every success as they represent Marist College Ashgrove and thank Dr Andrew Butt for his leadership, preparation and support of the students. Events such as the Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival play an important role in fostering a lifelong appreciation of music and encouraging students to pursue excellence in the performing arts.

College Musical – Tickets Selling Fast!

The wait is almost over! School of Rock opens this week, with performances running from 23–26 July, and excitement is building across the College community. Following months of rehearsals and preparation, our talented cast, musicians and crew are ready to bring this high-energy production to life on stage.

Featuring students from Marist College Ashgrove, Stuartholme School, Mt St Michael’s College and Brigidine College, this year's musical showcases the spirit of collaboration, creativity and friendship that makes our annual production so special. Audiences can look forward to outstanding music, dynamic choreography, plenty of laughs and an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Tickets are selling fast, and we encourage families, friends, alumni and members of the wider community to secure their seats before performances sell out. This promises to be a fantastic production and is an event not to be missed.

We look forward to seeing the Marist community come together to support our students and celebrate the performing arts at Marist College Ashgrove.

Tickets: $50.00 Adult | $40.00 Concession (Child/Student/Senior/Concession Card Holder) Book now: https://events.humanitix.com/mca-school-of-rock

May our loving God with Mary our good mother and St Marcellin Champagnat walk with all members of the Marist College Ashgrove family.

Upcoming Events

Tuesday 21 July

• Year 8 PAT Testing - continues
• Goondiwindi Boarding Schools Expo
• Green Ash
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• House Meetings
• School of Rock Dress Rehearsal

Wednesday 22 July

• ASHCam Photography - starts
• Year 9-10 Subject Change Deadline
• Tutoring - English/Literature Extension Economics French Chemistry Study of Religion
• Community Mass - College Chapel (all welcome)
• College Assembly
• Mission Captains Meeting (Mission Office)
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths
• Hockey Brisbane Schoolboys - Round 2
• Boarder Parent Network Meeting

Thursday 23 July

• Optimus Breakfast - Cyprian Pavilion
• Moree Boarding Schools Expo
• Green Ash
• Study Hall - Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Environment Group - Room 801
• Tutoring - English, Economics, Chemistry, Study of Religion, Middle Years Maths/ Science/English
• School of Rock Show #1

Friday 24 July

• College Musical - start
• Work Experience EOIs Term 3 Due
• Head of College Tour
• Primary Morning Study
• Year 11 Cert III Visual Art Excursion - Brisbane City
• AIC Basketball Primary Round 1 v Iona College Primary Basketball

• School of Rock Show #2

   

Saturday 25 July

• AIC Round 1 v Iona College
• School of Rock Show #3

Sunday 26 July

• School of Rock Show #4

Monday 27 July

• Catholic Education Week - starts
• Year 9 Performance and Pathway Conversations - starts
• Student Monitoring - starts
• Year 8 PAT Testing - continues
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Student Leader Portfolio Meetings

• Environment Group Meeting

   

Tuesday 28 July

• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Maths Methods, Chemistry, Physics Middle Years Maths/Science
• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• House Meetings
• Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival

Wednesday 29 July

• Tutoring - English/Literature Extension Economics French Chemistry Study of Religion
• Community Mass - College Chapel (all welcome)
• Primary Morning Study
• College Assembly
• Mission Captains Meeting (Mission Office)
• Tutoring - Specialist Maths, Math Methods, Physics, Middle Years Maths
• Hockey Brisbane Schoolboys - Round 3
• Marist Parent Lecture Series

Thursday 30 July

• Study Hall – Senior Library
• Primary Morning Study
• Primary Morning Assembly
• Environment Group – Room 801
• Tutoring - English, Economics, Chemistry, Study of Religion, Middle Years Maths/ Science/English
• Year 5 Band and Strings Concert

Friday 31 July

• Environment Group Free Dress Day
• Primary Morning Study
• AIC Round 2 v St Peters Lutheran College Primary Basketball
• Internal Track and Field Meet #2

Saturday 1 August

•  AIC Round 2 v St Peters Lutheran College
• Tennis/Basketball/Rugby League Photos

Sunday 2 August

• Boarders' Mass