Head of Students News

Streamlining Classrooms: Laptop Cases and Bag-Free Learning in 2026

From 2026, the College will provide a dedicated laptop case for students in Years 7–10 to safely carry their devices throughout the day and when travelling to and from school. This initiative will extend to Years 11 and 12 in future years, supporting a consistent and streamlined approach across the College.

Over time, our approach to student bags has evolved. Before lockers were introduced, students often carried multiple bags between classes, sometimes resembling pack horses! Today, even with lockers available, many still bring heavily packed bags into classrooms. This creates clutter, limits movement, and poses safety risks, with up to 30 bags on the floor during lessons.

To create safer, more agile learning spaces, from 2026:

• Students in Years 7–10 will no longer bring bags to classrooms or carry them throughout the day.
• All materials and school bags will be stored in the student’s provided lockers.
• Laptops will be carried in the College-provided case.

• Books may be placed inside the case or carried alongside it.

   

We know this is a change, but it reflects common practice in many Australian schools. It also helps students move more freely, reduces trip hazards, and encourages thoughtful organisation of learning materials.

In terms of roll out, Years 7 and 10 will receive their new laptop carry bag along with their laptop at the start of the year. Years 8 and 9 will be issued with the carry bag in the first week.

As with any new routine, questions may arise, and we’ll work with families and students to find practical solutions. For Health and Physical Education (HPE), students are encouraged to source an MCA drawstring bag for transporting their gear at school.

Thank you for your support as we prepare for this transition. Together, we’re creating safer, more focused classrooms for every learner.

Is your family ready for the social media delay on 10 December?

The Council of Catholic School Parents asked Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, one of Australia's leading psychologists, author and broadcaster, to help educators and parents and carers with children under 16 prepare for the upcoming changes social media platforms.

In this 30-minute video, Dr Carr-Gregg explains what social media is, how the age restrictions will work, why it's happening and how it will affect families and schools. 

We invite parents and educators to take time out for half an hour to watch this video so that they understand and are equipped to handle the impact of the changes on their families and students.

PLEASE WATCH THE VIDEO HERE: 'The Social Media Delay: What It Means for Parents and Schools'

International Men’s Day – Celebrating Character, Contribution & Care

November 19 marks International Men’s Day, a global celebration of the positive value men bring to the world, their families, and communities. This day invites reflection on what it means to be a good man, one who leads with integrity, shows respect, and contributes meaningfully to the lives of others.

At Marist College Ashgrove, we use this occasion to affirm the strengths of our young men and challenge them to grow into adults who are compassionate, courageous, and community minded.

This year’s theme: “Celebrating Men and Boys”, aligns with our broader commitment to the role of developing good men that play a leading role in promoting and enhancing respectful relationships and social justice. In the lead-up to White Ribbon Day on November 25, students have been engaging in conversations about empathy, equality, and the importance of standing up for others. 

Together, these two days offer a powerful opportunity to reflect on the kind of men we hope our students become: not just successful, but kind; not just strong, but fair; not just confident, but humble.

Throughout the year, students have been invited to participate in activities that celebrate character, challenge stereotypes, and promote wellbeing. We encourage families to continue these conversations at home, reinforcing the values that shape respectful, inclusive communities.

White Ribbon Day - International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

November 25 marks White Ribbon Day, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. This day, recognised by the UN, calls for global action to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.

At Marist College Ashgrove, we stand firmly in saying no to all forms of violence against women and girls.

In the lead-up to this important day, at our last 3 assemblies, the College has provided students with materials to assist them to reflect on their role in supporting women, challenge harmful stereotypes, and consider the world through the eyes of someone different from themselves. These resources aim to foster empathy, respect, and a deeper understanding of the role young men can play in building a safer, more inclusive society. This includes in their own home, school and local and wider community.

Over the coming week, students will continue to engage in meaningful conversations around this issue. We encourage families to extend these discussions at home, reinforcing the values of dignity, compassion, and justice.

For more information, visit White Ribbon Australia – Stop men's violence against women.

Farewell to the Class of 2025: Final Days and Celebrations

As the Class of 2025 prepares to conclude their journey at Marist College Ashgrove, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all graduating students and their families. This is a time of pride, reflection, and celebration, not only for our Year 12s but for the entire College community that has supported them along the way.

In their final week, our Year 12 students are reminded to finish well and uphold the Marist values that have shaped their time here. As one final challenge, students are encouraged to “walk out the same way they walked in”, with pride, dignity, and respect.

To participate in Friday’s Graduation events, students must ensure:

• Full and correct uniform (including polished shoes and formal hat)
• Clean-shaven appearance

• Hair that meets College expectations for length, style, and neatness

   

These expectations will be checked at Thursday’s compulsory gathering and again on Friday morning. We thank families for their support in ensuring students are presentation-ready for this important milestone.

Key Events for Year 12 Families

Final Gathering (Students Only) - Thursday 20 November – 8:35am, outside the Chapel

This compulsory session will walk students through the Graduation Mass and celebration logistics. Students will meet their Head of House before entering the Chapel for a 8:50am start.

Note: Uncollected photos and awards will be available Thursday morning or can be collected earlier from Student Administration.

Graduation Mass, Celebration & Guard of Honour - Friday 21 November – Champagnat Centre

• 9:00am: Doors open for families and guests

• 9:30am: Graduation Mass beginsFollowing the ceremony, students will be released into their parents’ care.

   

Reminder for Parents:

If you plan to take siblings home after the ceremony, please submit an early departure notification via Parent Orbit before Friday. Without prior notice, siblings will remain at school and participate in the Guard of Honour and post-event activities before returning to class.

Graduation Dinner & Final Roll Call - Friday 21 November – Plaza Ballroom, Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre

• 5:30pm–6:30pm: Family Photo Stations open
• 6:00pm: Doors open

• 6:30pm: Dinner commences

   

We look forward to celebrating this significant milestone with our Year 12 students and their families. On behalf of the College, thank you for the many ways you have contributed to the life of our community. We wish the Class of 2025 every blessing as they prepare to take their next steps beyond the Blue and Gold.