Primary School News

Effort, Persistence and Excellence

Dear Primary Parents,

Last Friday, the St Marcellin Centre was buzzing with energy and anticipation as we welcomed 195 Year 4 boys to the college for our Year 5, 2026 Orientation Day. These are our future Marist young men, and they arrived ready to take on their literacy and numeracy tasks, and some team-building activities, with enthusiasm and heart. It was encouraging to see these young learners put their best foot forward, embracing each challenge with a ‘can do’ attitude. Their effort was a good reminder of what it means to strive for your best, even when the path ahead is unfamiliar.

At Marist College Ashgrove, we hold close the Marist Characteristic of Love of Work. This isn’t just about being busy. It’s about approaching tasks with purpose, persistence, and a belief that effort matters. Whether it’s preparing for an assessment, contributing to a group project, or simply showing up with a positive attitude, the way we work reflects who we are becoming. Last week, I challenged each class to achieve their best result in the Literacy and Numeracy Stiles this week. Achieving this would see each boy receive a Chupa Chup as a reward. I am happy to report that five classes achieved their best result with this renewed focus!

This afternoon, I have had the pleasure of showing some visitors from St Joseph's Institution International Preschool, based in Singapore, around our stunning new Primary Precinct. Our guests loved our new spaces and, what our visitors were amazed by was how quickly the boys transitioned from playing in Break 2 to learning in Period 6. Each class we visited or walked by had boys engaged and learning, and it looked very different in each of the classes. Given it was 2:45pm, this made a lasting impression on our special guests, and they commented that it was a credit to the boys and the teachers that this was so evident so late in the day. 

To our Year 5 and 6 boys: as we approach the final stretch of the term, now is the time to dig deep. The finish line is in sight, and the effort you put in now will shape not only your results, but your character. Let’s finish the term with strength, focus, and pride in our work. Because in the Primary School at Marist College, we have a love of work and we are encouraged to do our best at all times.

Primary Learning Leader – Jen Little

Technology: Blessing vs Curse

As educators in Australia’s ever-evolving primary landscape, we find ourselves navigating a big question: Is technology in our schools a blessing that enhances learning and prepares students for a digital future or a curse that distracts, isolates, or complicates early education? The reality lies somewhere in between. Technology is neither inherently good nor bad—it is how we use it that makes the difference.

Technology has become a powerful enabler of learning in today’s classrooms—enhancing engagement, promoting inclusion, and supporting personalised learning experiences. It has also opened doors to greater teacher innovation, broader access to global resources, and better preparation for a digitally connected future.

In an increasingly diverse Australian classroom landscape, digital tools play a vital role in supporting differentiated instruction. Programs such as Mathspace,Write That Essay Online Tool, and Read Theory help meet individual student needs and learning styles. Additionally, platforms like ClickView, Google for Education, and AI tools like Class Companion are empowering teachers to innovate more than ever before. These technologies not only reduce administrative tasks but also enable educators to design more targeted lessons, freeing up valuable time to focus on building strong, meaningful relationships with students.

Importantly, the integration of technology also strengthens the development of digital literacy, a key component of the Australian Curriculum. Through activities like coding, research, and online collaboration, students are not just learning how to use digital tools, they are learning how to think critically, act ethically, and participate responsibly in a global digital society.

While the benefits of integrating technology into the classroom are widely acknowledged, many experts have raised valid concerns about its impact on young learners. Key issues include excessive screen time, inequitable access, and the premature introduction of digital tools, particularly touchscreens and online assessments.

Dr Kristy Goodwin, a leading Australian researcher in digital wellbeing, warns that too much screen time in early childhood can negatively affect attention span, sleep patterns, and creativity. Balance is essential. When not managed thoughtfully, technology can begin to displace essential developmental experiences such as imaginative play, physical activity, and face-to-face social interaction.

Inequity is another significant concern. While we are fortunate at Marist College Ashgrove that every student has access to a personal learning device, this is not the case across all schools or communities. The digital divide became especially evident during COVID-19 lockdowns, when students in rural, remote, or socioeconomically disadvantaged areas were disproportionately impacted by a lack of access to reliable technology and internet.

A further issue is the increasing pressure to introduce digital assessments and screen-based learning activities before children have developed foundational skills in literacy, communication, and emotional regulation. Early childhood education specialists strongly advocate for play-based, relational learning as the most appropriate and effective approach in the early years.

As educators and families, we have all witnessed moments where students—and adults for that matter—sit together yet remain disconnected, absorbed in individual screens rather than engaging with each other. This shift away from meaningful interpersonal interaction is one of the most concerning trends we must address with both care and urgency. Given this, below are some useful tips for parents when managing expectations at home:

What can parents do at home to support balanced use of technology:

1. Set Boundaries & Routines

• Establish clear rules about when and where screens can be used (e.g. no devices at the dinner table or before school).
• Set time limits appropriate to your child’s age (follow government guidelines where possible).
• If necessary, organise a lock box in which devices are stored after a certain time. Make sure the key is not accessible to children. 

2. Model Healthy Tech Habits

• Show your child what balanced screen use looks like by limiting your own screen time when possible.
• Avoid being on your phone during key connection moments like drop-off, pick-up, or meals.

3. Create Tech-Free Zones

• Keep bedrooms screen-free to support better sleep habits.
• Have “unplugged” family time regularly—board games, cooking, reading, or outdoor play.

4. Be Involved

• Co-watch shows or play games together, so you know what your child is engaging with.
• Ask open questions like, “What did you build in that game?” or “What was your favourite part of the video?”

5. Prioritise Non-Screen Activities

• Encourage time outdoors, sports, creative play, and reading every day.
• Help children discover hobbies that do not involve a screen.

6. Use Educational & Age-Appropriate Content

• Choose quality apps and platforms (e.g., ABC Kids, Story Box Library, Reading Eggs).
• Avoid apps with ads or aggressive in-app purchases.
• Ensure children are not on social media platforms before they reach the required recommended age.

7. Teach Digital Safety & Responsibility

• Talk about being kind online, protecting personal information, and asking for help if something feels wrong.
• Use parental controls and monitor online activity where appropriate.

8. Talk About Balance

• Explain why balance is important—for their brain, their body, and their relationships.
• Use language like “digital nutrition” (what is healthy vs. unhealthy screen time).

9. Stay Informed

• Follow trusted sources like the eSafety Commissioner or Raising Children Network for updated advice.
• Attend school workshops or information nights about digital wellbeing, if offered.

10. Build Connection First

• Remember: connection before correction. The goal is not just to reduce screen time—but to strengthen family relationships and support healthy habits for life.

Final Thought

As a Primary Learning Leader, I believe technology is not the enemy of education; it is a tool. Like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how we use it. In Australian schools, we must be intentional, inclusive, and evidence-informed in our approach. Technology should enhance, not replace the human connections that are at the heart of great learning.

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.

Congratulations to the following classes who also achieved their best score for the term to date: 

Literacy - 5 Maroon 84.89%, 5 White 77.75%, 6 Red 84.53%, 6 Violet 84.2%, 6 Gold 82.8%

Numeracy – 5 Red 88.4%

5 Silver Creating Colour for Sony Foundation Camp

A shout out to Mr Trebbin's class for working hard to create decorations for the upcoming Sony Foundation Camp. Their hardwork will transform Br Terence Residence from a boarding dorm to a holiday resort.

Help Spread Joy at This Year’s Sony Foundation Camp

This September school holidays, Marist College and Mt Alvernia College are once again hosting the Sony Foundation Camp  -  a weekend of fun, friendship and respite for young people with disabilities and their families. To make the experience extra special, we invite our community to donate small, joy-filled items such as fidget toys, nut-free chocolates, lollies, plush toys and stickers. Your generosity will help create lasting memories and bring countless smiles to the campers’ faces.

Primary Sport

Mr John Lambourne – Head of Sport (Primary)

Term 3 AIC Sport

Basketball

A bus will be provided to and from AIC Basketball fixtures each week.

The bus will depart from the College Bus stop @ 2:55pm and return @ 6:30pm (approx.), return details will be posted on the Parent Orbit APP. If your son catches the bus and you collect him, it is very important to ensure you inform a staff member.

Primary Internal Basketball – Fast Break Friday

Marist Primary Basketball - Internal Basketball open to all boys currently not participating in Term 3 AIC team sport.

Venue: Marist Outdoor CourtsTime: 3:30 - 4:30pmUniform: Marist Primary Sport Uniform

No need to register

Tennis

Years 5 & 6

Monday and Wednesday – 6:45 – 8:15 am

Shadow Players – Friday - 6:45 – 8:15am

Rugby League

Year 5

Tuesday – 6:45 – 8:00am – Hayden Oval

Thursday – 3:30 – 4:45pm – Des Connor Park #7

Year 6

Tuesday – 3:30 – 4:45pm – Des Connor Park #7

Thursday – 3:30 – 4:45pm – Des Connor Park #7

AIC Track & Field

Track training – Sprints and Middle Distance

Monday & Wednesday – 3:30 – 4:45pm – McMahon Oval

Long Jump & Hurdles

Tuesday 6:45 – 8:00am – Athletics Precinct

High Jump

Friday 6:45 – 8:00am – Athletics Precinct

Shot Put

Boys wishing to qualify for AIC shot put are asked to please speak with Mr Lambourne

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, September 11

• Wednesday, September 17

   

AIC Championships – Thursday, 9 & Friday, 10 October – QSAC.

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

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.

Term 4 Swimming

Marist Primary Swim Squad training sessions will recommence Term 4 Week 2 and will continue throughout Term 4. These sessions are open to all boys, boys wishing to qualify for the AIC Swimming Team, and boys attending for fitness training; there is no obligation to attend AIC meets in Term 1 2026.

Year 5 (2026): Training starts on Wednesday, 15 October, and will continue Wednesday, 22 October and Wednesday, 29 October and then Monday and Wednesday afternoons, from Monday, 2 November for the remainder of Term 4.

Year 6 (2025): Training begins on Wednesday, 15 October, with sessions on Wednesday (PM) and Friday (AM).

Marist Primary Swim Squad Training Timetable Term 4 2025

Boys attending these sessions will need to bring the following equipment.

• Goggles
• Kickboard
• Pull Buoy
• Short Flippers 
• Mesh Bag

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 4:45pm. We ask that boys are picked up at this time. Any boy who is still at their training venue at 5pm 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.