Head of Students News

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.

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'