Primary School News

Head of Primary – Paul Blinkhoff

Dear Primary Parents,

As we approach the end of the term, it’s important to reflect on the kind of choices we make each day. In every situation, we have a choice - to be an upstander or a bystander. An upstander is someone who stands up for what is right, even when it’s difficult, while a bystander remains silent or follows along, even when they know something isn’t okay.

In the primary school, we talk about having the courage to do the right thing. Whether it’s including someone who feels left out, speaking up when a friend is being unkind, or making a positive choice even when others aren’t, showing courage in these moments helps shape the kind of person you become.

As the term wraps up, I encourage all boys to reflect on their actions. Don’t follow the lead of others if it’s the wrong thing to do - be someone who sets the right example. Courage isn’t about being the loudest or the toughest; it’s about having the strength to make the right decisions when it matters most.

Primary Awards Assembly – Celebrating Men of Courage and Love of Work

On Tuesday, 24 March, we will hold our Primary Awards Assembly, where we celebrate those boys who have been selected to receive a Men of Courage or Love of Work award. These awards recognise students who consistently demonstrate the Marist values - perseverance, kindness, hard work, and the courage to do what is right.

This assembly is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of our students and reflect on the importance of resilience, leadership, and character. We look forward to celebrating these achievements as a community.

And finally, we wish our Year 5 students all the best this Wednesday and Thursday as the classes participate in the Eureka Gold Rush excursion. We know they will represent our school with distinction. Many thanks to our wonderful staff who have allowed this out of school experience to occur. 

Have a lovely week, Paul 

Primary Pastoral Leader – Anthony Graham

Playbreak Connections Last week provided a great opportunity for boys to engage in a wide variety of structured play experiences during break times. From dodgeball and spikeball to pickleball, music requests and even mountain biking highlights, there was something for everyone.

It was fantastic to see boys step outside of their usual routines, try something new, and most importantly engage positively with one another. These opportunities continue to strengthen connection, inclusion and a genuine sense of belonging across the Primary.

Year 12 & Primary Connection Afternoon

Last Thursday, we launched our first Year 12 x Primary Connection Afternoon, and it was a great success.

Year 12 students were challenged to teach the boys a new skill — from footy kicking and magic tricks to tie-tying, drawing and a range of other activities. The afternoon was filled with energy, laughter and learning.

These experiences are incredibly valuable in building relationships between our youngest and oldest students, helping to foster a strong sense of community and reinforcing what it means to be part of Marist College Ashgrove.

Easter Lenten Fundraiser – Tuesday 31st March

Next Tuesday, we will hold our Easter Lenten Fundraiser, which will also be a free dress day.

Students are reminded to wear appropriate clothing (no singlets, crocs or slides). Boys are encouraged to load up their monitor cards and support the day, with all proceeds going towards Marist Solidarity.

Marcellin Cup – Spelling Bee

To round out the term, we will host our first Marcellin Cup event - the Primary Spelling Bee.

The Marcellin Cup is a house-based competition designed to build school spirit, participation and connection across the Primary. Throughout the year, students will compete in a range of academic, sporting and creative events, earning points for their House.

Next week’s Spelling Bee will see boys compete in a fun and supportive environment, with words differentiated to ensure maximum participation and enjoyment for all.

Primary Learning Leader – Jen Little

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.