Primary School News

Working in Partnership

Following on from our Founder’s Day Mass and celebrations to mark Champagnat Day and looking ahead to the next three weeks, it is timely to reflect on the partnership that exists between home and school.

At Marist Primary School, we hold firm that educating boys is not just the work of the teachers here at school - it’s a shared mission that flourishes through partnership between all our staff and you, the parents. Grounded in the values of St Marcellin Champagnat, our approach to education nurtures the whole child: head, heart, and hands.

We know that boys thrive when the adults in their lives work together with consistency, warmth, and a clear sense of purpose. When parents and teachers speak the same language, set shared expectations, and model the values we want our boys to live by - respect, perseverance, empathy, and faith - they begin to see the world as a place where they are supported, understood, and called to be their best selves.

At school, we provide a structured environment where boys are encouraged to grow in confidence, curiosity, and resilience. But this journey is most powerful when echoed at home - when boys hear the same messages from their parents that they hear from their teachers. Whether it’s about kindness in the playground, responsibility in the classroom, or perseverance in learning, our united voice has a profound impact.

Working together also means listening and learning from each other. Teachers bring professional expertise and a deep understanding of boys’ development, while parents offer insight into their child’s personality, strengths, and challenges. When these perspectives meet with mutual respect, we build a learning environment that honours each boy’s individuality.

St Marcellin often spoke of loving children "as Mary would" - with gentleness, patience, and a guiding hand. In our modern context, this means being allies in helping our boys navigate a complex world, reminding them always that they are known and loved.

Thank you to all our families for your ongoing partnership. Together, we continue to shape young men of character, compassion, and courage, just as Saint Marcellin did all those years ago in Southern France.

Primary Pastoral Leader – Anthony Graham 

Building Resilience Through Disappointment

In his recent article, renowned adolescent psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg emphasises the importance of allowing children to experience disappointment as a vital part of their development. He argues that shielding children from every setback can hinder their ability to cope with the inevitable challenges of adulthood. 

Link to Article: Disappointment holds vital lessons for children

1. Embracing Disappointment as a Learning Opportunity

Disappointment is an integral part of life—be it a missed goal in sports, an unexpected grade, or a canceled event. Carr-Gregg suggests that these experiences teach children valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability. By facing and navigating disappointment, children learn to manage their emotions and develop coping strategies that will serve them throughout their lives.

2. The Role of Parents and Educators

Carr-Gregg notes a growing trend where parents and society aim to protect children from any form of distress. While well-intentioned, this approach can deprive children of essential growth experiences. He advocates for a balanced approach where adults provide support and guidance, allowing children to face challenges and learn from them, rather than removing all obstacles from their path.

3. Preparing for the Realities of Adulthood

Life is full with ups and downs. By experiencing disappointment in a supportive environment, children build the resilience needed to handle future adversities. Carr-Gregg emphasises that fostering this resilience is crucial for children's long-term well-being and success.

At Marist College, we are committed to supporting students through their challenges, helping them to grow into resilient and adaptable individuals. We encourage parents to join us in this endeavor, recognising that facing and overcoming disappointment is a shared journey that strengthens our children's character and prepares them for the future.

Smart Watch Use at School

A friendly reminder to all families that all communication between students and home during the school day must be made via the Primary Reception. Students have been reminded that smart watches are not to be used for messaging, calling, or notifications during school hours.

As such, boys are expected to place their smart watches on 'School Mode' or 'Airplane Mode' as soon as they arrive at school. These settings help minimise distractions, ensure classroom focus, and support the college’s approach to responsible device use.

If your son needs to contact you throughout the day, he will do so through our friendly staff at the Primary Reception. Likewise, any urgent messages for your son can be directed to the school office.

We appreciate your support in helping the boys use technology in a respectful and school-appropriate way.

Primary Awards Assembly – Tuesday 17 June

We are excited to celebrate the wonderful efforts and achievements of our students at our Primary Awards Assembly next week. This special event will take place on:

• Tuesday 17 June
• 8:45am – 9:15am
• Bottom Floor, Saint Marcellin Centre

Parents of students receiving an award will be notified and warmly invited to attend. We look forward to recognising the hard work, character, and contributions of our boys during this important event.

Tuckshop Purchases – A Friendly Reminder

We have reminded the boys — and will continue to do so — that they are only permitted to purchase food and drinks from the tuckshop for themselves. Boys are not to use other students' cards or purchase items on behalf of others.

While many boys are simply trying to be kind or helpful, this practice can quickly blur boundaries. Unfortunately, we have seen some students rack up substantial tuckshop bills by repeatedly buying items for others.

We kindly ask parents to reinforce this message at home: students are only to purchase food and drinks from the tuckshop for themselves using their own account or card.

Thank you for your support in helping us promote clear expectations and personal responsibility.

Lost Property – Please Check Labels

A gentle reminder to all families to please ensure that all uniform items, lunchboxes, water bottles, and belongings are clearly labelled with your son’s full name. This simple step makes it much easier for lost items to be returned quickly.

We’d also like to ask the Primary community to keep an eye out for a bag belonging to Edward Caton, which was mistakenly taken last Thursday. The blue drawstring bag contains his blazer and other personal items and is clearly labelled with his name.

If found, please return it to Primary Reception.

Thank you for your support in helping us keep track of everyone’s belongings!

Year 12 and Primary Buddy Program – This Thursday

This Thursday afternoon, our Primary students will take part in a special Meet and Greet with the Year 12 students as part of our ongoing Buddy Program. This meaningful initiative is designed to foster connection and community between the youngest and oldest students in the College.

During this first session, the boys will enjoy games and activities together, helping to break the ice and build a positive rapport. Throughout the rest of the year, they will have two more opportunities to spend time with their buddy, before creating a personalised poster for them ahead of their graduation in Term 4.

This program is a wonderful example of the Marist spirit in action—strengthening bonds across year levels and building a culture of respect, care, and connection.

Primary Learning Leader – Jen Little

Morning Study: Supporting Independent Learning

Morning Study takes place each day from 8:00am - 8:30 am and offers a calm, quiet space for students to complete homework or other independent tasks. These may include silent reading, finishing classwork, reviewing for a test, practicing spelling and learning number facts. All students are welcome to attend.

Students are expected to arrive knowing what they need to work on. While support is available from our School Officers and Inclusion Teacher, the aim is to foster independence in a settled and focused environment. Due to the number of students in attendance, it is often not possible for staff to provide extended and exclusive one-to-one support. Please note that students and parents requiring this service will need to make private arrangements outside of school. 

Youth Parliament Day | Jack Felix and Charlie Mackay

Imagine stepping into a vibrant chamber filled with the energy of passionate young voices, each one eager to shape their future. The Youth Parliament experience is not just about debating issues; it’s a journey where young leaders confront real-world challenges, advocate for their communities, and learn the ways of governance. As you stand at the podium, you realise that your words can inspire change and ignite a movement—this is where youth empowerment meets civic duty, and every decision counts! 

In the morning, we gathered in the breakout room next to Mrs. Barnett’s classroom. We had a lot of fun relaxing and chatting while we waited for Mr. Graham to drive us into the city.  Even though we waited for 20 minutes, we practiced our speeches and talked with each other, which made the time fly by! When we finally walked down to the bus stop, we were full of energy and excitement for the activities ahead.

When we arrived, everyone received a booklet, timetable and badges. We were taken into Parliament House, where important laws, debates, and agreements are made. Then, we entered the chamber - this is where the politicians work - called the Legislative Assembly. It’s the only chamber that is used at the Queensland Parliament House, and we would be there for half the day!

Throughout the day we heard fellow students like us express their beliefs about a wide variety of topics and how they want it to be. We had a wonderful experience at this event talking about schools adopting a scientist, gardening clubs and much more. We got to meet several politicians throughout the day, whilst some of them volunteered to be the speaker of some parts of our wonderful experience at the Youth Parliament Day.

This experience is one of the greatest you will ever experience through wonderful carers, teachers and other wonderful kids like us. We had a break for us to get the opportunity to talk to other schools and enjoy some simple but scrumptious meals. This day is inspirational to everyone – boys and girls – for this one-in-a-lifetime experience. This can easily change your career path, maybe one of us will even become a politician.

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.

Round Robin Debating – MCA/SLC/ATC/PC - Mrs Robyn Brown 

Congratulations to our two Year 6 debating teams for their outstanding performance and well-deserved success in the final debate for the competition. Both teams debated against Padua College with “That summer holidays should be shorter”. Both teams presented clear and logical arguments and, growth in their rebuttal skills was evident. Such a great effort!

Team 1 

The team consists of Jack Felix, Charlie Mackay, George Coulter and Moses Yeung. They debated the affirmative. Congratulations boys! 

Team 2 

The team consists of Matt Hendrick, Leo Scuderi, Jovi Zanre and Chandler Forrest. They debated the negative. Well done boys! 

Public Speaking – Mr Dan Prince  

The Year Five public speakers ended on a high note last week. The adjudicators commented on how much progress the speakers made over three sessions. The boys acquitted themselves with confidence and enthusiasm. The audience was entertained by speeches on a range of topics including the benefits and disadvantages of dad jokes, the educational benefits of YouTube and how good it is to have a sibling. Eddie Hunt was chosen as speaker of the night in a very competitive race. What a privilege it was to work with the boys over the last few weeks, and I congratulate them on their commitment and dedication. Our speakers from left to right were Colin Cooper, Will Baker, Oliver Davis, Tom Collins, Eddie Hunt, Ryan Noronha, Roman Kaminski, Maverick Gray and Henry McCulloch.

Tournament of Minds Opportunity – Mrs Robyn Brown 

Next term your son shall have the opportunity to participate in Tournament of Minds. This is a wonderful program, where the boys are required to solve open-ended challenges in a creative and collaborative manner, which fosters teamwork and encourages experimentation. The boys must work within a strict set of boundaries which include time restrictions and limits on materials used for the making of props and costumes.

I will be meeting with the interested boys in the library during second break on Thursday this week to discuss the program further. The boys need to be available to present their team challenge on Sunday 24 August at Marist College.

If you have any questions at all about the program, please don’t hesitate to contact me - 

Robyn Brown - brownr@marash.qld.edu.au.

Primary Sport

Mr John Lambourne – Head of Sport (Primary)

Achievements

AIC Cross Country Championships

Congratulations to all the Marist College Primary athletes for winning the AIC Cross Country Championships Primary Aggregate for the third year in a row. Special congratulations to the Year 6 team for winning their age group.

AIC Cross Country Championships Results

Year 5

Top Six Marist Placegetters

1. Geordie Egerton – 3rd
2. Leo Mylne – 4th
3. Cooper Kadri – 8th
4. Kian Dillon – 11th
5. Jimmy Scalogne – 19th
6. Alex Dunbar – 29th

Year 6

Top Six Marist Placegetters

1. Jack McCurry – 2nd
2. Daniel Sadimenko – 5th
3. Toby Patricks – 8th
4. Aaron Doyle – 11th
5. Finn Hamel – 15th
6. Will Davies – 18th

Primary Athletics Carnival

Primary Athletics Carnival will take place Monday, 23 June – McMahon and Hayden Ovals.All Year 5&6 boys are expected to attend in their College Sports Uniform

Parents are welcome to attend.

If your son will be attending school and is unable to participate due to illness or injury, please notify Primary Reception primaryreception@marash.qld.edu.au.

All other absences are to be logged on the Parent Portal following normal procedures.

Hats, sunscreen and water bottles are extremely important, teachers will have sunscreen available for boys to reapply, and the boys are expected to take responsibility to ensure they stay sun safe and hydrated.

As with the Primary Swimming Carnival, events will be participation/novelty based. Team meetings will be held this week for the boys to select team captains and relay teams.

Boys may wish to change into coloured outfits, which they can do before Pastoral Group, they may also bring mascots and wear zinc in their team colour if they wish.

Hats, sunscreen and water bottles are extremely important on a day like this, and boys are expected to take some responsibility to ensure they stay sun safe and hydrated.

Each boy is expected to participate in all the novelty events to the best of their ability.

The College tuckshop will be unavailable for the Primary boys.

Primary Athletics Age Championships

Nominations will open Week 8 for boys wishing to compete for Track and Field Age Champion.10 Years (born 2015), 11 Years (born 2014) and 12 Years (born 2013).

Age Championship events are used as qualification events for selection to attend North West District Track in Field in Term 3.

Boys may also nominate to for 1500m and discus, both of which are not part of T&F Age Championship but are district events.

Depending on the number of boys who nominate for each event boys may be required to qualify to participate in Age Championship events.

Nominations will open this week; details to be posted on the Parent Orbit App.

Term 3 AIC Sport

The Term 3 sports on offer are Basketball, Rugby League and Tennis.

Please note that numbers are limited in each of these sports and that boys are only able to participate in one Term 3 AIC team sport.

Trial details will be published on the Parent Orbit App.

Boys may also choose to participate in track & field, boys of all abilities are welcome to attend track training sessions.

Basketball – Maximum 40 boys / grade

Uniform: Marist Basketball singlet, Marist Sport shorts & blue Marist Sport socks

Fixtures Friday evening.

Training twice / week.

Tennis – Maximum 8 boys / grade

Uniform: Marist Tennis polo, Marist Tennis shorts & white Marist Sport socks

Fixtures Saturday morning – please be aware that there may be Friday evening fixtures in 2025

Training twice / week.

Rugby League – Maximum 30 boys Year 5 and 34 boys Year 6

Uniform: Marist rugby league jersey, Marist rugby shorts & Marist team sport socks

Fixtures Saturday morning.

Training twice / week.

Track & Field

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, August 28
• Wednesday, September 3
• 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

Track and Field training begins in Term 3, T&F training is twice a week.

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 2 AIC Sport

Rugby

Football

Chess

AIC Chess – Round 4 vs St Laurence’s College

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.