黄色十大软件

Covid-19 Update

You would be aware that our public health officials are reporting that a new wave of COVID-19 is emerging and that rates of infection are rising quite rapidly (and you probably know someone who is currently suffering from the virus as it is becoming more prevalent).  

It is strongly recommended that students:

• who test positive for COVID-19 should stay home and isolate for five days.
• should not attend school after five days if still symptomatic.
• who are symptomatic but have not tested positive should not attend school.

A reminder that face masks and RATs continue to be recommended as the best way to prevent exposure and spread of the virus and are available upon request at the Student Offices. The Department of Health recommends that masks should be worn by a person who is a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 when leaving home. Additionally, the department recommends that masks should be worn by a person who has COVID-19 for 10 days after a positive test when they need to leave home.

We are required to notify MACS of COVID-19 positive cases at the College, although we are no longer required to report these to our community. Please contact Mrs Suzanne Fernandes on 9259 3043 or deputyprincipal@aquinas.vic.edu.au to report positive student cases.

Valedictory Dinner

Our graduating class gathers for the final time this evening for their formal farewell from the College. There will be 127 families at the Valedictory Dinner whose youngest or only child is graduating and I want to acknowledge these families and thank them for choosing 黄色十大软件. Thank you, also, to Mrs Liz Grierson who has coordinated this event with support from the Year 12 Leaders and the team at the Pullman Albert Park.

Year 11 Formal

Year 11 students will get an opportunity to gather to celebrate the end of the year with a Formal on Tuesday evening. This event will be conducted at Leonda By The Yarra. Thank you to the Year 11 Leaders and Mrs Grierson for coordinating this evening.

St Mary鈥檚 Graduation 

It was a pleasure to join the families, students and staff yesterday to celebrate the graduation of our St Mary鈥檚 for the Deaf (Aquinas Campus) students - Tahlia Cooper, Taylor Murray, Hayley Edgar and Sam Armstrong. We are offered a valuable insight into the challenges posed by profound deafness and the resilience required of our young people and their support network to achieve this milestone.

Aquinas School Advisory Council Meeting

The last meeting of the School Advisory Council for the year was held on Tuesday evening. Mr Chris Leahy presented the Annual Report and thanked Mr James Burston and Mrs Angela Jordan for their service as they leave the SAC. Mr Leahy reported that it has been a very productive year with a strong focus around our Annual Action Plan and the planned redevelopment of the tennis courts. In response to feedback from our communication survey, it has been decided that the SIMON Everywhere app will be introduced at the College. 

Commencement Dates for 2023

Monday, January 23- Main Office opens

Friday, January 27- Senior and Middle Years Office opens, Teaching Staff commence.

Tuesday, January 31- Year 7 New Families. Information Evening

Wednesday, February 1- Year 7 and Year 12. Commence

Thursday, February 2- All Students Return.

Term Dates 2023 - Students

Term 1: Thursday, February 2 (Feb 1 Year 12 & 7) to Thursday, April 6.

Term 2: Monday, April 24 (Parent/Teacher Interviews - no classes) to Friday, June 23.

Term 3: Tuesday, July 11 to Friday, September 15.

Term 4: Tuesday, October 3 to Tuesday, December 5.

Darren Atkinson
Principal

Sense of achievement

As we approach the end of the year for Year 7-10 students, there are many tasks to complete, sometimes without the necessary impetus to meet deadlines and goals. I wanted to share with you a way of chunking the task and the time so that getting things done is possible. It's called the Pomodoro Technique. It's from the 80s and was developed by Francesco Cirillo. Even though it is from the 80s, part of its strength is that it understands we can be distracted from immediate tasks. It almost foresees a world of notifications, pop ups and alerts. Before you begin, you need to know the tasks you want to complete and a timer. The technique is predicated on devoting absolute attention on the task at hand for a limited time. While a timer that is not a phone or computer is probably preferable, a phone on flight mode (no notifications) will suffice. After that, it is quite simple.

1. Identify a task or tasks that you need to complete.
2. Set a timer for 25 minutes.
3. Work on a task with no distractions.
4. When the alarm sounds, take a five minute break.

This is called a Pomodoro. If your child is only beginning this process of focusing, one Pomodoro might be enough, but eventually you would be trying to add the following steps:

• Repeat the process three more times.
• Take a longer 30 minute break and start again.

It means that any focused concentration is only 25 minutes, tasks are completed, and there is a sense of achievement. It helps that the time and the task is clearly defined. For more clarification, there is a wealth of information online, so use the search terms 'Pomodoro Technique.'

PS: It works for getting the cleaning, washing and other household chores done as well!

Michael Box
Deputy Principal Learning

An opportunity to reflect

It is great to see so many of our students continue to make the most of the opportunities on offer at the College. As another academic year comes to a close, it was great to witness the way in which our Class of 2022, the Year 12 students, ended their classes and formal time at the College, and while most continued to study in preparation for their exams, they all achieved great success by graduating in such a moving manner. In their example to the rest of the College, they leave a legacy. The impact of the last three years while living with the pandemic cannot be ignored, but it was the way in which, despite the constraints, they managed to overcome the challenges that makes their example as a cohort remarkable.

Each year level is about to end their journey and a new start will await after the school holidays. In the lead up to their end of school, I suggest that you make time to reflect with your child what has been gained from the year. There is no doubt that for many, the challenges of returning to face to face learning has led to further challenges, but I am optimistic that 2023 will be yet another opportunity to continue to grow and learn from the many experiences they will face as they are promoted to the next year level. All the best in your conversations with your child as you reflect on their progress. 

This month on SchoolTV - Bullying

Bullying is an ongoing or repeated misuse of power in relationships, with the intention to cause deliberate psychological harm. Bullying behaviours can be verbal, physical or social. It can happen in person or online, via various digital platforms and devices and it can be obvious or hidden. Bullying in any form or for any reason can have immediate, medium and long-term effects on those involved, including bystanders.

Despite the efforts made to reduce bullying behaviours, the research tells us that one in four students still report being bullied every few weeks. However, not all negative behaviour should be considered bullying. The key difference is that bullying does not stop on its own. It鈥檚 important young people learn how to identify behaviours that are rude, behaviours that are mean, and behaviours that are related to bullying.

Often the reasons for bullying can be complex. Some young people do it to get approval from others, some do it to regain control, whilst others may do it because it makes them feel safe. Supporting young people as they work through their emotions will help them unpack the motivation and reason behind the behaviour.

In this edition of SchoolTV, caregivers can better understand why some young people engage in bullying behaviours and what to do to support a child experiencing it. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month鈥檚 edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

The link to this month's edition can be found

Nap Rodezno
Deputy Principal

We remember

Recently, my son has shown increasing interest in our family history. He received a DNA kit, and since receiving his results, has enjoyed exploring connections online. Family trees have been a strong interest in my family and there is a massive family tree which my son is yet to see. As he finds a name he thinks is linked to our family, he would show me to see if it is correct. It has been a wonderful time reflecting on those who have passed and sharing stories of these people. It is drawing other family members into the conversation; into storytelling.

November is a time of remembrance for both our faith and our community. We start the month with All Saints Day and All Souls Day where we pray for those who have passed. This reflection continues all month, with parish memorial walls set up in their foyers so that the community can remember together. It is a wonderful opportunity, like for my son and I, to reflect on happy memories and funny stories.

We also take time on the 11th to remember those who died during wars. The anniversary of Armistice Day, for what we hoped would be the 鈥渨ar to end all wars." Unfortunately we are still waiting, praying, for world peace.

Throughout this month, I wish you all happy memories and funny stories about your loved ones who have died. 

Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the soul of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

Tania Grace
Assistant Principal Mission

Senior Years Report

This week marks the conclusion of the VCE exams. Communications will follow regarding student results and change of preference period. Our Graduation Ceremony and Celebrations Day enabled the College to acknowledge and farewell all students prior to the external exam period. We now look forward to our final celebration with the 2022 graduating cohort and their families at the Valedictory Dinner tonight. 

Year 11 students have also completed their final semester exams and have started Transition Week. Year 12 Transition formally initiates students into the expectations and requirements of Year 12. Students will also begin engaging in their learning. Parents are warmly invited to the Parent Information Evening, Monday, November 21. Please refer to the email sent to families today via the Registrar email address. We'll join with the year level on Tuesday to celebrate the end of their year at the Year 11 formal.

Year 10 students are beginning to follow their individual pathways. For the majority of Year 10 students, they are completing their final assessments and beginning their exam preparation. VCEReady students will be attending their individual Year 12 Transition classes next week. These students will be able to catch up on any missed Year 10 work during timetabled study periods in the ARC. VCE VM 2023 students have been communicated with via their Level Leaders, Ms Weltner and Mr Watkins, as well as Pathways Coordinator Mrs McLaughlin, regarding satisfactorily completing Year 10 coursework and initiating work experience. Any questions regarding these individual pathways, please contact the Year 10 Level Leaders.

Rachel Crawley
Head Senior Years

Middle Years Report

Learning how to get along with other people is a key part of life at school. In the Middle School, we work hard to teach and encourage good skills and understanding in this area, as well as working to tackle issues relating to disrespect of peers, unhelpful talk, bullying, and the misuse of social media.

We all have a part to play; every student, every teacher, every sibling, and every parent, in helping our students to be positive influences in the world, so that the school environment is a safe space for everyone.

I am buoyed by the conversations I have with many parents about the education they give to their own children in this field. Discussions they have with their children about inappropriate ways of communicating online, restrictions around screen time, how to deal with students that aren鈥檛 getting along with their child, how to diffuse conflict, and seeing the other side of the story even when their child has been affected. I see students who make great decisions around inclusivity and acceptance of others, standing up when they see injustice among their peers, preparedness to be themselves, positive communication with their peers, and the excellent influence and leadership they show in this space.

I certainly do not write this with any specific incident or person in mind. It is directed at no one specifically and all of us generally. In his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul realises that people are struggling or grieving and need uplifting. His words nearly 2000 years ago hold equally as much weight now.

鈥淪o speak encouraging words to one another. Build up hope so you鈥檒l all be together in this, no one left out, no one left behind. I know you鈥檙e already doing this; just keep on doing it.鈥�- 1 Thessalonians 5:11

For those who are interested in the many ways we consistently educate and endeavour to send strong messages around good connections with others and how we challenge negative behaviours, here are some of the things we have done this year.

Students have engaged with external groups that explore the skills we need to cope with life鈥檚 challenges and build meaningful connections, as well as provide strategies for resilience, help-seeking, online safety and positive relationships. We have invited organisations in to work with our students on emotional regulation, reducing social anxiety and increasing self-worth. We had a speaker address students, and parents, on Cybersecurity and Digital Discernment.

We have included a pastoral period this year that is aimed at building stronger connections among students in their homeroom. During these times, we have had class meetings which aimed to address some of these issues. We have also completed units on Respectful and Changing Relationships in Year 7- 8 health classes and smaller units on this topic in our Thursday morning pastoral time. 

We have also had whole year level assemblies addressing what strong culture is (online or face to face.) The message we continue to try and educate our students with is that a good culture means:

路  Acceptance of all regardless of race, gender, sexuality, appearance, disability or religion. People are encouraged to be themselves.

路  An environment where people are encouraged and supported by their peers to speak up when they need help. 

路  An environment where those doing the wrong thing are looked down upon by their peers and their behaviour is called out, not elevated and celebrated for their ability to drag others down.

路  That all of the above cannot be undone by simply saying 鈥渋t was just a joke鈥� or 鈥渨e鈥檙e mates so it doesn鈥檛 matter."

We are sending the message continuously to our students that 鈥楩rom (Seemingly) Little Things, Big Things Grow鈥� and speaking about others behind their back negatively, spreading rumours, or attempting to turn others against someone because of your own dislike for that person, can be very damaging, and as we know, can be contagious.

We showed the video clip from  not necessarily to show the worst of the potential outcomes of this behaviour, but to demonstrate how easy it can be to fall into this way of behaving, and of course to show the irreversible damage that can be caused and felt by many more than just the victim with our words. We showed students the video to show them that we are not powerless and not to be a bystander to poor behaviour. If they feel they can intervene, great. If they can鈥檛, walk away, but let someone know. We tell them that it is obviously really damaging to join in with the hope of 鈥榝itting in鈥� or to just stand and watch. We continually send our students the message to use words to build others up, not to use them to try and build themselves up by taking little pieces of another person.

Phil Box
Head Middle Years

黄色十大软件 Threatened Species Bake-Off

Students and staff recently used their baking skills to produce a creation that resembles or represents an Australian native threatened species. The wonderful designs have been shared with the college community via Padlet and can be seen pictured above.

Our panel of judges have been deliberating and the results have now been finalized.

Congratulations to our winners:

1st: Pygmy Possum by Claudia Murdoch, Isabelle Green, Eadie White and Kiara Torney from 8 Gold and 8 Blue.

2nd: Whale Shark created by Zoe Clark, 7 Orange.

3rd: Australian Fritillary Butterfly by Gemma Settle, 7 Blue.

4th: Giant panda by Annabel Ireland and Chelsy Lian, 9 Red.

Conference Of the Parties

World leaders have been meeting in Egypt at the Conference of the Parties 27 (COP 27) for the United Nations to negotiate agreements and commitments on action to be taken to address the growing climate crisis and loss of biodiversity.

COP also presents an opportunity for people of faith to join with others in calling for effective action to deal with these immense ecological crises.

The Australian Catholic Bishops Conference Office for Justice, Ecology and Peace has a list of actions you can take to support COP Action to be taken in Australia, for our Indigenous community and our region of the world. They can be found .

Frog Census- Citizen Scientist

During August, October, November and April you can get involved in frogging! Frogs are an excellent environmental indicator species. Melbourne Water is encouraging everyone to participate and record frog calls in their local area. It is as simple as downloading the app or uploading recordings of frog calls to the Melbourne Water website. More information can be found .

Karyn Myers
Environment & Sustainability Coordinator

Aquinas' budding scientists were awarded for their efforts during the recent online Science Talent Search Awards Ceremony.

Year 9 students Caitlin Hartley and Gabby Linton were among the award recipients for their research into 'How our heart rate reacts to different stimuli.'

"Gabby's watch has heart rate monitoring and I was just fascinated by it," Caitlin said.

"It just interested both of us," Gabby added.

They admitted timing was of the essence for this particular project.

"We had clips of sounds and about six people came in and had to wear headphones," Caitlin said.

"We monitored their heartrate while they were listening.

"We did it one-on-one and had to get the timing just right."

Year 10 student Monique Bambery also impressed the judges with her experimental research project, 'How does using crushed glass as a fine aggregate replacement affect concrete strength?'

Many hours outside of class time was devoted to the research, in what was Monique's second year experimenting.

"The topic for this year's Science Talent Search was Glass, Different by Design," Monique said.

"I thought it would be cool to use glass as a replacement for the sand in concrete."

The Science Talent Search Award winners were:

MAJOR BURSARY

Monique Bambery- How does using crushed glass as a fine aggregate replacement affect concrete strength?

Josh Bradley and Ben Qi- Sawdust, the sustainable sand of the future.

Priscilla Monewalu- Can coagulation be used to remove the colour of water taken from the Olinda Creek?

MINOR BURSARY

Aysha Mckernan and Nathalia Banocia- How do different scents affect blood pressure?

Lucy Crouch- Does the way we cook affect the amount of vitamin C in our vegetables?

Gabby Linton and Caitlin Hartley- How our heart rate reacts to different stimuli.

Juan Hernandez- Measuring the decrease of the size and amount of bacteria colonies caused by various durations of ultraviolet light exposure.

DISTINCTION

Jade Forder- Blood viscosity and the effect on the size and satellite stains of a blood splatter.

MERIT

Maddie Payne and Emma Fabre- How effective are alcoholic v non-alcoholic hand sanitizers in a school environment?

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Zac Elliott and Tyson Darmody- Cosmic Rays: Their effect on computer hardware and software

Year 9 Future Sciences students were called in to solve the case when they were presented with the scenario "Mr Shim was found dead this morning in the science lab."

The Assessment Task- 'Murder in the Science Department?' required students to identify who committed the murder and the motive behind the act from the three key suspects- Year 9 Leaders Mr Mulholland, Ms Street and Mr Wilson.

The budding forensic scientists were required to take photographs and collect evidence from the mock crime scene and present their findings using a 'Crime Scene Investigation Report,' while also recounting the findings back to the class.

Year 9 student Amelia Budd was among the scientists to get to the bottom of the mystery this week.

"It's really cool, we get to learn things that you wouldn't think you would ever learn in school," Amelia said.

"We're learning about what forms of study they use to detect evidence at crime scenes.

"Sometimes it kind of freaks me out, I don't think I could ever do it for a living, but it's really cool to learn about how they detect evidence and pin it back to a certain person."

It's the first time the hands-on assessment task has been run in the science class.

"You get a whole different experience when you do it like this," Amelia said.

As for who the murderer was... you'll have to ask the students.

Recently our Year 9 Planet Earth and Mars science students worked collaboratively to complete a geological survey of the Mars surface at the Victorian Space Science Education Centre.

Wearing specially-designed spacesuits, they worked as astronauts, mission controllers and research scientists to complete the task. After depressurising in the airlock and stepping out onto the Martian surface, the astronauts collected real soil and rock samples, drilled an ice core, conducted a thermal survey and measured seismic activity. 

Back on Earth, the mission control officers communicated via radio to the astronauts on the surface and were responsible for monitoring their vital signs, equipment, and environmental conditions to ensure success of the scientific mission. Once the astronauts were safely back on Earth, all students worked together to analyse the samples and undertake further scientific investigations in the lab.

Back at school, students have enjoyed designing and building a lander that can protect a fresh egg when it鈥檚 dropped onto a hard surface, making sure they stay within budget. They have also watched the movie The Martian, which explored many of the challenges that the students faced on Mars. 

Kate Chamberlain and Sarah Lochner

Teaching staff

On the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, Year 9 student leaders Ruth Tawng and Lachie Buyck had the opportunity to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives during times of war.

The duo represented 黄色十大软件 at a special Remembrance Day service held at the Ringwood Clocktower, where they joined representatives from neighbouring schools.

Accompanied by Middle Years Leader Mr Box, the students presented a wreath alongside former student Michael Sukkar, while also observing a minutes' silence.

 "It was a really special moment," Lachie said.

"They gave up a lot for us and it was good to pay tribute to them.

"It's good to give back in any way that we can."

Ruth agreed it was a special service to be a part of.

"I don't have any family that went to war, but it was great to see people with all of the badges representing their family that did go to the war," she said.

"We also got to hear some poems and we sang the national anthem."

For the third time, 黄色十大软件 hosted the OETTA (Outer Eastern Hospitality Trade Training Alliance) Interschool Culinary Challenge.

The competition was open to students undertaking Units 1 & 2 in VET Certificate II in Kitchen Operations at Eastern region schools. Students worked in teams of three and were required to cook a main dish and dessert within a specific time frame, using the feature ingredients Chicken Maryland and the native Australian ingredient Strawberry gum.

The Interschool cooking competition aims to test students' organisational skills, teamwork, and ability to work under pressure, as well as assisting them to benchmark themselves against other students. It also allows them to showcase their talents and exposes them to the demands of the industry that they will encounter after the course.

This year 黄色十大软件, Ranges TEC and Belgrave Heights Christian school were involved in the challenge. The competition was filmed by a professional film crew, with a video from the event to be released shortly with further details.

Owen Stott

Director, Wurundjeri Trade Training Centre

Year 12 students made the most of their last days in the classrooms of 黄色十大软件, as they now move on to the next chapters of their lives. Take time to farewell the graduating class of 2022 and relive their last days on campus via our photo gallery.

This was our first year hosting the Gala Ball as Year 10 Level Leaders. It was wonderful to finally offer such a memorable event and celebrate the students. This year we had a black and white formal theme and students spent several weeks at dance practice to prepare for the big night. We were very impressed with their efforts and it was amazing to see them all dressed up for the evening.

The Gala Ball wouldn't be possible without the staff and family members who supported the students. Thank you to all parents, guardians and staff who assisted along the way. It was a wonderfully successful event and we're sure the students will cherish some fond memories and photos. We'd also like to mention to our dance instructors: Rad and Glenn, thank you for your patience and talent. Finally, thank you for the amazing organisation of Liz Grierson and the Parents and Friends Network, led by Edit.

Congratulations to the students and staff and we look forward to hosting more events like this to come. 

Jess Weltner & Scott Watkins

Year 10 leaders

Year 10 students embarked on a day-long retreat on November 7, with each team sent to a different location. While a retreat is about taking time away from your regular day and giving yourself the opportunity to reflect and renew, the theme of our getaway centred around hope. Students had a chance to reflect on their hopes and dreams for themselves as they enter VCE and prepare for their future.

One of the students' key activities was to write a letter to themselves discussing what it was they were hoping for and what they were planning to do to achieve their dreams. These letters have been gathered and stored away for safe keeping until their Year 12 retreat.

Tania Grace

Assistant Principal Mission

On Wednesday, October 12, 8 Dominic headed out to Heathmont Baptist Church for our annual retreat. The torrential rain meant that we needed to take buses rather than enjoy the usual walk up to the church, however, this did not dampen students' spirits as they were very keen for a day off campus to spend some more time together outside of the classroom.

Ian Gould and the Year 11 Faith and Lit students planned every aspect of the day, from the timetabling through to the content being delivered. Attempting to play giant games of rock, paper, scissors with 100 14-year-olds is no small challenge, and yet the Year 11 students did a tremendous job. There were terrific conversations as a whole group and in smaller teams about faith, resilience, social awareness and the value of the human spirit. 

Overall it was a valuable and engaging day for the students, who hopefully took the opportunity to analyse their place within the College as Aquinas students and in the world as global citizens.

Andy Harrison

Year 7 & 8 Dominic Leader

The day was very nice and it was lovely weather for the retreat. We were in mini groups and our group was quite interesting. We were chatting about how we can be stewards of God and stewards of Aquinas. There were three year 11s that ran us through the day and they were dedicated to teaching us and having fun. Their activities were fun and cooperative. It was an overall great experience for us year 8s. 

Garcia Mckrell-Bonacci

Year 8 student

Rice reigned supreme in the pool as Year 7-9 students enjoyed their first swimming carnival since 2019 at Aquanation on Wednesday, November 9.

It was a tight tussle between the victors and second-placed Dominic all day, with the final relays proving to be the difference as MacKillop rounded out the placings.

"Rice was ready to go with heaps of energy from the very start," Year 9 Rice captain Josh Crachi said.

"We were very happy to see the amount of people willing to participate in something they may not be comfortable with.

"A big thanks to Mr Brummell and all of the other teachers who helped coordinate the carnival, and congratulations to all of Rice, keep up the good work!"

Fellow Rice captain Maeve Wilkinson was also thrilled with the result.

"Participation was key, especially for the relays," Maeve said.

"The day was great fun seeing everyone participate and having a good time, but at the end of the day, Rice was the best on the day."

Year 7 and 8 House Leader Elisa Bettiol also congratulated Rice on their efforts.

"Finally we broke the traditional winning streak of MacKillop, with promising signs to come from our competitive swim stars," Elisa said.

"Witnessing the sheer determination and brilliance in the pool was a testament to the students who were present and competed on the day. Commiserations to runners-up Dominic, and MacKillop in third.

"I would also like to extend my congratulations to all the age champions who smashed records and demonstrated their talent in the pool from all houses.

"Thank you to all those in attendance and to those who provided a cheer squad to fuel the experience and celebrate our long-awaited victory!

"What a joy it is to jump and make a huge splash with the 7-9 Rice homeroom teachers to enjoy the celebrations."

Year 8 students Abigail Watson and Ruby Moret were among the determined Rice representatives, with the friends displaying teamwork and a desire to succeed.

Having never tried butterfly before, Ruby received a quick rundown from Abigail before diving in.

鈥淭here鈥檚 some things I don鈥檛 like doing, but I鈥檒l do them anyway so that Rice wins," Ruby said.

In her 18th swimming carnival, staff member Kelly Breazeale, affectionately known as Coach, donned Rice pride in her 鈥榬ed hot鈥� chilli costume.

鈥淚t鈥檚 always fun,鈥� she said.

鈥淭here鈥檚 races that let you have fun in the water and swim with your friends, so I think that makes a big difference.鈥�

Students had the opportunity to compete in 50 metre events in all four strokes, and in 25m events in freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke. Mini games in other sections of the pool were also on offer during the day.

"I like the social time and seeing everyone trying to put in the effort," Year 8 Dominic student Isabelle Bowden said.

Sports coordinator Bernie Brummell thanked all staff and students who attended and helped make the day so special.

"On a beautiful warm day, it was good to see so many of the students in attendance involved in the different activities," he said.

"This was the first opportunity for all students to participate in a carnival at Aquanation and experience the excitement.

"Aquanation is a great venue to hold the carnival, as the centre has a 25m pool available for all events. The purpose of this is to provide more opportunities for the students to swim in many different events."

Congratulations to the following students who were the top three swimmers for each age group:

U/13 GIRLS: 1st Zoe Fabre, 2nd Mikayla Robinson, 3rd Sophia Clinton.

U/14 GIRLS: 1st Zoe Guerin, 2nd Abigail Watson, 3rd Claudia Murdoch.

U/15 GIRLS: 1st Alyssa Martin, 2nd Grace Rider, 3rd Tyra Wu.

U/13 BOYS: 1st Ryan Martin, 2nd Henry Assenberg, 3rd Tom Williams.

U/14 BOYS: 1st Tharwin Prarom, 2nd Tristan Hew, 3rd Jordy Bruton.

U/15 BOYS: 1st Oscar Dubois, 2nd Lachlan Buyck, 3rd Joseph Campbell.

The Aquinas swim squad will commence training for the EISM carnival in February next year on Tuesday and Friday mornings before school at Aquanation in preparation for the event in early March.