Aquinas College in Salter Point, Western Australia, Australia | School

Aquinas College

Locality: Salter Point, Western Australia, Australia

Phone: +61 8 9450 0600

Address: 58 Mount Henry Road 6152 Salter Point, WA, Australia

Website: http://www.aquinas.wa.edu.au

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25.01.2022 It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! Last week, Senior School English and RE students visited Junior School to share the books they had produced. Each book dived into the religious celebrations of Christmas. They then engaged in a Christmas themed craft activity.

25.01.2022 Year 11 Economy students were lucky enough to attend the State of the Economy Lunch last week, presented by Business News. The topic on the agenda? How should WA best position itself to progress an economic agenda of jobs, growth, trade and business diversification as the global economic outlook improves? The boys were treated to a delicious lunch and fascinating presentations and discussions by Bankwest Executive General Manager Sinead Taylor, Business News 40Under40 First A...mongst Equals winner Rachel Ferguson, Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre Director Alan Duncan, Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre researchers Daniel Kiely and Silver Salazar and Aquinas Alumni, Treasurer; Minister for Finance; Aboriginal Affairs; and Lands, the Hon. Ben Wyatt MLA. As the youngest in the room, the boys were asked to get the event trending online. Something the boys managed to succeed in doing - much to the pride of Ms Ramsay, our Media Officer, who has been mentoring a few of the boys in social media marketing. Business News photographer Matt Jelonek

24.01.2022 On this episode of AC TV, the team dive into the Boarder's Ball, AC Athletics Carnival and Battle of the Bands contest.

24.01.2022 The College was represented in the State Final Model United Nations Debate at the Constitutional Centre of WA. Ewan Wallace and Naveen Nimalan represented the United Kingdom in debating a motion that they had to research prior to the debate. Whilst they did not win overall, their performance was recognised on the day. Well done boys, you did us proud. Congratulations to all those boys who had participated in earlier rounds of debate aswell.

24.01.2022 There's nothing we love more than seeing our boys achieving great things! Congratulations to RJ Malicevic for earning himself a place in the prestigious 2020 Indigenous Australian Engineering Program at Curtin University.

23.01.2022 You may have noticed a little extra colour (and glitter) around the school as of late. That's courtesy of our Student Wellbeing Council. Determined to end this crazy year on an up note, the Council challenged all College staff to decorate their doors and areas for the holiday. The simple callout led to some serious competition and creativity across the school. Winners will be announced later this week. For now, enjoy this little video put together by the canteen staff.

23.01.2022 The Sustainability Council will be holding a Sausage Sizzle on Wk8 Wednesday (2nd of December) with a sustainable twist. You can purchase a hot dog or soft drink for $2 each OR... When you bring in 10 bottles/cans/containers, containing the ‘10c refund at collection depot’ label. We will hand you a free soft drink! And if you bring in 20 bottles/cans/containers, we will give you a free hot dog. Happening in Break B of Wednesday Wk 8. Better start collecting now!

23.01.2022 Alumni Spotlight Christian Di Virgilio graduated in 2016 and dived straight into a Bachelor of Commerce, majoring in Accounting and Finance. After a year of studies, Christian realised this path wasn't for him, so he took a year off. During his gap year, Christian worked at a camp in upstate New York with under-privileged boys, road-tripped across America and popped over to the UK and Ireland. "I had the best time ever and I came back to Perth feeling so fresh and buzzing wit...h energy to go and do more things for myself." Upon his return to Australia, Christian decided to focus on his photography creating his own brand, selling canvas prints and offering aerial photographic services. This 'hobby' sparked an interest in advertising and saw Christian return to university to undertake a degree in it. A student at Aquinas since grade 4, Christian has "too many fantastic memories" from his time, but, "if there is one particular memory, it's playing mature and controllable jokes and pranks on my math teacher Mr Bolitho. He loved our pranks and was still able to control the class after our laughs were over." "Looking back, I think one of the biggest things that stuck for me was Mr Males teaching us the whole idea behind, "Think before you act". Of course, you can just hear this and think, "yeah whatever", but it can and does mean so much more and can be applied to every situation throughout your life." To current students, Christian urges you to accept every opportunity, because you never know where they will lead you. "Declining something, even if it's not really of interest you, may result in the possibility not of meeting someone or seeing something great, which may further develop your future opportunities and career. It might be hard to say yes all the time, but trust me it's worth it."

23.01.2022 Starlight, star bright. It was great to have the crew from Astronomy Education Services come out and share their love of the stars with our Year 3 class, their parents and siblings. No UFOs were spotted but a lot of fun was had!

22.01.2022 Old Aquinians & Friends’ Reunion Tour Thank you to the Old Aquinians & Friends’ Reunion Tour Group for helping more boys to receive the benefits of an Aquinas College education. Over the past 14 years (2020 excluded due to Covid-19), this intrepid group has travelled throughout our beautiful Western Australia, raising an incredible $57,000 for the Aquinas College Bursary Program along the way. Every January, the College hosts a luncheon for the group to personally thank them for their support. Anyone interested in joining the group’s next adventure should contact Jack Bana (‘54) on 9275 2883 or [email protected]

22.01.2022 Shout-out to everyone who took part in Odd Socks Day the other week! It was a crazy and colourful event and you helped raise $517.36 for Beyond Blue

21.01.2022 Anita Reilly is an Inclusive Practice Coordinator and English teacher. She can often be found in the library, enjoying the cozy atmosphere with her classes. Originally hailing from Victoria, Ms Reilly worked in Oil and Gas before becoming a teacher. She says that her favourite part of working at Aquinas is watching the boys she works with develop confidence.

21.01.2022 Missing the PSA Athletics today? You can live stream the event here - https://youtu.be/j5nLBEfBZsA

21.01.2022 "When we did the Advocacy Presentations last year, my group did the effect of plastic on the oceans. I decided I wanted to put my service time towards helping this important cause. I contacted Sea Shepherd Perth and began attending the Beach Clean Up days. Sea Shepherd is a marine conservation organisation that campaigns to defend, conserve, and protect marine life and oceans. I have helped Sea Shepherd clean up lots of our coastline, including Bathers Beach, South Beach, Poi...nt Walter, and Leighton Beach. I find lots of different types of rubbish, but mostly plastic items. Finding so many plastic items at the beach demonstrates that even though these items might claim to be recyclable, they can break up into smaller and smaller pieces and potentially causing harm to marine environments and wildlife. I feel proud to be a part of caring for our coastline and helping the Sea Shepherd team." - Matty Gilkison, Yr 9

20.01.2022 Alumni Feature Normally we write these features from an online interview with our graduates, but Lennox Saint of the class of 2015 has such a way with words, we thought we'd let him take it from here. "After getting 17% in my year 10 maths exam I figured I best stick to English and humanities. That’s what I did in years 11 and 12, and not much has changed since (except my HECS debt). I finished a Bachelor of Arts in 2018 and am currently in my second last year of UWA’s postgr...aduate law degree, the Juris Doctor. Aside from studying, the last five years have involved an awesome exchange program in Sweden, pressing juice with some mates from AC and tutoring a bunch of high school kids in English (excuse the shameless plug). I’m not too sure what’s in store for me post 2021, but, like my enlightening experience in year 10 maths, I do have a few ideas about what I don’t want to do. My time at Aquinas represents almost half of my existence, so, thankfully, there are plenty of fond memories to choose from. The most rewarding of those was undoubtedly my time on the Philippines Immersion Program in 2014. If you want to properly understand why everyone tells you that you’re lucky to go to a school like Aquinas (and live in a place like WA for that matter), I couldn’t recommend a better experience. A lesson that I've really held on to is, 'Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind.' - Henry James. A huge shoutout to Ms Bevan’s 2008 year 5 class for that one; it has stuck with me to this day. General advice to current students: Learn how to find time now so you don’t lose it later. Specific advice to students leading into exams: ‘It has been my observation that most people get ahead during the time that others waste.’ - Henry Ford. I posted this quote on my bedroom wall in year 12 and found that it was a great source of motivation."

20.01.2022 For 16 days in November and December, the community is invited to take a part in a major effort to encourage change to stop violence against women. The annual 16 Days in WA Stop Violence Against Women campaign takes place from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, which is Human Rights Day. Aquinas students stepped up. We encourage you to step up too.

20.01.2022 I feel proud and lucky to have attended boarding school. I think about other boys in my family and hope that they will have the same opportunities. AIEF Graduate Lachlan made lifelong friends during his time at Aquinas College and the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation - AIEF. Read more here: https://bit.ly/339g4WK #ChangingTheNation #IndigenousEducation

18.01.2022 Over the past term, many of our boys have been taking part in INSTEP (Innovative Skills, Training and Education Program) - an out-of-school structured work placement program that allows students to get hands-on experience in the workforce. By participating, students gain experience and recognition in their industry of choice, as well as points towards TAFE certifications. Pictured are: Taylan Aliveski at Wakemaker Marine Dylan Parker at Wade Fleet Maintenance ... Dylan Mahney at Custom Quip Engineering Matthew Cashmore at 4 x 4 Mechanic Liam Cunning at Aerojacks See more

16.01.2022 Breaking news! He's been keeping quiet, but we found out that today is Br Clery's 84th birthday! Happy birthday!!!

16.01.2022 What's better than cookies? Cookies with a cause. As part of completing the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, Year 9 student Jack Sheppard decided to bake some cookies. The profits from these cookies were donated to St Batholomew's House, a place that provides safe, supported accommodation and services to people who need it the most, regardless of background, age, gender or ethnicity. To sell these cookies Jack created an online shop. The marketing of this shop earned him 20...0 orders! Instead of taking a break over exeat weekend, Jack spent the time baking, packing and delivering these orders. In total, he raised $1,844 for St Bart's.

16.01.2022 Interested in attending Junior School in 2021? We may have a few extra spaces available. Register your interest at [email protected] by 4th December.

15.01.2022 As a Year 11 student, Caleb has his sights set on his future. Learning about things he cares about is his priority.

14.01.2022 Introducing Ashayla Ramsay, or the photo lady as some members of our Junior School have taken to calling her. Ms Ramsay came to the College not long after we returned from that COVID ‘homeschooling’ period. A self-confessed geek, she serves as our Media and Communications Officer - the person behind the majority of photos, videos, social media etc. You can usually find her running around the College with her camera in hand and giant sunnies on her face - or anywhere there'...s food (seriously, some of the staff have caught on to the fact that she'll prioritise locations based on food being on offer). Ms Ramsay is a firm believer that there's a cup of tea for every situation and that a cup of tea will fix anything that ails you. She loves to travel, her cat, playing board games and snapping pictures of basically anything. A little known fact about Ms Ramsay is that she worked as a children’s entertainer for a few years and knows all the words to every Frozen song. To this day she regularly volunteers for mental health and children based charities, even making visits to the children's hospital. She's also the staff member behind the Student Wellbeing Council and is mentoring a few students in the way of media and content creation.

14.01.2022 That's Bronze for Yr 5 student Eli Hickman in last weekend's state swimming championship. Eli placed 3rd in his division for the 200m backstroke. Well done, Eli! We want to share your son's wins, both in school and out. Remember to pop an email through to your head of year or house with their achievements.

13.01.2022 Though Salter Point is mostly bushland, with plenty of trees, flora and fauna to gaze at, it is now home to a rather special tree. The Blue Tree stands as an important message to all that pass that its okay to not be okay. The Blue Tree Project, originally inspired by Jayden Whyte of outback WA, hit close to home to students at Aquinas College and encouraged them to act. Instead of removing a dead tree situated outside the Colleges boarding facilities, the schools Wellbein...g Council worked with the Grounds and Maintenance department to turn it into a symbol of hope and remembrance. Brotherhood and community are of core focus in the school, particularly in boarding, so the team of students opted to add a secondary element to the famous project hands of those who participated. Mental health issues are isolating and its hard to remember that there is support available, Year 12 student Jarvis Pickering, the driving force for the project, stated, the hands are to remind people that theyre not alone. While students like Jarvis may soon be graduating, their legacy lives on with the project sparking further trees to be scouted with the aim of painting, alongside discussions throughout the school on the topic of mental health. Stay tuned for details of the second tree to be painted in Term 4.

12.01.2022 During our 126 years, Aquinas College has benefitted from the generosity of countless benefactors who have bequeathed legacies to the College, shaping the school we see and experience today. We would like to sincerely thank all those members of our community past and present who have thought about Aquinas and given our students a lasting gift. Find out how you can include Aquinas College in your Will via our website - https://www.aquinas.wa.edu.au/giving/gift-in-your-will/

12.01.2022 It's Sausage Sizzle Day! Remember, you can purchase a hot dog or soft drink for $2 each OR... Bring in 10 bottles/cans/containers, containing the ‘10c refund at collection depot’ label and receive a free soft drink! 20 bottles/cans/container lands you a free hot dog. Break B today!

12.01.2022 This term an ambitious and determined cohort of Year 11s began their uniPATH journey by completing the Research Methods and Skills unit at The University of Notre Dame Australia. Whilst the unit was designed to have a skills focus to prepare students for their uniPATH pathways either at Notre Dame or UWA, students used the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a basis for a presentation delivered on campus at Fremantle and the submission of their final project. Unde...r the guidance of Richard King, lecturer, journalist and author, a highlight of the unit were the 10 minute presentations prepared and delivered by the students today. All of the presentations were exceptional in their quality. As a snapshot of the 19 presentations, some of the goals discussed included: Michael O’Sullivan - Gender Equality and empowerment of all women and girls. Michael framed the international importance of empowering a greater percentage of women in strategic decision making positions in significant economic, political and public settings. Jacob White - Deforestation and Land Degradation in Brazil. Jacob articulated the reasons behind the lack of progress under Brazil’s current leader Jair Bolsonaro’s towards eliminating the rate of deforestation in Brazil by 2020. He explained the optimistic outlook associated with the recent United States election result to potentially amend the recent approach towards this important goal. Alec Jorgensen - Conserve and Sustainably use the Oceans, Sea and Marine Resources for Sustainable Development. Whilst addressing the ecological, environmental and economical impact of our engagement with the worlds marine environments, interestingly Alec explored the potential benefits of reduced human activity associated by behavioural changes to defend against COVID-19 on global and local CO2 and ocean acidification. This uniPATH enrichment opportunity stretched these young men to grow in a supportive tertiary environment, helping them to reimagine their boundaries and the possibilities that are available to them. As a College, we are so proud of this cohort of students. They have demonstrated intellect, determination and maturity well beyond their years.

12.01.2022 This morning, the College was proud to host members of the Cowcher family, in honour of the late Geoff Cowcher (56). After his passing, Geoff left a portion of his estate to the College to allow Indigenous students the opportunity to attend. This is not the only legacy he left to the College. Geoff was followed by a further three generations of Aquinians (himself being the second generation to attend, five generations to date, dating back to the birth of William Cowcher in 1...898), with some still attending the College today. Justice Eric M Heenan, Patron of the Veritas Society stated in a letter to the family, read on his behalf by Virginia Eastman, Traditions like that are very important. They exemplify social stability, endurance, success over inevitable hardships and difficulties, the vital and important task of application, succession and confidence in the emerging generations to carry on. That strengthens all members of the wider family and encourages other observers by example. Of the generous donation to assist Indigenous students, Justice Eric M Heenan said, That all at the College know that they have this network of support from many families spread all over the State and beyond helps to validate their efforts and, in equal measure, the families and the donors rightly feel that they continue to be important members of the Aquinas family who are always welcome and whose actions are a positive force in the life of the College. Principal David McFadden and the College thank the Cowcher family for their continuing loyalty and support of Aquinas.

11.01.2022 Alumni Spotlight Some people knew from a young age what they wanted to be when they grew up, 2006 graduate Josh Gammon-Carson was one of them. After working in business development for a few years after graduating, Josh decided to follow his dream and enlist in the Western Australia Police Force. A star-studded career, Josh has worked with the Perth Detectives Office, running an operation targeting juvenile offenders - finding ways to divert young people away from crime and t...he court system - and has also been nominated for the WA Police Officer of the Year ('19). Outside of the Police Force, Josh is a part of Volunteer Marine Rescue Western Australia and even earned himself a nomination for Australian of the Year ('12), making it to the level of local finalist, and a medal for service from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services WA. If that wasn't enough, he was also a baton bearer for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, carrying the baton from Rottnest Island to Fremantle. This passion for service was strong during his years as an Aquinas student. In Year 11, Josh was an integral part of a program that saw him and other students taking those affected by cerebral palsy to football and soccer games. Even now he remembers something Brother Cleary said to him and the other students, "if everyone did one small thing to give back to the community the world would be a better place." It should come as no suprise that, when asked what advice he'd give current students, he said, "don't be selfish in life. Being an Aquinian is an absolute privilege and, as Aquinians we have the ability to help people every single day, even if its something simple, that can really change someones week and might be something they never forget."

10.01.2022 If youre ever near The Castle and hear singing, its either Hugh or his choir. Hugh Lydon is the Schola Choir master. When hes not conducting the choir of angels, hes usually singing himself, or whistling, or making music of some kind. If you didnt recognise him for that, you may recognise him around campus for his brightly coloured choice in pants. Originally from England, Mr Lydon has been involved with music since he was 8 years old - he even got to perform with the Rolling Stones! If thats not cool enough Mr Lydon has a bunch of pet chickens, all named after wizards.

09.01.2022 Shout out to Year 11 student Jack Cleaver for his recent debut in the State 16's Football squad! And to: Logan McDonald ('19), Connor McPartland ('18), Finn Gorringe ('19), Jaiden Hunter ('19) and current Year 11 student Lachlan Turley for being selected for the 2020 Simply Energy WA U18s squad. Show them how Aquinians do it, boys.

09.01.2022 JS students showed off their acting, singing, dancing and public speaking talents at their Christmas Liturgy earlier this week. We're not sure who was prouder, the teachers or the parents.

08.01.2022 2nd place in the PSA Athletics Competition. What an amazing day! Our boys truly pushed themselves and performed admirably. Each and every one should be so proud, because we certainly are.

08.01.2022 As part of the Odyssey Program, Year 9 students undertake a hike and camping trip across New Norcia. Here's a quick video of one groups trek.

08.01.2022 To all our Year 12 students. We can't begin to tell you Just how loved you are We can't believe how time has flown... And how you've come so far Forgive us when we stop and stare And tears fall from our eyes Time flew by so quickly Sure took us by surprise We asked you to stay little To always be our baby You said, "I'll try to if I can, but, I'll have to grow up...maybe." Now here you stand before us A respectful, honest man Strong-willed and determined Who always says, "I can" We flip though all your notes and cards And pictures that you drew Recall your quips and humor 'Unique', dear son, that's you! There are no doubts within our minds That you'll indeed succeed Your future holds so much in store But 'that smile' is all you need You've always been so gentle, So loving, kind and giving Having you as our son, Is another term for 'living' No matter where life leads you No matter what you do We'll always be your biggest fans And we'll be here for you. - Judy Muldowney

08.01.2022 What happens when you fill a room with Year 2 and Year 3 string musicians? Sweet, sweet tunes, that's what. Could these be our cutest Morning Melody perfomers ever?

07.01.2022 What team?! Perth Wildcats! 2015 graduate Corey Shervill was recently signed to the Perth Wildcats as a development player for the 2020/21 NBL Season. Corey played three years of college basketball in the United States at St Edward’s University, before returning to Perth this year.... Best of luck Corey!

05.01.2022 A reminder that all Middle School Leader Applications are due on Monday 14th!

05.01.2022 At the end of Term 2, Junior School students took part in a pyjama day to raise funds for LifeLink. In total, the Junior School raised $942.35 - a phenomenal effort. As part of participating this year, students were asked to create a three-part video that introduced their school, showed their LifeLink day activity and discussed one of the many projects to which funds are donated to. The Junior School Student Leaders relished the task and wrote, produced and directed the following video, with the aid of our Media Officer Ms Ramsay.

05.01.2022 We have word of another Aquinian swimming superstar. Year 4 student Matthew Trueman is going to have to work on those neck muscles to hold up all 6 medals he earned at the State Short Course Swimming Championship! He won Gold for the 100m individual medley, Silvers for the 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle, 50m butterfly and 4x50m boys relay and a Bronze for the 100m backstroke. Well done Matthew!

05.01.2022 As part of the MS co-curricular program, students took part in creating their own news program. Students spent one session a week of the term writing, filming and editing a news piece of their choice. Tune into AC News.

04.01.2022 Winter season is over for many of our sporting teams. It was a killer of a season from all accounts. Today, we're calling out the First X1 Soccer/Football team, finishing in second place overall in the PSA comp. Well done boys!

03.01.2022 Catholic schools bear a responsibility to nurture within students an understanding of injustices and the processes and skills of advocacy needed to bring about positive change in the world. We are also entrusted to provide students with opportunities to develop 21st Century learning skills. To meet our responsibilities as Catholic educators Aquinas College created a Year 8 project for their Character Education Curriculum. Students looked through the lenses of Catholic Social... Teachings, Laudato si and the Edmund Rice Touchstones to produce an engaging presentation for family members to learn about injustices in the world and open their eyes to possible solutions. This presentation has been entered into the Quality Catholic Education Awards. While Award winners will be chosen by a panel of judges and announced on Friday, 16 October, the People's Choice award is open for voting now and gives all members and friends of CEWA school communities the opportunity to have their say in the awards. Please click the link and vote for our boys.

01.01.2022 Year 9 students are in for a treat tomorrow. Author, adventurer and filmmaker Tim Cope will be popping in (remotely that is) to discuss his new book, "Tim and Tigon" - the tale of his travels along the 10,000km trek from Mongolia to Hungary.

01.01.2022 Stephen Spiteri is our next Staff Showcase superstar. Tutor of Yr 7 Edmund West and RE teacher, Stephen is known as being 'the big guy with the beard' (his words). If you've ever saw the Aussie movie "Thunderstruck", you would have seen him popping up in the background. As a bit of a gym junkie, lover of classic bands like Weezer and Metallica and games like FFG's X-Wing, Mr Spiteri doesn't quite fit the stereotype of an RE teacher, but his love of Christ is evident as he shares the word with his students. A family tradition, Mr Spiteri takes the opportunity to find each boy named for a saint on that saint's particular feast day.