The Lion's Roar - 6 June 2025

CONGRATS HAMISH!

One of our Year 8 students, Hamish, recently took part in the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge through our Computer Club - and he achieved a High Distinction!

For those who don’t know, Bebras is a fun and engaging international challenge that encourages computational thinking among students from Years 3 to 12. It’s huge - with over 2.9 million students from 60 countries participating! The challenge is run by the Australian Maths Trust, the same organisation behind the Australian Maths Competition.

The competition consists of 15 questions, including multiple-choice, integer, and interactive problems designed to test problem-solving skills.

Hamish was the only one from our school to opt in, and he did us proud with his fantastic result.

Well done, Hamish!

RUGBY STAR

Well done, Areka, on a fantastic achievement in being selected for the WA U15 Junior Māori Rugby League team!

He travelled to New Zealand to compete in the Rangatahi Tournament at the end of May, and it was wonderful to see Areka represent both the team and his Māori heritage on the international stage. Taking part in his first international tournament was a significant milestone, and his hard work, dedication, and passion for rugby league have clearly paid off.

We can’t wait to hear about his experiences and successes in New Zealand when he returns to school.

Way to go, Areka!

ON COURT CHAMP

Congratulations, Ben in Year 12, on his impressive achievements!

Finishing third with the WA Tennis Team (18 years and under) at the highly competitive 2025 Pizzey Cup Tennis Nationals in Bendigo is a fantastic result, especially coming just behind the strong teams from New South Wales and Victoria.

Additionally, reaching the semi-finals in the WA Men’s Open $5k event at the Royal Kings Park Easter Men’s Championship highlights Ben's determination on the court.

His dedication and hard work are clearly paying off, and we look forward to seeing his continued success in tennis!

CANOE CHAMP

Congratulations to Year 12 student Lachy on his outstanding achievement in being selected to represent Australia at the 2025 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships in September!

Earning a place on the Australian Canoe Marathon Team in the Junior Men’s K2 – Long Course category is a remarkable accomplishment and a reflection of Lachy's dedication, skill, and perseverance. Competing at this level is no small feat, and he should be incredibly proud of reaching such an elite milestone.

We are all thrilled to see him wear the green and gold.

Well done, Lachy!

WAY TO GO, MRS GRAVES!

Check out this fabulous interview from Australian Athletics with our very own dedicated Maths Teacher and integral part of our athletics and cross country coaching teams, Suzi Graves!

Discover more about Suzi’s inspiring story, her coaching philosophy, and the family-like culture she creates for her athletes in this Coaches Corner feature here.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LONG-SERVING STAFF!

We’re proud to celebrate and honour the outstanding dedication and service of three incredible members of our St Mark's and AngliSchools family:

• Joel Martin – 20 years of service, including his time at Georgiana Molloy Anglican School
• Karen Snape – 20 years of service
• Vanessa Birsa – 25 years of service

Their passion, care, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on students, staff, and school communities across the AngliSchools network. We are deeply grateful for their years of loyal service and the difference they continue to make every day.

As part of their HASS unit this term, our Year 1 students were lucky to enjoy a visit from Nicola at Play in the Past. This exciting incursion brought history to life right in our classrooms, with students travelling back in time to explore what life was like for children in the past.

Dressed in charming outfits that reflected the way children used to dress, from suspenders and pinafores to flat caps and vintage-style dresses, our Year 1s looked the part and embraced the experience with great enthusiasm.

Buzzing with curiosity, the incursion gave students a hands-on opportunity to compare, sort and explore items used in communication, education, entertainment and daily life from years gone by. Their eyes lit up with wonder as they experimented with cameras, typewriters, chalkboards and early-style telephones from different decades. Many were fascinated by how much effort it took to make a simple phone call or type a letter in the past, a striking contrast to the technology they use today.

A highlight from Play in the Past was when the students used wooden blocks to build their very own version of the Titanic! This activity sparked lively discussion about transport in the past and gave the children a chance to collaborate, design and create while linking back to their learning in class.

Throughout the day, the students asked thoughtful questions and showed genuine curiosity about how things worked “back then.” There were many moments of laughter, learning and surprise as they compared modern-day items with those from the past. For instance, winding the dial on a rotary phone was a novelty that sparked a lot of interest and amusement.

Play in the Past was a fantastic opportunity to help our Year 1s deepen their understanding of the past in a fun and engaging way. The blend of hands-on exploration, imagination and curiosity made for a memorable learning experience.

A big thank you to Nicola from Play in the Past for bringing history into our classrooms and to our amazing Year 1 team for organising such a special day!

This term in Science, our Year 2 students have been busy exploring the fascinating world of life cycles. Focusing on how living things grow and change, students have investigated the different stages in the life cycles of both plants and animals. Using a combination of observations and class discussions, they’ve built a solid understanding of how seeds develop into plants and how insects and other animals transform over time.

A highlight of this learning journey has been the chance to step outside the classroom and into the St Mark’s sustainability garden. With the guidance of our school gardener, Helen, students have enjoyed the hands-on experience that brings science lessons to life. Whether planting seeds, observing insects or watching plants grow, the garden has offered an exciting and engaging way to connect with nature and reinforce classroom learning.

These real-life encounters have sparked curiosity, encouraged questioning and deepened understanding of the life cycles.

Last Friday, our Years 2 to 5 students had the opportunity to showcase their amazing artwork that they have been busy creating in Art. Walking through the vibrant displays, each piece reflecting the artistic journey and learning that has taken place in the classroom.

The excitement on the students’ faces as they spotted their own artwork was truly heartwarming. For many, it was a proud moment of accomplishment, seeing their creativity celebrated and shared with others. The variety of art on display, tied beautifully into the curriculum, including experimenting with techniques, using materials purposefully and expressing meaning through visual language while also exploring ideas and developing skills in using materials, shape, colour and form.

Details of each year group’s artwork:

• Year 2 students explored the world of expression and design through three unique projects. Inspired by Gary Hirsch’s Botjoy movement, they created miniature robots with special missions such as spreading joy or bravery, using paint, stamps and Posca pens. In their portrait collage project, students studied the bold styles of Picasso and Kimmy Cantrell, creating expressive cardboard masks, adding layers of colour and texture with oil pastels and shiny papers to reflect their individuality and creativity. They also explored colour theory through vibrant fish artworks inspired by Anya Brock, using warm and cool colours to create contrast and playful bubble backgrounds. Their underwater scenes were filled with energy, movement and creativity.
• Year 3 took inspiration from Beth Harcourt, designing quirky birds using papier-mâché and recycled materials. With feathers, buttons and beads, their birds were full of personality and charm, highlighting their skills in form and texture.
• Year 4 students dived into the bold, vibrant style of Pete Cromer to create animal collages. Using Gelli plate prints and layered paper shapes, they explored colour, contrast, and composition in a fun, modern way.
• Year 5 brought Mexican culture into the spotlight with their imaginative Alebrijes, fantastical creatures made from papier-mâché and recycled materials. Their sculptures, bursting with bright painted colours and intricate detail, showed how students combined elements of nature and fantasy to express ideas in three-dimensional form.

Amazing job to all our young artists! Your artwork is not only beautiful but also a true reflection of your learning, imagination, and individuality.

On Wednesday 21 May, our Primary School students joined thousands of others across the country to take part in National Simultaneous Storytime - a fun annual event where students all read the same book at the same time.

This year’s story was The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel, illustrated by Danny Snell. It follows a cat and a truck driver who are separated on their journey, and gently explores themes like identity, starting over, and finding connection. The story can spark conversations about what it means to belong - and how “home” can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places.

Mr Davies read to the delighted students in 1WEL and 2FUS were treated to an expressive reading by Mr Douglas, while Mrs Fransz was joined by Pluto the Story Dog in the library for a special reading with our Kindy students.

National Simultaneous Storytime is a simple but powerful way to remind us how much joy a shared story can bring. Reading together helps build a sense of community and shows students that books aren’t just for learning - they’re for enjoyment too.

Natasha Robertson
Literacy and Numeracy Coach (Primary)

"I Am..." – Year 8 English Extension Step into New Shoes (and Spaces!)

Looking at Things from a Different Perspective

This term, our Year 8 students took a bold step into the world of imaginative writing by stepping into a very unexpected space: the Senior Academic Centre Staff Room.

In a creative twist on the traditional classroom setting, students were invited to write in an environment usually reserved for teachers. Each table was set with a unique object—ranging from the curious to the everyday—and students were asked to observe, sketch, and then write from the perspective of that object. What might a cracked teacup think about its years of service? How does a forgotten book feel, tucked away on a shelf?

This immersive experience was part of the "I Am..." Poetry Task, where students wrote first-person poems from the viewpoint of an object, animal, or person. The goal? To explore empathy, creativity, and voice, core elements of the WA English Curriculum’s focus on imaginative texts and audience engagement.

But the journey doesn’t end there.

Each class will soon present their work, sharing not only their poems but also their reflections and analysis of the writing process. And in a fun finale, the poems will be displayed for staff to read and vote on their favourites. The winning poem will be announced soon, so stay tuned!

As always, our creative minds are hard at work, proving that sometimes, all it takes to see the world differently is to sit in a new seat… and imagine.

The Year 12 Outdoor Education Kayaking Expedition to Walpole was held from Monday 4th May to Thursday 8th May 2025 and marked the first Year 12 expedition for 2025. Set in the stunning Walpole-Nornalup Inlet System, this expedition offered a rich, immersive experience in one of Western Australia’s most pristine natural environments.

A key feature of the expedition was its student-led structure, providing students with the opportunity to take ownership of the experience. They were responsible for navigation, group decision-making, campsite selection and setup, risk management, and leading daily briefings. This approach allowed students to demonstrate leadership, initiative, and effective teamwork in a real-world context.

Throughout the four days, students were challenged to consolidate and apply their outdoor skills, including:

• Advanced flatwater kayaking and route planning
• Low-impact camping and environmental stewardship
• Collaborative leadership and conflict resolution
• Adaptability and resilience in changing conditions

Despite the occasional challenge presented by weather and terrain, the group responded with maturity, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of camaraderie. Staff observed excellent growth in both individual confidence and group cohesion.

The expedition stands as a testament to the value of experiential, student-led learning. It was a fitting conclusion to the Outdoor Education kayaking unit, and we commend the Year 12 students for their commitment, leadership, and spirit.

Sincere thanks to the staff who supported the journey and to the broader school community for continuing to champion Outdoor Education.

Click here to view the video from the expedition

The St Mark’s Old Scholars Salvation Army Great Cook Up made a much-anticipated return in Term 2, 2025, once again showcasing the generosity and heart of the St Mark’s community. Since its beginnings, the Cook Up has become a meaningful tradition, filling the school’s kitchen with the warmth of connection, shared purpose, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals.

The atmosphere was alive with energy as students and parents worked shoulder to shoulder, chopping, stirring, and laughing together. It was a true display of the St Mark’s spirit - welcoming, inclusive, and deeply community-focused. Whether returning participants or first-timers, every family brought their enthusiasm and commitment to serving those in need.

Throughout the afternoon, the team prepared a delicious range of nourishing meals for the Salvation Army. The outcome: eight Bain Maries filled to the brim, equating to approximately 120 generous servings, ready to provide comfort to those experiencing homelessness or hardship over the weekend. These meals do more than satisfy hunger; they offer warmth, dignity, and hope.

A heartfelt thank you goes to every student and parent who gave their time and effort to support the Cook Up. Your compassion truly makes a difference. Brett and the Salvation Army team expressed sincere thanks, acknowledging the vital impact these meals have on the lives of the people they serve.

The Old Scholars' Association also extends special thanks to Mrs Gilham and Mrs Snape from the Food Technology Department for their unwavering support and the use of their kitchens, an essential part of making this event possible.

Since taking the reins in 2021, the Old Scholars' Association has driven the growth and sustainability of the Great Cook Up, cultivating a culture of service and generosity that continues to inspire students, families, and alumni alike.

The Great Cook Up is a reminder of what can be achieved when people come together for a shared cause.

We are excited to share that, as part of our “Walking Together, Naming Country” initiative, key spaces at St Mark’s have now been officially named in Nyungar language!

These names, launched at our recent St Mark’s Day, honour the deep history and culture of the Joondalup region and reflect our ongoing commitment to reconciliation.

This journey, guided by Moodjar Consultancy and Professor Len Collard, involved research, on-country learning, and collaboration across our community. The Cafeteria, Quadrangle, Junior School green space, and both Ovals now proudly carry meaningful Nyungar names.

Discover more about this special project and the stories behind each name on our website. Together, we walk forward-celebrating and respecting Country every day.

Learn more here.

Bringing HaSS to Life at St Mark's

What a fantastic HaSS Week we enjoyed in Week 2 of Term! With each day being packed with activities that brought Humanities and Social Sciences to life across the school.

Daily PCG quizzes kept us on our toes and sparked some friendly competition, while lunchtimes were buzzing with fun, including the ever-popular Baby Photo Competition (can you guess the staff member?), Pin the Capital City, and Guess the Political Leader!

The wildlife incursion was a definite highlight, where students had the chance to get up close with reptiles and even meet a koala!

From history and geography to civics and culture, HaSS Week was a wonderful celebration of the subjects that shape our understanding of the world.

A big thank you to all the staff and students who participated and helped make it such a fun and memorable week!

ARCHERS AT THE READY

What a fantastic day we had at the St Mark’s P&F Archery Event this past Saturday!

Families and friends came together and enjoyed fun, friendly competition, plenty of laughter and a chance to ty something new. It was wonderful to see students and parents trying their hand at archery, building new skills side by side and having fun outdoors.

A big thank you to everyone who came along and joined us to make the event such as success. Your support strengthens our community and creates memorable experiences for all.

Stay tuned and keep an eye out for more exciting P&F activities coming soon!

BODY SWAPPING MAGIC COMES TO THE ST MARK’S STAGE!

Get ready for a hilarious and heartwarming production as Freaky Friday: The Musical Comedy takes over the St Mark’s stage in 2025! With just weeks to go until tickets are officially on sale, excitement is building as our talented cast and crew from Years 6 to 12 dive into rehearsals.

This year’s Secondary Production promises all the fun, energy and musical brilliance you have come to expect from St Mark’s—with a twist!

Based on the beloved Disney film and novel, Freaky Friday follows the story of an overworked mum and her teenage daughter who magically swap bodies. As they scramble to set things right, they come to understand each other in a whole new way, leading to unexpected lessons, plenty of laughs and heartfelt moments. With catchy songs and a fast-paced storyline, it’s a fun and relatable show about family, identity and the chaos of everyday life.

We are thrilled to share the official cast list with our school community, these students have truly earned their spot on the stage and cannot wait to see them light up the stage!

Freaky Friday Cast List 2025:

PRINCIPALS

• KATHERINE BLAKE – Rhianna Cole
• ELLIE BLAKE – Emily Prestage
• FLETCHER BLAKE – Charlie Riley
• MIKE – Toby Green
• ADAM – Blake Carter
• SAVANNAH – Elise Wilkin
• TORREY – Georgia Plant

FEATURED ENSEMBLE

• GRETCHEN – Tyeesha Jayatilika
• HANNAH – Zoe Dolan
• PARKER – Kurtis Worth
• WELLS – Lachie Goldfinch
• LAUREL/SAVANNAH’S MINION – Abigail Hammill
• SAVANNAH’S MINION – Lily Robinson
• DR EHRIN/HANNAH AND WELL’S MOM- Ayla Colquhoun
• DANIELLE/OFFICER SITZ/ENSEMBLE- Phoebe Love
• LOUIS/ENSEMBLE- William Dolan
• MS MEYERS/OFFICER KOWALSKI/ENSEMBLE- Jasmine Mansell
• GRANDPA GORDON- Ryan Schutze
• GRANDMA HELENE/ADAM’S MOM- Olivia Murphy
• PASTOR BRUNO/MRS TIME/MRS BLUMEN/SAVANNAH’S MOM- Bella Cooper
• MRS LUCKENBILL/GRETCHEN’S MOM/ENSEMBLE- Kendall Chin
• SENORITA O’BRIEN/PARKER’S MOM/ENSEMBLE- Maya Sharp

ENSEMBLE

Alexis Halsall, Emily Whittingham, Taylor Collins, Francesca Lei-Nguyen, Olivia Jancey, Neesha Amin, Rosie King, Arabella Corbett, Isabella Hocking, Delani May, Eden Wright, Beth Davis, Saskia Newton, Madeline Calvert, Marshall Munro-Smith, Sydney Jodas, Alela Langley, Everleigh May, Ellie Martin, Mitali Pillai, Emily Smith, Wes Goldfinch, Ruby Spath, Nevaeh Zhou, Lara Baddock and Asha Pressley.

We can’t wait to bring this vibrant show to the St Mark’s community this July! Keep an eye on our socials and website for ticket details very soon!

View the production trailer here.

Dear Music Students and Parents

We are excited to be holding the Secondary Music Eisteddfod on Sunday 22 June, in the Performing Arts Centre. Please see link from Catherine Clarnette, Director of Music.

Kind regards

Music Department

Continuing our much-loved tradition, the Senior School Interhouse Cross Country Carnival was held on Friday 9 May as part of St Mark’s Day, and what a fantastic day it was. With perfect weather and a buzzing atmosphere, students from Years 7 to 12 gathered at Mawson Park, bringing plenty of energy, friendly competition and strong House spirit.

Congratulations to Moyes House, who took the win this year after consistent effort across all year groups. The day was filled with laughter, a fun-run atmosphere and great support from both staff and student. Teachers also joined in the action, encouraging runners along the way.

A big thank you to Ms McCarthy, whose excellent organisation ensured the day ran smoothly.

For our Year 12 students, it was a final lap to remember - a significant moment as they took part in their last school cross country. Many described it as a “bittersweet but fun” way to finish, enjoying the day with friends and reflecting on their years of participation.

Our school proudly competed in the ACC Cross Country on Thursday 5 June, with a strong squad of 84 students from Years 7 to 12 representing us with resilience and pride.

The overall results are as follows:

• 1st Place - Moyes - 2784 points
• 2nd Place - Challen - 2698 points
• 3rd Place – Carnley - 2541 points
• 4th Place - Watkins - 2224 points

Congratulations to the following students on their individual results:

YEAR 6

• Champion Girl - Alyssa Coyne
• Runner-Up Girl - Heidi Murray
• Champion Boy - Rupert Hall
• Runner-Up Boy - Mason Waters

YEAR 7

• Champion Girl - Skye Henery
• Runner-Up Girl - Annabel Gregory
• Champion Boy - Archer Dickson
• Runner-Up Boy - Flynn Hodgson

YEAR 8

• Champion Girl - Audrey Bingham
• Runner-Up Girl - Jasmine Elkin
• Champion Boy - Zeph Cooper
• Runner-Up Boy - Noah Growden

YEAR 9

• Champion Girl - Ailey Robertson
• Runner-Up Girl - Sophie Lind
• Champion Boy - Joshua Giles
• Runner-Up Boy - Daniel File

YEAR 10

• Champion Girl - Ebony Bueddemann
• Runner-Up Girl - Ruby Sudintas
• Champion Boy - Noah Ioannou
• Runner-Up Boy - Isaac Kay

YEAR 11

• Champion Girl - Grace Frazer
• Runner-Up Girl - Mackenzie Hall
• Champion Boy - Jasper Greenwood
• Runner-Up Boy - Cohen Pressley

YEAR 12

• Champion Girl - Jasmine Gray
• Runner-Up Girl - Ella Andrew
• Champion Boy - Oscar Howarth
• Runner-Up Boy - Tom Linehan

To check out the photos from the day click here

Navigate your future at the Careers and Pathways Expo!

This year, we are combining the Careers and Pathways Expo with the Year 11 and 12 Course Selection Information Sessions, giving students and families a unique opportunity to explore future options and make informed decisions in one streamlined event.

With the 2026 Year 11/12 Course Selection Information Sessions running concurrently with the Expo, attendees are encouraged to visit the Careers and Pathways Expo during their designated year group time to connect with universities, registered training organisations (RTOs), and apprenticeship support groups. Learn about CareerLink and CurtinUni Ready, and explore a wide range of opportunities to help shape your future pathway.

After exploring the Expo, students (current Year 10s and 11s) and parents can then attend the WACE Pathways and Course Selection Information Sessions, where they will receive advice on subject selection, WACE requirements, and the differences between ATAR and non-ATAR pathways. This integrated format ensures that everyone leaves equipped with up-to-date information and a clearer understanding of how subject choices can support future study and career goals.

PLEASE NOTE:

Current Year 10 and 11 families are encouraged to attend the Expo before heading to their Course Selection Information Session. This event is designed to give our families an insight into career pathways and admissions requirements before attending their Year 10 and Year 11 WACE Pathways and Course Selection Session.

Current Year 9 and 12 families are welcomed to attend the Expo portion of the event.

DATE

• Wednesday 25 June 2025

TIME

• Year 10
  5pm - 6pm (Careers Expo)
  6pm - 7pm (WACE Pathways and Course Selection Info Session)
  
  
• Year 11
  6pm - 7pm (Careers Expo)
  7pm - 8pm (WACE Pathways and Course Selection Info Session)
  
  
• Year 9 and Year 12
  5pm - 7.30pm (Careers Expo only)
  

VENUE

• Careers & Pathways Expo - Ground Floor, Senior Academic Centre
• Course Selection Session - Performing Arts Complex

Book your spot HERE for the Careers Expo and the Course Selection Info Sessions.

Our Career Curiosity Series for Term 2 is in full swing!

This term, our Year 10–12 students have already had the opportunity to hear from inspiring St Mark’s community members working in the Commerce industries and Allied Health sectors. These sessions have provided tremendous insight into the diverse pathways and real-world experiences available after school, helping our students make more informed decisions about their futures.

To our presenters from the Commerce sector, Diana Moss (2015), Thomas Bennett (2015), and Andrew Nicholson (2019), and to our Allied Health speakers, Louise Edwards, Allisa Ingram, and Fiona Poelchow, a huge thank you for generously sharing your journeys and advice.

Stay tuned for our next sessions, which will focus on Small Business/Entrepreneurship on Wednesday, June 18, and Marine/Environmental Science on Thursday, June 19. Book your spot here.

There’s more to come as we continue exploring different career fields!

Our next Career Curiosity event will focus on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, featuring speakers from these fields.

Year 10, 11 and 12 students interested in starting their own business after school or entrepreneurship won’t want to miss this opportunity. Even if they're undecided about their future career, come along to explore and understand what working in these sectors could be like!

RSVPs are essential as a light continental breakfast will be provided. Book your spot here.

• DATE: Wednesday 18 June 2025
• TIME: 7:30am - 8:35am
• VENUE: SAC Staffroom

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A STUDENT-ONLY EVENT.

SPEAKERS:

• Laura Canham - Consultant
  Originally from the UK, Laura earned top grades in her Psychology degree but struggled to land a job, until a role in Australia opened new doors. After a brief stint in Melbourne that fell through, she moved to Western Australia, where she even spent four months milking cows to extend her visa and secure residency. Laura then spent seven years building a career in Local Government before realising this didn't fulfill her or provide the flexibility for starting a family. So she pursued a teaching qualification while launching a side hustle as a wedding celebrant in the hopes that one of these options would be her future 'family friendly' career path. As one of WA’s few celebrants under 30, Laura's business grew rapidly for two years until it was decimated overnight thanks to the COVID pandemic. She then pivoted her business online by creating a training academy for wedding professionals. This venture exploded, leading her to grow her team, host national events, and present at international summits. Today, Laura runs a consultancy that helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses through online courses, a chart-topping podcast, and retreats in Bali - all while balancing life at home with two toddlers.
• Brooke Tingey - Small Business Owner - Tingey Development
  Brooke has held management roles in the building industry for the majority of the last decade, and over the past three years, she has run two of her own businesses: a residential construction company and an interior design firm. She will share her insights on running a construction business, how the business evolved and the day-to-day.
• Lee Linehan - Small Business Owner - Northshore Fresh
  Lee and her family run a small business out of their home after pivoting from previous roles and seeing a space in the market that needed to be filled. She will share the ins and outs of running an emerging home-based business.

We are planning to schedule further Career Curiosity Series events. If there is a particular sector you are interested in and would like included in the Career Curiosity Series or would like to chat with an Old Scholar in that field, please contact Mrs Pearce, Head of Futures, epearce@stmarks.wa.edu.au

Our final Career Curiosity event for Term 2 will spotlight Marine and Environmental Science, with guest speakers sharing insights from these exciting fields.

Year 10, 11 and 12 students interested in a career within Marine Science, Environmental Management and Conservation/Sustainability won’t want to miss this opportunity. Even if they're undecided about their future career, come along to explore and understand what working in these sectors could be like!

RSVPs are essential as a light continental breakfast will be provided. Book your spot here.

• DATE: Thursday 19 June 2025
• TIME: 7:30am - 8:35am
• VENUE: SAC Staffroom

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS A STUDENT-ONLY EVENT.

SPEAKERS:

• Louise Richardson - Commercial Analyst
  As a commercial analyst, Louise leverages her experience in data analysis and business strategy to drive the company's initiatives in renewable energy forward. Her goal is to support Carnegie Clean Energy in achieving its mission while continuously seeking opportunities for growth and development in the dynamic field of clean energy. Louise is a recent Master of Ocean Leadership graduate from the University of Western Australia, where she completed her Thesis in Seaweed Ecology. Before this, she completed her Bachelor of Science focused on Marine and Environmental Sciences at Murdoch University.
• Morgan Sejournee - Senior Environmental Scientist
  Morgan has eight years of project experience, with a demonstrated focus on environmental regulatory compliance assessments, regulatory approvals (WA, ACT, and NSW), environmental policy, and environmental management. Morgan has experience in environmental assessment of rail, road and mining developments. Exposure to environmental impact assessment in NSW includes the preparation of Review of Environmental Factors (REFs) in accordance with Division 5.1 of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act); and contributing to Environmental Impact Statements (EIS). In WA, she has worked on projects that included EPBC referrals, EP Act referrals, Native Vegetation Clearing Permits and Mining Proposals.
• Ella Rowlands Thompson - Sustainability Specialist
  Ella is a Sustainability Specialist with WesTrac CAT. After graduating St Mark's in 2013, Ella spent a few years exploring different career pathways in various fields and industries. After gaining some experience both professionally and in life, Ella decided to pursue a career in Environment and Sustainability—a passion of hers since school. Ella graduated in 2024 with a Master of Environment and Climate Emergency from Curtin University and has been working as a Sustainability Specialist in the mining and resource sector since 2023. Ella is passionate about creating a lasting positive impact through meaningful climate action and building thriving, sustainable communities.

We are planning to schedule further Career Curiosity Series events. If there is a particular sector you are interested in and would like included in the Career Curiosity Series or would like to chat with an Old Scholar in that field, please contact Mrs Pearce, Head of Futures, epearce@stmarks.wa.edu.au

Our St Mark’s team has dived headfirst into the Push-Up Challenge with gusto - 44 brave souls strong and counting!

Now, on Day 3, our arms might be feeling more like overcooked spaghetti than steel cables, but we’re pushing through every rep with determination. It’s all for a fantastic cause: raising awareness and funds for mental health.

The fun doesn’t stop with just our dedicated team - during Week 8, our Secondary School students will take up the challenge during House time, turning push-ups into a friendly (and sweaty) competition. Stay tuned as we flex our muscles and our community spirit, proving that at St Mark’s, we’re all about strength - in body, mind, and heart!

It's not too late to get in on the sweaty competition - if you'd like to join our community team or donate, please head here.

Sixteen passionate Year 11 students are preparing to swap their beds for cardboard and sleeping bags as they take part in the 2025 Anglicare Sleepout in August. These students, our proud Anglicare Ambassadors, will spend a night outside to raise awareness and vital funds for Street Connect, an Anglicare WA outreach service supporting homeless and at-risk young people across Perth.

The Sleepout is more than just one night without comfort—it's an eye-opening experience that builds empathy, resilience, and social awareness for those who experience homelessness. Our students are aiming high, hoping to raise $12,000 to support the incredible work of the Street Connect team, who meet vulnerable youth where they are, offering food, support, and pathways to safer futures.

We are incredibly proud of the courage, compassion and commitment shown by our Year 11 cohort. Every dollar raised is a step toward real change.

To support their efforts, click here.

Welcome to the first “Our Digital World” post. In this rapidly changing digital landscape, these articles are intended to keep parents and carers updated with practical and relevant information about the online world, including news, safety and privacy, gaming, home strategies, generative artificial intelligence (Gen-AI) and more. Stay tuned for a new article in every newsletter.

Family Technology Agreements

These, updated regularly, can help to clarify expectations of device use in the home. They also provide a good opportunity for a family discussion about how everyone in the home is using their devices, including the positives and challenges, and how to seek help if they are experiencing negative or unsafe behaviour online, or accidentally making poor choices. Young people will often be wary about disclosing their mistakes if they think they are going to get into trouble or get their device taken away, so it’s important that they know they can come to you for support, so they can avoid a problem becoming a bigger problem.

Some items you might want to include range from agreed-upon times and locations of usage to how to seek help. It’s best to limit your child/ren’s internet use to common areas of the home - devices should not be used, stored or charged in bedrooms.

Links to templates and examples:

• Daniel Morcombe Foundation
• ThinkUKnow
• eSafety – for 8 years old and under
• eSafe Kids

Ge-AI and Homework

Most generative artificial intelligence tools have a minimum age requirement of 13, or higher. This means that children under this age should not be using Gen-AI at school or home. At St Mark’s, this means that teachers may allow scaffolded and clearly directed usage of permitted Gen-AI tools from the start of Semester 2 in Year 8. Other than for in-class tests, teachers are currently working on producing cover pages for assessments for students in Year 8 (S2) through to Year 12, which include specific instructions about Gen-AI usage. This will vary from no AI use to different levels of use, such as for brainstorming, feedback, templates etc. These cover pages will be uploaded to SEQTA for each assessment, ensuring clear visibility and awareness for students and parents. Contravening these expectations will be considered cheating. These cover pages are being trialled in some courses and will shortly be implemented across the Senior Secondary School.

If your child is 13 years or older, Gen-AI may be a helpful tool for clarifying ideas and preparing for in-class assessments during homework and study time. Entering complex course content into a Large Language Model (LLM, e.g. ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini) and asking it to help explain it in easier language is one approach, e.g. “Please explain this to me as if I were a 10-year-old.” Another approach is to ask an LLM to generate questions on a certain topic (you can even ask for it to source WA curriculum) and to mark your answers and provide feedback. In Term 3 of Year 8 Learn, we teach all students about AI literacy and skills, including training data, bias, privacy, prompts, and the ethical and environmental impacts. However, it’s always worth having a conversation at home as well.

Resources

For a wide range of excellent resources for parents and carers concerning online safety, gaming, app reviews and more, I highly recommend eSafety and Common Sense Media.

Kelly Curran
Head of Digital Learning

Check out the School calendar to see what's happening around St Mark's. Don't forget to pick your preferences for sub-schools.

We are calling a Special General Meeting to be held on Tuesday 24 June at 7pm in the PAC. The purpose of the SGM is to consider and vote on unincorporating the P&F.

Notice of Special General Meeting Details are attached here.

The rules for the P&F unincorporating have been loaded to SEQTA.

Your attendance and participation are highly valued, and we encourage all members of the School community to attend.

Calling all Old Scholars and current Year 12s – it’s time to bring your best dodgeball skills and friendly rivalry to the court! Whether you’re aiming to defend your title or claim the win for the first time, this is your chance to battle it out in a fun, competitive game.

After the matches, join us for pizza and catch up with friends. Let’s make it a great afternoon of sport and socialising!

• When: Friday, 20 June
• Where: Hall
• Time: Games start at 3:30 PM followed by Pizza at 4:30 PM

Who will take the crown?

We want to see YOU there!

PS This is a family-friendly event - Old Scholars are welcome to bring the kids and Year 12s, bring your siblings!

As we will be having a three week holiday at the end of Term 2, we would love to encourage our children to continue reading. The Primary School Library will be open on Wednesday 9 July from 11am until 1pm for children to come in and change their books over the holidays. We would love to see lots of young readers borrow lots of books. Happy reading!

We are pleased to offer the opportunity to enrol in Chess Club again for Semester 2.

If you would like your child to participate, please use the link below to register. Please note that places are limited to 26 students and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

https://events.humanitix.com/chess-club-2025-term-3-and-4

The club will run from Week 1 of Term 3 through to Week 7 of Term 4, with a total cost of $170 for the semester (plus GST and booking fees). This equates to $10 per week, and payment is required in full at the time of enrolment.

Please note that missed sessions are non-refundable.

We look forward to another great semester of learning, strategy, and fun through chess!

Kind regards

John Stewart

Head of Middle School

Did you know that every Friday during term time, St Mark’s hosts a vibrant and welcoming playgroup for our youngest community members?

The Old Scholars' Association Little Lions Playgroup runs weekly on-site and is the perfect place for children up to school age to play, explore, and make new friends – all while their parents and carers connect with others in a warm, supportive environment.

Running from 8.45am to 10.30am, Little Lions offers plenty of fun, games, and laughter in a safe and engaging space. Whether you're a current St Mark’s family, have little ones not yet at school, or even if you’re simply looking to connect with other local families, you’re invited to come along. We especially welcome families whose Kindy classes aren't in session on Fridays – it’s a great way to stay connected with the school community.

Little Lions is proudly run in partnership with Playgroup WA, ensuring a quality experience for families. And while our Old Scholars' Association hosts it, you don’t need to be a former student to attend – everyone is welcome!

So, if you’ve got a little cub ready to roar with excitement, we’d love to see you this Friday. Come along, join in the fun, and experience the community spirit that makes St Mark’s so special.

To find out more or to book your place, email us at osa@stmarks.wa.edu.au
You can also join our Little Lions Facebook group HERE.

We can’t wait to welcome you and your little one for Term 2!

ALUMNI BRINGS GORGON BLOOD TO LIFE

We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on one of our talented alumni from the Class of 2023, Mark Zanosov, who is making waves in the film world with the launch of his latest project, Gorgon Blood. Produced by Mark, directed by filmmaker Dasha Melnik, written by Jessica Lily, and executive produced by Ian Hale, this project is a testament to the creative talent emerging from our community.

Gorgon Blood is a bold and visually immersive story, set in the high-stakes world of 21^st-century elite dance, drawing inspiration from the Medusa myth. It explores themes of power, vengeance, transformation and identity through a striking visual lens. The film invites audiences into a world where myth meets modernity, and where the pressure to perform is matched only by the weight of untamed power.

With Jessica’s gripping writing and Mark’s experience producing award-winning films, the team is crafting a film that will linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll.

The film’s unique concept and powerful themes are already generating a buzz, and the creative team is working tirelessly to bring their vision to life. But as with many independent projects, they need community support to make it happen!

A crowdfunding campaign is now live, and every contribution helps bring Gordon Blood closer to the screen. Your support makes it possible to tell this story with the impact it deserves! www.crowdfundr.com/gorgonblood

We couldn’t be prouder of Mark and the entire Gorgon Blood team!

Congratulations, Mark! Your achievements continue to inspire, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.

You can follow the team’s creative journey here:

https://www.instagram.com/gorgonblood_film/

https://www.facebook.com/gorgonbloodfilm/