It is always a pleasure to have the grandparents come to visit the school. The younger students were very excited about the Book Parade and the older girls enjoyed performing for our special guests. It was also great to see so many of our dads joining us for the Father’s Day Afternoon Tea. The games were very popular and a fun opportunity for dads to spend some bonding time with their children. With the KPF coming up, the importance of fatherhood has become a theme for this term. We are very fortunate to have the former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, the Hon John Anderson AC FTSE, as our guest speaker for the KPF on Thursday 26^th September. No doubt he will be a very engaging speaker on a topic that he is passionate about. Please make sure this date is marked in your diaries, and if you haven’t already done so, please RSVP with the link on the flyer that can be found in this newsletter.

Montgrove seem to have been on a winning streak last month. After a 4 year hiatus, we recommenced the Tangara v Montgrove Cup, playing a best of four games in Senior and Junior Basketball, Futsal and Volleyball. They were very close games, with Senior Basketball and Futsal both having to go to overtime to determine the winning team. It was a great day, with Montgrove taking all four games to win the Tangara v Montgrove Cup for the first time.

The Hills Zone Athletics team also saw plenty of success at the Hills Zone Carnivals, with Primary coming equal 4^th for the Girls Teams and Secondary coming in 3^rd for Best Performed School. Well done to all our athletes!

In the Creative Arts area, the HSC Music, Drama and Visual Arts students performed and displayed their major works at the HSC Showcase. The quality of their work was impressive and we wish them the very best for their HSC performances and exams. In the same week, a group of Secondary students performed in the Vocal Ensemble section at the Penrith Eisteddfod with a beautiful rendition of And So it Goes by Billy Joel and Stand By Me by Ben E King. They were awarded First Prize with a mark of 90 and very positive comments from the judges. Neha J (Yr 12) performed individually in the Vocal Singing section and placed second. Congratulations to all the girls for their outstanding performances and achievements.

Congratulations also to the 9/10 Project Elective class for their production of ‘The Unmasking’ a murder mystery play that the girls wrote from scratch. Not only did they set themselves the task of writing the script, they also composed and produced the music, and organised the props, costumes and lighting. Not only did they produce an impressive production, they learnt a great deal about collaboration, and what it means to see a project through from start to finish. We were very proud of what they were able to accomplish.

Congratulations to:

• Minna and Marc Yumol on the arrival of Keira Cecile, sister to Aviel (1S)

The Monty went to Teresa Michael (2B) for showing support, encouragement and kindness to other students

The Orchy went to Matthew Locke (1B) for being kind and caring to his peers and taking pride in his bookwork

Congratulations to the Secondary Choir, led by Mrs Lauren Issa who came first in the Penrith Eisteddfod on Monday 26th August. 

Congratulations to Maya Hoffmann and Raphaelle Canete (Yr11) who both received The Victor Chang School Science Award at a ceremony hosted by Penrith City Council on Thursday 29th August. 

This award celebrate gifted students, and stimulate growth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects. Established in 2004 in honour of pioneering cardiac surgeon, Dr Victor Chang, the Victor Chang School Science Awards celebrate gifted students, and stimulate growth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects.

The School Science Awards foster and encourage an interest in science among secondary school students, with the goal of promoting careers in STEM as a viable and interesting career path. 

The awards are targeted at government and non-government school students in Year 11 in NSW and WA. Students are nominated by their teachers for their tenacity and commitment to science. We're looking for outstanding science students who deserve recognition for their efforts in Biology, Physics, Chemistry and other science subjects. 

Congratulations to Sanya Shine in Year 7 for receiving the Young Champions Award. 

The Young Champions Awards is for young achievers in the Penrith region. She was selected under the Sports category. Last year Sanya went to zone and came second in long jump and made it to regionals. She was also selected into Penrith representative cricket (district) U13. This year Sanya was also selected for the U13 and U15 representative cricket teams.

Congratulations to Neha Jimmy (Yr12) who placed 2nd in the Vocal Singing section of the Penrith Eisteddfod

She was also a finalist in the Penrith Young Champions Awards.  The Young Champions Awards is for young achievers in the Penrith region. She was selected under the Performing Arts category. 

In Chapter VI of Mansfield Park, Jane Austen tells us that a friend “had recently had his grounds laid out be an improver.” In her footnote to this term, “improver”, Kathryn Sutherland quotes a social historian, J.H. Plumb, who claims: “’Improvement’ was the most over-used word of 18th century England: landscapes, gardens, agriculture, science, manufacture, music, art, literature, instruction both secular and religious, were constantly described as ‘improved’”.

I ask whether the word “improvement” can really be over-used. Certainly, it can be misunderstood, as in selfish improvement, something to which St Josemaría alludes, when he writes about the ongoing formation of the human spirit, of which education is an integral part.

We can pursue “bad” improvement, as in The Forge, 310: “The majority of people who have personal problems “have them” because they selfishly think about themselves.”

Or we can pursue one of its antidotes, as in The Forge, 368: “Would you like to know a secret to happiness? Give yourself to others and serve them, without expecting to be thanked.”

In any case, it’s a lifelong endeavour, a battle of formation that never ends, and should begin again many times each day. Humble prayer is decisive in winning through.

Please pray for our sick and injured family and friends:

Walter Daniel Valenton, uncle to Elyssa (7G), Marcela (2B) and Daniela (1S) Valenton; Joshua Gibbons (Yr4 Wollemi), brother to Catherine (7G), Madeline (6B) and Lucas (1W) Gibbons; Gregory Haines, husband to Marina Haines (Mentor); Vengie Pangilinan (Mentor & Diverse Learning teacher); Helen Stanojevic (KG Teacher); Judy Lynch's mother; Carolina Quianzon Alvarez, grandmother to Maria Zamora (12);  Paul Ruhl, uncle to Mary (10G), Clare (8B) and Lucia (7B) Ruhl; Zenaida Oringo, grandmother to Aiesha (Secondary Teacher) & Kara (12) Oringo; Charles Rafanan, father to Jiannah-Marie (8B); Tom Gelevski (PARED Maintenance); Nikita De Souza, girlfriend of Michael Carrington (PARED Maintenance); Fr John Flader, Tangara Priest; Amelia Acasio, grandmother to Renae (12) & Regine (10G) Bernacer; Victor Sciberras, father to Raelene Pirotta (former Registrar); Benjamin Santiago, father to Agryna (11); & Emmanuel Hanna, brother to Cecilia (9B) & Lucia (6G) Hanna.

Please also remember those who have passed away:

Lynette Churchyard, grandmother to Eliza (12) and Lucy (7) James; Ludenlia Gavera Flordeliza, Great-great Aunt to Maria Bonus (5G); Ruben Oringo, grandfather to Aiesha (Secondary Teacher) & Kara (12) Oringo; Fortunato Meduri, great-grandfather to Alessandra Agius (KW); Melanie Khoury, great-grandmother to Catherine (2B) & Alyssa (KB) Mattar and Adelaide-Rose (3G) & Catilin (KG) Mowad; Dorothy James, grandmother to Eliza (12) and Lucy (7) James; Antonio Singson, grandfather to Marina Fahkry (KS); Jeannette Azzi, grandmother to Maria (7) and Jane (4) Azzi; ReginaldSantos, uncle to Santiago Santos (1G); Peter Ruhl, grandfather to Mary (10), Clare (8) & Lucia (7) Ruhl; Antoine Scoulou, grandfather to Mona-Maria Scoulou (3B); Victor Asdiollo Tuballa, father-in-law to Sarah Tuballa (Religion teacher), grandfather to Charlotte (9B) & Felicity (3G) Tuballa; Priscilla De Leon Yabut, grandmother to Samantha Magat (12); Aurea Ingco, great grandmother to Mila Kottatis (2G); Aiyana Cabanero (Yr10 2019) sister to Amara (9) Cabanero.

If you would like to add any intentions to the Prayer Board, please send them to melanie.merriman@montgrove.nsw.edu.au. Please also let Melanie know when your intentions can be removed. 

Mass

Mass is held Monday to Friday at 12:15pm.  Parents are welcome to attend Mass in the Chapel.

Chapel Visits

Parents are welcome to visit the Chapel from 2:30pm for prayer. 

Confessions

Fr Anthony Khoudair is available for confessions on:

• Tuesdays from 2:45pm to 3:30pm
• Wednesdays from 2:45pm to 3:30pm 

 Fr Felix Navarro is available for confessions on:

• Thursdays from 3:00pm to 3:30pm
• Fridays from 3:00pm to 3:30pm 

Confessions for Families

• Every Saturday from 11:00am to 1:00pm (including school holidays)

Every Friday afternoon (weather permitting) a table will be set up outside the middle gate with all unlabeled drink bottles, containers, shoes, jumpers, jackets and hats.  Could you please check the table to see if anything belongs to your child(ren).    

Many thanks to those parents who are labelling their children's clothes and containers as this enables us to return your child's lost items!

We also currently have in lost property a stroller (see picture below).

There have been several reported cases of hand, foot and mouth disease in the school.  It is usually spread by person-to-person contact.  It is not usually a serious illness however, it is highly contagious.  Any children experiencing symptoms must be isolated from other young children.  The infection may cause no symptoms at all or only very mild symptoms.  When symptoms do occur, they include blisters that start as small red dots which later become ulcers.  Blisters appear inside the cheeks, gums, and on the sides of the tongue, as well as on the hands and feet. In infants, sometimes blisters can be seen in the nappy area. Blisters usually last for seven to 10 days.  Children can sometimes have a low fever, sore throat, tiredness, feel off colour and maybe off their food for a day or two.

Children with hand, foot and mouth disease should be excluded from school or childcare facilities until their blisters have dried.  Good hygiene is the best protection.

We would like to invite you to our Term 3 Key Parent Function, which is on the important topic of Navigating the Challenges and Opportunities of Fatherhood in the 21st Century. We are very lucky to have the Hon John Anderson AC FTSE coming to address all parents of Kindergarten to Year 12 (please see flyer attached).

The KPF will take place on Thursday, 26 September 2024 in Montgrove's COLA (7pm Registration for a 7:30pm start). Please RSVP using this LINK.

As the Hall will be set up for the Year 12 Graduation, the supper will take place in the Undercroft instead. Could we please ask Montgrove parents of Years 3, 4, 8 and 10 to bring a plate to share for supper afterwards. 

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you there!

Absence forms are done through the Engage Parent Portal and must be completed with 7 days of the last day of the absence. If your child is going to be late please complete the absence form indicating that they will be late and the approximate time of arrival.  Students will be marked present once they arrive at school.  If an absence form is not received you will receive a text message advising that your child is absent and a form has not yet been completed. 

The Infants Cross Country for Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 will be held in Week 9 on Wednesday 18th September, starting at 11:30am (weather permitting). 

Kindergarten will run first, then Year 1 followed by Year 2.

The children will need to wear their sports uniforms and hats. They should bring water and wear sunscreen.

You are welcome to come and cheer for your children at this event.

It is a normal school day and students are expected to remain at school after the Cross Country.

Many thanks for your cooperation and we look forward to seeing you.

On Thursday 22nd August, Montgrove College hosted the return of the Tangara vs. Montgrove Cup. As this event had not been held since 2019, the Secondary School was buzzing with anticipation for this competition. Our school grounds were alive with excitement as Montgrove triumphed in all four games, showcasing outstanding skill and determination. Here’s a recap of the thrilling action:

Senior Basketball:

The day kicked off with our seniors in a very close match that was forced into overtime. After a relentless battle on the court, Montgrove secured a narrow but well-deserved victory with a final score of 24-20. Both teams showcased incredible skill and determination, making it a memorable game for all.

Junior Basketball:

Montgrove continued their winning streak on the court with a commanding performance in junior basketball. The team worked very well together and their strong defense, together with accurate shooting secured a decisive 24-6 victory.

Futsal:

The futsal match was a nail-biter from start to finish. Both teams fought hard, and the game ended in a 2-2 draw, sending it into overtime. Under the golden point rule, Montgrove managed to clinch the win with a final score of 3-2. The intensity and excitement of the game kept everyone on the edge of their seats!

Volleyball:

The final game of the day was a thrilling volleyball match that lived up to all expectations. The teams battled through five intense sets, with Montgrove narrowly coming out on top 3-2. The close score reflected the high level of competition, and the incredible effort put forth by both teams.

Montgrove’s performance on the day was a testament to their exceptional teamwork, as all teams demonstrated sportsmanship and dedication throughout.

A sincere thank you to the Montgrove and Tangara staff and volunteers who helped support the return of this fun occasion for our students. Particularly to Mrs. Grobler, Dr Muerza, Mrs Morgan, Mrs Balmeo and Mrs Centeno who helped coach and train our teams. 

Congratulations to all of our Montgrove students who participated on the day for their impressive performance, and a round of applause to Tangara for their spirited efforts. We look forward to next year!

C. Bolton

PRIMARY CARNIVAL  

On Monday 26th August, the Representative Primary Athletics team attended the 2024 Hills Zone Carnival held at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre. All of our students put in an outstanding effort and had a very successful day placing our school 4th for the event.

Congratulations to the following primary students who placed in their events:

• Angel J - 1st in 12yr girls High Jump
• Mia P - 1st in 9yr girls 100m 
• Elizabeth G - 2nd 8-10yr girls High Jump
• Isabella-Rose P- 2nd in 11yr girls Long Jump
• Elisa L - 3rd in 8-10yr girls 800m

Mia P, Elizabeth G and Isabella-Rosa P have now qualified to represent HZSA at the Primary CIS Athletics carnival on 6th September. 

SECONDARY CARNIVAL 

On Tuesday 27th August, the Representative Secondary Athletics team attended the Hills Zone Carnival held at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre. Again, Montgrove had an impressive performance throughout the day with many students placing in their events. Overall, Montgrove finished in 3rd place for Best Performed School at this event.

Congratulations to the following secondary students who placed in their events:

• Klara T - 1st 17yr girls Shot Put
• Olivia G - 2nd 18yr girls Long Jump
• Sandra E - 2nd 18yr girls 100m
• Keana L - 2nd 18yr girls 400m
• Summer A - 3rd 13yr girls Shot Put
• Amelia G -3rd 16yr girls Javelin
• Amelia G -3rd 16yr girls Discus
• Olivia G - 3nd 18yr girls Discus
• Maya H - 3nd 17yr girls 200m 

Sandra E, Klara T, Olivia G, Maya H and Keana L have all qualified to represent HZSA at the AICES Athletics carnival on 10th September. 

Well done to the 2024 Montgrove Primary and Secondary Athletics teams for an outstanding effort at the 2024 Hills Zone Carnivals and a big congratulations to those students who were selected to represent HZSA at the AICES and CIS Carnivals. We wish them the best of luck.

• 19 Sept – 7.00pm Novena followed by Mass.
• 20 Sept – 7.00pm Novena followed by Mass.
• 21 Sept – 5.30pm Novena followed by Vigil Mass

• Sunday 22 September at10:00am.

Do you live in Glenwood, Baulkham Hills, Bella Vista, Quakers Hill and surrounding areas or on route to Montgrove and Wollemi Colleges. We are also able to do transfers between Montgrove and Wollemi.

Our driver has his RMS Driver Authority and completed his Working with Children checks.

Reliable Service at competitive prices.  There are currently spots available so call now and register your children.

Shokr Yassa 0411 575 782

Montgrove College Trading Hours 2024

Mondays: 8:30am to 12:30pm

Ordering online couldn’t be simpler.

 Go to www.midford.com.au

1. Select Montgrove College from the online School Shops tab.
2. New users to click the ‘Register New Account’ button.
3. Start the registration process by selecting Montgrove College from the drop-down menu and add Montgrove unique school pass phrase: Montgrove2007
4. Add your personal information, create a username and password.
5. Order the items you need, select pick up from the uniform shop on Monday's or option of home delivery.

NOTE: Choosing home delivery is the fastest way of receiving your orders and home delivery is free for all orders over $50.

Please book appointments through our online appointment system by using the below link.  https://Midford.as.me/MontgroveCollege

For enquiries please email: montgrove@midford.com.au

Good food and good company made for a great dinner night with the Year 2 Blue Mums on 16th August.

A fantastic night was had by all at the Year 1 Silver and White Dad's poker night.

Thank you for the huge effort from the Dads over the weekend to take their daughters on the Nepean River walk. For sure the girls enjoyed their dose of sunshine and also it was a great time to catch up with the other Dads.

Thank you kindly,

Ecar and Eliane (Yr4 Class Parents)

As announced at the end of Term 3, our school has partnered with Edstart to facilitate the payment of your school fees. 

The deadline for setting up an Edstart Plus account has already passed. If you have not already set up your account, please do so as soon as possible by visiting edstart.com.au/pared – it only takes a few minutes to create your account. The friendly Edstart customer success team will be able to assist you should you have any questions, you can contact them at 1300 139 445 or contact@edstart.com.au.

From 2023, all school fees must be paid via your Edstart account where you can opt for weekly, monthly, fortnightly, termly, or annual instalments. Pared will no longer accept direct payments.

As part of our commitment to parents, Montgrove will absorb the administrative fees for your Edstart Plus service, so that this service is free for families to use.

Edstart is a leading provider of payment and technology services for the education sector and currently works with thousands of parents at over 600 schools around Australia, with a key focus on providing personalised service for each family.

What are the benefits of partnering with Edstart?

1. Flexibility:

Edstart provides families with more options and greater flexibility when it comes to paying school fees, at no additional cost. For example, with an Edstart Plus account:

• Choose your preferred day for when payments are made

• Spread your payments over your preferred time frame during the school year

• Option to pay via direct debit, debit/credit card or BPay

• During difficult times, families can be offered flexible payment schedules

• Adjust your payments at any time

2. Paperless & secure:

●      Payment Information will be submitted and stored through Edstart’s secure online platform, so families can be assured of data security.

●      Direct debit forms no longer need to be printed. 

3. Customer Service:

●      Edstart provides Pared parents with a dedicated customer service team who can promptly respond to queries and questions over the phone, email or through their website’s live chat function.

If you haven't already, please set up your Edstart account online at edstart.com.au/pared.

1. PARED will issue the Invoice / Fee Account Statement once by week 2 of every Term 1, 2, 3 and 4.
2. This Invoice includes: Tuition Fees, Curriculum and Technology Levy (CTL) and Building Levy only.
3. The Pared Schools have partnered with Edstart to provide more flexibility and choice with your school fee payments. All school fees must be paid via your Edstart account where you can opt for weekly, monthly, fortnightly, termly, or annual instalments.
4. As it occurs, PARED will issue separate invoices for activities other than those in Item 2 above.  This will include major camps, major excursions, certain elective co-curricular expenses, band program, elective music software,  loss of or damage to laptop, PDHPE workbook, school diary, etc. 
5. These should also be paid via your Edstart account