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Marcellin College Newsletter 2025
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Marcellin College Newsletter
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Message from the Tumuaki Whakakapi / Acting Principal - Ms. Alisha Hunt
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Last week, we gathered as a community to support 21 of our ākonga who received the Sacraments of Initiation. These Sacraments are more than just rites of passage, with each designed to mark a significant step in a person's spiritual journey. Ultimately, the Sacraments provide the framework for a life of faith, offering guidance, forgiveness, and spiritual nourishment.
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For all of us present at our Sacramental Mass, it was an opportunity to reflect upon and realign our own journeys. Baptism reminded us that a fresh start is always available. We have the chance every day to turn over a new leaf, to begin anew with hope and purpose. Confirmation reminded us that we are empowered to stand up for what we believe in and for what is right. It
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calls us to use our unique gifts and talents to contribute to our communities. The Eucharist reminded us that we are nourished by more than just food. The knowledge we gain, the friendships we build, and the support we receive from our whānau, community, church, kaiako, and peers are some of the things that truly feed our minds and spirits, helping us to grow and thrive.
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Once again, I would like to congratulate these 21 ākonga: you are now walking a new path. Remember the promises you made and the support that surrounds you. May your commitment be a light not only for yourselves but for everyone you encounter on your journey ahead.
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Tumuaki Whakakapi / Acting Principal
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Marcellin College School Board Triennial Election -
Declaration of Result
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Teachers' Strike - Wednesday 20 August
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Dear Parents and Caregivers,
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The PPTA has advised our board that its member teachers at our kura/school will be taking full strike action on Rāapa/Wednesday, 20 Hereturikōkā/August.
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The board has carefully considered the availability of non-union teaching staff, and unfortunately, decided that we can’t provide normal instruction during
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the strike on Rāapa/Wednesday, 20 Hereturikōkā/August, so the kura/school will officially be closed for instruction. If making alternative arrangements for care is difficult, we can still supervise a small number of ākonga/students if required. Please complete this Google Form by Rātapu/Sunday, 17 Hereturikōkā/August: https://forms.gle/iHtA3T6tHkGknssZ8
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We know that this is inconvenient for whānau and ākonga alike. Please be assured that ākonga safety is our main concern.
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Thank you for your understanding. Please contact Tumuaki Whakakapi / Acting Principal, Alisha Hunt, on office@marcellin.school.nz if you have any queries relating to the impact of the industrial actions noted above.
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Presiding Member, Marcellin College Board
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2026 Enrolments are Open!
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SCHOOL ATTENDANCE DUES
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial assistance is available to assist families who may need financial support with the payment of Attendance Dues for preference students attending both primary and secondary Catholic schools in Auckland Diocese.
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Families facing financial difficulties can contact their school office, their Parish Priest, or Auckland Common Fund Ltd at the Catholic Diocese of Auckland on 09-360-3040 for further information.
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Application forms for this assistance are available from school and parish offices, or can be downloaded from the Catholic Diocese of Auckland Website:
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Special Character News
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Kia Orana Marcellin Whānau,
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The past three weeks for Special Character have been so busy!
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Our La Valla initiatives have continued to grow. We have resumed our mentoring programme with St Therese Primary School on Thursdays after-school. This special service programme has been a great way for us to meet with students from the St Therese community to build connections and friendships. We have also volunteered at the Vinnies Centre in Onehunga. Our La Valla Kaitiaki Leaders also organised the annual YCC Pyjama Day. We raised $400.90 for Caritas and the work that they are doing in St Leo’s Secondary School in Kirabati.
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In week three, our Year 13s went to St Peter's College to fellowship with the five other Catholic Schools in the Auckland Central Catholic Kahui Ako (ACCKA). It was a lovely get together to meet with leaders from St Paul's College, St Peter's College, Marist College and St Mary's College.
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Our Sacramental Candidates visited St Patrick's Cathedral. Here they had a talk about the history of the Cathedral and they also received the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
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A few students from our Year 10 cohort went to visit St Ignatius of Loyola College to listen to a talk by Br Guy Consolmagno, SJ, Director of the Vatican Observatory. Here they listened to how astronomy and religion co-exist.
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Our Year 11s also had their school retreat. They learnt how to Live out Loud and how we can live our faith in action.
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Our Sacramental Mass last Thursday was beautiful. We had 21 ākonga received the Sacraments of Initiation - Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Eucharist. These are the ākonga Jason Taufao, Wyatt Iaea, Foloifo Sinafoa, Matthew Vainikolo, Steven Vainikolo, David Kaihea, Feliaono Kaihea, Arah Binaluyo, Denise Almonte. Trisha Caraig. Bethia Tenorio, Keiran Clive Campos, Daphne Havili Kaufusi, Akosita Havili Kaufusi, Aliyanna Semau, Alijah Semau, Seionala Latu, Abby Alai, Cindy Truong, Kate Luong, Faustyna Maselino
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May God always guide them in their Christian journey.
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May you all have a blessed week ahead.
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Acting Ringatohu Akoranga Hāhi / Director of Religious Studies Term 3 2025
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Ākonga Success
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Marcellin Spirit Awards
At Marcellin College we use the name ‘Marcellin Spirit’ for Positive Behaviour for Learning. Marcellin Spirit teaches positive behaviour for learning by teaching expectations to all ākonga. We do this via specific Marcellin Spirit lessons, as well as by rewarding expected behaviours. We link our expected behaviours to the Marist Pillars. Our free and frequent reward system is whānau points, which ākonga can track using the MyMahi platform.
Marcellin Spirit certificates are awarded to the ākonga with the most whānau points each week of the term. Congratulations to the following recipients for
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Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work in Week Three of Term Three:
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Year 12: Daisy Tupoufutuna
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Ki te Huarahi o Maria / In the way of Mary in Week Four of Term Three:
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Faculty Awards
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Esther Alex- Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Yuwini Basnayake - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Azelynn Jackswell - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Lingi Angilau - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Sienna Poalaga - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Athrin Lance L - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Talita F - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Shaughn C - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Avya Collins - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Stephanie Banoza - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Isaac Jacob - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Raden Chavez - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Faapaia Fomai - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Gracedarling Lino - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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- Eliana Mekonnen (Y7) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Ambarish Sandeep(Y8) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Bethia Lexine Tenorio(Y9) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Aysha Feata(Y10) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Etienne Burac(Y10) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Agape Fineanganofo(Y11) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Steven Hayes (Y12) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Roanne Martin (Y13) - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Modechai Poloniati - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Lethabo Mathobelo - Ki te Huarahi o Maria / In the way of Mary
- Della Telea - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Akeisha Angeles - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Aysha Feata - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Sharon Roy - Aroaro / Presence
- Kierstin Idago - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
- Opeloge Ah Sam - Aroha ki te Mahi / Love of Work
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Ako / Curriculum News
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Mahuru/September Digital Corequisites
Any Year 11, 12, or 13 ākonga who did not achieve either Reading, Writing, or Numeracy in Haratua/May will have the opportunity to sit these again in Mahuru/September. Year 10 ākonga will also have the opportunity to sit these, unless whānau have decided that their tamaiti/child is not ready and will sit these as Year 11 in 2026.
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These are the dates for the upcoming digital corequisites:
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- Rātū/Tuesday 2 Mahuru/September: literacy (reading) periods one, two, and three
- Rāapa/Wednesday 3 Mahuru/September: literacy (writing) periods one, two, and three
- Rāpare/Thursday 4 Mahuru/September: numeracy periods one, two, and three
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A reminder that ākonga must provide their own device to sit the upcoming Literacy and Numeracy (LIT & NUM) corequisite exams online. Please ensure the device is fully charged and in good working order before the exam begins.
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These corequisites are vital, as without them, ākonga will not be awarded Level One, Two, or Three NCEA.
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Specific logistics will be emailed to all ākonga and whānau involved closer to the time.
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There is a preparation rā/day that will be held on Rāapa/Wednesday 27 Hereturikōkā/August, where ākonga will spend periods 1, 2, and 3 preparing for literacy and periods 4 and 5 preparing for numeracy.
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Digital Corequisite Results
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Corequisite results were released on 25 Pipiri/June for Reading, and on 14 Hōngongoi/July for Writing and Numeracy. Ākonga can view these results either via their NZQA Login or KAMAR login.
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2026 Option Selection
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Year 10, 11, and 12 ākonga have been asked to select their options for 2026. Information regarding this process has been shared at year-level assemblies, with Senior Course Information Booklets shared via email and posted on the school website for whānau to access. Ākonga have until Rāmere/Friday 22 Hereturikōkā/August to make their choices. Kaiako kaitiaki and kaiārahi are available to support ākonga throughout this process.
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NCEA Progression Requirements (Level One - Level Two & Level Two - Level Three)
To support successful academic progression, ākonga must meet minimum NCEA credit requirements at Marcellin College, with structured support and planning provided for those who do not meet these thresholds.
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Gateway credits are excluded as they do not count toward specific subject achievement.
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Senior Practice Exams
Our NCEA Practice Examinations will be held in Week Tahi / One of Term Whā / Four. This examination period will serve as a crucial component of the learning process, and the results could be used as a Derived Grade if your child is absent for valid reasons in the November NCEA Examinations (NZQA - Derived Grades).
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To assist with the success of your child, it is important that they:
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Seek assistance from kaiako/teachers
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The NCEA Practice Exam timetable will be shared later this term.
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Australian Maths Competition 2025
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This year, 53 ākonga from Year 7 to Year 13 took part in the Australian Maths Competition. It was wonderful to see them embrace the challenge, working hard to solve a range of tricky and thought-provoking questions.
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The competition is a great opportunity for our ākonga to extend their mathematical thinking, apply problem-solving skills in new contexts, and build confidence.
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A big thank you to all kaiako and whānau for supporting this annual event. We look forward to building on this experience and making it even better next year!
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Kaiarataki Pāngarau / HOF Mathematics
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Roanne Martin and Julianne Sigua were selected by teachers to represent Marcellin College at the "Dreaming Big" female leadership event. Ninety girls from schools around Auckland were invited to attend. The event was held at the Fonterra Building in central Auckland and not only did the girls cover leadership skills; they learned about entrepreneurship, interviewing and managing the online world.
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As Roanne explained, "Our day started with the leadership panel, where three highly successful women gave us advice on independence, life choices, and sexism in workplaces. This was followed by a session where we were given tips on how to build
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our CV and how to approach interview
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questions. Later we had a session about entrepreneurship by the founder and CEO of 'Ads on Pads,' which is a social enterprise that gives out free period products. There were two other sessions that followed, which were about online safety and a Q&A. Lastly, we had a session with Hon Nicola Willis, where she shared her life story with us and gave more advice on our journey into university."
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"It was an extraordinary opportunity to have been able to meet successful, strong women, such as Dame Therese Walsh, Jolie Hodson and Hon Nicola Willis. It was a delight to hear about their journey and experiences to reach where they are today, revealing that each one of us shared similarities as 17/18 year olds. The sessions were interactive and well thought out, ensuring each student left with more knowledge, confidence and inspiration as Year 13 girls preparing for our future endeavours", commented Julianne.
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Pastoral & Engagement News
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Te Wiki o Hauora – Nurturing the Whole Person
Next week we celebrate Te wiki o Hauora, Hauora Week at Marcellin College — a time to reflect on the importance of looking after all aspects of our wellbeing. Hauora is a Māori philosophy of health and wellbeing that recognises four key dimensions: taha tinana (physical wellbeing), taha hinengaro (mental and emotional wellbeing), taha whānau (social wellbeing), and taha wairua (spiritual wellbeing). When all four are in balance, we are best placed to live well, learn well, and thrive.
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Small daily choices can make a big difference. Getting enough sleep each night helps with concentration, mood, and energy for learning. Spending time outdoors — whether it’s playing sport, walking with friends, or simply enjoying fresh air — supports physical health and reduces stress. Staying connected with friends and whānau builds a sense of belonging, and taking moments for prayer, reflection, or gratitude strengthens spiritual wellbeing.
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During Hauora Week, we encourage everyone in our school community to take steps — big or small — to care for their own wellbeing and to support others. By nurturing all four dimensions of hauora, we not only strengthen ourselves, but also contribute to a healthier, happier, and more connected Marcellin College community.
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Here are some simple ideas to support your hauora:
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- Sleep for 8+ hours each night this week.
- Eat at least one meal outside in the fresh air.
- Say something kind to three different people each day.
- Take 10 minutes to pray, meditate, or reflect each day.
- Do one form of exercise — walk, run, cycle, or play sport — every day.
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Kiva Reminder – Anti-Bullying Program for Our Junior School
A reminder that our Junior School is continuing to engage with KiVa, an important anti-bullying program designed to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all ākonga. KiVa focuses on preventing bullying, empowering bystanders, and promoting respect and kindness within our school community.
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This program aligns with our Catholic values, particularly human dignity and solidarity, reminding us that every person deserves to feel safe and valued. Through classroom discussions, activities, and support strategies, our students are learning how to recognize, prevent, and respond to bullying in a positive way.
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Let’s continue to build a school where everyone is treated with aroha, manaaki, and respect.
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Code of Conduct
A reminder of our Marcellin College Code of Conduct. The code is designed to ensure we uphold our values every day. I would encourage whanau and ākonga to read it regularly to ensure all our interactions and allow for a positive learning environment for everyone.
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Tumuaki Tuarua / Deputy Principal (Pastoral and Engagement)
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Earlier this week, five of our senior vocalists (Sione, Mele, Janine, Felicity and Viliami) travelled to OMAC to compete in the Solo Vocal heats for SUSO 2025. They all performed very well, representing Marcellin College with pride and distinction. Felicity Pomee has made it through to the semifinals and SUSO continues this week with more of our students competing at the Band Heats, the KBB Music Festival in Parnell with our Jazz Band and the Solo Instrumental Heats.
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Kaiako Kaimahi Whakaari Puoro / Teacher in Charge of Music
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2025 Bay of Islands Jazz Festival
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Last weekend, three of our current students (Trixie, Zion & Noah) got the opportunity to perform as part of Mr Ah Sam's band for the 2025 Bay of Islands Jazz Festival which also included recent Deputy Head Boy Joshua Emmerson on guitar.The group performed 4 gigs in 2 days at a variety of venues in the Bay of Islands playing to packed houses and a great reception from the audiences who appreciated their talents and often enquired about what school they attended here in Auckland.
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Kaiako Kaimahi Whakaari Puoro / Teacher in Charge of Music
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Dance
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"Unveiled” Senior Dance showcase takes place Rāapa/Wednesday 20th and Rāpare/Thursday 21st from 6.30pm in the Drama theatre. $5 tickets are available from SSC. If you're interested in the Dance course, come and check it out!
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617 Day
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It's back for 2025! "617 Day", our Marcellin College cultural festival & whānau day will take place on Friday 19th September, Term Three. The school day will finish at 1:40pm, and the festival will officially begin at 2pm. The cultural performances will commence at approximately 2:30pm in the school La Valla Gymnasium. There will be kai/food and inu/drink available from stalls on the school field which will be open until 5pm.
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We would love to offer a range of food and beverages from a range of cultures at our festival. If you would like to run a stall, please contact ponel@marcellin.school.nz to register a stall.
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Chess Club
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Lost Property Notice
We kindly ask that you clearly label your child’s belongings. School Lockers are available to hire each year to help ākonga keep their belonging safe.
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Each day, our Health and Physical Education kaiako find jackets, jumpers, and PE gear left behind in the changing rooms and around the gym. Unfortunately, every year we end up discarding unclaimed clothing and footwear.
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If your child has lost an item of their school uniform, PE gear or other non uniform items please check with student services or the gymnasium.
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Digital
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School Policy - Reviews
Please visit the link below to see the school policies and the current policy under review for this term are:
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- Child Protection Board Review
- Abuse Recognition and Reporting Board Review
- Food and Nutrition
- Safety Checking Board Review
- Police Vetting
- Missing Student Procedure
- Visit the website https://marcellin.schooldocs.co.nz/1893.htm
- Enter the username (marcellin) and password (seekthebest).
- Follow the link to the relevant policy as listed.
- Read the policy.
- Click the Start your review button at the top right-hand corner of the page.
- Select the reviewer type.
- Enter your name (optional).
- Follow the prompts to show that you've read the topic and enter your feedback if you'd like to comment.
- Agree to the privacy statement and click “Submit review”.
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If you don't have internet access, school office staff can provide you with printed copies of the policy and a review form.
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Insite BYOD Offer
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Download the Marcellin College School App
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KAMAR parent portal
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Community Events and Notices
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Marcellin College Upcoming Events
Term Three (14 July - 19 September)
(Tongan Language Week 17 August - 23 August)
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- 18 August Blues Leadership Program
- 18 - 22 August - Senior Dance Showcase
- 22 August - Senior Option Selection
- 22 August - Year 10 Drama Shakespeare
- 25 - 29 August - UNISS
- 25 - 29 August - e-asTTle Testing (Year 7 & 8)
- 27 August - Lit/Num Ra (#3) - Year 10 & 11
- 27 August - Music Gala Concert (Marcellin College, La Valla Gymnasium)
- 29 - 31 August - League National
(Chinese Language Week 31 August - 06 September)
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- 1- 5 September - e-asTTle Testing (Year 7 & 8)
- 2 - 4 September - Lit/Num Digital
- 4 September 13 Biology - Zoo (Trends in Human Evolution)
- 5 September - Year 13 Drama Trip
(Papua New Guinea Language Week 7 - 13 September)
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- 10 September - Year 11 Production
- 11 September - Year 12 Retreat
- 12 September - Year 7 & 8 Fun Day
- 12 September - 10GEO Maungakiekie
(Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori 15 - 22 September)
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- 17 September - Special Olympics
- 19 September - Senior Full Reports
- 19 September - 617 Day
- 19 September - Last day of Term 3
Term 4 ( 6 October - 5 December)
(Fijian Language Week 5 - 11 October)
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- 6 - 10 October - NCEA Practice Exams
- 7 October - Our Lady of the Rosary (School Chapel)
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School Tuckshop
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Year 7 & 8 PDP
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Secondary School Art Awards 2025
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IF YOUR CHILD IS DOING SOMETHING FANTASTIC OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL TIME, WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR ABOUT IT AND SHARE IT WITH THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY - EMAIL YOUR STORIES (AND PHOTOGRAPHS) TO: office@marcellin.school.nz
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