Dear families, it feels like only last week that I was welcoming you all back to another school year! 

Therefore, this week I will attempt to keep this article short, sharp and sweet – starting with the ‘academic juggernaut’ that is NAPLAN. As Year 9 students start to prepare for their respective NAPLAN grand finals, I would encourage all families to familiarise themselves with the information below – which is also available on Compass from our DIAL Coordinator Mr. Dallas Collins.

Last week, (Week 4 - 27/2/25), saw students participating in NAPLAN practice testing. This is to help identify any technology issues and ensure students are ready and comfortable with the NAPLAN testing arrangements.

As we prepare for the upcoming NAPLAN testing, there are a few important requirements to ensure a smooth and successful experience that can be done prior to arriving at school:

1. Download the 2025 NAPLAN Locked Down Browser: This is essential for the testing process and must be downloaded. Please note that it was released on 20/2/2025, so even if you have downloaded it this year, you must download it again. You can find the direct link to the ACARA download here.

You can find a video tutorial on how to install the browser using this link "SCCC 2025 NAPLAN Locked Down Browser Install" or by searching this title YouTube.

2. Update Computers: Please ensure that your computer is up-to-date with the latest software updates.

3. Have headphones: Each student will need a pair of headphones for NAPLAN testing. There is no need to purchase expensive ones; inexpensive, corded headphones are perfectly suitable. While the school does have spare headphones available, for hygiene reasons and the students' peace of mind, it is recommended that each student brings their own.

Official NAPLAN testing will take place on the following dates:

• Week 6 – Wednesday 12/3/2025 – Writing

• Week 6 – Thursday 13/3/2025 – Reading

• Week 7 – Monday 17/3/2025 – Conventions of Language

• Week 7 – Tuesday 18/3/2025 – Numeracy

Thank you for your cooperation and support in ensuring that our students are well-prepared for NAPLAN testing. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

As we come to the end of another week, I would like to remind all families of the importance of wearing the San Clemente Catholic College uniform correctly and in particular how valuable it is to have your ongoing support from home in this area. Thank you to each student (and their family) who – every day – wears the SCCC uniform well and with pride. Unfortunately, we are seeing a small proportion of our community becoming complacent in the following areas;

• Socks – these need to be white and above a student’s ankle
• Piercings – additional/facial piercings are required to be either removed or replaced with a clear option. A single set of small earrings only are allowed to be worn when at SCCC
• Hoodies – as we head into the cooler months, we often see a number of ‘hoodies’ and incorrect jumpers making an appearance. Please make take the necessary steps to ensure that your child is in the correct SCCC jacket/jumper before Term 2 if necessary.

Finally, the annual SCCC Open Evening is fast approaching. The date for this year’s event is listed below;

• Wednesday 12^th March (Week 6) from 5.30pm to 7.30pm

If you are aware of anyone in your local community looking for more information about what our school has to offer, please encourage them to RSVP their intentions to attend by contacting the Administration staff via email or phone;

• Ph – 4014 7300
• Email -  admin@mayfieldsanc.catholic.edu.au

A final thought on the importance of curiosity;

“If knowledge is power, than curiosity is the muscle”

Families, as always, should you wish to discuss an issue concerning your child please do not hesitate to call The Office on 40147300 or email me directly - mitch.allan@mn.catholic.edu.au

Warm Regards,

Mitch Allan – Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Year 9