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Secondary boys college Est. in 1950
News
Principal's Update 29 August 2025
Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,
As we move through the final weeks of Term 3, I am once again struck by the richness of life at our College – a community that celebrates learning, faith, connection and the opportunities that shape our young men.
Building Works Update
Our College continues to grow and evolve with several exciting projects underway. The Gallery Flyover connecting the Hermitage and Ardmara buildings is progressing well, with works expected to be completed by the end of the year. Over the Christmas break, construction will commence on the new Champagnat Court, creating a vibrant central space for our community. At the same time, Ardmara will undergo a refurbishment to provide modern, purpose-designed facilities for our Year 7 students. These developments reflect our responsbility to creating inspiring and dynamic learning environments for all.
College Fees 2026
We remain committed to providing a learning environment that inspires excellence, resilience and the living out of our Marist HEART values. This requires continual investment in high-quality teaching, wellbeing programs and facilities that benefit every student.
In 2026, College fees will see an approximate 8% increase. While we aim to keep fees as low as we can, this adjustment reflects rising costs in the broader economy, a new Enterprise Agreement that is being negotiated, as well as our commitment to maintaining the standard of education and care that families rightly expect. Importantly, our fees continue to include the embedded $520 reduction introduced in 2025 when laptop charges for Year 7 and Year 10 families were removed from school fees and paid directly to an external provider.
This means that while families of Year 10 students in 2026 will continue to purchase laptops directly, the equivalent reduction remains part of the fee structure. We thank you for your ongoing support and partnership as we balance affordability with our mission to deliver an exceptional Catholic education.
Singapore Educational Tour
This term, our College was privileged to participate in the Singapore Educational Tour. Led by Mr Phil Kamay, our students and staff engaged with universities and schools, developing links that will enrich our global learning partnerships. It was especially encouraging to work alongside the Australian Catholic University, who partnered with us to introduce Singaporean educators to Australian practices using Marcellin College as a case study. Experiences such as these highlight the importance of international collaboration in preparing our boys for a world beyond the College gates.
Building Bridges with Our Primary Partners
Earlier this week we hosted our Catholic Primary Schools Principals’ Breakfast, a wonderful occasion where Year 7 representatives joined us in welcoming principals and staff from their former schools. This was a special opportunity to thank those who laid the foundations for our students’ learning journeys and to celebrate the partnerships that continue to support their growth.
Last weekend, we also welcomed many new families to our Year 7 2026 Testing Day. Meeting students who will soon join our College was both exciting and affirming. Their enthusiasm reminds us of the privilege we have in shaping the next generation of Marcellin men.
Exploring Irish Heritage and Beyond
I will be taking some Long Service Leave beginning next week and have the privilege of travelling with my wife and her siblings as they reconnect with their Irish heritage. We will journey through Ireland and Northern Ireland, before heading to Spain and finally Singapore to attend the Formula 1. It is a gift to be able to step aside briefly and spend this time with family, and I do so with gratitude for the strong leadership team who will continue to guide the College.
Looking Ahead
During my time away, Ms Suzanne Farley will serve as Acting Principal. I know that under her leadership the College will continue to flourish as we approach the final stretch of Term 3. I encourage all students and families to finish the term with energy and determination, embracing opportunities to grow in faith, learning and friendship.
Let us remember that even in the busiest of times, we are called to walk gently with one another, to encourage courage, and to be “10% braver” in the way we live our Marist HEART values each day.
Thank you for your ongoing support, and may this final part of the term be one of joy, resilience and shared achievement as we recharge our batteries over the break, ready for Term 4.
God Bless,
Marco Di Cesare
Principal
