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Secondary boys college Est. in 1950
News
Principal's Update 6 February 2026
Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,
As we begin a new school year, it is clear that 2026 has already started at a busy pace. Our teaching and non-teaching staff returned last week with a strong focus on preparation, ensuring that learning programs, routines and systems were locked in before students arrived. That work matters because it allows the year to begin with calm, clarity and purpose.
This week week has been full and very positive. There is a strong sense that we have begun the term and the year well, in the same way we intend to finish it.
Commissioning Mass and High Achievers Assembly
One of the highlights of our opening days was our Commissioning Mass and High Achievers Assembly, where we gathered as one College community for the first time this year.
It was a privilege to welcome back members of the Class of 2025 and acknowledge their achievements. Their success reflects sustained effort, perseverance and character and the example they leave behind continues to shape our culture.
At the same celebration, we commissioned our student leaders for 2026. This moment is not about titles or badges, but about trust. We trust that our leaders will serve with integrity, set the tone for others, and help move our community forward together.
At this gathering, I also shared a simple challenge that will guide us across the year: for each member of our community to strive to be 10% braver and 10% better.
This is not about dramatic change or perfection. It is about growth - having a go when learning is challenging, committing to improvement, choosing respect, and taking responsibility for our shared spaces. Small actions, repeated consistently, shape strong outcomes.
High Expectations, Steady Routines
While the weather over recent weeks has been unpredictable, our aim as a school is the opposite. We work hard to ensure that students experience Marcellin College as a place of consistency and clarity.
We continue to hold high expectations of our boys in their learning, behaviour and the way they contribute to the community. Clear routines and shared standards create safety, reduce anxiety and allow students to focus on learning and growth. Being 10% better and 10% braver will remain a constant theme for the year.
2026 is already shaping up to be a very strong year. When expectations are clear and applied consistently, young people rise to them, and they do so with confidence.
Our Learning Spaces Take Shape
There is also plenty of visible progress around the College. Works are now underway behind the Chapel, creating additional space for our students and enhancing the flow of the campus.
The Gallery Flyover is now in place, and we have begun work on the internal spaces of this exciting new area. As the new Champagnat Court takes proper shape over the coming months, students will increasingly be able to enjoy and benefit from these new environments.
It is encouraging to see these projects coming together as they reflect our ongoing commitment to providing high-quality spaces that support learning, connection and wellbeing.
A Moment of Reflection
As I sat in St Patrick’s Cathedral last night as we celebrated Mass together and participated in the induction of our new students at Year 7 and other levels, I had a moment to pause and reflect. In busy times, it is helpful to pause and remember that growth in young people and in communities rarely happens all at once. In faith, we are often reminded that good things take time, patience and trust.
As we move through the opening weeks and months of the year, our hope is that each student continues to grow steadily, supported by strong relationships, clear expectations and a shared sense of purpose. Together, with our Marist HEART, we look forward to a year marked by quiet confidence, steady improvement and care for one another.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we journey through 2026 together.
Marco Di Cesare
Principal
