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Secondary boys college Est. in 1950
News
Principal's Update 7 August 2026
Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,
Over the past fortnight, I have been reminded once again that a school is at its very best when there is something for everyone. In the space of just a few days, we have celebrated excellence in music, sport, student leadership, parent learning and the ongoing professional growth of our staff. Each event has reflected a different aspect of life at Marcellin College, yet together they reinforce the same message: our boys flourish when they are challenged, supported and encouraged to participate fully in the life of the College.
As we approach the halfway point of the term, there is a real sense of momentum across the College. For our Year 12 students, the weeks ahead become increasingly important as they prepare for trial examinations and the final stages of their schooling. While these can be demanding weeks, they are also an opportunity to demonstrate the habits that lead to success: consistency, perseverance and balance.
AGSV Premier AFL Champions
Congratulations to our First XVIII AFL team on their outstanding AGSV Premiership victory over Trinity Grammar.
It was a wonderful occasion, with students, staff, families and alumni creating an incredible atmosphere of support. Our boys played with determination and represented Marcellin with humility and pride.
Congratulations to every member of the team, their coach Mr Simon Abrahams and Mr Ben Reynolds, whose leadership of sport continues to provide outstanding opportunities for our students. Success such as this is never accidental; it is built upon careful planning, dedicated coaching and the willingness of young men to commit themselves to something bigger than themselves.
Most pleasing of all was the way our students celebrated the victory. They supported one another with enthusiasm, represented the College with respect and demonstrated that winning is at its best when it is accompanied by humility and gratitude.
Celebrating Musical Excellence
Congratulations also to our Chamber Strings Ensemble on their Silver Award at the Victorian Schools Music Festival.
This achievement reflects the dedication of our students and the wonderful leadership of Ensemble Director Ms Dani Tratt. I also acknowledge Ms Natalie Carger, whose leadership of our music program continues to foster excellence and provide opportunities for students to develop their talents.
Whether on the sporting field or the concert stage, our students continue to demonstrate the value of commitment, teamwork and perseverance.
Our Inaugural Year 11 Formal
This week we held our inaugural Year 11 Formal, a memorable milestone for our students.
It was wonderful to see our young men present themselves with such maturity and confidence. Many attended with partners, and throughout the evening they demonstrated respect, courtesy and genuine enjoyment. It was a reminder that education is about much more than academic learning; it is also about forming young people of character who know how to engage positively with others.
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Supporting Our Students
Thank you to the many parents who attended Dr Michael Carr-Gregg’s presentation on supporting young people through the examination period.
His practical advice reinforced the importance of healthy routines, realistic expectations and strong partnerships between home and school. When families and schools work together, our young people are best placed to flourish.
Learning Together as Marists
Earlier this fortnight, members of our staff attended the Biennial Marist Schools Australia Conference with colleagues from more than fifty Marist schools.
These gatherings remind us that improvement is strongest when schools learn from one another. I was particularly proud that Mrs Geralyn McCarthy and Mr Robert Aston were invited to present, sharing our work in developing beautiful learning environments and using data to improve student outcomes. It reflects our commitment not only to continually improving Marcellin College but also to contributing to the wider Marist community.
Welcoming Future Families
It has also been a pleasure to welcome many Grade 4 and Grade 5 families to the College through our recent College Tours. Our Student Ambassadors continue to be among our greatest strengths. They speak with authenticity, confidence and genuine pride about their experience at Marcellin, and they leave a lasting impression on every family who visits.
Looking Ahead
As we move through the term, I encourage all of our students to continue looking for opportunities to be just 10% braver. Sometimes that bravery is seen in a grand final, a music performance or speaking to a room full of prospective families. At other times it is much quieter: asking for help, preparing consistently for examinations, trying something new or encouraging a friend.
These small moments of courage, repeated day after day, are what shape character. They help form young men who strive for excellence, lead with humility and make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Thank you, as always, for your continued support and partnership in the education of your sons.
St Marcellin Champagnat, pray for us.
Mary, our Good Mother, pray for us.
And let us remember to pray for one another.
Marco Di Cesare
Principal
