Mount Alvernia College Orientation Handbook

2. Vision
The Franciscan narrative calls us to be visionary
in aspirations, ethical in relationships and agile in
solutions. Mount Alvernia College is a community
of faith that is inclusive, welcoming, and
generous.
Learning programs are innovative and excellent,
tailored to student needs and with a focus on
expanding students’ capabilities and horizons.
There is a strong focus on critical thinking,
creativity, continuous improvement, and ethical
leadership.
We are a school of choice for staff, where
professional capability is fostered through clarity
of role and expectations, professional learning,
and leadership pathways. Staff are passionate,
collaborative and highly effective, continuously
evolving their practices, skills, and resilience in
challenging times.
We are well known and valued both locally and
beyond. Our strong partnerships link us to
research and industry. We leverage these
relationships to solve ecological and social
challenges, creating options and pathways for
the real world.
Sustainable plans underpin our resourcing and
development. Our spaces are flexible, functional,
and beautiful.
Every student is known, valued and respected.
They are joy-filled, confident, resilient,
courageous, and compassionate. Our graduates
are globally aware and are empowered to use
their voice and talents to respond to the needs of
the time.
Inspired by Saint Francis, Saint Clare and
Elizabeth Hayes, Mount Alvernia College exists
to educate the minds and hearts of students
in a community of challenge and support.
Guided by Gospel values, we empower our
students to be hope-filled and resilient, with
agency for learning and life, to transform our
world.
Mission
Gathered as God’s community of Mount
Alvernia College, we honour the stories of
which we are a part: The stories of Jesus, of
Francis and Clare, of Elizabeth Hayes and the
Missionary Franciscan Sisters, and of all our
students and staff - past, present and future.
God, we pray:
That we will be instruments of peace;
That we always find joy in the simple things;
That we serve others with compassion;
That we respect all your people on earth and
all of creation.
May everything we do be grounded in love, as
we place our trust in you.
Saint Francis, Saint Clare and Elizabeth Hayes,
watch over us.
Amen.
College Prayer
Values
JOY RESPECT SERVICE
COURAGE

3. Principal’s Welcome
Our Houses
2024 Captains Welcome
Key Staff
Contact Details & Term Dates
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
2
3
4
5
6
Administration
Fees
Lockers
Lost Property
College Coin
Transport Information
Uniform Shop Appointments
Absence
Late Arrival
Early Departures
Illness
Mobile Phones
Social Media
Timetable
General Information
New Student Forms
Communication
Uniform Expectations
Student Expectations & Procedures
Year 7 Camp
Educational Wellbeing
Student Protection
Academic Information
Classroom Expectations
iCentre (Library)
Assessment
Reporting
Equipment
7
8
8
9
10
11
12
12
13
14
14
15
15
16
16
16
Laptop Program
Digital Literacy Passport
Accessing the Digital Literacy Passport
Homework Policy
Expectations of Teachers
17
17
18
19
19
Expectations of Students
The role of parents/carers
Process for non-compliance
Academic Support
Opportunities for Extension
Teaching & Learning Frameworks
Cultural, Co-curricular & Service
Our Franciscan Commitment to
the Environment
20
21
21
22
22
22
23
24

4. PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME
Situated on Country of the Turrbal and Jagera peoples, Mount Alvernia College is a
Franciscan place of welcome and inclusion; a place that recognises the uniqueness of each
person; a place that seeks to build capacity and potential for all.
We are a thriving learning community of approximately 960 students in Years 7-12. With
over 75 teaching staff and almost 50 support staff, we work in a spirit of collaboration to
support our students. We possess a special and unique partnership with a community of
Franciscans on the Hill, a precinct with includes our brother school Padua College, St
Anthony’s Primary School, Little Flower Church, the Kedron Parish and Delamore
Retirement Community. Together, we are a Franciscan community committed to a shared
sense of purpose and faith.
We recognise that choosing a secondary school for your child is a process of considerable
discernment and we thank you for entrusting Mount Alvernia College with the privilege of
teaching, guiding and mentoring your young person. As dedicated educators, we do not
take this responsibility lightly and are committed to an open, supportive and ongoing
partnership with you in the years that lie ahead.
On behalf of the Extended Leadership Team and all who work with your young person, we
formally welcome you to our community.
Samantha Jensen - Principal
2

5. SPOLETO
Patron: Saint Francis
Crest: The hills, valley and river represent the landscape of Spoleto Valley
where Francis lived. The natural world was a significant influence on
Francis’ spirituality.
Colour: Blue, symbolising the colour of the clear skies above Spoleto Valley
and the river that runs through it.
Motto: Serve All
BELLE PRAIRIE
Patron: Elizabeth Hayes
Crest: The log cabin represents Elizabeth Hayes’ first mission in
Belle Prairie, Minnesota, USA
Colour: Purple, symbolising the Prairie Phlox, a common flower of the
prairie lands of Minnesota
Motto: Begin the Journey
GRECCIO
Patron: Saint Francis
Crest: The nativity scene represents Saint Francis’ re-enactment of the birth
of Jesus at Greccio
Colour: Yellow, symbolising the light of Christ in our world
Motto: Celebrate Life
RIETI
Patron: Saint Francis
Crest: The sun and moon represent words from the Canticle of the Creatures
that Francis wrote, in part, at La Foresta near Rieti
Colour: Red, symbolising the fervour of Francis’ love for God and creation
Motto: Renew the Heart
PERUGIA
Patron: Saint Francis
Crest: The prison bars represent Saint Francis’ internment in Perugia, a
significant event in his faith journey
Colour: Green, symbolising the pastures seen from Francis’ prison and the
fertile vision born from his time of discernment
Motto: Search for Meaning
VILLA SPADA
Patron: Elizabeth Hayes
Crest: The open door and radiating cross represent Villa Spada, the Mother
House of the Missionary Franciscan Sisters in Rome established by Elizabeth
Hayes
Colour: Orange, symbolising the Roman sunset and abundant harvest produced
by the Missionary Franciscan Sisters who departed the Mother House on mission
around the globe
Motto: Reach Out
OUR HOUSES
3

6. NIAMH KATE
As your 2024 College Captains we cannot wait to
welcome you to the wonderful community Mt A is.
It was not long ago that we too were the new kids,
and we know how daunting this new journey is.
But, don’t worry! Mt A is a place for everyone
where you can express your own interests,
passions, and talents!
Dear 2024 Year 7 Students,
Before you know it, it will be your turn to walk
through the gates of Mt A, place all your new
stationery in your very own locker and officially
begin your high school journey.
WELCOME
FROM OUR 2024 COLLEGE CAPTAINS
The best way to experience life at Mt A is to get involved! Whether you are an athlete, musician, debater,
artist, or just keen to try something new there is something for you.
As your 2024 College Captains, we absolutely cannot wait to greet you on your first day as we know it will
be the beginning of a lifetime of memories.
We are very pleased to welcome you all into the College community and look forward to getting to know
the new members of our community. Moving to high school is a big step and can be a big adjustment for
the whole family. However, before you know it you will watch your children grow into the capable young
people we are surrounded by every day, and everything will settle into place.
Speaking from personal experience, Mt A has been a place throughout our high school years filled with
fun and joy as well as a place that has taught us the value of hard work, working together, seizing
opportunities, and becoming independent thinkers. Despite our individual differences, we believe this
experience is universal.
But of course, this is not possible without your support which plays a vital role in maintaining this positive
environment. The best outcomes happen as a result of strong partnerships - at Mt A that is between
students, teachers and parents who work in sync with one another to achieve their individual best.
On behalf of your 2024 College Captains, we hope you love Mt A just as much as we do.
Dear 2024 Year 7 Parents/Carers,
We look forward to the beginning of your journey here and wish you all the very best!
4

7. BELLE PRAIRIE
Jeni Barlow
BARLJ
KEY STAFF
COLLEGE LEADERSHIP TEAM
HEADS OF HOUSE
Principal
Ms Samantha Jensen
principal@mta.qld.edu.au
Business Manager
Paulette Corkery
CORKP
Deputy - Student Development
& Wellbeing
Kathryn Dendy
DENDK
Deputy - Identity
Richard Rogusz
ROGUR
Deputy -
Teaching & Learning
Kath Little
LITTK
Deputy - Staff
Development & Organisation
Kerry Jell
JELLK
GRECCCIO
Michelle Licina
LICIM
RIEITI
Courtney Daniec
DANIC
SPOLETO
Chanel Humphries
HUMPC
PERUGIA
Erin Moffat
MOFFE
VILLA SPADA
Sacha Carney
CARNS
Staff emails commence with the first four letters of a staff member's last name,
then the first letter of their first name, followed by: @staff.mta.qld.edu.au
COUNSELLORS
Amber Bleakley
counsellor@mta.qld.edu.au
Tanya McConnell
counsellor@mta.qld.edu.au
5

8. TERM 1
Compulsory Homeroom
Mentoring Meetings (Years 7-10)
Monday, 22 January
Years 7, 9,11,12 and new students
commence
Tuesday, 23 January
All students return (Years 7-12) Wednesday, 24 January
Last day Term 1 Thursday, 28 March
TERM 2
Term 2 commences Monday, 15 April
Last day Term 2 Friday, 14 June
TERM 3
Term 3 Commences Monday, 8 July
Last day of Term 3 Friday, 13 September
TERM 4
Term 4 commences Monday, 30 September
Years 7-10 Finish Thursday, 28 November
Year 11 Students Finish Tuesday 3, December
STAFF
DIRECTORY
WHO SHOULD I CONTACT?
The below graphic provides clear information on who to contact in regards to specific queries.
General matters regarding
student welfare, progress or
concerns?
CONTACT THE
HOMEROOM MENTOR
TEACHER
Educational Wellbeing?
Complex or sensitive
matters relating to
HEAD OF HOUSE OR DEAN
CONTACT THE
result of extended illness?
Requiring an assessment
extension for a subject as a
HEAD OF FACULTY
CONTACT THE
related to a specific subject?
Do you have a query that is
SUBJECT TEACHER
CONTACT THE RELEVANT
Parents and carers are
respectfully asked to refer
important messages to their
daughter via Student Services
on (07) 3632 8518.
Students are not permitted to
carry or access their phones
during the day. Your co-operation
and support in helping us to
uphold this protocol is greatly
appreciated.
WHAT IF I NEED
TO CONTACT MY
CHILD?
2024 TERM DATES
6

9. TERM 1 KEY DATES
Monday 22 January - Homeroom Mentoring Meetings
Tuesday 23 January - First day of Year 7
Wednesday 31 January - Friday 2 February - Year 7 Camp
Friday 9 February - Parent Welcome Soiree
Friday 23 February - Interhouse Swimming Carnival
Thursday 28 March - Interhouse Cross Country Carnival
The timetable is based on a ten-day cycle, with each day numbered Day
1 – Day 10. Each day commences with Homeroom or an Assembly, followed by five lessons.
Students and parents are able to access their timetable via MyMtA.
In Year 7, each student's Head of House will be their allocated teacher for at least one of their
subjects. Homerooms are vertical groups (Year 7-12) and a student will stay in the same
homeroom for their full six years at the College.
TIMETABLE
Taylor Swift
Bell to move to
Assembly
Assembly Assembly
Bell to move to
Assembly
7

10. 8
Log onto MyMtA and access the ‘New Student Hub’ tile on the homepage.
Download and complete the following forms:
Student & Family Details
Media Permission
Medical Management & Emergency Treatment Plan
Request to Administer Medication
Read the Responsible use of Technology Document
Sign the Student & Parent Technology Agreement
FORMS TO COMPLETE
In order for your child to commence her education journey at Mount Alvernia
College, we request the below forms are filled in and returned to the College via
our Enrolments Registrar (enrolments@mta.qld.edu.au).
HOW TO COMPLETE THESE FORMS
1.
2.
GENERAL INFORMATION
ADMINISTRATION
College Reception is located in the Anthony Wing, which is at the Cremorne Road entrance to
the College. Reception is open from 8.00am - 4.00pm during term time. There is a dedicated
Student Reception located on the first floor of the Anthony Wing.
FEES
Mount Alvernia College strives to keep fees and levies as accessible for our community, whilst
ensuring appropriate levels of staffing and long-term success in all areas of the College. We
have partnered with FACTS Management Australia to offer a convenient and secure way to
manage tuition. FACTS will contact you directly to organise the set up of your fee account.
If you have tuition questions, please contact our Finance Department on 3632 8509 or email
fees@mta.qld.edu.au.
LOCKERS
Each student is provided with a locker at the commencement of the school year.
The lock for their locker is provided by the College and students are to secure their
personal property inside at all times.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property is located in Student Services (Anthony Wing, 1st Floor). Please ensure
all uniform items are clearly labeled with your child’s full name.
COLLEGE COIN
Once your child is issued with a student ID card in Term 1, you will be able to add funds to
their card for La Cucina (cafe) and printing. You can access College Coin via MyMtA (top
navigation) or the College App (links tile).
TRANSPORT INFORMATION
Bus information and routes can be found on the College website by scanning the QR
code. Students will need a Flexi pass to travel on Thomspon bus services, these can be
purchased from the Padua College reception.
NEW STUDENT FORMS
Scan me to access the
New Student Hub

11. COMMUNICATION
MYMTA
MyMtA is the College's Learning
Management System. Parents and students
can find information such as course
overviews and class resources on the
MyMtA Course and Unit Pages.
Other information, for example:
assessment calendars, high-impact learning
strategies, policies and procedures and
much more can be found on MyMtA for
both parents/carers and students. Student
timetables are also visible under the ‘My
Children’ section of MyMtA. Assessment
results are available from MyMtA.
Parents/carers are encouraged to
familiarise themselves with the different
tiles on MyMtA.
COLLEGE APP
The College strongly encourages all
parents/carers to download the Mount
Alvernia College App.
The App is available through Apple App
Store and Google Play for Android, by
searching ‘Mount Alvernia College’. The
App will alert parents/carers to
upcoming whole school or cohort
events, or information that has been
updated in MyMtA.
NEWSLETTER
News & Views is published fortnightly on a Friday.
This publication offers updates from the
Extended Leadership Team, details regarding
upcoming events, subject highlights + much
more! News & Views editions are published via
the College App, MyMtA and emailed to
parents/carers and students.
SOCIALS
We encourage our parents/carers community
to follow and engage with the below social
accounts.
College Instagram:
@mtakedron
College Facebook:
@mountalverniacollege
SCAN ME TO ACCESS COLLEGE SIGN IN INSTRUCTIONS FOR
THE APP AND MYMTA.
ACCESSING THE APP & MYMTA
Every parent/carer will receive an activation
email from noreply@identity.mta.qld.edu.au.
This email outlines instructions on how to access
the College App and MyMtA.
If you have any trouble accessing MyMtA, please
contact our IT team - ITSupport@mta.qld.edu.au
for assistance.
9

12. UNIFORM EXPECTATIONS
Formal uniforms are to be worn to and from school every day, and consist of:
Regulation day dress (to knee-length or below) or blouse with trousers; both options
are to be worn with the year-level tie.
Black leather lace-up shoes to be worn with crew socks. Panty-hose may worn with
the dress.
Formal hat.
Students are required to change in and out of the sports uniform on the days they have
a sports lesson. The sports uniform consists of:
Black shorts and House shirts. Sports shoes to be worn with anklet socks.
Bucket hat or sports cap.
The College blazer is part of the winter uniform and is compulsory in Terms 2 and 3.
Hair must be neat and tidy. If hair is below collar length, it is to be tied back.
Make up, false nails or eyelashes, or inappropriate hair colour, are not permitted.
Students are required to carry a Colege school bag to and from school, and excursion
bags are compulsory when attending out-of-school venues/excursions.
When in school uniform, students are representing Mount Alvernia College. At these times,
their behaviour and the manner in which they wear their uniform should be respectful and
comply with school expectations.
Key information about the Mount Alvernia College Uniform:
The College offers personalised Uniform Shop appointments for all new
students. Additional appointment times have been made available
during November. You can book your appointment via the QR code
to the right.
UNIFORM SHOP APPOINTMENTS
Opening Hours
The Uniform Shop is open during Term time at the following times:
Monday: 7.30am - 11.30am
Wednesday: 11.00am - 2.00pm
Friday: 7.30am - 9.30am (by appointment only)
10

13. STUDENT EXPECTATIONS & PROCEDURES
College App – Simply complete the details and click “Send”.
College Absentee Line – Phone 3632 8591 and leave a message.
College Absentee Email – StudentAbsent@mta.qld.edu.au.
ABSENCE
The College must be informed of all student absences. This can be done via one of the following
methods:
An SMS will be sent to parents/carers once the school has received an absentee notification for a
student. Parents/carers will be prompted to contact the school should the notification be an
error.
An SMS will be sent to a student’s parents/carers if they are absent from school without
notification.
Please note: Parents are asked to avoid making appointments during school time.
LATE ARRIVAL
When a student arrives at school after the first bell has rung at 8.25am (8.45am on Thursday),
they are required to report to Student Services where the time of arrival will be noted. The
student will receive a late slip to present to their classroom teacher.
EARLY DEPARTURES
When a student needs to leave the College during the day, parents/carers are asked to
contact the College ahead of time via the College App, College Absentee Line or College
Absentee Email (similar to the process for absence), indicating the time of departure and the
reason. Students are not to permitted to leave the College without parent/carer permission
and are to be collected by a parent/carer at College Reception. The time of leaving will be
recorded.
ILLNESS
If a student is feeling unwell before school, they should not attend school. Any student who
is feeling unwell at school is to report to Sick Bay (if during class, the student is asked to
inform the classroom teacher before leaving class). Parents/carers will be notified by the
College and arrangements will be made for the student to go home. If parents are not
available, the emergency number will be contacted. Students are not permitted to make
their own arrangements to leave school if they are unwell. Sick Bay is for temporary use only.
Mobile phones are to be stored in students’ lockers on arrival at school.
Mobile phones will be confiscated on the spot if students are seen or heard using them
during school hours (students will be asked to take their mobile phone to Student
Services where it will be safely stored for the remainder of the day).
Mobile phones can be used once the final bell rings at the end of the day.
MOBILE PHONES
The College recognises that parents/carers may require their child to carry a mobile phone
for personal safety reasons and/or for the purpose of making travel arrangements at the end
of the day; however, a student’s access to their mobile phone at school must be in
accordance with the College expectations, including:
11

14. No liability will be accepted by the College in the event of loss, theft or damage of a
mobile phone.
In cases of emergency, the College remains an appropriate point of contact for
parents/carers to reach their child quickly.
Use social media in a respectful and responsible manner.
Refrain from acting in such a way that brings the College into disrepute or in a way that
harms members of the College community.
Not insult or present offensive or inappropriate content.
Not misrepresent the College or any member of the College community.
SOCIAL MEDIA
The College recognises the importance of social media tools as a mechanism for both
individuals and organisations to engage in and share information. In engaging in social
media students are expected to show respect to others, including members of the College
community. Students and parents/carers are also expected to give respect to the reputation
and good name of the College.
It is our policy that all stakeholders must:
Detailed information about all College policies, including the Student Code of Conduct,
can be found via the ‘Policies and Procedures’ Tile on the MyMtA home page.
YEAR 7 CAMP
31 January – 2 February
Students in Year 7 will spend two nights in cabin accommodation at Noosa North Shore. The
focus of this camp will be getting to know each other and building relationships. The camp will
involve activities such as raft building, stand up paddle boarding, surfing, body boarding, a
beach carnival, an initiative course and team development activities.
The camp is fully catered and includes breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and
dinner, and caters for students with specific dietary requirements.
12

15. EDUCATIONAL WELLBEING
Educational Wellbeing at Mount Alvernia
College recognises the intrinsic link that
exists between wellbeing and learning for all
students. Educational Wellbeing accepts that
exceptional student care will only be possible
when the best elements of pastoral and
academic support interconnect.
Year 7 Reflection Day
Year 7 Camp
Reduced assessment expectations in
Term 1, with students completing in-class
diagnostic assessments focused on skill
building in core subjects
Educational Wellbeing at Mt A is
supported by an intentional program of
transition and orientation. This includes:
Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Developing Smart Goals
ICT Effectiveness (with a focus on file set
up, organisational and learning tools)
A formal orientation program in Weeks 1
and 2 of Term 1 focussed on:
HOUSE SYSTEM
The wellbeing of the students at Mount
Alvernia College is an important focus and
this is animated by the school’s House
system. Integral to the House system is
Homeroom in which students from across
Years 7 to 12 come together on a daily basis.
Along with the Homeroom Mentor teacher,
this group of people become akin to a family,
remaining in the same Homeroom for the
duration of their time at Mount Alvernia
College.
The Homeroom Mentor teacher comes to
know the students well, engaging in prayer,
team-building activities, running academic
mentoring sessions and checking in daily
with students in terms of their social and
emotional wellbeing.
The Homeroom Mentor teacher is the first
port of call for parents/carers and they are
supported by the Heads of House and the
Deans. Another important feature of
Homeroom is the special relationship
between the Year 7 students and the Year 11
students.
N
E
T
W
ORK OF C
A
R
E
EDUCATIONAL
WELLBEING
HOMEROOM
MENTOR
TEACHER
COLLEGE
COUNSELLORS
HEAD OF
HOUSE
DEPUTY
PRINCIPALS
DEAN OF
MIDDLE &
SENIOR
YEARS
HEADS OF
FACULTY &
SUBJECT
TEACHERS
ACADEMIC
MENTORING
PROGRAM
CO-
CURRICULAR
OPPORTUNITIES
YEAR 11
AMBASSADOR
COLLEGE
PRINCIPAL
PERSONAL BEST PROGRAM
Students engage in weekly lessons during
which they explore a range of topics and learn
necessary life skills. This Personal Best
Program aims to supports students’ social,
emotional and academic development. For
Year 7 students, the initial lessons
are all about assisting them to make
a smooth transition into high school,
including meeting the key
stakeholders in their education,
building connections with other
students, finding their way around
the school, learning about school
processes and expectations, and
exploring the keys for academic
success.
Further information about the
Personal Best Program can be
found on MyMtA via the Educational
Wellbeing Tile.
13

16. STUDENT PROTECTION
Mount Alvernia College is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young
people. We have zero tolerance for child abuse and are committed to acting in students’
best interests and keeping them safe from harm.
Our student protection program is made up of work systems, practices, policies and
procedures designed to maintain a safe and supportive school environment, and to embed
an organisational culture of child safety within the College community. These programs and
policies are in compliance with all laws, regulations and standards relevant to child
protection in Queensland.
Our Student Protection Policy can be found on MyMtA via the ‘Policies and
Procedures' Tile. We regularly re-visit this Policy with all students.
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
TIMETABLE
Students can access their timetable online, via MyMtA. Students are asked to be on-site
fifteen minutes prior to the start of school, to ensure readiness for the day. Students are
expected to be on time for classes.
English – 8 periods a cycle
Mathematics + Numeracy – 9 periods a cycle
Humanities – 5 periods a cycle (History / Geography – one a Semester)
Religion – 5 periods a cycle
Science – 5 periods a cycle
HPE – 4 periods a cycle
Art
Design Technology
SUBJECTS STUDIED
Year 7 students at Mount Alvernia College study a range of subjects in Year 7. They will be
in House Groups for the following subjects:
In line with our College values, we are proudly an inclusive learning community. We
are committed to ensuring that we cater to individual student learning needs fostering
access to learning for all students, celebrating diversity and cultivating a strong sense of
belonging. Students who require extension are supported through differentiation in
assigned learning groups.
Students who need additional support as a result of diagnosed learning needs, may have
the opportunity to participate in Curriculum Support on the Humanities line.
Students will study two additional subjects each term, for six periods per cycle. These
subjects include:
Economics and Business
Italian
To ensure teaching and learning time is maximised in these classes, students will not sit
formal summative assessment in them at Year 7. Classwork will form the basis of teacher
judgment and feedback.
Digital Technology
Drama
Japanese
Music
14

17. CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS
To ensure Educational Wellbeing for all, students are expected to adhere to the following
expectations in their classroom learning:
ICENTRE (LIBRARY)
The Mount Alvernia College iCentre is open for students between the following hours:
Monday – Thursday:
7.30 am – 5.00 pm
Students in Year 7 will complete an iCentre and Library orientation program as part of their
Humanities classes. Through the iCentre, students will have access to the full library
catalogue. Physical resources can be borrowed and renewed at the circulation desk. Digital
resources can be reserved through the iCentre Website - www.mta-icentre.mta.qld.edu.au
Friday:
7.30 am – 3.30 pm
15

18. Teachers will make judgments about student work based on their completion of assessment. At
Mount Alvernia College, teachers follow a 15 point assessment scale from A+ to E-. Individual
work is assessed and graded by teachers, who engage in a monitoring and quality assurance
process to ensure comparability of standards. Teachers then discern overall grades based on
individual assessment items.
Mount Alvernia students typically complete 3-4 pieces of assessment a year (one per term, per
class). Assessment is either assignment or examination based. Typically, there will be a balance
of conditions to ensure students are exposed to the ways of working in the upper year levels,
whilst also having opportunity to demonstrate capacity across different assessment modes.
To support student time management in the completion of assessment the College publishes an
Assessment Calendar at the start of each semester. This will be available to students and parents
on the Academics Tile on MyMtA and on the College App.
Where a student is sick on the day of assessment, parents are asked to make contact with the
subject teacher and Head of Faculty, to ensure arrangements for catch up can be made.
Parents are discouraged from booking alternative events in advertised assessment periods.
Where a student has had ongoing absence prior to the submission of an assignment, it is the
student’s responsibility to apply for an extension 48 hours prior. Parents are encouraged to help
students build healthy attitudes towards assessment, to adopt a ‘growth mindset’ including a
spirit of ‘can do’.
Feedback should be seen as a necessary opportunity for growth and planning next learning
steps. The College encourages students to engage in self-feedback, and also to look for overall
themes in feedback across subjects.
All policies relating to Assessment, including the Academic Integrity Policy, can be found within
the ‘Policies & Procedures’ tile of MyMtA. Feedback and results are available through MyMtA
within 2-3 weeks of assessment completion.
ASSESSMENT
REPORTING
Mount Alvernia College publishes formal reports via MyMtA at the end of Semester 1 and the
end of Semester 2. You can access these reports via the 'Permissions & Reports’ tile of MyMtA.
EQUIPMENT
STATIONERY
To ensure student readiness, it is important that students commence the school
year with all items as advertised on the College’s Stationery List. Please see the
QR code to the right to view the stationery list required for Year 7 students.
16

19. We are a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) school. The device of choice for students is a
PC/Windows device, due to their enhanced integration, compatibilities with assistive
technologies and stylus capabilities. The College does not support MAC devices. Parents
should also ensure that students have wired headphones that are compatible with their laptop.
For more information on suitable devices and minimum specifications, please refer to
the IT Support Page on MyMtA. Our IT team can be contacted at ItSupport@mta.qld.edu.au
LAPTOP PROGRAM
Mount Alvernia BYOD Ordering Process
Booklet (scan me to view).
DIGITAL LITERACY PASSPORT
The Digital Literacy Passport facilitates the development of students’ digital literacy skills and
capabilities through the completion of online learning courses within MyMtA. These courses
teach students to use, understand, evaluate and create information and content using digital
technologies. They encompass a range of skills, including navigating digital devices, using
software and applications, critically assessing digitally sourced information, effectively
communicating through digital programs and platforms, and understanding the implications
of digital actions on individuals and society. These courses will also develop students’
understanding of privacy, security, and ethical considerations related to the use of digital
tools and platforms. As technology continues to evolve, being digitally literate is crucial for
personal, academic, and professional success in the modern world.
Our 2024 Year 7 students are encouraged to complete the modules and quizzes for the
Microsoft Word Digital Literacy Course (located within the Digital Literacy Passport)
prior to the commencement of the 2024 academic year, in readiness for word
processing in Year 7 subjects. For parents, the Digital Literacy Passport can be accessed
through the New Student Hub, located on the parent dashboard of MyMtA.
For students, the Digital Literacy Passport can be accessed directly through the
student dashboard of MyMtA; the Microsoft Word Course is available for completion
via this page. Video instructions are provided to students at every step. Upon
completion of each Digital Literacy Passport Course, students will earn an
achievement badge which will display for both parents and students under the
Achievements section of the student profile.
17

20. Click on the ‘Digital Literacy Passport’ tile on
the student dashboard of MyMtA.
Access the Microsoft Word Digital Literacy
Course by selecting this from the ‘Learning
to Fly Digital Literacy Courses’ and
complete the modules, tasks and quizzes
for this course.
For Students
1.
2.
ACCESSING THE DIGITAL LITERACY PASSPORT
Click on the ‘New Student Hub’ on the parent dashboard of MyMtA
Click on ‘Digital Literacy Passport’
Watch the ‘Introduction to Digital Literacy’ Video
Review the different Digital Literacy courses via the list of tiles.
When your child completes a Digital Literacy course, you will see a badge appear in
the ‘Achievements’ section under your child’s name on the Homepage of MyMtA.
For Parents
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Example of Digital Literacy
Achievement badge.
18

21. Completion of teacher set work designed to reinforce learning
Completion of assignment tasks to meet checkpoints – teacher or student directed
Previewing – completion of viewing or reading tasks in advance of a particular topic being
covered in class, to enhance overall understanding prior to the topic being taught –
student or teacher directed
Reviewing – completing tasks which help reinforce learning in preparation for
examinations – student or teacher led. This may include:
Reorganising notes such that:
connections between ideas are more evident
text is accompanied by visuals
text is simplified into formulas or graphic organisers, showing the relationship
between ideas
students have a summary of the key points as part of a Week in Review Map
Devising and completing additional questions
Practising skills to enhance command of the mode of the assessment, this may
include:
speaking skills
writing skills
reading strategies
multi step Mathematical problems
cognitions – e.g. describe, explain, compare and contrast, analyse, evaluate,
synthesise
Producing – ongoing work on making tasks (e.g. Drama Performances, Design Projects,
Digital Projects)
Home study is an important aspect of learning. Revisiting concepts covered in class, and
completing related activities, can help consolidate learning. Further, homework helps build
work ethic, routine and autonomy. Homework across the College can take many forms, and
includes activities such as:
HOMEWORK POLICY
EXPECTATIONS OF TEACHERS
assist students to develop time management and organisational strategies to support
homework completion
allow timely opportunities for review of student responses and feedback
communicate with parents when work is either not satisfactorily completed, or
incomplete
establish routines and conventions for students around how to ask for help, if they are
having difficulty with completion
make modification to homework tasks, for students with identified needs
When teachers set homework, it is an expectation of the College that they:
19

22. The student’s ability in a particular subject area
The nature of the assessment task – research subjects, for instance, may require more
ongoing commitment, but fewer examinations
The level of commitment a student has to their own learning
The extent to which work has, or has not been, completed in class
Record all assessment dates for the term in their Student Planner, such that they have a
good overall understanding of where items are due and potential challenges can be risk
managed by the student.
Record all homework accurately in their Student Planner ensuring sufficient time is
allocated to student set assignment work
Organise their homework in an appropriately presented, structured, and detailed
manner – having had this explained and modelled for them by the classroom teacher
Communicate with teachers in advance of due dates, if they have a known scheduling
conflict, and arrange an alternative submission time
Communicate with teachers by email prior to a lesson, if they have been unable to
complete homework either because of an unforeseen scheduling problem, illness, or
difficulty. Students should cc their parents into the email, to ensure partnership and
transparency for all parties.
The length of time a student may spend on homework will, understandably, differ
depending on:
Students at the College are expected to:
EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
The nature and volume of homework a student is expected to complete will vary depending
upon their grade level and suite of subjects. Expectation guidelines averaged across a unit of
work are as follows:
Years 7 and 8: 6 – 8 hours per week
Years 9 and 10: 8 – 10 hours per week
Years 11 and 12: 10 – 15 hours per week
e.e. cummings
20

23. Checking the Student Planner for homework entries (Year 7 and 8)
Providing organisational support, discussion and unpacking of homework tasks
Reading and offering suggestions for review in relation to assignment drafts, without
substantively changing content or style
Communicating directly with the subject teacher to seek clarity or raise a concern, as
per the College’s Communications Procedures published on the College website
Providing conducive homework routines and study spaces for their children
Ensuring balance between school work and/or co-curricular activities/part-time work
Ensuring wellbeing is facilitated by encouraging students to take timely breaks, exercise,
eat healthily and adopt good sleep routines
Parents and carers may assist the College and support their children, by working in
partnership with teachers, providing that the level of assistance does not rise to the level of
authorship, such that the student’s work is no longer their own.
Assistance may include:
*Further information to support parents/carers is available on MyMtA in the
‘Educational Wellbeing’, ‘Academics’ and ‘Subject & Futures’ tiles.
THE ROLE OF PARENTS/CARERS
Engage in a conversation with the student, outlining expectations and offering support
Provide the student with an alternative opportunity to submit the homework to a
satisfactory standard
Step 1 – Contact parents/carers, note non-completion of homework, and organise a
rescheduled date for submission of homework, notifying students by email
Step 2 – As above + Head of Faculty + lunch time detention for student
Where a parent/carer or student has a concern about the setting of homework in a
teacher’s class, they should contact the subject teacher, in the first instance. Should the
matter require further attention, contact should be made with the appropriate Head of
Faculty.
Where a teacher has a concern about the non-submission of homework by a student
they should:
In cases of persistent non-compliance (up to three in a term) around the completion
of homework, a teacher should follow the below process:
Where breaches of homework requirements persist (without mitigating circumstances)
further engagement with parents will follow.
PROCESS FOR NON-COMPLIANCE
21

24. ACADEMIC SUPPORT
Academic Mentoring
After school supervision, teacher and peer support with completion of homework
(Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 3.15pm – 4.15pm).
The mentoring schedule can be found on the Academics tile of MyMtA.
Students in Year 7 needing support should initially make direct contact with their teacher.
Other supports on offer include:
At Mount Alvernia College our goal is to provide opportunities to enrich, enhance, and
maximise students’ learning. To this end, we offer a variety of extension programs, groups and
clubs in which students participate in to support their growth and educational wellbeing.
These opportunities include, Writing and Art Competitions, our Mount Alvernia College
Literacy Society, Brisbane Dialogues Program, STEM challenges, immersions and competitions
and Principal’s Reading Challenge to name a few.
Extension and enhancement opportunities occur regularly within the classroom and student
learning data is regularly analysed to identify students who are demonstrating a need and
capacity for tailored enhancement and extension. Targeted class compositions in Years 8-10
also allow identified students who are working above standard in core learning areas to
maintain a pace and depth of learning that is aligned to their capacity.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXTENSION
TEACHING & LEARNING FRAMEWORKS
22

25. Scan the QR code to sign your child up for Term 4 JNR Wolves
sports.
JNR WOLVES PROGRAM
JNR Wolves is a sport program designed for our incoming
students currently in Years 5 and 6 to dip their toes into the
sporting opportunities at the College, make new friends and
learn new skills.
Debating Club
Public Speaking Club
Brisbane Dialogue Events
Mount Alvernia College offers a broad range of Co-curricular programs beyond the classroom,
purposefully designed to help every student discover their unique talents and interests. Please
visit the ‘Co-curricular’ tile on MyMtA for further information.
Year 7 students are encouraged to dip their toe in one or many of the below
clubs/committees, or service programs:
Advocacy:
CULTURAL, CO-CURRICULAR & SERVICE
Art Club
Camera Crew
Drama Club
Japanese Club
Italian Club
Theatre Sports
Writer’s Club
Tournament of Minds
Tinker Club
Minecraft Club
Chess Club
Digi Club
Academic Clubs:
Cultural Committee
Liturgy Committee
Outreach Committee
Welcoming Committee
Peer Support
Sprout Squad
Mt A Mob
Z Club
Liturgy & Outreach
AFL
Athletics
Basketball
Cross Country
Netball
Rugby 7s
Soccer
Swimming
Tennis
Touch Football
Volleyball
Hockey
Showcase Choral
Year 7 Singers (Term 1)
Choir
Music:
These sports include:
SPORT
Mount Alvernia College is a member of the Catholic Secondary
Schools Sports Association (CaSSSA). CaSSSA sporting fixtures
are played on Wednesday afternoons at “home and away” and central
venues across Brisbane.
We are affiliated with North District 10-12 years and North West
Independent for 13-19 years. The trialling process will vary between
sports. As demonstrated in the diagram below the process is as
follows:
Representative School Pathway:
23

26. Ensure that the beauty and health of our gardens and wildlife is preserved through
placing all rubbish in the relevant bins.
Always use the recycling bins around the campus for the correct purpose (see display
board outside La Cucina for further information)
Place cans and bottles for recycling in the appropriate bins.
Bring ‘nude food’ (no wrappers) to school in a lunch box.
Wherever possible, avoid single-use plastics.
Use a named re-usable water-bottle. Be thoughtful when printing documents -
recycle paper in high use printing areas.
Use air-conditioners in classrooms sustainably (20c is plenty!)
Only taking what we need (this applies to all things, all of the time!)
Ask questions and make suggestions on how we can continue to improve upon
current practices at the College.
At Mount Alvernia College we are deeply committed to our Franciscan mission which calls us to
revere and protect our common home. Students and staff at Mount Alvernia College are asked
to adopt sustainable practices and to respect our natural environment in the following ways:
Disposing of Rubbish:
Adopting Sustainable Behaviours
If your child is interested in being involved, they may consider joining our Environmental
Club, called 'Sprout Squad.'
OUR FRANCISCAN COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT
24
FRANCISCAN COLLEGES INSTRUMENTAL PROGRAM (FCIP)
If your child is interested in being a part of the FCIP, scan the QR code, fill in the form
and a FCIP staff member will be in touch to discuss next steps.
The Franciscan Colleges Instrumental Music Program (FCIP) is a unique
partnership between St Anthony’s School, Mount Alvernia College and
Padua College, inspiring excellence and enabling students from all three
schools to explore instrumental, ensemble and orchestral music in an
inclusive, multi-age, safe and supportive environment.

27. If there is something that has not been answered in this
Orientation Booklet, please don’t hesitate to contact the
College.
07 3357 6000 I mta@mta.qld.edu.au

28. College
Map
DROP OFF/PICK UP POINT