Education Archives - ĢƵ /category/education/ Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:48:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 /wp-content/uploads/2019/12/cropped-CCG_Logo_Vertical_Colour-32x32.png Education Archives - ĢƵ /category/education/ 32 32 From the Principal /from-the-principal-39/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-the-principal-39 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:50:19 +0000 /?p=932086 /wp-content/uploads/2026/03/03-11_website.mp4 Leading with Strength(and Kindliness) Yesterday I found myself listening to the gospel for thethirdSundayof Lentfeeling somewhat uncomfortable. The gospelrecountswhen Jesus meets the Samaritan woman at the well.In many reflections…

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Leading with Strength(and Kindliness)

Yesterday I found myself listening to the gospel for thethirdSundayof Lentfeeling somewhat uncomfortable. The gospelrecountswhen Jesus meets the Samaritan woman at the well.In many reflections on this passage the woman is presented asdiminished,marginalised,shamed, in need of healing and restoration to the community.Last year I had the opportunity toexplorethis passage in depth through my studyof Theology at ACU in a course titled Women’s Leadership for Mission. I came to meet and know the Samaritan woman through a new lens, as a woman with a deep inner strengthand sense of self.When Jesus asked her ‘Give me a drink’ hecreated a space for dialogue andthe opportunityfor herto lead. He empowered her to make the choice, a free response.

In the dialogue that followed Jesus’initial request,she shows her leadershipqualitiesin therobust, dynamic exchangewhere she drew on the knowledge and wisdom of her tradition and culturein a quest for understanding.Hercoming to insight and faith wasnotjusta personal revelation but something that led the whole town to come to belief. The Samaritan woman wasauthentic, curious, a person of influence andleadership.As I came to know thiswoman,I realisedagainhow oftensociety fails to unearth or identify the hidden strengthsofwomenthroughprejudice, stereotyping, discrimination and at worst misogyny.

Today Ipaused to read our wall of inspiration and gratitude, created by our students to celebrate International Women’s Day. I lost count of how may timesI read‘my mum’, ‘my nan’ as the women who inspire our students. It wasn’t their job titles, or achievements but rather the manner in which they led with heart, courage, compassion and care thatputs them at the forefront of our students’ thinking when asked‘who is a woman who inspires you?’

At ĢƵour aspiration is to educate our students to learn with wonder, live with compassion and lead with courage. This is not about being small, apologetic orstanding in the shadows. This is about livingout the gospelmessageof Jesus in John 10:10 ‘I have come so that all may have life and have it in abundance’.This invitation is for all. In theSamaritanwomanwe haveamodel of female discipleship and leadershipthatreminds us of what is possiblewhen werespond andlead with strength(and kindliness).

Exciting changes coming to our Digital Platform

Following an 18 month reviewand consultation process the College will be moving to the COMPASS platform to replace SIMON from22June 2026. This platform will enable us to provide a more integrated experience for families, students and staff by simplifying engagement with the College through one space. Consent for excursions,medical information,fee payment, College updates and access to your daughter’s learning journey will all be available in the one place including access to theCompassapp.This new space will also enable us to connect more seamlessly with our alumni. This Australian based platform is used across many large systems and we are confident it will enhance our engagement with families. As we get closer to 22Junewhen we go live we will be providing families with support in how to access and optimise the Compass experience. Stay tuned for more information next term.

Annual Action Plan Updates– Literacy and Numeracy Interventions and Circle Pedagogy

Last week a number of our staff trained to deliver the Corrective Reading and Corrective Maths programs.This will enable us to provide structured, evidence based interventions to our Junior students helping to accelerate their learning progress enabling them to better access the mainstream curriculum. We had over 40 parents attending an information session about this work and they expressed great interest in what the program had to offer.

To support the sense of belonging and connection betweenstudents inthe College we have been working with circle pedagogy. Kristy Elliott,our partner in learning about restorative practices,speaks of circle pedagogy as a space for building connection, belonging and voice.Circles have their origin in many of the indigenous pedagogies from around the world. When in circle a space is created for respectful engagement with others. Not just the space to share, but to listen and wait respectfully for one’s turn to speak. Circles create a space to build knowledge and relationships. Currently our focus on circles has been through the Wellbeing time with classesusing various prompt’s to explore an idea or feeling. Some subject teachers have begun adopting this practice and staff have engaged in circle architecture during a recent staff meeting where we explored the question – ’how do your students know you believe they are inspired to learn?’ For many staff this was the highlight of that staff meeting being able to listen to others perspective and insights.

Community Happenings

The weather was kind to us at our swimming carnivalwith great house spirit and some incredible performances. We were so impressed by the participation of our Year 7students and the leadership of our Year 12students in engaging their houses on the day. We await the final results to be announced in an upcoming assembly.

After two fun filled days at Lake Dewar, our Year 7students and staff arrived home safely albeit a little weary after a very successful camp. This year I attended for the full two days and witnessed the manner in which the students embraced new opportunities and challenged themselves to try new things and make new connections.Their behaviour showed our positive behaviour expectations in action – respect, engagement and resilience. A huge shout out to the staff and in particular David Tripodi and Anthony Laffy for their leadership.

Thanks to our wonderful SRC leaders who ensured we marked International Women’s (Week) with fun, celebration and challenge about the importance of ‘Balancing the Scales’. Soccer, dance, inspiring messages and our annual breakfast with Dr Dalal Smiley all contributed to an uplifting week. Dr Dalal Smiley is the CEO of Wellsprings for Women, a KildareMinistriescommunity work that support women, especially newly arrived women witheducation,settlement services and domestic violence supports.Dalallater met with our social justice leaders and key staff to discuss possibilities for connection across the year as part of our exploration of the theme ofJustice: Walk humble. Love kindly. Live justly.

And finally in this community wrap up, a huge shout out to our Yr 12 VCE VM class for hosting the annual Bowls and Beats event and fundraiser for Wellsprings for Women.We were blessed with a glorious autumn evening to enjoyan evening of friendly competition, delicious dinner andraffles/silent auction.Thanks to all our families and extended community including staff who cam along to support the student. We awere so proud of their efforts.

Have your say

It has been positive to see the Victorian government launch a review toseekcommunity feedback as part of theGeelong, Bellarine Peninsula and Bannockburn Bus Network Review.We welcome this initiative and encourage as many families and community members as possible to be involved.We will also submit feedback as a College.

This review is looking at the future of local bus services across Geelong and surrounding areas. Buses play an important role inconnecting students to schooland the review aims to ensure the bus network keeps pace with growing communities and changing travel needs.

Open Days

A reminder that our Open Days start onFriday 13March. We are super excited to meet new families and share what our College has to offer.

Parent Workshop – AIwith Matt Estermann

A parent/career workshop for families next Monday nightin Kildare Theatre – see details.

Blessings

Luci

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]]> Chris Scanlan Graduates Teaching Excellence Program. /chris-scanlan-graduates-teaching-excellence-program/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=chris-scanlan-graduates-teaching-excellence-program Mon, 09 Feb 2026 02:00:58 +0000 /?p=931732 Chris Scanlan Graduates from Teaching Excellence Program.Our school values the learning and development of our staff, and the positive impact this has on student outcomes and school improvement. We are…

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Chris Scanlan Graduates from Teaching Excellence Program.
Our school values the learning and development of our staff, and the positive impact this has on student outcomes and school improvement.

We are proud to share that Chris recently graduated from the Teaching Excellence Program at the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership. This program enables skilled teachers to advance their capabilities and excellence in teaching.

Through the program, Chris grew his knowledge of teaching practices by engaging with contemporary educational research and inquiring into two areas of his practice. As part of his two inquiries, Chris investigated the embedding FirstNations perspectives into curriculum, and also student engagement and enrolment in VCE Art and Design subjects.

We look forward to Chris sharing his skills and knowledge from the program to continue to support student learning and wellbeing outcomes and at our school.

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]]> From the Principal /from-the-principal-36/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-the-principal-36 Fri, 12 Dec 2025 02:37:04 +0000 /?p=931499 As this is the final newsletter for the year it is time to acknowledge our staff who are finishing with us at the end of 2025. Our 2025 ‘Reflections’ College…

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As this is the final newsletter for the year it is time to acknowledge our staff who are finishing with us at the end of 2025. Our 2025 ‘Reflections’ College magazine will have a more complete reflection on the staff and their time with the College. We know they will be missed and wish them every blessing for the next stages of life’s journey.

We acknowledge the service of the following staff who are retiring this year and thank them for the dedication and commitment to Catholic education:

Linda Kiernan (40 years at ĢƵ), Verona Scarlett (21 years).

The following staff are either relocating or leaving to pursue new pathways with their careers. We thank them for their time at ĢƵ and wish them every success in their next appointment:

Shelby Hackett, Di Braiden and Bronte Stead.

We also send our best wishes with students and families who are leaving us at the end of this year. We thank you for your partnership during your time at ĢƵ.

Here are a selection of photos from our Mass and Celebration Day held on Monday 8 December.

ĢƵ extends heartfelt congratulations to its VCE graduates, and recognises VCE Dux recipient, Emily Walker and VCE VM High Achiever, Alana Mitchell. Congratulations to Amy Ingles for a perfect study score of 50 for Food Studies along with 90+ ATAR scores achieved by Emily Walker, Amy Ingles, Claire Giguiento, Yu-ru Tan, Cassidy Charlton, Sienna McInnes and Allie Smith.

In this year themed hospitality, it has been wonderful to see students, staff, alumni and community embracing the College events and supporting our student achievements. We look forward to celebrating more events with our community as we acknowledge 70 years in 2026. See the Community News section of this newsletter for more information and registration, or check out our website.

Throughout December we acknowledge Advent, the beginning of the new liturgical year. During Advent, Christians prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, reflecting on themes of expectation, waiting, and renewal. This season encourages individuals to look forward with hope, embracing the promise of new beginnings and the light that dispels darkness. It is a time to cultivate patience, faith, and a sense of community. Amidst the preparations for our end of year festivities let us try to find space in our hearts for God’s greatest gift of love. The most incredible mystery is that even though we speak of preparing for God’s coming in the form of a baby we forget God is already with us, within, around, beside us always.

Blessings

Luci

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]]> Paige Rae – Class of 2016 /paige-rae-class-of-2016/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=paige-rae-class-of-2016 Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:31:56 +0000 /?p=931491 I attended ĢƵ from 2010 to 2016. One of my favourite subjects at ĢƵ was Art with Miss Gillard. It provided a creative outlet that was a refreshing break…

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I attended ĢƵ from 2010 to 2016. One of my favourite subjects at ĢƵ was Art with Miss Gillard. It provided a creative outlet that was a refreshing break from subjects like English and Maths. I also really enjoyed classes with Mr. McCallum—his sense of humour and ability to make lessons fun, especially during the pressures of VCE, made a lasting impression. Lastly, Ms. Evans had a huge influence on me, particularly in helping me grow as a leader. Thanks to her guidance, I had the honour of becoming College Captain, which was a defining moment of my time at ĢƵ. This role allowed me to transition from being a student to taking on more adult responsibilities, leading a team, and seeing projects come to life.

After finishing at ĢƵ, I launched my own womenswear label, which was successful but ultimately didn’t align with my long-term goals. I then transitioned to a role as a diamond consultant at Diamond Exchange on Collins Street, where I developed strong communication and problem-solving skills. This experience led to a promotion as Assistant Manager.

During my time at Diamond Exchange, I dealt with some significant health issues, which eventually led me to a dietitian. That experience sparked my interest in nutrition, and I realised it was the career I wanted to pursue. At 21, I started a Bachelor of Health Sciences, majoring in nutrition and exercise science. After completing my undergraduate degree, I moved to Melbourne to pursue a Master of Dietetics while working at Nutrition Plus alongside Melanie McGrice.

I graduated last year and have recently finished my graduate year as a clinical, community, and food service dietitian at Colac Area Health. I absolutely love the work I’m doing now.

My biggest piece of advice is not to put too much pressure on figuring out your career path right away. Opportunities will arise, and it’s okay to explore different paths. I never imagined in school that I would end up as a dietitian, but taking time off after high school helped me discover what I truly wanted to do.

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]]> From the Principal /from-the-principal-35/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-the-principal-35 Fri, 28 Nov 2025 05:25:51 +0000 /?p=931295 Arriving back from CPR training this afternoon ourGeneralOffice space had been transformed into a Christmas wonderland. For some,1December marks the beginning of their favourite time of the year, for others…

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Arriving back from CPR training this afternoon ourGeneralOffice space had been transformed into a Christmas wonderland. For some,1December marks the beginning of their favourite time of the year, for others it strikes fear that the end of the year is looming and the ‘to do’ list feels like it is only getting longer. For those of the Christian tradition this Sunday marks the beginning of Advent.

In our busy world Advent calls us to a counter cultural response. It offers an invitation to slow down and embrace the waiting, to embrace holy stillness. Just like we tidy our houses to make space for family andfriends who may be visiting during the holiday season, we are also challenged to consider what needs to be tidied up in our hearts to make space for the gift of the divine presence to enter our lives.

This newsletter’s edition of ‘Illumine’ speaks about the hope that can enter our hearts during the time of Advent when we stop and notice the good around us. In the Brigidine tradition the sisters would say to celebrate all that is good with joy and gratitude. Click the image below to read ‘Illumine’.

There was lots of ‘good’ to notice in the pastfortnight.

Firstly,as we gathered for our Celebration of Achievement on Tuesday evening,we celebrated achievement, perseverance and the spirit that defines our College community. Awards nights are more than a recognition of excellence; they are a testament to the values that shape us and the vision that propels us forward.  This year, our College theme ‘Hospitality: Open Encounter Transform’ has invited us to live with openness and generosity. Hospitality is more than a welcome; it is an attitude of heart. It is the willingness to encounter others deeply, to listen, to learn and to be changed by those encounters. Transformation happens when we open ourselves to new perspectives and allow those experiences to shape who we are becoming. This was reflected in the achievements of our students, openness to learning, openness to relationships with others, openness to possibilities and opportunities to grow and contribute. Our students thrive because of the bonds between students, families, staff and the wider community. These connections are not accidental; they are cultivated with care and purpose. We especially thank members of our Stewardship Council and our special guests who sponsored awards this year, for their ongoing commitment to our College. Here are some photos from the night.

It was a delight to welcome backMariaDeronjic,to our awards night. Maria isa proud ĢƵ graduate from the Class of 2018. During her time at ĢƵ, Maria developed a deep passion for science, particularly Chemistry and Biology, which set the foundation for her future career.Maria is currently studying aMaster of Philosophy at Deakin University, Burwood. Her research focuses on breast cancer, investigating how manipulating metabolism could slow disease progression. She is about tocommencea new role in February as a Clinical Trial Study Coordinator intern with the VCCC Alliance at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. Her long-term goal is to complete a PhD and continue contributing to groundbreaking research. Maria’s passion and commitment to providing hope to women who suffer from breast cancer was an inspiration to all.

As we closed out the 2025 academic year,yesterday I attended the year level gratitude liturgies in St Brigid’s chapel.These were an opportunity for studentsto gather with their Wellbeing teachers, reflect and offer thanks for all that has been. I was touched by their sincerity and authenticity when speaking to each of their wellbeing teacher and year level leaders. These liturgies rounded out a busyweek with a focus on Years 9to11 engaging in formal exams in VCE exam style settings. This process provides assessment feedback for students and staff and the opportunity to gain experience in understandingVCEexamarrangementspreparing our students for future success.

As our students begin early commencement classes nextweek,we recognise that this will coincide with some of the social media platforms beginning to implement theclosureof accounts for under 16’s.We continue to encourage families to access the information that has been provided with furtherarticles in this newsletter. We will be speaking with ourjunioryear levels during wellbeing time next week to support them with this change. Click the link to read more.

The final celebration to reflect on was our gathering with our Year 12 graduates and their families last Friday evening. It was a wonderful opportunity to chat with families, reminisce, affirm the growth and efforts of the Class of 2025 and share future plans. There was a true spirit of celebration in the air. Thanks to the staff who organised all the finer details to ensure the evening was a success. Here are some photos from the night.

I would like to extend an invitation to families to attend our end of year mass to be held on Monday8December at 9.10am in Tullow Hall. At this mass we will also farewell staff who are leaving us this year including Mrs Linda Kiernan who retires after 40 years at ĢƵ. This is an incredible contribution to the life of the College. Linda shares thatit’stime to retire before she starts to teach the grandchildren of past students!

There will be one more newsletter before the end of the year with final farewells and acknowledgements.

Stories, gratitude, memories, pride, celebration, achievement,endingsand beginnings…. all remind us of John 10:10 ‘I have come that you may have life and have it in abundance.’

ThisAdvent may you find abundance in your heart space, in your time with family, in the still moments when you feel the breeze, hear the magpie songorhave thewarmth of thesummersun touch your cheek. May your abundance beinnoticing thetraces of the divine.

Blessings

Luci

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]]> Shark Tank 2025 /shark-tank-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=shark-tank-2025 Fri, 28 Nov 2025 01:19:49 +0000 /?p=931155 Shark Tank 2025 was a huge success! Students competed in groups, attempting to win the opportunity to go up on the Big stage to present to the four Sharks and…

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Shark Tank 2025 was a huge success! Students competed in groups, attempting to win the opportunity to go up on the Big stage to present to the four Sharks and earn an investment. All students were invested, demonstrating their Agency in Learning, their Collaboration, their Quality Thinking skills, and the Personal Development they had achieved throughoutthe year. What a celebration of talent, Catholic Social Teachings and what strengthand courage all our students displayed.

The Sharks, who gave up their time and invested their Shark dollars were Mr Holland, Ms Nolan (Year 8 Welcom) and Ruby and Lana (Year 12 School Captains). A huge thank you to them and the whole team who got shark tank up and running. Congratulations to the overall winners who pitched the idea of the “Fridge Wise”.

Rachael Congues
Teacher

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]]> Year 9 Excursion to the Islamic Museum /year-9-excursion-to-the-islamic-museum/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=year-9-excursion-to-the-islamic-museum Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:41:00 +0000 /?p=931113 Monday 17 November saw our Year 9 Introduction to Arabic students undertaking an excursion to investigate social aspects connected to the Arabic language. Islam and food are elements of culture…

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Monday 17 November saw our Year 9 Introduction to Arabic students undertaking an excursion to investigate social aspects connected to the Arabic language. Islam and food are elements of culture integral to how Arabic has spread throughout the world. Students were given a guided tour of the fascinating Islamic Museum of Australia in Thornbury, discovering how the Arabic language is functionally connected to the five pillars of Islam. Students learnt that many words used in English are of Arabic origin; sugar, algebra, jasmine being examples. At midday the students moved to the nearby A1 Bakery where we ordered Lebanese dishes for lunch, including hummus, fool, tea and manqoosha. A big شكراً to the Languages Department for organising this enriching experience.

السلام عليكم وصحتين!

Daniel Millie
Teacher

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]]> From the Principal /from-the-principal-34/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-the-principal-34 Fri, 14 Nov 2025 03:43:13 +0000 /?p=931018 Connecting through Remembering  Yesterday I attended the funeral of a colleague’s mum. I was struck by the emotion I felt for someone I didn’t even know. As I drove back to school I was reflecting…

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Connecting through Remembering 

Yesterday I attended the funeral of a colleague’s mum. I was struck by the emotion I felt for someone I didn’t even know. As I drove back to school I was reflecting on this feeling. There is something about listening to the story of someone’s life, being told with love. In celebrating a loved one’s life we honour the inherent dignity and value of their humanity. November is a time when we pause and remember the lives of those gone before us. We remember how thy touched us and shaped us. In our living we continue to bring a small part of them to our everyday. In remembering, we keep human dignity at the heart of the matter. In remembering, we become connected with what unites us rather than what divides us. This was palpable on Tuesday at 11am when our whole College community paused in silence during our Remembrance Day liturgy. In that moment we were one. At a time when we are confronted on a daily basis by the impacts of an increasingly polarising world, our work at ĢƵ is to help our young people find meaning and connection in their common humanity rather than in what divides us. Remembering takes us out of our individual bubble and sends our thoughts and gaze to the other.  

In this spirit next Monday evening we will hold our first community Remembrance Liturgy to pray for those in our own families and College community who have gone before us. As Paul Skippen our Ministry leader wrote in this week’s reflection, ‘Remembrance isn’t about sorrow alone – it’s about gratitude, legacy, and connection.’ In a year when we are highlighting Hospitality, I hope that people in our community of all faiths feel free to gather with us on Monday. All are welcome. 

ĢƵ’s Illumine reflection can be found here.

 

Celebrating Learning – Competencies on display 

As we come to our final week’s of learning in our academic year, students are finalising assessments, preparing for exams are celebrating their best work. On Tuesday our Year 7 students showcased their Growth Projects. This was the culmination of their work across the 2025 Growth Days where they pursued a project of passion with a particular focus on learning, practising and demonstrating the elements of the New Metrics competencies. I was so impressed by the different investigations and projects our students shared. I heard about gaining boat licences and reading books for every letter of the alphabet and through sponsorship of this endeavour donating funds to the Geelong Library. I read a first published novel and a family cookbook of ‘Nonna’s recipes’ that would be shared across an extended family. I learned about the requirements to enter the Airforce and become a fighter pilot and I discovered that crocheted octopus are used in the NICUs to support newborn babies required tubes to be fitted to their nose or mouth. What was as impressive weas the capacity of our students to articulate how they had grown as learners using the language of the competencies. Thanks to the work of our Year 7 team who intentionally design this into their curriculum and instruction. Students spoke about how they felt they had experienced mastery, how they had become more reflective learning from mistakes, how they had developed persistence when processes became a little mundane or they were not getting a desired outcome. Further they shared how this is translated into their academic learning at school. This is at the heart of our work with New Metrics. That we equip young people with the competencies to learn and thrive in the world and that these are equal in value to the content knowledge and skills developed through the academic curriculum.  

As a sidenote, during the last Growth Day as students were preparing for their showcase or as Year 9 students undertook their last Study Day before end of semester, staff were evaluating and assessing the competencies for the Semester 2 New Metrics fan reports. This involves using the Ruby software developed by the University of Melbourne to make judgements on up to 25 assessment items for each competency for each student. In Years 7-9 we assess and report on 3 competencies each semester. One of the key tenets about this new generation of assessment is the premise that teachers know their students and have seen these competencies in observable behaviours. You cannot assess competencies in an exam. 

We look forward to our Year 8 expo next week.  

 

Combined Council Dinner – Thanking our Stewardship Council  

We are fortunate in Geelong to work collaboratively as a Catholic secondary College’s network. An example of this is our tradition to gather annual with the combined advisory councils form each College. At this event we celebrate and share the achievements from the year and offer our gratitude to those members of our community who have served in on our councils. 

I wish to acknowledge our 2025 Stewardship Council members and thank them for their support, commitment and advice. Their insights, questions and discernment helps to shape our College’s improvement agenda. The opening of our Oak Centre, the introduction of a broader range of languages at Year 7 from 2026, our exploration of Big Picture Learning, the development of a College marketing strategy and the introduction of our 7th stream of Year 7s in 2026 have all been influenced by the work of this group.  

As we look towards 2026 we are open to receiving expressions of interest from members of our community who may have a background in Finance, Business or Risk and may be interested in contributing by serving on our Stewardship Council in an advisory capacity. Please contact me via email principal@clonard.vic.edu.au. Interested people would be required to attend an information session with Kildare Education Ministries and complete an application that is submitted to the nominations subcommittee of our KEM Board.  

 

Alumni Updates – Celebrating 70 

Finally, we celebrate the launch of a new Alumni Newsletter platform which hit inboxes on Remembrance Day. We have been thrilled with the response. Please forward this on to those who may be interested so we can renew and build our alumni data base and connect with as many past collegians as possible as we approach our 70th year. If you would like to join the mailing list, you can email: alumni@clonard.vic.edu.au

Blessings 

Luci 

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]]> Student Achievements /student-achievements-3/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=student-achievements-3 Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:26 +0000 /?p=930949 Jorja B, Lilly F and Matilda W of Year 8 dedicated their time and efforts to creating a video game to compete in the Australian STEM Video Game Challenge. They…

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Jorja B, Lilly F and Matilda W of Year 8 dedicated their time and efforts to creating a video game to compete in the Australian STEM Video Game Challenge. They needed to embedthe theme “Journey” and design all the sprites, tiles and backgrounds as well as the music. Team was essential, taking responsibility, meeting deadlines,and communication were key to finishing. The group made it through to the second round and received excellentfeedback to support their growth and development. Coding the game was shared by all,and they unlocked some very cool ways to achieve the effects they wanted.

Here is a link to their game !

“It has been a great experience, and from it, we have all gotten closer to each other, even though there were hard moments. This game taught us so many skills on how to code and how to solve the issues. I am so grateful that we were given this opportunity.” – Lilly

“This experience was amazing but also stressful. I had a great time workingwith Lilly and Matilda to create this wonderful game. I learnt how to go into depths of coding and detailing everything that happened. We had lots of issues but were able to solve them.”– Jorja

Rachael Congues
Teacher

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]]> From the Principal /from-the-principal-33/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=from-the-principal-33 Fri, 31 Oct 2025 04:51:37 +0000 /?p=930805 Jubilee of Education – Celebrating our Teachers This week marked the Jubilee of Education and International Teachers Day. These events not only remind us of the gift of learning and…

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Jubilee of Education – Celebrating our Teachers

This week marked the Jubilee of Education and International Teachers Day. These events not only remind us of the gift of learning and teaching as sacred acts of liberation but also the extraordinary role our teachers and support staff play in the lives of young people. At ĢƵ students are at the centre of what we do because we believe we are all made in the image and likeness of God. At ĢƵ, we are privileged to walk alongside young people in their journey of learning and growth—and it is our teachers’ passion, care and unwavering commitment that make this journey so rich and transformative.

Our teachers are more than educators. They are mentors, guides, advocates and champions of possibility. Whether in the classroom, the yard, or behind the scenes, their influence shapes futures and nurtures hope. They truly go “one pace beyond” stepping forward with courage and compassion, even when the path is complex.

As part of our celebration today every staff member received a personal individualised acknowledgement about the contribution they make to the College through their work.

Today, we celebrate our teachers—not just for what they teach, but for how they lead and inspire.

We thank Paul Skippen for this reflection on the Jubilee of Education:

As we mark this Jubilee of Education, we stand in gratitude for those who came before us – the Brigidine sisters whose courage and compassion built the foundations of this ĢƵ community. Their vision of education as a pathway to empowerment continues to shape the way we teach, lead and learn. The challenge before us now is to carry that vision forward: to make our classrooms places where the light of curiosity burns bright, where the voices of all are honoured and where learning leads not just to achievement, but to wisdom and justice. In this spirit, the Jubilee becomes not a single moment in time

God of Jubilee, you call us to renewal, to rest, to right relationship. Bless this Jubilee of Education at ĢƵ. May our hearts be open to your spirit of compassion and courage. Grant us wisdom to teach with integrity, patience to nurture each learner, and courage to challenge injustice wherever it hides. May the flame of Saint Brigid burn brightly within us: a fire or learning, love, and liberation. Amen

ĢƵ Honoured with National Leadership Award

We are thrilled to announce that ĢƵ has received the prestigious 2025 National ACEL Leadership Award from the Australian Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL). This award recognises our school’s pioneering role in the New Metrics for Success research–practice partnership, which is shaping the future of education across Australia.

ACEL CEO Barb Watterson praised the initiative, stating: “The New Metrics work powerfully reflects our vision and the national interest—demonstrating that system transformation is possible when innovative school leaders work together with purpose.” She further acknowledged ĢƵ’s impact: “Your school’s contribution has provided a road map toward more equitable and future-focused schooling.”

This recognition affirms our commitment to learner agency, validated assessment and scalable systems of recognition—hallmarks of our leadership in educational innovation.

Exams

Exams are well underway. It has been great to see so many students accessing the supports of their teachers as they undertake revision and preparation for exams. Please note that the College will be open on Monday 3 November for the scheduled VCE exams only. The College will be closed on Tuesday 4 November.

Important Update: Social Media Age Restrictions for Under 16s

From 10 December 2025, new regulations mean that many social media platforms—including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube—will no longer allow Australians under the age of 16 to create or maintain accounts. This change, led by the eSafety Commissioner, aims to protect young people from online risks such as excessive screen time, exposure to harmful content and cyberbullying.

The restriction is not a ban, but a delay, giving families time to build digital, social and emotional skills together. Under 16s will still be able to view publicly available content and use messaging or gaming apps that are not age-restricted.

Parents are encouraged to explore the resources and tools provided by the eSafety Commissioner to support their children through this transition. These include FAQs, webinars and conversation guides.

Remembrance Liturgy

In the Catholic faith tradition each November, we celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day and remember loved ones who have passed and whose presence continues to influence our lives. We invite Alumni, past staff, present families and staff, and members of the wider community to a Liturgy of Remembrance. This gathering will be a gentle space for reflection, remembrance and connection. Whether your loss is recent or from years past, we welcome you and your loved ones to come together in solidarity and support.

Date: Monday 17 November 2025

Time: 6:00pm

Location: St. Brigid’s Chapel, ĢƵ

RSVP: Monday 10 November 2025

Those attending are welcome to bring a framed photo of their loved one to place in the sacred space during the liturgy.

We hope that you can join us for this meaningful occasion.

Family reminders

Please ensure you discuss our updated Mobile Phone policy with your young person to ensure they are aware of the consequences breaches of these expectations.

Please check the length of your daughter’s dresses. We have noticed there are an increasing number of very short dress hems with some dresses sitting just below the length of the blazer. Dress length should sit above the knee not the top of the thigh. This aligns with our expectations around ‘Respect – wearing the uniform with pride’. We thank you for your support.

Long weekend reset

A reminder that there will be a pupil free day on Monday before the public holiday on Tuesday. Monday is used to support the acquittal of time in lieu accrued by staff across the year.

We hope that both students and families enjoy this mini reset and break before we head into the final weeks of Term 4.

Blessings

Luci

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