Principal Report

Welcome Back – Term 3

I extend a warm welcome back to all families as we begin Term 3. I hope the winter break provided an opportunity for rest and recharging and some valuable family time. A busy term lies ahead, and I look forward to seeing our families at some of the key events outlined in this newsletter.  

Staffing News – Appointments for 2026

I am pleased to announce two key leadership appointments for the beginning of the 2026 school year:

Ms. Pier Bourne has been appointed as our new Deputy Principal – Student Engagement. Following a rigorous recruitment process involving over 15 high-calibre applicants, Ms Bourne emerged as the outstanding candidate. She brings extensive leadership experience across five secondary schools in Victoria and New South Wales, with expertise spanning Student Engagement, learning and teaching, faith and mission, and School Administration. Her qualifications include a Master of Education (Wellbeing), and degrees in Mathematics and Education. Ms Bourne’s vision for student wellbeing and holistic education aligns closely with our College values, and we look forward to her joining the leadership team in 2026.

I am also delighted to announce the appointment of Ms Ria Greene as Director of Faith and Mission. Ms. Greene brings with her over a decade of experience in Catholic education, including 11 years as Deputy Principal – Faith & Mission at St Bede’s College, Mentone. A former staff member at St John’s, she also has a strong history of collaboration with the Lasallian community.

We look forward to welcoming her back to the College in this important leadership role in 2026.

I thank all involved in these appointment processes for their time and wisdom, and we look forward to the contributions both leaders will make to our community in the years ahead.

Retirement

I extend our appreciation to Ms Priya Cardinaletti for her 22 years of dedicated service to St John’s Regional College. As she prepares to retire at the end of 2025, we acknowledge her commitment to our community and the positive impact she has made on students and colleagues alike, particularly in the Arts & Technology learning area. I also offer Priya our best wishes for a well-earned retirement.

Staff on Leave 

We wish Ms Newman and Ms Bielinski all the best during their periods of leave during term 3. Ms Newman will be on leave from 21 July to 15 August, with Mr Abdelahad covering in her absence.  Ms Bielinski will commence leave on 25 July, with a return date to be confirmed. During this time, Ms Nasioulas and Ms Bourne will jointly take on the role of Acting Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching.

Congratulations to the St Thomas Syro-Malabar Parish Community

I extend our congratulations to the St Thomas Syro-Malabar Parish on the opening of their new church at 525–531 Frankston–Dandenong Road, Dandenong South. This wonderful milestone marks a new chapter for a vibrant and faith-filled community, and we celebrate with them as they establish a permanent home for worship and service.

We are especially proud to acknowledge members of the St Thomas community who are also part of our staff at St John’s—Mr Kevin Joshua and Ms Donna Simon —for their important roles in the opening celebrations and the strong connection they help foster between our two communities.

For many years, St John’s Regional College has been honoured to provide a space for the parish’s worship and activities, and we are grateful for the respectful and faith-driven partnership we have shared. While regular hire of our facilities will conclude, we look forward to continuing our relationship through occasional events and ongoing collaboration.

We send our prayers and best wishes that the new church will be a place of peace, prayer, and community for generations to come.

College Academic Excellence Assembly – 7 August 

On Thursday, 7 August, the College community will gather to celebrate the Semester 1 Academic Excellence and Stella Awards. Parents are warmly invited to attend this special assembly, which will commence at 9:15 am in the Br. Leo Scollen Stadium. Following the assembly, a morning tea will be held in the Graduates Restaurant for award recipients and their families.

We look forward to recognising and celebrating the achievements of our students together.

Careers Expo – Exploring Pathways and Possibilities

We are excited to invite families to our upcoming Futures Expo on Wednesday, 30 July, in the Br Leo Scollen Stadium. This evening is a valuable opportunity for students and parents to explore the many pathways available beyond school, including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, and the world of work.

Students from Years 8 to 11 are expected to attend, as the event plays a key role in supporting subject selection and future planning. Representatives from a range of tertiary institutions and training providers will be present, alongside our dedicated teaching staff, to offer guidance and answer questions about senior school pathways.

The Careers Expo is not just about selecting subjects—it’s about opening minds to new opportunities, emerging industries, and careers students may not have previously considered. Whether your child has a clear direction or is still exploring, this event is designed for them.

Thank you to Mr Colvin (Careers Coordinator), Ms Kamila Bielnski (Deputy Principal – Learning & Teaching), Ms Pier Bourne (VCE Programs Leader), and all Learning Area Leaders for their efforts in bringing this important event together. I look forward to seeing you on the night.

Open Morning – Saturday, August 2 at 10:00 am

Families considering enrolment at St John’s Regional College for 2026 or 2027 are warmly invited to attend our upcoming Open Morning on Saturday, August 2, starting at 10:00 am in our new Administration Centre on Caroline Street.

This is a wonderful opportunity for both new and current families to learn more about life at St John’s. The morning will include a welcome from the Principal and senior staff, followed by a guided tour of our learning spaces and student facilities.

Bookings can be made via the College website, where families will also find our online enrolment form and key information about curriculum, transport, uniforms, and fees. I look forward to welcoming you to our College community.