Sowing the SEADs of Success
From the Assistant Principal Wellbeing and Engagement R-12
It is with a heavy heart I acknowledge the one-year anniversary of the death of beautiful student Ava Lynch.
A prayer service was held for her family, friends, student and staff on Wednesday morning.
I would like to extend my prayers and thought to Christina, Darren, Charlie, Harry and Helena.
SEAD resources and page links that may be helpful for you as parents and for the future discussions you may have with your daughters to support them in times of grief.
Rest in peace dear Ava, we miss you and love you – Loreto College
Grief helpful page on SEAD parent portal
School Spirit and the SEAD Program: Fostering Relationships, Mentoring, and Role Modelling in an Inclusive School Community
Down Syndrome Day – 21 March
Our commitment to being an inclusive school is evident in the variety of opportunities we offer to all students. We aim to create an environment where every student, regardless of background or ability, can thrive, contribute, and feel like they belong.
Year 11 student, Hannah Thompson was dancing in the Square with students from the senior school and created a disco vibe at recess with friends and teachers. It is a privilege to work with and support Hannah and her family.
Christine, Hannah’s mum shared a brilliant resource which can be viewed below, launched this month by Down Syndrome Australia and partnered with Coordown:
NO DECISION WITHOUT US | World Down Syndrome Day 2025
Notably, Sara Neville, staff member of the College is an enormous support of Hannah, and we are blessed to work with talented staff and students alike.
World Down Syndrome Day is observed on March 21st each year to raise awareness about Down syndrome, celebrate the lives of those with the condition, and promote inclusion. The date, 3/21, reflects the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which is characteristic of Down syndrome. On this day, people all over the world participate in various activities, wear brightly coloured socks (often mismatched), and engage in campaigns to advocate for the rights and dignity of people with Down syndrome.
Yes…they are my legs and socks!
Both of these days highlight the importance of inclusion, understanding, and celebration of diversity, whether cultural or related to disabilities.
Harmony Day Netball Match
Rostrevor College and Loreto College have a history of engaging in friendly netball matches that foster school spirit and community. One notable event is the netball match between the Year 12 Student Leaders of Loreto College and the Year 12 Prefects of Rostrevor College. This game was organized to celebrate inclusion, diversity, and belonging within both school communities.
These events highlight the importance both schools place on promoting teamwork, sportspersonship, and community engagement.
Thank you Daniel Stafford and your team
Both of Harmony Day and World Down Syndrome Day highlight the importance of inclusion, understanding, and celebration of diversity, whether cultural or related to disabilities.
Tonight - PAC Disco Year 6 and 7
Lisa Sexton and I are looking forward to attending the Year 6 and 7 PAC Disco with several of our Year 6 and 7 students tonight.
We are thrilled to chaperone the girls who will be given an opportunity to celebrate friendship, respect, and inclusivity while having a blast with music and dancing!
This event is designed to encourage respectful interactions between girls and boys, teaching the importance of communication, kindness, and support while creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for everyone.
Thank you, Graham Duffy, from PAC and his team.
Looking ahead… why it is important to belong and participate in community activities?
Week 10 Swimming Carnival 7-12
Week 11 - McGrath Day R-12
Belonging at school is incredibly important for a variety of reasons, as it plays a crucial role in a student's overall well-being, academic success, and personal development.
Here's why it matters:
Emotional Wellbeing
When students feel they belong, they feel supported, valued, and respected. This emotional security is essential for their mental health. Students who feel connected to their peers and teachers are less likely to experience feelings of isolation, anxiety, or depression. Feeling like they are part of a community helps them feel more confident and positive about school.
Belonging at school isn't just about fitting in—it's about creating an environment where students feel understood, supported, and empowered to be their authentic selves. When students belong, they thrive emotionally, academically, and socially, leading to a positive, enriching experience that lasts long after their school years.
At Loreto, school spirit is the heartbeat of everything we do. It’s more than just attending events or showing pride; it's about creating a strong, connected community where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired.
We believe that fostering school spirit goes hand in hand with inclusion and ensuring every student has access to wonderful opportunities for personal growth and connection. One of the key initiatives we are so proud of is the SEAD Program, which plays a vital role in building strong relationships, mentoring, and role modelling across the school.
Student Engagement on Display Head of River - what a wonderful display of school spirit an engagement
I think I am still recovering from the celebrations from last Saturday’s event; (it might take 15 years until we host again)
I was so very proud of girls especially Molly Tunney, Captain of Boats and Aleeza Khan, Vice Captain who have led the teams with great leadership. I was amazed by the number of students who came to cheer and support their peers and friends. Another beautiful example of an important SEAD value of Friendship.
An old scholar parent shared a photo taken in 2012 on the banks of the West Lakes. Upon reflection of this photos (13 years ago) it is important to acknowledge those who have supported the sport and contributed to the community in previous years.
Head of the River was an exemplary display of what it means to be Loreto. What a team of parents, students and staff, old scholars, old scholars’ parents and friends.
It was very special to speak with the Governor, Her Excellency Honourable Francis Adamson and The Honourable Emily Bourke MLC, South Australia Minister for Sport and Recreation at the breakfast before the regatta. We discussed the importance of physical literacy for young people, female representation in sport and the importance of equitable school participation and achievement (also the dedication of parents taking their children to co-curricular sport). Notably, the Governor did row when she was at school and Hon Emily Burke is a parent of rowing children.
#proudtobeloreto
Emma Searle
Assistant Principal Wellbeing and Engagement R-12