PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the first issue of Community for the 2025 school year.
Whether your student is new to the college or returning for another year of boundless possibilities in learning, I hope that they have enjoyed every challenge and opportunity the first five weeks of Term 1 have provided.
YEAR OF JUSTICE
At St Joseph’s College, we believe everyone has the power to make a difference when they stand up for what they feel is right. This year, as our community focuses on the core value of Justice, we are encouraging our students to search for simple things they can do to make the world a better and fairer place.
Treating others with respect is an excellent start. Respect means recognising that we all have value and belong at the college. When people know they belong, they feel secure and empowered to contribute. –Everyone wins.
Certainly, some of our students will get involved in social justice causes that resonate with them. However, we hope that each student will come to realise that small acts of kindness and integrity can have rippling effects that lead to profound changes.
Justice may seem like a weighty concept, but we can live it every day of our lives with respect in our hearts.
BRIGHT BEGINNINGS
A good start to the school year can mean so much. Along with setting a positive tone for the months ahead, getting off on the right foot also helps students establish good study habits, develop positive relationships with classmates and teachers, and feel confident.
Faced with the greatest change in their academic lives, our Year 7 students benefit the most from a ‘bright beginning’. For many, these are years in the making, starting with a first visit to the college in Grade 5 before attending a Transition Day at the end of Grade 6.
We think the key to a successful start to high school involves setting the right expectations and leaving room for the students to have fun and bond as a cohort. This year’s eager Year 7 students participated in an Induction Program during their first two days and a Community Day at the end of Week 3. You can read more about those on the Deputy Principals’ pages.
INSPIRED TO ACHIEVE
Our young people strive for success both at school and in their off-campus lives. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that we have several student achievements to share with you, even though we are only halfway through Term 1.
From dance and sport to academics and leadership, you will be impressed by everything our community has to share in this inaugural 2025 newsletter.
GET INVOLVED
Would you like to get more involved and contribute to the future of St Joseph’s College? The College Advisory Council needs you. We are accepting expressions of interest for parent representative members of the Council. Turn to the next page for more information.
If you have questions about any of the college’s programs or offerings, you can always browse our website, contact us, or arrange a tour. You can also attend our Open Evening on Tuesday 18 March. You will find all the details and a registration link on page three.
Thank you for choosing St Joseph’s College, where ‘Virtue Conquers’. We are honoured to have you in our community.
In the spirit of hope and faith,
Mr Greg Kluske
College Principal
STAFFING UPDATE
A warm welcome to our new and returning staff.
NEW STAFF
Miss Maddison Alvino – Teacher
Former St Joseph's College student Maddison returns to the college having successfully completed her Bachelor of Education (Secondary). Maddison will be teaching PE and Religious Education at the Mercy Campus.
Mrs Claire Eichler – Teacher
Claire brings extensive experience in education, including her recent role as Numeracy Learning Specialist at Chaffey Secondary College. Claire is a 2022 graduate of the Teacher Excellence Program and is passionate about fostering problem-solving skills in Maths and creating engaging learning environments. Claire joins our Mathematics and Science Learning Areas.
Miss Paige D’Souza – Teacher
Prior to commencing her Masters of Education through the Teacher Intern Program at Melbourne University, Paige completed a Law degree and worked as a senior consultant at Ernst and Young for four years. Paige will be teaching Humanities.
Mr Daniel Gralow – Teacher
After receiving permission to teach from VIT, I am pleased to announce that Daniel will be teaching Mathematics at the college whilst continuing his studies in Bachelor of Education.
Ms Karusha Naidoo – Teacher
Karusha joins our English team and has 12 years of experience teaching English at secondary and college levels, specialising in curriculum design and learner-centred education. She recently served as the English Coordinator at Robinvale College and has previously mentored teachers and developed curriculum in South Africa. Currently completing her PhD in Education, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive learning environments and empowering students.
Mr David Purcell – Teacher
David joins our Science Learning Area and has been a dedicated Science educator for 22 years. Specialising in all areas of junior and senior Science including Chemistry, Physics, and Biology, he is known for his engaging teaching style, and effectively balances student wellbeing, behaviour, and curriculum for success. He is a welcomed addition to the team
Mr Lachlan Murdoch – Teacher
We are excited to welcome Lachlan back to St Joseph’s College after a three-year absence. During this time Lachlan taught at Catherine McAuley College in Bendigo and Parade College in Melbourne. He also married his fiancé Grace in April last year. Lachlan will teach Mathematics and Science.
Ms Tracy Rudman – Teacher
Tracy has over 20 years of experience in education and social work. Prior to doing some CRT work with Chaffey Secondary College and us, she taught VCE Health and Psychology, as well as VCAL, at Mildura Senior College. With her background in counselling and mental health, Tracy is well-prepared to support our students in the learning environment and will be a great addition to the team.
RETURNING STAFF
We also welcome the following staff members who are returning from leave:
- Mrs Emily Gigg
DEPARTED
- Mr Brock Chapman
- Mrs Caitlyn Healy