Principal's End-Of-Year Message 

Dear Parents and Carers, 

As we come to the close of 2025, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every student for the energy, generosity, and spirit you have brought to our College this year. Whether in the classroom, during extracurricular and co-curricular activities on the sporting field, in service to others, or through leadership and daily kindness, your contribution has shaped our community for the better. You remind us, every day, what hope looks like.

To our staff: thank you for your unwavering investment in each young person’s growth. Your dedication ensures that every student has the opportunity to achieve their personal best, no matter their pathway. You plan, teach, coach, mentor, listen and encourage with skill and compassion. Your work is more than a job; it is a vocation and a gift to our community.

Valedictory Mass

One of the great privileges of 2025 was celebrating with the Class of 2025 at their Valedictory. The opportunity to gather for Mass with over 750 students, parents, and families was a true highlight of the year. As we wished the Class of 2025 farewell, I shared this message:

“As you leave the College for the last time tonight, remember that life is a pilgrimage, a journey of hope, faith, and courage. May you walk boldly, knowing you are supported by family, friends, and the values that have shaped you here at Catholic College Sale. Be kind, believe in yourselves, in the goodness of others, and in the possibilities that lie ahead.”

Looking forward: New curriculum offerings

We continue to develop new offerings across the curriculum, and the introduction of an Agriculture Program down at the College ovals in 2026 is a real reflection of the opportunities available in this space, especially given the strength of the agriculture sector in our region. This is an exciting development that will continue to evolve in the years to come, providing students with hands-on learning and pathways that deeply connect with our local community and economy.

HeadStart success

Our HeadStart program has been a real success, allowing students to begin their 2026 timetable early. The energy and connection to their new classes was evident, and this achievement is a credit to our staff, who have been planning and developing resources to support learning. Their professionalism and dedication made this program such a success.

Awards Night

Another highlight was our Awards Night, where we celebrated success and acknowledged students from Year 7 to Year 11 with academic and community awards. Thank you to all who attended and supported this special evening, and congratulations to all the award winners. You have set an outstanding example of commitment and excellence.

Farewells 

At the end of this year, we will farewell several valued staff members who are moving on to new chapters in their personal and professional journeys. We offer our heartfelt thanks for their dedication, hard work and meaningful contributions to the life of our College. Their commitment to our students and community has left a lasting impact, and they leave with our gratitude and warmest wishes for the future.

We say goodbye to: 

• Brinagh Hassett
• Kerri Goode
• Jeff Hobbs
• Shelley Jones-Evans
• Hayley Castle
• Lily McCaughey
• Tegan Burns
• Christine Ruijs
• Kylie Johnston
• Zali Gallagher
• Elliot Stables
• Tom Scott
• Cameron Missen
• Archer Watt

Looking ahead

As we look to 2026, we remain focused on strengthening learning, wellbeing and community connection, continuing to enhance facilities and programs that support distinctive pathways, and deepening the everyday expressions of our Marist–Sion charism. I’m excited for what lies ahead and grateful for the foundation we have built together in 2025.

Wishing every family a very safe and holy Christmas. May this season be a time to pause, reflect, and enjoy what truly matters—sharing time with family and loved ones.

Brett Van Berkel

Principal