Learning and Teaching 

Create Belonging

As we begin Term 4, it has been lovely to welcome back students and hear about the highlights of their holidays. Term 4 is an exciting time as we reflect on learning that has occurred throughout the year, and we build towards celebrations at the end of the year. There is also the anticipation of Headstart and the new academic year beginning. Please continue to check PAM for updates and further information.

We continue to forward-plan for 2026. Planning for 2026 is well underway, with camps, excursions, student timetables and staffing decisions in place.

I thank all staff, parents and carers in advance for their ongoing support of our students over the next nine weeks, and I look forward to a term of learning, growth and celebration for every student.

Strive for Excellence

We will farewell our 2025 Year 12 students this week. We congratulate this cohort on their contributions to school life and studies. This cohort was in Years 7 and 8 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they have shown resilience and support for one another throughout their years at Catholic College Sale. We wish them all the best as they prepare for their VCAA examinations.

I would also like to acknowledge the Director of Senior Studies, Alison Edgar; Head of Pathways, Laura Considine; and all our VCE teachers who have demonstrated commitment, support and dedication to our students throughout the year. We look forward to celebrating with all students and their families at Valedictory in November.

Our students in Years 7–10 have been completing PAT Reading and PAT Mathematics assessments. This important data informs teachers of students’ growth in literacy and numeracy throughout the year and provides data for planning in 2026.

Share Success

This year, we will celebrate our Awards Night on 4 December at Bishop Phelan Stadium. This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise students who have demonstrated positive learning and contributions to our school community.

We’re delighted to celebrate Graduate Teacher Sophie Garner, who recently received an invitation to join the Golden Key International Honour Society in recognition of her outstanding academic achievements during her Master of Secondary Teaching at Federation University. This honour is extended only to students who rank within the top 15% of their university and among peers from over 400 universities worldwide.

Founded in 1977, Golden Key is a global organisation that recognises and connects high-achieving students and graduates, fostering leadership, academic excellence, and community service. Since its establishment, the society has awarded more than US$16 million in scholarships and continues to provide members with invaluable opportunities for growth and networking. Well done, Sophie, on this incredible achievement!

At Catholic College Sale, we proudly celebrate past students who are making wonderful contributions to our community. In this newsletter, we celebrate Maddi Telling, from the class of 2017 and Elianna (Ellie) Johnson from the class of 2006. 

Maddi Telling - Class of 2017

Where has life taken you since graduating from Catholic College Sale (e.g. university, work, travel)?

After completing Year 12, I moved to Melbourne to study a Bachelor of Nursing at Deakin University. I knew I wanted to be a nurse from a young age, so this decision came easily. My final year coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, which definitely changed the experience I had anticipated.

I commenced my graduate year at Monash Health in Clayton, spending my first six months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, caring for extremely premature and ill babies. This was unlike anything I had encountered before and sparked my passion for supporting both babies and mothers. I then completed six months in an adult haematology/oncology ward. Working in this area through 2021, during the pandemic, was challenging and exhausting, as it often meant managing higher-acuity patients in an understaffed environment. I was definitely thrown headfirst into my nursing career.

Following this, I decided to return home. I bought a house in Stratford and completed a Postgraduate Diploma of Midwifery at Federation University, while undertaking a two-year placement program at Latrobe Regional Health (LRH). Over this period, I studied and worked on the maternity ward, gaining full registration as a midwife at the end of 2023. Since then, I have continued working at LRH in what I consider my dream job. I’ve fallen in love with all aspects of this role, especially delivering babies for close friends and, most recently, my own niece.

Alongside my studies and career, I’ve made sure to keep travelling. Rather than taking a full gap year, I began seeing the world gradually, ensuring I travelled overseas at least once every year since finishing school — some trips with family, friends and my partner. This has allowed me to balance my professional life with personal experiences that are equally important to me. During the second year of my nursing studies, I undertook a nursing study tour to the Philippines, where I gained valuable insights into nursing conditions in different parts of the world. Currently, I’m beginning to explore travelling to Africa in 2026/2027 to undertake a midwifery placement with some of my colleagues. I know I’ll learn so much about my career — and tick off incredible parts of the world at the same time.

What are some of your favourite memories from your time at Catholic College Sale, or what was your favourite school tradition or event?

When thinking back to school, it was always the sporting events that I enjoyed the most. I was part of the Marist basketball team from Year 9 to Year 12, and those interstate trips are definitely where my best memories came from. But also just the simplicity of eating lunch with my friends every day near the basketball court.

What do you enjoy about your current career?

There are so many parts of my career as a registered midwife that I love. I love how fast-paced it is, how different every pregnancy, labour and birth is, and how quickly things can change. It is extremely demanding and emotional at times, but it’s also so rewarding. Whilst I’m not currently working as a registered nurse, I love that I still have the ability to change careers or try different areas if I ever feel the need to. The dual registration means I have the flexibility to switch things up if I ever feel like I need a break from midwifery — however, I’m definitely happy with where I am for now.

What advice would you give to your younger self back in school?

Just remember that it isn’t always that deep. The things that are stressing you out now won’t stress you out forever.

What is one message you would like to share with today’s students and teachers at Catholic College Sale?

Just remember life is short. Unfortunately, the older you get, the quicker you learn that things — and people — can be ripped away from you really quickly. For years now, I’ve lived with this as my motto, and whenever I’m unsure about something, I always go back to it. So always do what you want to do, and what will benefit you in the long run.

Ellie Johnson - Class of 2006

Where has life taken you since graduating (e.g., university, work, travel)?

My time at Catholic College Sale sparked a lifelong journey of both learning and enquiry. After graduating in 2006, I enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing at Monash University. I began my nursing career in 2010, with my first Graduate Nurse Program rotation in Critical Care/Intensive Care. As a newly graduate nurse, entering the ICU was very polarising, overwhelming, and challenging; however it was this challenge that ignited my passion for Intensive Care Nursing and has shaped the direction of my career.

In 2012, I commenced a Master of Nursing at Monash University, specialising in Critical Care Nursing. During this time, I was awarded the Australian College of Critical Care Nurses (ACCCN) Best Critical Care Nursing Student and published my first academic piece focusing on the importance of patient involvement in clinical communication. Throughout my time in Intensive Care environments, I’ve held various roles including Clinical Nurse Specialist and Clinical Nurse Educator which deepened my interest in clinical education and nursing research. In 2018, I transitioned into the world of academia and am currently a Lecturer in Nursing at Federation University. I contribute to both the Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Health programs and lead the Graduate Certificate of Health – Acute Care Nursing stream providing postgraduate specialisations in Critical Care and Emergency Nursing. In my role as Nursing Lecturer, I also facilitate an international nursing clinical placement in Banepa, Nepal. 

In 2022, I completed a Graduate Certificate in Education (Tertiary) and was very fortunate to join multiple research teams publishing literature on learning and teaching, vulnerable populations and the critical care health workforce. I’ve also had the privilege of presenting research both nationally and internationally, and I’m currently completing my thesis and publications focusing on reducing the incidence of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder in critically unwell Intensive Care Patients for my Master of Health (Research Practice). I intend to commence my PhD studies in 2026.

Beyond my roles in academia and Registered Nurse, I’m also proud to serve as the Victorian Vice President of the Australian College of Critical Care Nursing. I am also a member of the Australian College of Critical Care Nursing National Events Committee, which develops and facilitates Critical Care Nursing conferences across Australia. 

Life has not always been work and study. I love adventure, watching sport, and have travelled extensively in both Australia and Internationally in my spare time. Seeing Mt Everest and going to NASA were some of the best experiences so far! 

What are your favourite memories from Catholic College Sale, or your favourite school tradition or event?

When I think back to my time at Catholic College Sale, what immediately comes to mind is the sense of mateship, laughter, and genuinely amazing people—both peers and teachers alike. The school always had such a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and I was lucky to be part of a fantastic cohort. Some of my closest friendships today started way back to our very first day in Year 7.

As for the best memories? Without a doubt, they revolve around the time I spent with friends. Whether we were in class, on excursions, or simply hanging out, there was never a dull moment—just endless laughter and unforgettable experiences. Some standout highlights include my time at the Sion Campus (Year 7 Edwindine and Year 8 Martina homerooms), the Year 7 Camp, the Year 10 trip to Tasmania, the Year 11 Debutante Ball, and of course, the Year 12 Retreat.

The sporting carnivals were also memorable. As someone who is severely athletically challenged, I always got a good laugh out of just how poorly I performed. If nothing else, I was consistently terrible—and that became part of the fun!

What do you enjoy most about your current career?

Nursing is an incredibly rewarding profession that makes a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities alike. I feel truly grateful to live my passion every day. Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to both work and learn from exceptional mentors and colleagues whose guidance has been instrumental in shaping my professional identity.

As a Registered Nurse in Intensive Care, I thrive in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments where collaboration and clinical expertise are vital. The challenge of detecting patient deterioration, conducting rapid assessments, managing complex therapies and supporting patients and families in time-critical situations are what drive me. It’s an absolute privilege to care for patients and their families during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives and to support them through recovery. I also take great pride in being a member of the Australian College of Critical Care Nurses, contributing to the ongoing development and future direction of Critical and Intensive Care Nursing in Australia. 

In my role as a Nursing Academic, I’m honoured to help shape the next generation of nurses. I’m passionate about supporting their growth at every stage of their careers and take great satisfaction in contributing to research that advances clinical practice and excellence, enhances learning, and improves patient safety and outcomes. 

While I’ve experienced many career highlights, one of the most impactful has been facilitating the Nepal International Nursing Clinical Placement. Participating in community outreach programs (such as women’s health) in rural and regional areas, and immersion in different cultures and healthcare systems, has been an incredibly enriching and transformative experience.  

What advice would you give your younger self back in school?

There are two pieces of advice I would give my younger self.

• Firstly, always back yourself. Trust your instincts and your judgement—even when it feels uncomfortable, always back yourself. 
• Secondly, do not fear rejection. Some of the biggest moments of personal growth in my career have come from times when I have had to pivot, adapt, or take on something unexpected. Learn to laugh at your mistakes and remember - rejection is simply a redirection to where you need to be.  

What message would you like to share with today’s students and teachers?

First and foremost, please go and experience the world if you can. You will learn so much about yourself (and the world) through the rich experience other cultures and environments. You do not grow if you stay in one place and close yourself off to experiences. 

Secondly, always push and challenge yourself. Your time at Catholic College Sale is such a unique experience, and you are surrounded by amazing mentors and peers. Embrace this time fully. Dream big, set your goals, work hard and always believe in your potential. You can achieve whatever you set your mind to, and your idea might be world changing. The only limits you'll face are the limits you place on yourself. 

Lastly, do not measure your progress or success against the achievements of others. Everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s completely normal to make mistakes or go through periods of uncertainty about your direction. We all have times when we are unsure or do or feel progress is being made, and that’s okay because time and experience will show and guide the way