Principal Report

FAREWELL TO THE CLASS OF 2024

On Tuesday, 22 October, the Class of 2024 marked their final day of school with a day of celebration and reflection. The farewell assembly was filled with memorable moments, including an inspiring final address from our College Captains, Royce D'Mello and Abigail Cachart, and a heartfelt welcome to the Alumni Association, presented by alumnus Mr. Rhynehart. A beautiful performance by the school choir added to the occasion, while our Teaching Staff and Year 7 students formed a Guard of Honour to bid a warm and dignified farewell to the graduating class. 

We would like to extend special congratulations to the following students, whose contributions to the St John's community over the past six years were acknowledged with awards at the assembly: 

St John's All-Rounder Award – Year 12 

Recipient: Royce D'Mello 

Presentation Award – Year 12 

Recipient: Sherlyn Anthony 

Lasallian Award – Year 12 

Recipient: Luke Obradovic 

Spirit of St John's Award – Year 12 

Recipient: Adharsh Kannan 

Throughout their final celebrations, our Year 12 students have demonstrated respect for our values and community standards, embodying the pride and strong sense of belonging they feel for their school. As they focus on their final exams, we extend our best wishes and prayers to all Year 12 students. We look forward to celebrating their journey at the Graduation Mass & Dinner on 22 November. 

WORLD TEACHERS DAY

'Hat's Off to Teachers' 

World Teachers' Day – Friday, 25 October 🍎 

"Thank you to all teachers: educating is an important mission, which draws young people to what is good, beautiful, and true."  — Pope Francis 

World Teachers' Day is a time to honour the dedication, hard work, and passion of teachers who play a vital role in shaping the minds and futures of our young people. It is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on teachers' profound impact on their students and to show our appreciation for their incredible work every day. 

At St John's, we will celebrate and express our gratitude to our teachers this Friday with a special morning tea. Today, we acknowledge the unique vocation of teaching and our teachers' dedication to their profession. Their commitment supports students from Year 7 through to Year 12, guiding them through crucial years of growth and discovery. Teachers are there every step of the way, helping students explore new horizons as they embark on their journey toward adulthood. 

As Pope Francis reminds us, education is not just about imparting knowledge—it is a mission that leads young people to embrace what is good, beautiful, and true. Our teachers are responsible for shaping today's and tomorrow's generation and helping our students be the best they can be. 

On behalf of our community, I thank them one and all. 

CONGRATULATIONS DALAL SMILEY

The St John's Regional College community is thrilled to congratulate Dalal Smiley, CEO of WellSprings for Women, on her induction into the Victorian Honor Roll of Women 2024! 

The Hon. Natalie Hutchins MP recognised the inductees last week, celebrating the remarkable contributions of Victorian women and their lasting impact on our state. 

Dalal leads the WellSprings for Women Centre, a Presentation-inspired community service centre for migrant and refugee women in Dandenong. Her unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and tireless efforts continue to inspire all of us at St John's. 

STEP-UP 2025

On Tuesday, 19 November, all students at St John's will participate in the Step-Up Program, transitioning to their next year's level and commencing the 2025 curriculum for the final three weeks of the school year. This initiative aims to maximise the last weeks of the academic year by introducing students to their new teachers, subjects, and classmates while beginning the first units of their 2025 programs. 

The Step-Up Program plays a crucial role in preparing students for the coming year's challenges. By engaging with their new curriculum early, students can adjust to new expectations, gain familiarity with their teachers and peers, and build a strong foundation for the year ahead. This proactive approach helps maintain momentum in learning and supports a smooth transition into the next academic year. 

To ensure a smooth and effective transition, Monday, 18 November, has been designated a Student-Free Day. This provides time for completing the 2024 academic year and preparing for the 2025 curriculum. 

Successful implementation of the Step-Up Program requires significant planning and coordination, and I extend my gratitude to Ms Kamila Bielinski, Ms Maria Nasioulas, Business Manager Ms Shelley Iles, IT Manager Mr Brian Griffith, Daily Organiser Ms Bradley, and all our Learning Leaders and teaching staff for their dedication and hard work in developing this important program for our students.