Learning Across the 

Senior School

Loreto Student Grace Collins embraces the first stage of an extraordinary journey

On March 15-18, Grace Collins (Year 11) travelled to Canberra as part one of two components of her being awarded the 2025 South Australian Winner of the Simpson Prize Competition. Grace joined the other Winners and Runners-up from each state/territory for the 4-day study tour. The Simpson Prize is a nationwide commemorative competition for Year 9 and 10 students which is in its 26th year. 

The 2025 competition attracted over 1,000 student entries which are judged by panels of experienced teachers from all three educational sectors. Each year the question has a different focus, tightly connecting with the Australian Curriculum: History 9.0. Students are asked to use the provided sources and their own research to respond to the given question or proposition.

Grace travelled with the award-winning group to the National Archives where she handled and read military records dating back to WWI and actively participated in a debate in the House of Representatives in the Museum of Australian Democracy (Old Parliament House). The students also had a historian-led private tour of the Australian War Memorial and the Australian War Memorial’s Technology Centre in Treloar.

A highlight was attending Government House, Yarralumla where the students were guests of the Patron of the Simpson Prize, the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Her Excellency the Honorable Ms. Sam Mostyn AC. Grace thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to visit and meet her Excellency commenting: 

It was an absolutely phenomenal experience, her Excellency the Governor General gave us the privilege of a guided tour of Government House, insightfully explaining the significance of various rooms and objects, including the study where Prime Minister Gough Whitlam was dismissed on Remembrance Day 1975. To be standing in rooms where significant events have occurred, separated only by time was a genuine highlight.

On the final day, Grace and the other students were presented with their Award Certificate at an official ceremony at Parliament House, Canberra. 

The Minister for Education, the Hon Jason Clare MP commented on the students achievements:

Through the Simpson Prize, students from across the country have discovered that the Anzac legacy is not merely confined to the history books, but an insight into who we are. The work you do is so important, because it teaches a history that should never be forgotten. A lesson about ordinary Australians - a lesson that teaches us that they were anything but ordinary.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Paul Foley, the Chair of the Simpson Prize, reflected:

So, therefore your research is important, hours of scrolling and turning pages until you find that quote, that insight, which swings opens more doors of discovery and more questions. These are our stories and so many more await their discovery, every single one contributing to the tapestry of our history and bringing into light the very best of humanity in the most difficult of circumstances.

These 16 students have touched and unearthed such discoveries, and we welcome those that will accept the challenge of the 2026 Simpson Prize.

Grace will now soon be departing for the second component of her prize: a 10-day commemorative study tour in Japan and Singapore between 17-27 April, culminating in attending and having an official role at the 2025 Anzac Day Dawn Service at Kranji War Cemetery, Singapore. During the tour which is led by official War historian Mr. Michael Kelly, students will visit key sites relating to Australian service during World War Two and other significant historical and cultural sites.

We wish Grace safe travels, and we look forward to hearing about her experiences next Term.

Paul Foley

Learning Area Leader: Humanities

House Mathematics

On Wednesday of Week 9, Loreto College held its first House Mathematics competition.

A representative from each year level formed a house team which worked in groups to solve a range of mathematics problems against the clock, relay-style.

Accuracy was paramount as any incorrect answers meant that all team members had to run back and forth before proceeding.

Congratulations to Barry house, who were the eventual winners, solving the most problems in the time frame.

We thank the following students who participated:

Barry House:

Rosie H

Vivienne C

Lilly M

Eloise C

Elisa F

Erin S

McGrath House:

Angela X

Clara L

Amber S

Jemma M

Lacey M

Mulhall House:

Sophie Z

Olive M

Camille B

Cici W

Alice S

Caitlin M

Ward House:

Emily M

Marissa L

Kirsten C

Charlie L

Alize W

Loreto Beats Prince Alfred College in Mock Trial 

Loreto College has claimed another victory in Round 2 of the Law Society’s Mock Trial Competition, triumphing over Prince Alfred College in a gripping criminal case at the District Court in Adelaide on Tuesday 1 April 2025.

Acting as the Prosecution in a case about dangerous driving, the Loreto team faced tough competition from PAC—but our Legal Eagles could not be defeated. With sharp argument, confident delivery, and teamwork on full display, Loreto won the overall trial and remains undefeated heading into Round 3 this May.

A huge congratulations to our incredible Mock Trial Legal Eagles, and to the Loreto supporters who came along, including Mr Foley, whose presence and encouragement meant so much to the team.

Sam Ruggiero-Girgolas

Legal Studies Teacher and Mock Trial Coordinator

Modelling Nuclear Decay in Year 9 Science

Using M&Ms was a fun way to illustrate nuclear decay and the important mathematical concepts relating to decay.  Students place the 'radioactive' M&M's in a cup, shake them, and then release the contents onto a tray. The imprinted "M" on each chocolate represents whether the atom has become stable. This process is repeated until all the M&M's have decayed. The graphs that students produce make the unit of half-life easier to understand.

Yoga for better Mental Health

The Year 10 Health Science classes recently experienced an uplifting yoga session with Ms Walsh, who used to teach at the College. Yoga practice involves three elements:  Pranayama (breathing), Asanas (poses and exercises) and Meditation (being still and quiet). Some critical benefits include: “recharging the batteries”, ability to relax, optimism and resilience. This form of exercise also plays a major role in helping to decrease anxiety and depression. The girls have been learning about the best exercises for brain health and were delighted to feel so refreshed and positive at the end of the school day. Just this single yoga class can make a difference to promoting a brighter outlook for the girls.

Patty Warrender

Biology/Science Teacher

The importance of a spiritual and holistic curriculum  

Integrating topics of spirituality, religion, and meaning into students’ education alongside their other subjects is crucial for their holistic development and wellbeing. Exploring these concepts encourages self-reflection, emotional resilience, and a deeper understanding of their values and purpose. 

By connecting spirituality and religion with subjects like SEAD, literature, history, and social justice students enhance critical thinking, empathy, and a broader perspective on diverse worldviews. This integration helps students navigate personal challenges, academic stress, and the complexities of growing up. Additionally, the camps and Reflection Days throughout the year offer invaluable opportunities for students to engage in meaningful, hands-on experiences that further support their spiritual and emotional growth. These experiences allow students to step outside of the classroom and immerse themselves in environments that foster connection, mindfulness, and introspection. 

Reflection Days provide dedicated time for students to pause, reflect, and discuss their personal journeys, enhancing their ability to process and integrate what they are learning into their lives. The camps, often set in natural settings, offer an immersive opportunity for students to bond, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that promote wellbeing. These experiences, combined with the curriculum, help students cultivate a sense of purpose, emotional balance, and social harmony, preparing them for a fulfilling and meaningful life both inside and outside the classroom. 

Nancy Rodi 

Leader of Religious Education 7-12 

Message from the College Counsellor

Dear Parents and Caregivers, 

The next SchoolTV topic is now available –– Cybersafety.

Young people today are growing up in an increasingly connected world where technology is part of their everyday lives –– for learning, socialising, and entertainment. While the digital world offers enormous benefits, it also comes with serious risks. From cyberbullying and online predators to inappropriate content and screen time concerns, navigating the online environment can be challenging for young people and their families.

Cybersafety is not just about blocking access –– it's about empowering young people with the knowledge and skills they need to use technology responsibly and safely. This includes understanding privacy settings, recognising scams, and developing healthy digital habits. At the same time, it's important for parents and caregivers to stay informed, have open and judgement-free conversations with their children, and lead by example through positive online behaviour.

In today's digital age, safeguarding a child's wellbeing must also include protecting their online life. This edition of SchoolTV will help you better understand the digital landscape your child is navigating and offer practical strategies to help them stay safe, confident and in control online.

To access this valuable resource please click on the below link:

https://loreto.sa.schooltv.me/newsletter/cybersafety-au

Treesa Parrish

Senior School College Counsellor