School Life & Wellbeing

Introducing our 2025 Heads of House

At Marist-Sion College, we are committed to each student feeling known, valued and loved.  The House System is an integral part of this experience for students with our Heads of House championing this for the students entrusted to their direct care. 

The Heads of House work professionally and cooperatively with the College Executive Team and Senior Leaders to engender a high level of alignment with the College’s vision and mission. Promoting a spirit of mutual support and responsibility, the Head of House has a broad responsibility for overseeing House specific programs, events and experiences to inspire and support our students’ experience of school and learning.

Along with all school leaders, the Heads of House actively supports the College’s work in faith and mission and undertake professional learning related to these areas

Directors of Student Wellbeing

We would also like to acknowledge the appointment of two new Directors of Student Wellbeing. The Directors of Student Wellbeing lead the Head of House team in collaboration with the Student Wellbeing Team. We congratulate Ms Emily Burrows and Siobhan Ware.

Welcome to our new Year 7 Students and Families

On Tuesday 4 February, 500 students, parents, guardians and carers, gathered in the College Hall for our Year 7 Welcome Evening. This event allowed our College community to connect as we embarked on this journey together. 

This event is a key part of our transition program for Year 7 students and their families. It provided an opportunity for parents, guardians and carers to meet their child's Tutor and Head of House, learn about our College and for students to receive their College Laptop.  

Thank you to all who attended. Our Tutors spoke glowingly about the opportunity to meet our new and existing family members.

Year 7 Activities Week

At the time of writing this article, our second and final group of Year 7 students had just returned from the day’s activities at Camp Rumbug in Foster North.  While there were some tired legs getting off the bus, there were even more smiling faces and great feedback from both students and staff.  

The Camp staff at Rumbug also reported how impressed they were with the Marist Sion students’ behaviour and attitude throughout the two days we attended. These activities provided a great opportunity for student to get to know each other and their Tutors and Heads of House, in an alternative environment away from the classroom. The challenging nature of the activities not only provided opportunities for resilience building, but also opportunities to demonstrate support and encouragement for each other.  The Year 7’s will complete their activities week on Friday, 28 February with a day at Gumbuya World. 

This week the Year 7’s have also gained knowledge with a presentation from Real Talk on online safety and how to navigate the increasingly complex world of social media, as well as a preparation session for our upcoming Commencement Mass.

Wellbeing – Connectedness – Swimming Carnival

Last Friday, the House Swimming Carnival was held and it was a great, fun-filled day. 

Students enjoyed cooling off in the pool, laughing with friends under the shade, and cheering for their Houses, making it a fantastic opportunity to connect. It was great to see increased attendance and we eagerly anticipate the whole College joining us for the upcoming Inter House Athletics.

Organizing an event like this requires countless hours of preparation. A big thank you to Mr Brad Cavalot (Sports Leader), April Bethune (Sports Assistant) and the College Management Team for their excellent organisation. The Head of House Team led with enthusiasm, showcasing both old and new friendly rivalries. We also appreciate our Maintenance Team and other staff who helped with the set-up and pack-up for this event.

The results of the Swimming Carnival will be announced at next Tuesday’s Assembly and will be posted in future editions of this newsletter.

Wellbeing – Minute of Gratitude

Parents may not be aware that each day our College takes one minute to stand still to allow a period of self-reflection on what we have to be grateful for.  

The benefits of Gratitude are well documented in positive psychology circles where evidence-based research has demonstrated links with improved mental and physical health, positive relationships, increased resilience, better sleep, greater empathy, and better self-esteem.  The College is deliberate in its approach to support students in incorporating Gratitude into their daily routine. 

Where to access support?

The College has a support network for all students to assist in managing their mental health and wellbeing. Students are encouraged to seek wellbeing support from the Counselling and Wellbeing Services Team. Mrs Joanna John (Psychologist) and a team of counsellors are available five days a week to meet with students and families.

Additional support is available by contacting Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline on 13 11 14, Parentline Victoria on 13 22 89 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Mr Daniel Nisbet

Deputy Principal: Wellbeing Partnerships and Safety