From our Principal

Dear Parents, Guardians and Carers 

Welcome back to the new Term. Whether you're returning after a restful break or joining us for the first time, we are excited to continue our journey of learning, growth and community together. This term promises rich opportunities for celebration and connection.  

Year 10 Work Placement 

The Year 10 Work Placement program has now wrapped up for another year, and we are thrilled to report that feedback from students and host organisations has been overwhelmingly positive.

A heartfelt thank you goes to Elly Martin, our Careers and Pathways Leader, for her exceptional coordination of the program. We also extend our thanks to all staff members who supported students during their placement. These experiences offer valuable insight into the world of work, and your support helps make them possible.

If you have any feedback or connections with potential host organisations, we encourage you to share them with Elly. Every contribution helps us strengthen and grow this important initiative.

> Read more in our Careers & Pathways Article

Success of Tier 2 and 3 Learning Intervention Programs

Last term, we introduced several Learning Intervention Programs across the Junior School, focusing in particular on Year 7 and Year 8 students.

One of these programs, the Individual Support Program (ISP), has shown encouraging results. Students responded well to hands-on activities and competitive tasks, which helped boost engagement in learning. We are continuing to refine how competitions are designed to ensure they remain fair and inclusive for all.

The MacqLit program has also received very positive feedback. Students have reported improvements in both reading and writing, and the structured routine of the program has proven to be a key part of its success.

We have also seen increased support from families at home, particularly around literacy. Some parents have suggested the introduction of a Reading Log, which could link with our existing Achievement and Recognition process to further encourage reading outside of school.

In addition, staff are now using strategies from The Writing Revolution by Judith C. Hochman and Natalie Wexler. These practical, cross-curricular approaches are helping to strengthen students' writing skills across a range of subject areas.

We look forward to continuing this momentum throughout Term 3 and beyond.

Humanities Week 

Humanities Week was a fantastic celebration of curiosity, creativity, and connection across the College. Students participated in a dynamic program of activities and events that brought Humanities subjects to life, ranging from interactive challenges and themed days to engaging discussions and displays. These celebrations have become a much-anticipated feature on the College Calendar, helping to promote subject offerings and foster a deeper appreciation for the Humanities. 

Congratulations to Renee Frescura, Learning Leader – Humanities, and the entire team for curating such an engaging and inspiring program. 

Year 8 Reflection Days 

The Year 8 Reflection Days were held by the Passionist Retreat Team.  The program ran during the school day with 8A-D attending on Monday 28 July and 8E-H on Tuesday 29 July. We were pleased with the level of student engagement in the Year 8 Reflection Days. 

> Read more our Catholic Identity & Mission Article

Prospective Staff Information Evening 

Last night, we held our first Prospective Staff Information Evening at Marist-Sion College. The event provided an opportunity for potential applicants to explore the College’s values, culture and professional development pathways.

Attendees heard from the Principal and Executive Team, toured the College, and learned about the application process and staff support programs. The evening aimed to inspire passionate educators to consider joining our College community in 2026.

Thank you to everyone involved in making the evening such a success. It was a great way to showcase the welcoming and vibrant environment that defines Marist-Sion.

Heritage Week Activities 

A great program of events has been established for Heritage Week. With Heritage Mass being celebrated on Wednesday 13 August where the whole College will honour our Marist and Sion charisms, followed by Heritage Day fun and frivolity on Friday 15 August.  This annual celebration for our College community brings us together in family spirit and fun as we reflect with gratitude on the efforts of all who have contributed to making our College what we know and enjoy today.  These are compulsory days for students. 

As we begin a new semester, please see the following information for your reference.

Parent Access Module (PAM)

Parents, guardians and carers can update contact details and student medical information through PAM. Please note that permission for off-site activities must be submitted through PAM prior to the date of the activity. Verbal or email permissions cannot be accepted.

Student Attendance

In line with our College Attendance Policy, students who are regularly late to class will receive a consequence. Ongoing lateness may result in a Lateness Management Plan to support timely arrival.

We also ask families to avoid scheduling holidays during term time, as extended absences disrupt learning and can impact achievement. Requests for leave during term must be made in writing to the Principal.

Parents often ask how they can support their child in getting to school on time. The key is helping your child understand that every day matters. Regular attendance builds academic success, emotional wellbeing and a strong connection to the school community. There is no safe level of absence.

College Winter Uniform

The College Winter Uniform is available for purchase from the Marist-Sion College Uniform Shop.

Uniform items include:

• College Blazer
• College Dark Grey Trousers or College Tartan Skirt
• Long-sleeved white collared shirt
• College Jumper and Tie
• College Grey Socks or Tights
• Plain closed-toe shoes
• Optional: Soft-shell jacket, College green or grey scarf, black belt, College beanie

During Term 2 and 3, either the blazer or soft-shell jacket must be worn as the outer garment when travelling to and from school. The College blazer must be worn to all formal events, including Masses, assemblies and information evenings.

Students are expected to wear the full uniform correctly at all times – during school hours, while travelling, and at all school-related activities. On excursions, unless otherwise stated, full uniform is required.

Tutor Teachers and Heads of House will continue to support students in upholding these expectations.

All Classes Staffed for Semester 2

We are pleased to confirm that all classes across all year levels have commenced Term 3 with a permanent teacher. We continue to be encouraged by the calibre of staff applying to join our College and work alongside our students.

Stay Connected on Social Media

For regular updates and news from the College, follow us on:

Facebook: facebook.com/maristsioncollege

Instagram: instagram.com/maristsioncollege

Child Safety at Marist-Sion

Creating a safe and supportive environment for all students is a shared responsibility. The Victorian Child Safe Standards apply to a wide range of organisations including schools, churches, sporting clubs and youth services.

We encourage any student who feels unsafe to speak to a trusted adult or contact one of our College’s Child Safety Champions at: ChildSafety@mscw.vic.edu.au

Counselling and Wellbeing Support

Students are welcome to contact our Counselling and Wellbeing Team by emailing: counsellingandwellbeingteam@mscw.vic.edu.au

Additional support is also available through the following organisations:

• Parentline (Victoria) – 13 22 89
• Safe Steps (Family Violence) – www.safesteps.org.au
• Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800 | www.kidshelpline.com.au
• Headspace – 1800 650 890 | www.headspace.org.au
• Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 | www.beyondblue.org.au
• Reach Out – au.reachout.com
• Black Dog Institute – www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
• Lifeline – 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au
• Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Pilgrims of Hope – Look beyond.

Ms Lisa Harkin

Principal