College Advisory Committee
College Advisory Committee Meeting Summary Tuesday 11 March 2025
Naomi Simpson – Deputy Chairperson
The College Advisory Committee met at the Marist-Sion Chapel on the evening of Tuesday 11 March for the Term 1 meeting. After a welcome and prayer, discussion around the data of how students travel to and from school took place. Looking to future bus travel requirements, the College is actively planning for the growing number of families using this mode of transport. Safety concerns around school crossings and the need on Lilleys Road for pedestrian access was highlighted. Work is continuing on the College Master Plan.
Principal Lisa Harkin delivered her presentation. Evidence is showing that the College continues to provide improved learning and life outcomes for our students, post education. Ongoing goals continue to be for students to attain a median study score of 30 by 2027 across VCE Unit 3 & 4 studies. Also to bring NAPLAN scores in line with the state average and for every student to achieve at least 12 month literacy and numeracy growth each year. The College is reviewing data from the previous three years across the state. Leadership is working with current Year 12 students to reiterate the importance of attempting each section of the GAT.
The Term 1 focus has been on staff ‘knowing our students’. Year 7 students recently participated in a week of activities to help them experience a sense of connection and belonging. Student attendance was consistently at 95% each day. Feedback was positive from both staff and students. The Discovery Evening, Catholic Primary Sports Days, Enrolment Interviews, two-day Orientation Program and optional Talk and Tour program have ensured new students have made a confident start.
As always, Catholic Identity and learning with intention remain important, along with Child Safety and Wellbeing. The College will continue to consider equality, equity and inclusion in its education of our students and best support them in their chosen pathway. There was also some discussion around the cancellation of the Santa Teresa Immersion Program for 2025 due to changes in the Santa Teresa community which were beyond the control of the College, the absence of a Year 12 Common Room and the benefit of a Year 11 Information Evening.
Ms Harkin also introduced the College Advisory Committee to Justin Greenwood, previous Principal of St Angela of the Cross and now a School Leadership Consultant – Secondary with DOSCEL. Ms Harkin spoke to the importance of student leadership and has revised the application and interview process. By providing plenty of opportunities in junior levels, our senior students are gaining the skills and aspirations to take on these roles in senior levels.
Jacinta Johnston spoke about the formation of ‘In the Marist Way’. This program is especially aimed at new staff without experience in a Catholic or Marist school. It is aimed at leaders initially and is focused on why staff are here and what their role is in education and supporting our students.
Finally, the College Advisory Committee heard of the many events planned for the 50 Years Celebration events. The Marian sculpture will be unveiled at the Commencement Mass. Events include parish Masses, a Performance Celebration evening, College Open Day and Significant Women’s and Men’s breakfasts. The College is encouraging all families to attend these events and become involved in what is sure to be a wonderful celebration of Marist-Sion College.