From our Principal

Student Achievement – Valedictory Celebrations

On Friday 17 November, we celebrated the achievements, individually and collectively, of our Year 12s and bade them a fond farewell. The final address of our College Captains, Violet Pyle and Alyssa Weir was moving and highlighted the strength of connection both students felt towards their peers and community. The inclusions of various symbolic actions such as a Welcome to Country from current parents and the Gift of Roses for families who are leaving our community.

Building Capacity – VIT Celebrations

Over the past month, we’ve supported many of our Graduate and Early Career Teachers to move from provisional to full registration as a teacher. This cohort of staff have explored a breadth of inquiry questions. I have constantly been reminded of the overwhelming level dedicated aspiration our Graduate and Early Career Teachers have for the students in their care. James Mazzolini (Director of Staff Development) is a tremendous support for our Graduate and Early Career Teachers and I hold him as a model of presence like that of St Marcellin Champagnat.

Student Connectedness – Year 7 Orientation Day

Our Year 7 Orientation Day was a resounding success. Judging from the groups of students I spoke to over lunchtime on the day, the students felt a sense of welcome. Many were enjoying a shared lunch with new friends made on the day and old friends from primary school. There was a great buzz around the College and the day went so smoothly. I applaud the House Leaders who selflessly gave their time to the Year 7 Orientation Day program.

Compliance and Risk – Bushfire Readiness

Recently, as part of our Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) Audit, we have completed a bushfire readiness review checklist as a part of our annual bushfire preparation. This complements other important tasks including:

• Reviewing and updating the College’s Emergency Management Plan (EMP) 
• Conducting regular drills/scenarios to rehearse emergency procedures 
• Ensuring that staff with responsibilities in an emergency understand their roles 
• Aligning our EMP with that of any co-located facility sharing the school site

Staff Achievement – Grace Judd – Arts Assistant – Bachelor of Fine Arts at Federation University

Grace Judd (Arts Assistant) has recently completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts at Federation University.

Grace has been making significant strides in her artistic career. She recently took part in an end-of-year exhibition called EYE 2023, which showcased her remarkable talent and creativity. Not only did she receive recognition for her work, but she also had the opportunity to sell some of her art pieces during the exhibition.

But wait, there’s more … Grace has also been invited to embark on a 6-month residency at ARC, a fantastic opportunity that will undoubtedly allow her to further hone her skills and expand her artistic horizons. Grace has said, “I use my prints, paintings, and ceramics as a means to share my love of Australian birds. My topic is now more relevant and personal as I have recently discovered that my grandfather shares my passion. He would tell me stories as a child about his favourite birds, which I now use as an inspiration for my artwork. My grandfather’s stories taught me to take the time to observe the small details and to express my appreciation for our delicate ecosystem.”

I have attached some images of her artwork and from the EYE 2023 exhibition so you can see the incredible talent and dedication that Grace possesses. 

Student Achievement – Lachlan Smith – Draft Pick 47

Congratulations to Lachlan Smith (Sion House – Class of 2023) who was drafted to the Western Bulldogs at pick 47. Lachlan is a humble young man with dynamic, athletic skills. It was wonderful listening to the commentators speak to Lachlan’s capabilities on and off the field. Great work, Lachie.

Student Achievement – Presentation Evening

So many of our students are enthusiastic and passionately involved in all aspects of the life of this College. At Presentation Evening on Thursday night, we will celebrate the students for their hard work, diligence and commitment to all aspects of life at Marist-Sion. I have come to admire their courage and resolve in setting the bar high for themselves, for supporting their teachers and their classmates, and for taking on every opportunity and challenge our great school has to offer.

Congratulations to our students for living our Marist-Sion spirit of Truth, Charity and Constancy.

We are proud of you all.

Ms Lisa Harkin

Principal