Staff News

Professional Learning and Development

Teacher Appraisal and Recognition

This term, our teachers are participating in the Teacher Appraisal and Recognition Process (ARM), an important initiative designed to celebrate achievements and support ongoing professional growth. The purpose of this process is to affirm the outstanding work of our teaching staff while fostering a culture of reflection and continuous improvement.

Through the ARM, teachers reflect on their practice, including evidence-based strategies from Teaching Sprints, contributions to Team-Based Culture, and professional learning undertaken throughout the year. Each teacher completes a Professional Practice Reflection Form and engages in a one-on-one conversation with a facilitator to discuss successes, challenges, and future goals. These conversations are guided by the AITSL Standards and aligned with our College Strategic Improvement Plan, ensuring that individual development supports whole-school priorities.

The outcomes of this process include recognising areas of excellence, identifying opportunities for growth, and setting clear professional learning goals for the year ahead. Ultimately, the ARM strengthens collaboration, builds trust, and reinforces our shared commitment to expert teaching practice and improved student outcomes.

Staffing Updates

Our staffing is almost complete for 2026. We are pleased to announce the following Positions of Leadership, commencing January 2026:

Mr Dale Clarke – Director of Digital Learning and Data Insights

We are very excited to welcome Dale to our community. Dale joins us from St Paul’s College in South Australia, bringing a unique background in Journalism and Theology. Recently, Dale completed a Graduate Certificate in Data Science and is passionate about using data to provide valuable insights into student learning and growth. In 2026, Dale will also share his expertise in the classroom, teaching Mathematics and Religious Education. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and enthusiasm Dale will bring to our college.

Mrs Kelly Mills – Director of Junior Learning

We are delighted to announce Kelly’s appointment as the leader of our Junior Learning team! Kelly is a highly respected teacher and leader at Marist-Sion College, having contributed in a variety of roles, including Learning Area – English. Her passion for learning and her ability to engage students shines through in all she does. This dedication complements the outstanding work she has undertaken this year in her Pedagogical Coaching role, building expert teacher practice across the college. We are excited to see Kelly bring her expertise and enthusiasm to this important leadership position.

Mrs Gabrielle Catania – Director of Professional Learning and Development

Gabrielle brings a wealth of experience as both a teacher and leader to this exciting new role. Her time as Learning Leader – Health and Physical Education and Head of House has equipped her with a broad range of skills and insights. We are delighted to have Gabrielle guiding staff professional learning and development, as well as mentoring and coaching our Graduate and Pre-Service Teachers. Her commitment, expertise, and exemplary leadership make her an outstanding role model for our community.

Staff Spotlight

This is an opportunity for our staff and community to get to know each other by way of asking each staff member to answer a few questions about themselves. I would like to share these with our community as I believe the partnership we have with our parents/guardians/carers is a valued and respected one and I am sure you would like to get to know the staff of your child’s school as a way of building these positive relationships and partnerships.

This month I would like to introduce to you to Mrs Paula Hallinan – Learning Support Officer

Place of birth and upbringing: Born in Yallourn and grew up in Tanjil South, Moorooduc, Pakenham, Moe and Newborough.
Childhood highlight: Attended five different primary schools as her family moved frequently.
Favourite food combination: Hard cheese with honey, walnuts and dried apricots, enjoyed with a chilled white wine.
Career highlight: Loves the opportunity to make a positive difference in students’ education.
If stranded on a desert island: Would choose to be with her husband and the man from the YouTube channel Fire to Fork, known for his campfire cooking.
Self-care activities: Enjoys knitting, crocheting and cooking to relax.
Biggest inspiration: Positive people who have overcome significant challenges.

Marist Carnivals Update

The Marist Carnivals, of which Marist-Sion College have been a part of since the year 2000, are vibrant annual events that unite students from across the country in celebration of sport, culture, and community. First introduced in the mid 1970’2 with Marist Cricket, these carnivals reflect the Marist tradition of holistic education—nurturing body, mind, and spirit. More than just competition, the carnivals foster friendships, showcase student talents, and strengthen the shared identity of Marist schools. Rooted in values of faith, service, and unity, they are a highlight of the school year and a joyful expression of the Marist way.

Over the last 25 years we have been fortunate to have been able to participate in in Marist Cricket, adding on Netball in 2001 and Basketball in 2010. From 2026, the College has made the decision to participate in two carnivals per year. This was a decision that was not made lightly, but reflects the competing needs within schools, including staffing requirements, prioritising teaching and learning and balancing the fiscal requirements of participating in such events. We acknowledge that some of our families will be disappointed with the decision but know that we will continue to proudly wear our Marist-Sion College colours in two carnivals each year. We will look to rotating the sports so that one sport isn’t missing out for too long.

For 2026, the two carnivals will be Marist Netball and Marist Cricket. We look forward to announcing our teams next year and hearing about their experiences upon their return.

Mrs Georgie Beekhof

Deputy Principal – Professional Culture and Growth