Learning Across the 

Junior School

Welcome back to our final term of the year! 

It has been a wonderful start, with a lovely sense of energy and enthusiasm across the Junior School as the girls settle back into their learning.

This term, our Junior School focus is Kindness. Our Year 5 students reflected beautifully on this theme during their Liturgy this week, reminding us that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. It was a timely reminder of the importance of showing compassion, care and consideration in our words and actions each day.

It was also a special moment to join our Year 12 students as they celebrated their final day at Loreto. Continuing a much-loved tradition, some of our Reception girls had the honour of presenting a gerbera to the Jubilarians of 2026. This beautiful gesture symbolises the connection between our youngest and oldest students and the enduring sense of community that makes Loreto so special. We wish our Year 12 girls every happiness and success for the future.

Year 4 Camp – Narnu Farm

Last week, I had the pleasure of joining our Year 4 girls on their camp to Narnu Farm. The camp provided a valuable opportunity for the girls to develop independence, strengthen friendships and build confidence as they stepped outside their comfort zones and embraced new experiences together.

My sincere thanks to our dedicated staff who generously gave their time to accompany the girls on camp. Taking students away from home is a significant responsibility, and I am extremely grateful for the care, enthusiasm and commitment they demonstrated in ensuring such a positive and memorable experience for all.

Co-curricular – Summer Netball

Our summer netball season commenced last Friday evening, with two Loreto Year 2 teams taking to the court for the very first time. It was particularly exciting to hear that both teams celebrated victories in their opening matches!

There were certainly plenty of smiles and excitement among the girls, and what a wonderful way to begin their netball journey! While the wins were a lovely bonus, it is the opportunity to develop new skills, build friendships and experience the joy of being part of a team that makes these experiences so valuable.

Lisa Sexton

Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School

Year 4 Camp 

Our Year 4 students had an amazing two-day, one-night camp experience at Narnu Farm! With a focus on pioneer life, the girls stepped back in time and experienced what life was like for early settlers through a range of hands-on activities. They learnt about traditional pioneer skills, including blacksmithing, churning butter and cooking damper over the campfire, as well as enjoying traditional pioneer games.

One of the biggest highlights was getting up close with the farm animals. The girls loved feeding the animals and were especially excited to hold the adorable baby chicks and guinea pigs! They also put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test through orienteering and an energetic game of Conquer the Farm.

It was a wonderful two days filled with adventure, learning, laughter and new experiences. Most importantly, the girls embraced the opportunity to step outside their usual routines, build their independence and create special memories with their classmates.

Sarah Shaw

Year 4 Teacher

ICAS Success 

Throughout August, many of our primary and lower secondary students took part in ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools). ICAS is a series of globally recognised online assessments designed to challenge and extend students’ higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. The competitions were offered across a range of subject areas, including Writing, Spelling, Mathematics, English, Science and Digital Technologies. 

In total, Loreto Marryatville students completed almost 100 assessments, achieving some outstanding results, with more than one-third of the awards received at Credit level or higher.

We applaud our Distinction recipients: Ocean M (Year 2 English), Ebony F (Year 3 English), Emily L (Year 4 Writing), Emma X (Year 6 Mathematics) and Sophie A (Year 7 Writing). We particularly congratulate our multiple Distinction recipients: Ella W (Year 7 Writing, English and Mathematics) and Linyi H (Year 7 English and Science) – truly impressive accomplishments. 

We warmly congratulate all students who participated in ICAS 2026 for their commitment, effort and achievement. 

Robyn Scott 

Director of Academic Programs 

Art Club

Ollie Lauder, Preschool Teacher, recently visited our Year 3–6 Art Club to lead students in an exploration of colour mixing and the important role colour plays in art.

Inspired by Australian artist Tom Roberts, students discovered how colours relate to one another, how to mix different shades and tones, and how artists use colour to create depth, mood and visual interest in their work. Through hands-on experimentation, students are developing their understanding of colour theory and learning how thoughtful colour choices can transform an artwork. 

It’s been a wonderful opportunity for our budding artists to explore their creativity, build new skills and see the world through an artist’s eyes.

Hattie Ziesing

R–6 Teacher