Monday 26 February
Wednesday 28 February
Tuesday 5 March
Wednesday 6 March
Thursday 7 March
Friday 8 March
Sunday 10 March
Monday 11 March
One of the questions I am sometimes asked by prospective parents and carers is what the benefits of an all-girls’ education are or why should they enrol their daughters at Our Lady of Sion College.
It’s a privilege to answer these questions not because I have spent most of my teaching and leadership career in all girls’ schools but because I firmly believe girls thrive and achieve stronger personal and academic outcomes in such a setting, and they have the opportunity to develop greater confidence because they have had unfettered opportunities.
In an all-girls school, there is no sense of I can’t do that subject, that’s a boys’ subject, or I can’t play that sport or use that equipment. In fact, at Sion there are many students undertaking Science subjects, many excelling in a wide variety of sports including the AFL, Cricket, Soccer to name a few and if you visit a senior Art class, you may see hammers and other tools being used to create installations.
Participation in leadership at Sion is at an all-time high because again there are no barriers for students who want to serve their community and develop themselves. I witness this every time we hold a whole school, year level or House assembly. Our students want to lead, and they speak with conviction and confidence.
Our students also don’t miss out on the social benefits of interacting with boys because we actively provide opportunities to do so through our programs with co-ed and all boys secondary schools. Our students also belong to many sporting clubs or associations of interest, and many have part time jobs so the sense that an all-girls school prevents them for developing broader social skills is, I think, not true.
Each year we celebrate our Year 12 students at our Top Achievers assembly and invite a past student to speak to our students about their journey beyond Sion. Past students have spoken about their careers in the Media, Engineering, Education, Medical Research, Community Health, Law to name a few.
At our Top Achievers assembly last week, we heard from past student, Deborah Lawrie (Class of 1970) who epitomises what an all-girls secondary education at Our Lady of Sion can offer.
After graduating from Sion, Deborah completed a Science degree and later gained a teaching qualification. However, it was her passion for flying which she had been doing since she was sixteen years of age, and the confidence that she had gained that led her to taking this up as a career. Having said this, her greatest achievement was fulfilling her ambition of becoming a commercial pilot; a role that was unheard of in Australia at that time. In order to achieve her dream, Deborah challenged the norms of the day and successfully won her discrimination case in the High Court of Australia against Sir Reginald Ansett then owner of Ansett airlines. In doing so, Deborah was part of a major social change in Australia. In 1979, the High Court heard her case and subsequently set a legal precedent for anti-discrimination laws that allowed women across our country to engage in male dominated professions. Her legacy paved the way for all women in Australia to challenge norms in the pursuit of justice and to follow their dreams.
At the same assembly, we also heard from Mariam Grais (2023 Dux). Her honesty, humility and wisdom touched all present as she encouraged students to approach their studies in a manner which works for them and to avoid comparing themselves to others as that was a sure path to self-doubt. She also encouraged us to believe in ourselves because we all possess the ability to defy our expectations. We wish Mariam and all students in the Class of 2023 all the very best as they embark on their tertiary studies and work towards achieving their personal goals.
I also congratulate the current Year 12 students who completed an accelerated subject last year and wish all students of the Class of 2024 all the very best for this year. We know they have great potential and look forward to supporting them to achieve their personal best.
Finally, it is important that all our students develop self-confidence and embrace all opportunities to realise their ambitions. I shared with them something I recently read and which I think is of great value.
We have the opportunity to do our personal best using the various capacities we have, in ways that can change the world or at least a small part of it.
The call to change our world even if it is in a small way in the here and now can have a resounding impact in the future as we witnessed through Deborah Lawrie’s experience. Deborah is one example of what an all-girls secondary education may offer its students. I think it is vital that as parents and educators we support our young students to not let social expectations stand in their way of achieving their dreams.
For Christians Lent is a time to reflect on our lives and in particular who we are in relationship to God and to others within our communities. It is a time to speak with God through prayer, to let go of the attachment we have to material things which prevent us from seeing the true meaning of our lives and to reach out to those who are less fortunate than we are. Other traditions also mark similar times on their liturgical calendar, for example, the time leading up to Yom Kippur in the Jewish tradition and Ramadan in the Islamic faith. This shared tradition of reflection calls all to re-examine our lives and relationships which ultimately work towards a world of justice, peace and love for all.
Thank you to all our Liturgy student leaders who last week led our Ash Wednesday service which begins the season of Lent. Thank you also to our Social Justice student leaders who will encourage us to support the work of Caritas Australia through Project Compassion over the coming weeks.
With every blessing for the fortnight ahead.
Tina Apostolopoulos
Our Lenten journey commenced with Ash Wednesday on 14 February. Students and staff gathered in year level groups to participate in student-led liturgies where they listened to the wisdom of scripture, prayed and received ashes as a sign of penance.
Prayer, fasting and alms giving are our focus during the 40 days of Lent, which concludes on Holy Thursday, as we prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord at Easter and as a Catholic and Sionian community we are invited to embrace ways that we can experience the true meaning of Lent and in turn strive for justice, peace and love. This is reflected in our efforts through fund raising to support the work of Caritas Australia, through Project Compassion and to help change the lives of so many in need across the world today.
The beautiful words from Pope Francis about ways we can fast during Lent has certainly allowed me to think about fasting in a completely different way to what my reality was growing up. He has invited us to think and pray about our relationships with others, with ourselves and especially with God and ways we can fast from the negative to make positive changes in our lives.
Do you want to fast this Lent? In the words of Pope Francis….
Fast from hurting words … and say kind words,
Fast from sadness … and be filled with gratitude,
Fast from anger … and be filled with patience,
Fast from pessimism … and be filled with hope,
Fast from worries … and have trust in God,
Fast from complaints … and contemplate simplicity,
Fast from pressures … and be prayerful,
Fast from bitterness … and fill your hearts with joy,
Fast from selfishness … and be compassionate to others,
Fast from grudges … and be reconciled,
Fast from words … and be silent so you can listen!
May we take the time during this Lenten Season to be still in the presence of God.
Wishing all members of the College community many blessings.
Last week we gathered as a community to reflect upon the successes and pathways of the Graduating Class of 2023. What a unique group of people they are! Our College Dux, Mariam Grais, spoke from the heart about her journey; what drove her passions and what she did when she was discouraged. She spoke directly to the younger students when she explained that she had never been the dux of a year level before, and yet she found herself being recognised in Year 12. If she could do it, anyone can. Congratulations to our 2023 high achievers, not just for their results, but for the model they have set for the whole community.
From today, students and families can access the lesson information for each subject. Moving the full curriculum detail into our Learning Management System is a huge process and achievement for our staff.
The purpose behind this is known as visible teaching. It is clear communication between the teacher, student and family, so that everyone knows what they are expected to learn, and how they will do that. Some key points to consider:
Visible teaching is key to the school-family partnership. If students express a concern about their learning, or a reluctance to engage, this information will be a powerful tool for the home conversation.
Want to Know More?
We are hosting a parent evening on Thursday 7 March, 7 pm in the Miriam Theatre.
On this evening, Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing Mrs Christine Kralj and I will host a discussion about the importance of school connectedness, how Sion Connect and the lesson by lesson information supports families with this.
Need Support With The App?
The College IT department can be contacted for anyone experiencing issues with logging in. Detailed instructions regarding where to find the lesson information will be shared with all families in a separate communication.
The excitement was palpable last Friday as students prepared to attend Taylor Swift's concerts over the weekend. The sense of togetherness was evident as they spoke about their favourite songs and made friendship bracelets. It spoke of sharing what we have in common, enjoying the moment, finding simple things that make us happy and making connections with others. While as a school that possible lack of focus on academic endeavours might have been a bit trying, it was lovely to see our students hopeful and excited.
However, it's important to recognise that events like this can also bring feelings of sadness and exclusion for some. For those who missed out on tickets or whose family just simply couldn't afford them, it can be a tough experience. As parents and carers, you are the first role models for your children, and it's crucial that we help them navigate these situations with empathy and understanding. Using words like "jealous" or "FOMO" about the behaviour of other children can be repeated outside of the home and only adds to the hurt of others who have not been part of the experience.
Encourage your daughter to have empathy for those who missed out, as it can be a painful experience. If she missed out on tickets, remind her that she won't always miss out on good times and that she wouldn't want someone to pull her down when she's celebrating her own good fortune or wonderful memory. This will require a balanced approach and good social skills will help.
Taylor Swift's time in Melbourne has undoubtedly had a profound impact on many young women in the last few days. Let's take a leaf out of Taylor's songbook and remember her lyric, "Shake It Off." It's a reminder to let go of negativity and embrace empathy, kindness, and togetherness.
Our particular thoughts and prayers go to Ms Jesslyn Drew, our College Learning Support Officer, for the recent passing of her nephew.
We remember Ms Drew and her family in a special way at this sad time.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may your perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen.
Well done to our Year 11 students, on making a strong start to the school year. After a few weeks, students are becoming more familiar with the day-to-day movements, classroom expectations, and study requirements for each subject. With so much change and ‘settling in’ to still happen, the Year 11 Pastoral and Shatal Programs for Term 1 will have a focus on transition, study habits, setting strong routines, and navigating VCE.
We hope these sessions will provide your child with some strategies and points to consider, to support their own learning and wellbeing. How they can navigate the balancing act of study, work, social and family commitments will continue to take time. Students have been provided with a Pastoral Journal to document their Year 11 Pastoral experience. Students are encouraged to use this journal in their own way to reflect on their experiences, thoughts, and feelings regarding the set intention for each Pastoral lesson.
Throughout Lesson 1 (Tuesday 13 February): we looked at life transitions and how to navigate them. We reflected on our learning experiences throughout Year 10, to then set an intention for Semester 1 of Year 11. With these Pastoral lessons in mind, I would encourage you to ask your child about the intention they set for themselves from a personal perspective.
During Shatal (Monday 19 February): students were addressed by Dale Hunter (Sion Learning Leader) and Pamelia Ioaniddis (Literacy Coordinator and College Counsellor) about a pilot program students can take part in. Developed by Macquarie University, ‘Studying Without Stress’ is an 8-week program where students will receive facilitated sessions, with the focus on cognitive behavioural theories. Empowering young people to unpack and learn more about themselves, their points for stress and finding strategies to manage their studies to navigate stress and study well. This program is complimentary to the way we approach supporting students across their senior years at Sion. But these sessions provide a closer intervention and support for students who might need it, or who might be curious to know more about themselves as a learner. Thank you to Dale and Pam for their support in leading this program for the Year 11 students.
Students have been provided with the Assessment Task calendar for Unit 1 and Unit 3 subject. They are encouraged to review these set deadlines and plan their study surrounding busy assessment periods. Throughout Shatal and Pastoral, we will continue to work with these young people to support them during this transition. Should you have any questions regarding VCE please contact myself or Dale Hunter.
Over the year we will invite our Year 10 students to contribute to our newsletter articles and this edition has been authored by Ananya D, Lily D and Holly Y, all from 10 White. Here they have given us a beautiful reflection of what the start of the year has been and why they are looking forward to our Duke of Edinburgh - Adventurous Journey.
Student Reflections
The first day of school was probably the loudest and most chaotic I have ever seen our cohort; with energy that went through the roof. Welcome everyone to Year 10, 2024. So far, this year has been full of excitement and opportunity. We have been preparing for the Duke of Edinburgh Camp and have already been introduced to the Indigenous Immersion to Alice Springs. This year is bound to be a great year and we are so excited to be spending it with this cohort.
Moving up a year level can be confusing and sometimes a bit difficult. Suddenly you’re in a new area, you have a new Homeroom and you have to adjust pretty quickly. But after a week or so there can be a new friend in your classes and it can make it so much easier. And it’s as simple as complimenting someone or talking with someone you haven’t talked to much before. Just being kind can improve someone’s day so much!
For the past 10 months, our year has been undergoing the process of achieving our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh awards. The Duke of Edinburgh is an internationally recognised and prestigious award, something that even adults struggle to do, so the fact that we have been undertaking this challenge as Year 9-10 students is nothing short of extraordinary. To achieve the bronze-level award, participants must choose something from 3 areas, Skill, Physical and Community Service, to commit to for the next three-six months. For example, you could learn to knit, go running every week, and start coaching a basketball team. However, there is one more aspect to achieving the award, and that is the Adventure Camp, which is coming up in the next few weeks, and preparations have already begun.
So far, we’ve been finishing off our award progress, making cabin and sleeping arrangements, and even begun learning how to set up our tents and carry heavy packs to build up our endurance. The whole experience has been so exciting so far.
Year 10 can’t wait to take the next step of our Duke of Edinburgh journey, and we can’t wait to share it with you once we get back.
Another fortnight has passed, and the Year 9s are settling back in to the new school year.
The Year 9 students have received their Duke of Edinburgh packs containing information and forms that are to be completed by both parents and assessors.
We highly recommend that students get started on completing these forms as soon as possible as there is quite a lot to get through.
If anyone has any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your daughter’s Ayin teacher or Mrs Rebecca Bennett.
On behalf of the Homeroom teachers and Year 9 teaching staff, I would like to thank all the Year 9s for their start to the term. Some areas of positivity that have stood out has been the fact many students have been applying themselves in the classroom, getting to know new people, listening attentively and respectfully at assemblies, Chapel etc and have also been respectful of their peers and staff. We believe the year level's next focus will be to increase organisation skills, improve email and conversational etiquette and promote a strive to do ones best.
With City Experience and the Swimming Carnival fast approaching, these are perfect opportunities to see what they can do.
We look forward to what’s to come this term and continue to promote our Year Level Theme of ‘Have courage and be kind’.
Last week, we had our first Pastoral lesson where we unpacked the AIR (autonomy, independence and respect) program with the year level. Along with their Homeroom teachers, the students completed some self-reflections and were guided through what each concept entails, along with some practical scenarios. These were based on the slides shared with you from the Parent Information evening. Please have a read through these if you haven’t already to further these conversations with your children at home and work with them to set some goals for areas that they would like to focus on improving for this term.
As part of the Year 8 Pastoral Program, we have engaged with Toolbox Education to run workshops with the students on Tuesday 27 February. Toolbox introduces students to preventative mental health tools through interactive workshops and provides them with opportunities to test out how they would apply them to their own lives.
The workshop that will be offered is called ‘Thinking Traps’ and is based on identifying and managing unhelpful thinking styles, through a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) basis. As students experience adversity, they can often get caught in a continuous loop of these thoughts.
The energy on Camp this week was incredible! A fantastic way to start week 4 of Year 7, The Summit Camp saw students working in mixed activity groups to stretch themselves and set goals for their own personal growth.
Activity highlights were, as always, the Flying Fox, Giant Swing, Abseiling, Leap of Faith and of course - the Mud Run! Not even a warm and dusty Wednesday morning could bring down spirits, activities continued and students were very resilient. The staff have commented on the wonderful, welcoming and positive attitude the Year 7s brought to camp. Despite being faced with challenges, the Year 7s supported each other in line with our year level theme - 'Making Connections'.
As we move through the term, we can see that the Year 7s have made a huge amount of progress in just a few short weeks - they have had a strong impact on our College community in this short period of time with older students enjoying their enthusiasm to get involved in College life. Upcoming events will bring more opportunities for students to engage with other students, including the Year 7 Family Mass, Chesed Day and the Swimming Carnival.
We look forward to what they all bring to our College in the coming Term!
Our program of Drama events for 2024 is looking like a very exciting one!
Clea M (12 Gold) is our 2024 Drama Captain, and she is kicking off our fortnightly drama clubs at lunchtime on Thursday B in the Miriam Theatre. All year levels are welcome at any point in the program season to pop into the Miriam Theatre and join in all the fun! The first workshop is themed around ‘Thank God You’re Here.’ We have many exciting events planned through the year including more Drama Club workshops, House Theatre Sports, incursions, performance excursions, many evening showcase performances and many more opportunities to be launched throughout the year.
This year is our Senior and Junior play year and our Senior play rehearsals for the production of The 39 Steps have commenced. Our cast is already having such a brilliant time together and showing some wonderful comedic flare. The Junior production will be launched after the Senior Production week in mid-Term 2. Students from Years 7-9 will be able to hear what this top-secret production will be and all about how they can become involved in either cast or crew when the play is launched.
Whitefriars College is also offering a special opportunity to our senior students. Students in Years 10-12 will be able to audition for their Senior Production of ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’ to be performed in Term 3 this year. Students were invited to a launch to hear about the opportunity and how they might become involved.
In our Drama curriculum program, we are always blessed with students who are passionate and committed to their Drama work. We are so pleased to congratulate Ella C, our 2023 Drama Captain, on her acceptance into Top Class Drama in the VCE Season of Excellence for her wonderful solo examination piece. We are so proud of Ella’s achievements which are a testament to her hard work, energy and zeal for the subject area. Best wishes Ella for your performance at the recital centre in April!
On Wednesday 14 February, the Italian Club, a new initiative at our school in 2024, which involves the Year 11 Italian class, presented an exciting and engaging session to celebrate Il giorno di San Valentino, also known as Valentine's Day. The event was a success, drawing a large turnout of passionate students eager to immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of Italy.
The event commenced with an overview of the significance of San Valentino in Italian culture, emphasising the day's historical origins and modern-day celebrations. Students were captivated by the cultural insights shared, promoting a greater appreciation for the Italian perspective on love and romance.
The atmosphere was further enhanced by activities such as writing traditional Italian love messages, and a Kahoot quiz. The Italian Club created a playlist featuring classic Italian love songs. The sweet tunes provided a background that enhanced the overall atmosphere, transporting our students to the streets of Italy.
One of the highlights of the session was the taste of Baci chocolates, a well-known Italian confectionery synonymous with love and affection. Each student received a Baci chocolate, complete with its iconic love note wrapped inside.
The Italian Club's commitment to providing an immersive experience was evident throughout the session. Students left with a greater understanding of Italian culture and a sense of camaraderie, having shared in the celebration of San Valentino.
We would like to thank our amazing Year 11 Italian students who contributed to an unforgettable celebration of love and culture at our school. We are looking forward to the next Italian Club session in March.
Some of our students have written a short reflection to share with us:
Ciao a tutti! Last Wednesday the Year 11 Italian class hosted the first Italian club session of the year. The theme of the day was “San Valentino” as it was valentine’s day. We hosted some fun 'love themed' activities such as a kahoot, writing love messages in Italian, listening to some classic Italian songs and snacking on delicious Baci chocolate. It was a fun opportunity to gather with other students who have a passion for Italian and we look forward to next month’s session. Arrivederci! Lily L (11 Gold)
Last week we had our first session of the Italian club, with the focus being around Valentine’s Day. From participating in a kahoot which taught us about some of the history of this day in Italy, to writing words of affirmation onto heart shaped paper and listening to an Italian love song, the session was very enjoyable and was a great time to connect with other students. Martina G (11 Red)
To celebrate the festa of San Valentino, we created many Valentine’s Day themed activities for students to participate in. I enjoyed seeing everyone get involved and celebrate a well-known festival ‘the Italian way’. I am excited to see what session we come up with next! Estella F (11 Gold)
The Italian club activity was a great chance to expand on our knowledge about how Italy differs from Australia when celebrating valentine’s day, known as in Italian San Valentino. We shared information, participated in writing notes to the people we love and well known Italian songs were played to get into the spirit of Valentine's Day. It was lots of fun and I'm excited for the next session coming up soon. Elyssa A (11 Gold)
Congratulations to members of the Senior Concert Band (Mr Parks) and CVE/College Choir (Ms Murone and Ms Porter) who helped honour the Top Achievers from the Class of 2023 with their performance of ‘Country Club Stomp’ and the College Song ‘Veritas in Caritate’. Three singers from the VCE music class Carla V (11 Purple), Hayley B (12 Silver) and Ava D (11 Red) also performed a fantastic interpretation of ‘Fall On Me’.
It’s fantastic to hear so much live music being played around the school. Parents with students involved in before/after school ensembles are reminded to please confirm their attendance by responding to the EdSmart email for the respective ensemble(s).
Over the last two weeks, Year 7 students have been trialing a range of instruments in their Music classes. There was much excitement as all Year 7 musicians have received their instrument allocation for the year and have started learning their first notes. Some of their reflections were:
It was funny hearing some of the sounds that came out of the instruments that our group tried. Izzy E (7 White)
I tried Voice, Violin, Trumpet and Clarinet – I have never even seen some of those instruments, let alone try them. I really liked the trumpet! Imogen D (7 White)
Please note the starting dates for the compulsory ensemble rehearsals:
It has been a busy start to the 2024 Sporting calendar. GSV Weekly sport is well under way with Indoor Cricket, Softball and Tennis teams commencing the season strongly. Our Swim and Dive squad is ramping up with only two more morning trainings left at the pool before we compete at MSAC on Monday 4 March. Attendance has been fantastic, especially at our first Friday morning Strength and Conditioning session with over 60 students. I would like to thank all students who have attended the Aerobics trials in the past fortnight and congratulate the students who received a call back. More information will be shared with the group in the coming weeks.
Our Sport Captains Pippa L (12 Red) and Ava K (12 Purple) reflected on the GSV Sports Breakfast hosted by Strathcona on Thursday 8 February.
“It was a great opportunity for us to have conversations with like minded leaders from all GSV schools. We had the pleasure to listen to our very own Ms Gurciullo share her very inspirational story, she taught us how she overcame tremendous challenges in her life and continues to live out every day with a positive attitude and grateful heart. Our main takeaway from the session was that sometimes simply showing up is enough. We hope to embrace this idea in the 2024 sporting program, as it's not the outcomes or results that are most important, but rather the participation and giving everything a go. We thank Mr Cox for accompanying us at the breakfast and to Ms Gurciullo for having the courage to share her story and for being such a role model to us all.”
Next Newsletter we will reflect on the House Swimming Carnival which is scheduled for Wednesday 28 February, all students are expected to attend and cheer on their House. Can Carmel retain the Swim trophy in 2024 or will there be a new House crowned champs?
This week during Shatal, we launched the Ozanam House Meal Service Outreach program that is offered to Year 11 students. Louise Augustinus an employee of Ozanam House spoke of the work, services and opportunities provided to the residents of Ozanam House and Jess Thorpe spoke of the positive impact Ozanam House has had on her life and how she now volunteers her time to help those who are homeless. Year 11 students will have an opportunity to visit Ozanam House once a month to volunteer their time in helping with the dinner service. Our visits will commence Wednesday 6 March.
Ash Wednesday marked the beginning of the annual Caritas Australia Project Compassion Appeal. Donations to Project Compassion allows Caritas Australia to work with local communities around the world to end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.
Project Compassion is built around the theme of ‘For All Future Generations’ and is inspired by the Bible’s story of Moses at the Burning Bush (Exodus 3:1-20). In this story, God tells Moses that he has heard the cry of the people. God responds to injustice and chooses Moses to speak to Pharaoh.
Though Moses is afraid, God promises to be with him. Thus, God says, ‘By this name I shall be invoked for all future generations.’ During Lent we encourage the Sion community to put your compassion into action by making simple lifestyle changes and taking action for social and environmental justice.
Social Justice representatives will visit Homerooms every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during Lent to collect donations. We will be offering opportunities throughout Lent to raise donations.
Students are encouraged to give all they can, in donations and prayer throughout Lent, to assist in the work of Caritas around the world.
Last year we started our St Vincent De Paul’s Secondary Schools conference and as a community were able to increase awareness of the issues faced by those experiencing disadvantage, to reflect upon the connection between faith and action, and help those in need within our local community. Some initiatives included Casual Day for a Cause, Winter and Christmas Appeal and baking for the Inner-City Soup Van.
School conferences are a student-centered program that empowers secondary age students to become social justice advocates within their school and local/wider community, by putting their values into action. Our conference works alongside St Vinnies to build the next generation of caring and compassionate individuals in our community.
If your daughter is interested in joining the group, an Information Session will be held on Friday 1 March at lunchtime in the Miriam Theatre. All students are welcome to attend.
Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right. Henry Ford (American Industrialist and Businessman)
Students and families can find the fortnightly Careers newsletter here.
In this fortnightly Newsletter there is information relating to:
We hope that everyone is starting to settle in to the school year. We just wanted to remind you of some helpful websites and support services should you be concerned about your child’s wellbeing or mental health.
A new headspace centre has just opened in Box Hill! headspace provides free and confidential support for young people and their families, as well as information and advice on a range of topics including mental health and wellbeing, physical health, alcohol and other drugs services, and work and study.
To make a referral for your child, you can call 9810 9310 or use this link.
headspace online also has a lot of information about how to support your young person with their mental health as well as 1-on-1 support for young people via phone or online chat.
This website has plenty of information, resources and forum discussion about a range of topics. This is a safe, online place to get information and support to help you and your teen feel better.
They also have a great website with plenty of information for young people.
Kid’s Helpline offers 24/7 support for young people via phone, email or webchat. They have great information on a range of topics, targeted at both parents and carers and young people. There is also a new online community for parents and carers to chat to one another and get support.
This discusses the importance of looking after your own wellbeing, as well as understanding your child’s mental health. For free, confidential 24/7 counselling, you can contact the Beyond Blue Support Service.
This is an initiative of Independent Schools Victoria and often has some interesting articles and helpful information.
As always, if you would like any further information or advice, please don’t hesitate to contact the counselling team at Counselling@sion.catholic.edu.au
The CSEF (Camps, Sports and Excursion Fund) is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities.
If you hold a valid means-tested concession card or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible for CSEF. The allowance is paid directly to the school to use only towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.
The annual CSEF amount per student is:
$225 for secondary school students
You will only need to submit an application form in 2024 if any of the following changes have occurred:
If a form was not lodged in 2023, parents or legal guardians are required to complete a CSEF application form and lodge it with the College for processing.
Application forms should be completed and lodged with the College as soon as possible in Term 1, as payments are made from March onwards.
CSEF payments are for the current application year and cannot be claimed retrospectively for prior years.
Please click here to download the 2024 application form.
If you have any questions, please contact College Accounts here.
