Newsletter | Live a life worthy of the calling you have received

Monday 3 November

• Student Free Day
• VCAA exams continue

Tuesday 4 November

• Melbourne Cup Public Holiday

Friday 7 November

• Year 10 and 11 Exams commence
  
• Parents' Association End of Year Dinner

Monday 10 November

• Victorian School Music Festival (VSMF) Year 7 Concert Bands and Sion First Band excursion

Tuesday 11 November

• Remembrance Day
• Year 7 Spring Concert, 7 pm, LHC

Wednesday 12 November

• Sion First Band End of Year Concert, 5 pm, Miriam Theatre
• Sion First Band 2025 Information Evening, 7 pm, Miriam Theatre

Thursday 13 November

• Year 9 Drama Performance Evening 7 pm, Miriam Theatre

Friday 14 November

• Year 10 and 11 Exams conclude

Monday 17 November

• Correction Day (student-free day)

Welcome to our new Principal

On Tuesday I had the pleasure of welcoming Ms Rebecca Cetrola who will commence as Principal of Our Lady of Sion College in the new year. It was a pleasure to take her on a tour of the College and introduce her to students and staff. A formal handover process is now underway. I hope it will ensure a fruitful transition and a positive start to Rebecca’s tenure.

Congratulations

Last week represented a well-deserved celebration of the creativity of our students and the dedication of the staff who have supported them this year. Our Creative Arts Week featured the Senior Art Showcase which provide well over two hundred family members the chance to enjoy the work of Years 10 to 12 students in Art, Making and Exhibiting, Media, Textiles and Visual Communication. The calibre of work and insightful statements which accompanied the students’ work was extraordinary. Thank you to our Arts team: Ms Alex Bleazby, Mrs Jenny Schwab, Mrs Sarah McLaughlin, Ms Emma Davidson, Ms Beth Amos, Miss Courtney Madeira, our student Rock Band who performed throughout the evening, and Mrs Lynne Hill, Miss Paige Wu, Mrs Deanne Benke and Ms Julie Toffolo for their organisational support and refreshments.

During the week we were also spoiled with excellent examples of our students’ work in the Performing Arts. Thank you to Mrs Catherine Bennett and the Unit 2 Drama students and Mr Martin Macaulay, Mr Ryan Parks, Ms Jane Murone, Ms Jacqueline Porter and Ms Adeline Han and all students who participated in the Term 4 Soiree and Choral Soiree.

Examinations

We extend our heartfelt prayers and best wishes to all our Year 12 students, as well as our accelerating Year 11 students, as they enter the VCAA examination period over the next three weeks. The written exams began on Wednesday with the English exam. We congratulate our Units 3 and 4 students on the dedication they’ve shown throughout their SWOTVAC period and encourage them to continue making the most of the study spaces at school, completing practice exams, and seeking guidance from their teachers as they have been doing so diligently.

Best of luck also to our Year 10 and 11 students as they prepare for their upcoming exams, beginning next Friday, 7 November.

Gratitude and Celebration – World Staff Day

When we reflect on our own learning journeys, many of us can recall the special people who supported and inspired us throughout our school years. Perhaps it was a teacher who believed in us when we didn’t believe in ourselves, a teacher whose passion for their subject kept us engaged, or a member of the support staff who always showed care and kindness.

We have at times heard the saying that we may not always remember what we learned, but we remember how we felt around those who taught us. Today, on World Teachers’ Day, we celebrate World Staff Day at our school. We do so by recognising and thanking every member of our staff for creating the nurturing environment and opportunities that help our students thrive.

Thank you to all the staff of Our Lady of Sion College for fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for our students!

Parents' Association AGM

Last Monday evening, the Parents' Association gathered for their AGM. Congratulations and thank you to our newly elected parents for the great work I know they will undertake in 2026:

• President: Jakki Poustie
• Vice President: Gina Giusti
• Secretary: Andrea Barnett
• Treasurer: Belinda van der Lit

As this was my final PA meeting, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the many parents/carers who, over the years, have supported our Parents’ Association with such generosity and commitment. Their dedication has strengthened the important partnership between home and school, enriching the experiences of all our students and families, both current and prospective.

Through your time, and contribution to significant events such as the Year 7 Family Mass, Open Day, the Significant Women’s and Men’s breakfasts, the Year 7 Meet and Greet and the rose wrapping for our Year 12 graduates, you have helped create a nurturing, vibrant school community. Your efforts remind us that education is a shared journey built on care, collaboration, and trust.

With heartfelt appreciation, I thank you for your enduring support.

Wishing everyone many blessings for the fortnight ahead.

Tina Apostolopoulos

Nostra Aetate- 28 October 1965

The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) sought to renew the Catholic Church’s relationship with the modern world, leading to the creation of the document Nostra Aetate. On Tuesday, we recognised the 60th anniversary of this landmark declaration on the Church’s relationship with non-Christian religions. Nostra Aetate, which means 'In Our Time' in Latin, was described by Pope Leo XIII on Tuesday evening as the moment when 'a seed of hope for interreligious dialogue was planted'. Through their efforts to advocate for improved Jewish-Catholic relations, the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion contributed to the writing of the Nostra Aetate declaration, a document that redefined the Catholic Church’s relationship with other religions.

This significant document highlights the importance of dialogue in our interactions with others of different faiths and continues to inform what we do at Our Lady of Sion College. Our wonderful Day of Dialogue held in September, where students from Year 10 spent time learning from Jewish and Muslim students, was an example of the how important messages of Nostra Aetate are being realised today.

Australian Catholic Youth Festival (30 November - 2 December)

At the end of November, six students from Years 10 and 11 will represent our school at the Australian Catholic Youth Festival, which is being held this year in Melbourne. The 2025 festival theme, Pilgrims of Hope, invites young people to reflect on their faith journey and explore what it means to live with hope in today’s world. In preparation, the students gathered this week to learn about the history and significance of the festival, gaining insight into its traditions and spiritual focus. They also discussed the various experiences awaiting them, including the inspiring Pilgrim Walk and the opportunity to engage with the World Youth Day Cross and Icon which are central symbols of faith and unity for young Catholics across the globe. The group is filled with anticipation and excitement as they prepare to participate in this three-day celebration of faith, friendship, and hope for the future.

Wishing all members of the College community many blessings.

VCAA Exams

There is a nervous anticipation in the air as our Year 12 students study and complete their VCAA exams. As staff, we have all made comments about how well these students have approached their learning all year, but especially their approach to SWOTVAC. Whatever the outcomes, these students have all the skills to be successful into the future and we are very proud of them. Again, we are grateful for the role modelling of positive learner behaviours.

Years 10 and 11 Exams

Families and students will already have received information about the Semester 2 exams. We remind everyone that these formal assessments are a learning experience, that students have already demonstrated their skills and knowledge, and have already passed the year. We appreciate that everyone wants to do their best, but know that success looks different for everybody and that comparisons are not helpful. There is a good and bad level of stress, and if the stress is motivational or leads to good discussions, lean into it, but if the stress feels more like a burden, stops sleeping or impacts appetite, reach out for support. There are always strategies that can be applied to make it a positive experience.

2026 Planning

Students will shortly receive their confirmed subjects for 2026, allowing students in Year 10 and 11 to prepare for SmartStart and for everyone to purchase the associated learning resources. Some changes to subjects are possible and students should complete the Subject Change Request form which is available on SEQTA Learn under Forms/Info. Families will be sent guidelines on how to use the new Box of Books platform for purchasing resources in the coming weeks.

Social Media Age Restrictions

You may have wondered how many hours your children spend scrolling or watching. For many young people it is two to three hours a day, about 20 hours a week or 80 hours a month. It is no surprise that social media plays such a powerful role in their lives.

Social media can connect children with friends, creativity and supportive communities, but it also brings anxiety, sleepless nights, conflict and constant comparison that erode confidence and joy.

From December 2025, new Australian laws will require social media platforms to restrict access for users under 16. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat must take reasonable steps to stop underage accounts. This world-first move, praised by the United Nations, marks an important shift in how governments are protecting children’s wellbeing online.

Why these changes are happening

A new report from the eSafety Commissioner published on 31 August 2025, has found that social media use among underage children remains very common, with platforms failing to properly enforce their own minimum age rules.

• 80% of children aged 8–12 used at least one social media platform in 2024
• The most popular were YouTube (68%), TikTok (31%), and Snapchat (19%)
• 95% of 13–15 year olds used social media
• Around 1.3 million Australian children aged 8–12 may be using social media despite being technically underage.

Other key insights:

• 36% of 8–12 year-olds had their own accounts, while 54% used a parent’s account, and 27% accessed services without an account
• Of those with their own accounts, 77% said parents helped set them up
• Only 10% of children aged 8–12 had an account closed for being underage
• Platforms such as Instagram, Reddit, Discord and Twitch currently rely on self-declared age at sign-up, with little effective verification
• YouTube is the only platform that allows supervised underage access through a linked family account.

The Age Assurance Technology Trial

To prepare for these laws, the eSafety Commissioner ran an Age Assurance Technology Trial in 2024–25. This trial tested different methods that platforms could use to identify under 16s, such as:

• AI analysis of behaviour patterns (e.g. spotting teens lying about their date of birth)
• Third-party age-verification services
• Parental controls and “youth accounts” with restricted features.

The trial highlighted that no single approach is perfect; there are trade-offs between effectiveness, privacy, and practicality. The outcome is that platforms will need to show they’re using a combination of methods to meet their obligations.

What’s changing in practice

• From December 2025, children under 16 should not hold accounts on age-restricted social media platforms.
• Platforms must take reasonable steps to block underage sign-ups — not necessarily by checking every user, but by designing safer systems and enforcing rules more consistently
• Existing under-16 accounts may be deactivated or restricted. Parents should prepare for changes to their child’s access.

The rules focus on platforms where people post, share, and interact. Apps purely for education, health, or one-way viewing are generally not affected.

Questions parents are asking

Will my child have to show ID?
Not necessarily. Platforms are expected to use reasonable steps like AI tools, stronger sign-ups, or parental verification, without always needing ID uploads.

What if my child already has social media?
Some platforms may deactivate under-16 accounts; others may shift them to “youth” or restricted modes. Families should prepare for changes.

Does this apply to every online app?
No. The law focuses on platforms where posting, sharing, and interacting with others is the main function. Some platforms, such as Messenger-style applications, may not be affected.

What platforms will fall under the new legislation?
These are platforms that the government or eSafety have explicitly mentioned, or that meet the definition of a social platform (users can post, interact, link, share). The law does not yet provide a fixed, final public roster of all platforms; it uses definitions, and platforms are being asked to self-assess whether they fall under it.

• Facebook / Meta platforms (e.g. Facebook, Instagram)
• TikTok
• Snapchat
• X (formerly Twitter)
• YouTube (via announced inclusion)
• Reddit

What this means for families

This is not just a legal change — it’s an opportunity for families to reset healthy online habits:

• Talk early: Help your child understand that the change is about safety and wellbeing, not punishment
• Model balance: Share how you manage your own screen time and online interactions
• Offer safe alternatives: Encourage face-to-face friendships, hobbies, and family activities.

The Hidden Opportunities

Removing social media is only part of the solution. We also need to help our children rediscover meaningful alternatives. It is important to fill the gap before it appears.

• Reignite old passions: Encourage what they once loved such as art, sport, music or spending time outdoors
• Encourage real connections: Support gatherings, sleepovers and involvement in clubs or teams
• Model balance: Put your own phone aside and show that joy and connection exist offline
• Explore together: Try new activities as a family including cooking, hiking, games or golf.

While much is said about what children might lose, it is worth reflecting on what they could gain. Better sleep, deeper friendships, renewed creativity and stronger mental health are all within reach.

Further Reading

• eSafety Commissioner — Social Media Age Restrictions Hub: esafety.gov.au

Dr Justin Coulson – Supporting Autonomy Without Losing Authority

I invite you to read another great Happy Families article by Dr Justin Coulson. The article is linked here.

Our particular thoughts and prayers go to Alessia G (8 Gold) on the recent passing of her grandfather.

We remember Alessia 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.

The past two weeks have marked a significant transition from celebration to focused study for our Year 12 students. This week, they commenced their final exams.

In the lead-up, they demonstrated a conscientious approach to their studies, actively seeking feedback and support from their teachers.

We are deeply grateful for the dedication of both our students and staff, whose shared commitment to learning has been evident throughout the year.

We wish all our Year 12 students every success in their final exams and beyond.

With Semester 2 Examinations around the corner, the Homeroom team will be working with the Year 11s to consider preparation for their final assessments. Throughout Pastoral (Tuesday 28 October) students were encouraged to reflect on their progress this Semester, whilst being encouraged to look ahead. Consider the subjects they are completing next year, and how they might see this opportunity to refine some study skills, to try something new, or hold themselves accountable to the standards they want to achieve. Information about Semester 2 Exams will be communicated soon.

Year 11 Students are also navigating the Notre Dame building as the VCAA Year 12 Exams started this week. Some Homerooms have been asked to move lockers to accommodate these exams. We have encouraged students to take home any resources they no longer need, and to consider the essentials for each class to ensure their bag is not too heavy.

We thank all Year 11 students for their cooperation during this time. As they approach the end of the Unit 2 subjects, we hope they are able to recognise the learning and progress they have accomplished this year. We wish all accelerating students, all the best for their final VCAA Unit 3/4 Exams!

Last week we asked the students to complete a survey to reflect on how they have viewed their journey this year. I want all parents/carers to know that the responses we received are honest and reflect a challenging, but positive journey throughout the year. As we lead into our upcoming Semester 2 exams, students have continued to learn and explore how to study more effectively — including time management, planning timetables, setting goals, and developing better study routines. They have accepted that there is more to experience in this space, but have also acknowledged they have grown in this area.

Just as importantly, the students have reflected on the importance of belonging and friendships, ‘Students recognised the value of being kind to themselves and others, appreciating friendships, and maintaining positive relationships’, and some of the common phrases they have used to express this are: 'be kind to yourself,' 'be grateful,' 'importance of friendship,' and 'kindness'.

Our Semester 2 exams will commence on Friday 7 November and I reflect upon the students' words above to illustrate the mindset they are in as they journey towards this date. At this time, I’d also like to share two resources from, ‘REACHOUT’, that I feel will further support families during the exam period and our SmartStart period. Both time periods are full of challenges, navigating the unknown and asking the students to step into the uncomfortable.

The first resource Managing Exams is a good guide of how families can support their young person. You will see that they do mention Year 12 exams as a point of reference. However, the habits they speak about, the mindset and approaches highlighted are very relevant for our Year 10 students. With the support of their families, our Year 10s ability to foster a positive mindset around exams will support them with every exam, test and interview they will have.

The second resource I'd like to share Peer Chat is a free, anonymous online support that all 16-25 year olds can access. This online support covers a variety of topics such as (but not limited to) school, study and stress, friends and family, anxiety, depression and wellbeing. I encourage families to have a conversation around this resource. At the very least, this conversation will allow families to talk about the feelings and emotions that may be around in the lead up to our exams.

I wish families all the very best over the coming cycle. As a family unit you will navigate much. Know that we are only an email or phone call away should you need any assistance.

On behalf of the Year 10 Pastoral Team, until our next Newsletter, explore those intrinsic strengths that support you to develop and cherish your #innerexcellence.

It has been a fantastic continuation of enthusiasm from the Year 9 cohort in the past fortnight. The students have been able to put themselves forward to 2026 opportunities including Indigenous Immersion, College Ambassadors & Peer Support Leaders - all opportunities which seek to grow students sense of self, sense of connection to our community and a sense of belonging.

Throughout this process it has been heartening to hear of the ways the Year 9s connect with the College and their peers, and the way they want to share this with new students and visitors to the College. In particular, the Immersion Program interviews that took place this week showed the deep consideration that the students have to wanting to be change makers, people of hope and people of reconciliation.

This week in Pastoral we heard of another exciting opportunity awaiting them in Year 10: Work Experience. We would like to thank Brooke O’Hara, College Careers Counsellor, and Year 10 students who discussed the program and their experiences as students attending a range of placements this year. Slides of information have been posted to our Year Level Google Classroom so that students can review the placement requirements and the dates. Year 9s are also able to book a meeting time with Mrs O'Hara through the Careers page - these must be booked during a time that is out of class.

In the second half of our Pastoral session we welcomed our 2026 College Captains: Cecilia B (11 Red) and Elana V (11 Blue). The captains led a trivia session that all students were able to participate in, with questions related to College life, sport, social justice and general knowledge. There were so many teams that ‘won’ and answered everything correctly, that the year level all shared a prize together.

The weeks ahead will see an increase in assessments across subjects, including the Semester Test for Maths. Students have been encouraged to seek support from their subject teachers to work in partnership in preparing for these assessments. Further to this, students are able to make use of English Assist on Mondays, Maths Assist on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Study Sessions on Wednesday and Fridays - all sessions are held during lunch and any student can attend - no signing up necessary. There are also a range of study help proformas at the front of my office that students can utilise in their strategic planning and note taking.

Have a great fortnight ahead.

And just like that, we’ve arrived at the final term of the year! Term 4 is packed with lots of exciting events, the first of which was the Homeroom Dance and Cheer competition that took place in our Pastoral lesson this week. I would like to congratulate Year 8 Blue, who took out the title for 2025! All Homerooms should be extremely proud of their efforts and incredible teamwork they showed to work together to put on an amazing performance!

The next major event is of course camp, which myself and all teachers attending are very excited about. It is a wonderful opportunity for our students to make new connections amongst other Homerooms and to have new experiences.

For some, this could be sleeping in a tent for the first time. However, camp is also a time that can bring about apprehension for some students in a variety of different ways. In saying this, it is important to normalise these feelings and reassure them that there are staff there to support them along the way. Positive language is key to building excitement rather than nervousness! If your child is feeling especially concerned about camp, please encourage them to speak with their Homeroom teachers or me.

As we approach the halfway mark of Term 4, we are beginning to reflect on the successes, challenges and growth that has occurred for our Year 7s in 2025. In Pastoral this week, the Year 7s were given the opportunity to reflect on the SMART goals that they set themselves in Term 2 and to consider how they have grown from achieving these goals, or ways that they can still achieve these before the year ends. Transition has commenced with students putting in preferences for Year 8 Homerooms, as well as applications for leadership in 2026 opening this week. At this stage of Year 7, we do often see mixed emotions in our students, ranging from anxiety to excitement. Parents/carers and family members are often a key support during this time, and we encourage you to consider the following when discussing this period in your child's schooling life:

• Active listening: Give them your undivided attention when they’re speaking. Validate their feelings and avoid interrupting. Let them know that you're always there to listen, without judgement.

• Encourage independence: Empower them to make decisions and solve problems on their own, without dwelling on the ‘what - ifs’ that may drive anxious thinking. If they have concerns, please direct them to speak with myself, their Homeroom Teacher or another trusted staff member.

• Help them develop coping strategies: Teach them healthy ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness, grounding techniques, journaling, or spending time in nature.

• Offer support, not solutions: Help them brainstorm solutions and encourage them to take ownership of the situation.

Remember, every student is going to have a different approach to these life transitions. By fostering a strong parent-child-school relationship, we can help them to navigate these challenges with confidence and resilience.

Last week, we celebrated our annual Creative Arts Week, and what an incredible week it was!

From the always-entertaining House Mr Squiggle event to our stunning Senior Art Showcase, there was creativity and talent everywhere you looked.

The showcase featured extraordinary work from our Years 10 to 12 students across Media, Making and Exhibiting, Visual Communication and Design, Textiles, and Creative Practice.

Each piece was thoughtful, unique, and full of imagination — truly phenomenal!

A huge thank you to our dedicated Visual Arts teachers for their guidance, passion, and commitment to nurturing our students’ artistic journeys. It was wonderful to see so many members of our community come together to celebrate and support our young artists — a truly inspiring evening for all!

Endeavour Award Recipients

Creative Practice

• Year 10: Sabine D (10 Silver)
• Year 11: Amy F (11 Gold)
• Year 12: Maya L (11 Silver)

Media

• Year 10: Cartia dS (10 Gold)
• Year 11: Aurelia H (11 Purple)
• Year 12: Chloe E (12 Blue)

Making and Exhibiting

• Year 10: Laura C (10 Purple)
• Year 11: Alex B (11 Blue)
• Year 12: Lorena G (11 Blue)

Visual Communication Design:

• Year 10: Charlotte DB (10 Gold)
• Year 11: Sophia B (10 Gold)
• Year 12: Lucy C (12 Silver)

Major Award Recipients

Fibre Art Award: Eloise T (12 Blue)

Production Innovation Award: Eloise T (12 Blue)

Fine Art Award: Amelia W (11 White)

Good Design Award: Alessia P (12 Purple)

Social Justice Award: Amelia W (12 Silver)

Principal's Award: Sarah H (12 Red)

People's Choice Award: Amelia W (11 White)

Thank You

A big thank you to our amazing Visual Arts subject teachers who have supported our students throughout 2025 to pursue these creative endeavours:

• Ms Emma Davidson for Art Creative Practice
• Ms Beth Amos for Media
• Mrs Sarah McLaughlin for Art: Making and Exhibiting
• Miss Courtney Madeira for Visual Communication Design
• With the support of Ms Julie Toffolo, Mrs Jenny Schwab, Mrs Deanne Benke, Miss Paige Wu and Ms Natasha Borg.

As part of their assessment, the Year 11 Drama students were required to devise and present an ensemble performance that explored aspects of Australian identity through contemporary drama practices.

Drawing inspiration from the contrast between Australia’s pristine natural landscapes and the growing demand for luxury development, students created performances set on either a coastal or bushland location. Their work examined themes of environmental impact, cultural significance, and the clash between progress and preservation.

Using the styles of Eclectic Theatre and Australian Gothic, students incorporated conventions such as visual poetry, stylised movement, and supernatural elements to give voice to the land and its stories.

Through careful use of space, sound, and tension, the ensembles reflected on the beauty and fragility of Australia’s environment and the moral complexities of development on sacred ground. Our Year 11 performers were poised and focused throughout their ensemble presentations and showed fantastic commitment to role and performance energy. Congratulations to all performers!

Broadway Dance Workshops

Our 2026 Drama Captain Georgia D (11 White) is off and racing with the first of a duo of Broadway Dance Workshops! What a great success the first session was with a great turnout and some excellent dance moves developed by the end of the session! There will be many more innovative and fun-filled workshops to come so please keep reading the Bulletin.

Students recently became forensic scientists for a day through the Quantum Forensic Investigation program. Taking on the role of crime scene investigators, they used observation, reasoning, and analytical skills to solve a simulated crime.

The hands-on experience immersed students in the real world of forensic science. They conducted fingerprinting, blood typing, soil pH testing, hair strand analysis under a microscope, shoe print comparisons, and even a virtual DNA gel electrophoresis simulation.

The experience not only sparked curiosity about forensic science but also developed students’ teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills - showing how science can uncover the truth behind every mystery.

Year 7 Geography Field Trip to Edendale Farm

As part of their Geography studies, Year 7 students recently visited Edendale Farm in Eltham to explore the research question: 'What impact can human activity and stormwater runoff have on a creek environment, and how can it change the natural environment?'

During the excursion, students investigated how everyday human actions — such as littering, construction, and water use — can affect local waterways. They learned about the journey of stormwater through urban areas and how pollutants can enter creeks, impacting water quality and the habitats of plants and animals.

Through hands-on activities, students tested water samples, observed native vegetation, and discovered sustainable practices used at Edendale Farm to protect the environment. The visit highlighted the importance of responsible water management and how small changes, like reducing pollution and improving drainage systems, can make a big difference to local ecosystems.

This experience supported their hypothesis that if we don’t use resources such as water sustainably and look after the health of our waterways, there will be negative consequences for the environment in the future.

Overall, the Edendale Farm field trip offered an engaging and practical opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with real-world environmental issues, inspiring them to become active stewards of the planet.

A final advantage was that Sion students had an opportunity to show the public how engaged they are in their learning, and it was delightful to receive an unsolicited email from a member of the public who wrote to Mrs Apostolopoulos and said,

‘I just wanted to take a moment to commend the wonderful behaviour of your students during an excursion to Edendale Farm on Tuesday 21 October.

My daughter was attending a kindergarten excursion at the same venue today, and we were all so impressed by how friendly, polite, and considerate the girls from Sion College were. They interacted beautifully with the younger children, showed great respect for the staff and environment, and were a credit to your school.

It was truly lovely to see such positive role models in action’.

Intermediate Strings shine at St Francis Xavier fair

Congratulations to members of the Intermediate Strings who performed at the St Francis Xavier Twilight Fair recently. It was a glorious day made all the better by the beautiful music our girls were able to provide.

Investiture and Year 12 Farewell Assembly

Last week, we farewelled the Year 12s and welcomed in the new Portfolio Leaders and Captains. Congratulations to the College Vocal Ensemble, under the direction of Mrs Jane Murone who provided music for this important assembly.

Term 4 Music Soirees

The annual Term 4 Music Soiree and Vocal Soiree took place last week, and over 50 string students performed at the String Soiree earlier this week. So many outstanding performances from the girls in recent weeks.

Year 7 Junior Concert Bands – Monday and Tuesday Bands

Both Year 7 Concert Bands (the Monday morning group and the Tuesday afternoon group) will be representing Sion at the Victorian Schools Music Festival to be held during the day on Monday 10 November at the Hawthorn Arts Centre. This event is open to the public, is free and livestreamed, with more details to be announced soon.

Year 7 Spring Concert – Save the Date

All Year 7 ensembles, small groups, and those Year 7s in Intermediate level ensembles will be performing at the annual Year 7 Spring Music Concert, to be held on Tuesday 11 November 7 pm in the LHC. Bookings are now open via the TryBooking link:

Sion First Year 6 Music Program 2026

Families with students currently in Year 5 (Year 6 2026) are invited to the Sion First Music Program launch on Wednesday 12 November 7 pm in the Miriam Theatre. Please see below for further information.

Upcoming Music Department Dates

• Monday 10 November: VSMF Year 7 Concert Bands and Sion First Concert Band, 9.00 am – 12.00 pm (Year 7s) and Sion First (2.45 pm - 5.00 pm), Hawthorn Arts Centre
• Tuesday 11 November: Year 7 Spring Concert – 7.00 pm, LHC
• Wednesday 12 November: Sion First 2025 Graduation Concert – 5.00 pm, Miriam Theatre
• Wednesday 12 November: Sion First 2026 Launch – 7.00 pm, Miriam Theatre

Sion Sport Instagram @sion.sports

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new Sion Sport Instagram page!

Follow @sion.sports to stay up to date with all things sport at Our Lady of Sion College — including GSV weekly competitions, carnivals, CGSAV tournaments, and more.

Our page celebrates the achievements of our talented students, teams, and coaches, and showcases the incredible spirit of our sporting community. Don’t miss out — follow us today and be part of the action!

Weekly Sport Term 4

It’s been a busy and exciting start to Term 4, with Basketball, Cricket, and Touch Football all underway. Our teams have begun the season strongly, showing fantastic commitment to training and matches. If this momentum continues, we’re on track for a strong showing in the finals!
A special mention goes to our inaugural Junior Touch Football teams, who have been outstanding in the opening weeks of GSV competition. Their rapid improvement and teamwork on the field have been impressive, and it’s wonderful to see this new addition thriving within our program. Touch Football builds valuable skills that translate across many sports, particularly in attack, defence, and decision-making.

Senior Cricket – PREMIERS!

The Senior Cricket season came to a close on Wednesday after a jam-packed home and away season on Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Our team finished as minor premiers with only one defeat against St Margarets in the first match. The squad was consistent in their approach and encouraged all players to shine, especially in the Grand Final against Camberwell on Wednesday which we won by 10 runs! Reward for effort! Sam O (11 White) reflected on the match:

Student Reflection

Conditions could not have been better at Basil Reserve in Malvern East for our Grand Final. We came up against Camberwell who we beat in Round 5 by 20 runs. Camberwell were well drilled in the field and bowled well, Eloise J (9 Red) and Zara O'D (9 Blue) batted well putting on a strong partnership. After our 16 overs we managed to score 3/95. When it was our turn to bowl we knew we could defend our total. Abi narrowly missed out on a hattrick and Mia M (9 Red) took some great catches in a team performance. Camberwell made 7/80 and we celebrated the victory. I am very proud of the team and everyone’s contribution throughout the season! Sam O (11 White)

Victorian All Schools Track and Field Championships

The best school aged athletes from across Victoria come together for the All Schools Track & Field at Lakeside Stadium over two big weekends. Erin M (11 White), Sophie F (10 Red), Carla P (8 Red) and Olivia W (7 Blue) represented the College in their chosen events. Erin and Sophie ran well in their 1500m final with Erin narrowly missing the podium. The competition continues this weekend with both girls competing in the 3000m on Saturday morning.

Carla and Olivia competed in the 400m, both recording close to personal best times. Carla is returning this Saturday to participate in the Long Jump. Our community is so proud of your efforts!

Handover HeARTwork Project workshop

Our Year 8 students recently participated in their final workshop for the Handover HeARTwork Project. This creative initiative invited students to bring compassion, dignity, and comfort to the delicate moments when individuals pass away in healthcare facilities. Students who participated decorated paper carry bags. These will then be provided to healthcare facilities to be used in the process of returning a patient’s belongings to their loved ones when they pass away. Thank you to all Year 8 students who have been involved in the four workshops this year, your support has made a difference to those who experience life’s most challenging moments.

Christmas Toiletry Bags

The Year 10 and 11 Social Justice Representatives have officially launched the annual Christmas Toiletry Bag Appeal to their year levels, encouraging students to donate essential items to support those in need during the festive season. Over the next two weeks, the Year 7 to 9 Social Justice Representatives will continue this initiative by promoting the appeal to their year levels, inspiring the wider school community to contribute generously and make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Each Homeroom from Year 7 to 11 is encouraged to contribute to creating these toiletry bags, which will be distributed to St Vincent De Paul Box Hill Conference supporting vulnerable individuals. By participating, students are helping make a tangible difference and meaningful impact in our community. The toiletry bags will be presented at the end of year Mass.

Students and families can find the fortnightly Careers newsletter here.

In this issue of the Newsletter there is information relating to:

• Dates to diarise in Term 4 –2025/2026 VTAC late applications, Reminder of 2026 upcoming key dates, Summer School with Access Education
• Careers Industry in the Spotlight – Psychiatrist and Psychologist: What is the difference?

• Things to Consider – 2025 VCE Results and ATAR: accessing your VCE results, 2026 Work Experience

• Researching options – Diploma of Teacher Education and Preparation, University of Melbourne – Guaranteed Pathways for Bachelor of Design Students, Federation University – Changes to courses from 2026.

As we enter the final stretch of the year, students face a busy period of assessments and exams. Parents’ support at home can make a real difference in how students cope and perform during this challenging time.

1. Encourage Healthy Routines: Sleep, nutrition, and regular breaks are essential. Encourage your teen to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, fuel their brain with nutritious meals, and take breaks to boost focus and reduce stress.

2. Create a Calm Study Environment: Check in with your child about what they need and their study preferences at home. A quiet, organised space free from distractions can make a big difference in their productivity at home.

3. Help Them Plan: Support your teen to have a realistic study schedule that includes time for rest and recreation. Breaking tasks into manageable chunks can reduce feelings of stress too.

4. Be Present and Supportive: During exam time, your teen may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even irritable. Listening calmly to their struggles without jumping in to fix or advise, creates space for them to process how they’re feeling and shows your support without adding pressure.

5. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Outcomes: Recognise the hard work your child is putting in, regardless of the final grades. Encourage them to plan enjoyable activities at the end of the year to give them something to look forward to and reward their hard work.

If you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing, you can speak to their Homeroom Teacher, Wellbeing and Growth Leader, or contact the Counselling Team here.