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

Final Stage of the College Masterplan

I am pleased and excited to inform the College community that the next stage of the College masterplan is about to commence. With the endorsement of the College Board of Directors and after a rigorous tender process, we have recently engaged Dimpat Commercial Pty Ltd to undertake the refurbishment of our former Science wing into a new Learning Resource Centre.

The design of the centre has been informed by careful research into how libraries meet the contemporary and evolving needs of learners and input was also sought from students, staff and our LRC team.

Located in the heart of the College, the centre will provide expanded spaces for focused learning, research, reading, independent study, collaboration and creativity. Located next to the piazza, the centre will also provide for social activities that we hope will encourage engagement and enhance student wellbeing.

Seating will be flexible and shelving conducive to creating an open and welcoming environment. Students will also benefit from the increased access to technology, in particular within the makerspace area.

Dimpat will begin the refurbishment on Thursday 20 November with much of the remainder of this year devoted to demolition. Term 1 will see the new fit out installed and we hope to take possession early Term 2. Once completed, the learning resources within our current LRC will be moved and once this transition is complete, we will begin to see the decommissioning of the demountable which has served us well in the last few years. After the demountable is removed, work will begin to restore the relevant portion of the College oval to its original state.

This final stage of the masterplan was shaped by an extensive consultation process that began in 2018. From the outset, our vision for the College was built on the belief that creating beautiful, purpose-designed spaces for students and staff would greatly enhance learning, teaching and wellbeing. Feedback from our community already affirms this vision, and I am confident that these new opportunities will continue to enrich the experience of all who learn and work at Our Lady of Sion College in the future.

Please click here for a short Fly Through of the Learning Resource Centre.

The floor plan below provides an overview of the centre.

Final Days for our Senior Students

The last fortnight has provided all senior students with the chance to undertake VCAA and/or school based exams. It was evident that students approached this form of assessment calmly and it is our hope that they have tried their best in their preparation and their responses.

While most Year 12 students have now completed their exams, Language students still have one or two days to go. Together with their parents/carers, we look forward to celebrating the end of their secondary education with the Class of 2025 at our Valedictory evening on Friday 21 November.

I also wish current Year 10 and 11 students all the very best as they begin the SmartStart program and their 2026 VCE and VCEVM studies next week. On their final day, Wednesday 26 November, I look forward to gathering with them for our end of year Mass and Awards ceremony. I will also take this opportunity to thank and farewell them for the final time.

With every blessing for the fortnight ahead.

Tina Apostolopoulos

Exams and SmartStart for Years 10 and 11

As we conclude the exam program for Years 10 and 11, the students should be congratulated for the way that they have approached this form of formal assessment. There is no doubt that studying for exams, and that feeling like a whole semester of learning is resting on a single assessment, is not a comfortable feeling. Well done to students who saw the challenge and worked through it, as well as to students and families that recognised when that stress moved into something negative and asked for assistance. This is how we grow.

Students will receive their exam feedback during a dedicated session within SmartStart. During this session, students will be asked to think about the goals that they set for themselves at the conclusion of Semester 1, and how they changed as a result of this, and then think about what behaviours could have brought them even more success in preparation for 2026.

The SmartStart timetables will shortly be released to students.

Years 7 to 9 Assessment

Likewise this is a busy time of year for our 7 to 9 classes as they finish the final units of work, submit assessments and complete tests. Again, at times this can feel like a lot of work and be really overwhelming. Please be assured that the subject teachers, Homeroom teachers and WAGLs are here to support students to plan their time, to meet their goals, and to experience success. Please encourage students to seek support if they feel that they have too much happening.

2026 Learning Resources

As families are aware, the College has changed providers of learning resources to Box of Books. Families will soon be sent a link allowing them to set up profiles and access the resources. As well as the really efficient digital platform with enhanced data and usability for teachers and students, a change that families will notice includes a streamlining of the payment processes. For resources that are not provided directly by Box of Books, families will make a ‘levy’ payment that will allow the College to purchase the resource on your behalf. This means that each family will only need to go to one place to procure all of the resources needed.

As always, staff have reflected on the learning resources needed for students at each level and for each subject. Some of the teams have requested that students have access to the hard copy books to support learning in the classroom. This is designed as a pedagogical strategy to support focus and to make the activities hands-on.

Family feedback on Box of Books will be called for early in 2026, as we want to ensure that we are providing the best service possible.

Subject Selection Changes

As 2026 subjects are being released, it is normal that some students wish to make changes. As the timetable and staff needs are designed around the initial selections, and while we do our best to accommodate different requests, not all changes can be made. If your student would like us to consider a change, please get them to subject the Change of Subject Request form, which is available on SEQTA under ‘Forms and Info’.

BYOD

Year 9 Families will have received information on the return/buy-out of the iPads as they move into Year 10. A reminder to other families that from 2026, students in Years 8-9 who want to use a laptop device instead of their iPad can do this, however the laptop will need to meet specific requirements and the iPad must still be available for the students to use. Again, the JB HiFi portal is available for all families to purchase a suitable device (and accessories). Families simply need to go to https://byod.jbhifi.education and enter the password Sion26. Please note there is no obligation for families to do this.

Finishing Strong and Celebrating the Journey

Term 4 is always a time of assessments, creativity and a chance for celebration. This week’s Year 7 Spring Concert and the Sion First Concert are perfect examples of how far our students have come. Their growing confidence, skill and joy in performing remind me of what learning is really about.

As we move into the final weeks of the school year, there’s a different feeling in the air. Year 10 and 11 examinations are almost complete, junior classes are finalising their last assessments, and the anticipation of holidays is building. It’s a time to pause, take a breath and appreciate all that has been achieved.

This year has been one of tremendous growth, academically, personally, socially and spiritually. Our students have learned new things, overcome challenges and discovered more about themselves. Our staff have continued to guide, support and inspire, and our families have walked alongside us every step of the way. Every success, big or small, has added another bright chapter to the story of their year.

We encourage all students to take a moment to reflect. What was a highlight? What challenge turned into a breakthrough? Who helped along the way? Reflection allows us to recognise progress, effort and the relationships that make school life meaningful.

The final weeks still matter. SmartStart in the senior years is a wonderful chance to finish well and make strong connections to the learning that awaits in 2026. Keeping routines steady, arriving ready to learn and making the most of every opportunity will ensure everyone ends the year on a high. Consistency and effort now become the habits that build confidence for the year ahead.

As students prepare to move into a new year level, the lessons of 2025 stay with them, resilience, teamwork, curiosity and a common theme of kindness. The way we finish this term will shape how we approach next year.

As Year 9 student Sienna P (9 White) put it so well: This year taught me that showing up every day makes the biggest difference.

Every one of us has learned something along the way. What would your one thing be?

During our Pastoral lesson, our focus was preparing for the most exciting event of the year….CAMP! Below are some key points that were discussed, so please continue these conversations at home to maintain a positive attitude so that camp is a wonderful experience.

Part of the permission forms that were signed and returned, acknowledge that if required, a student will be sent home from the camp for not following the expectations/instructions of school or camp staff. We strictly forbid any phones so your support would be greatly appreciated to ensure these are not brought on camp. These expectations are predominantly in place to ensure that everybody is safe and able to have a great time!
'Be a lobster' – we will watch a video by Rabbi Twerski, in which he outlines the process for a lobster to grow. They are a soft animal with a hard shell, that must leave their current shell in order to cast a new shell. During this stage they are vulnerable but it is a crucial step for them to grow. We can compare this with the idea that through pushing ourselves outside of our comfort zones, into the stretch/growth zone, we are able to grow. It is a great chance to make new friends rather than sticking to those they already have. It also helps in the preparation for Year 9 where they won’t be with their Homerooms for most of the time but in electives with a variety of different students.
Nerves/fear/anxiety and excitement feel the same – we will compare the physical responses we have to these different feelings and see that there are many similarities. We will look at the key difference as being our mindset, moving from focusing on the threats/things that could go wrong to the opportunities. Studies have shown that by simply saying the words 'I am excited' rather than approaching a challenge with fear or trying to just calm down, we are on average more successful in completing that task. How to Turn Anxiety into Excitement

Finally, please check the ‘what to bring’ list to ensure that all necessary items are packed. This was included with the permission through EdSmart and a copy has been placed on the year level Google Classroom for students, along with some basic rules and expectations. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your daughter’s Homeroom teacher or myself and we would be happy to help out!

Order! Order! Daughters of Sion in the court!

On Wednesday 15 October, the Year 11 Legal Studies students led by the unimpeachable Ms Carolyn Anderson and assisted by Ms Stafford had the opportunity to visit the Melbourne County Court as part of their studies into the Australian legal system. The excursion provided a fascinating insight into how the court operates on a daily basis, allowing students to see the law come to life beyond the classroom.

One of the highlights of the day was meeting Judge Gucciardo, who generously took the time to speak with the students about his role and experiences in the legal system. Students were able to ask questions and discuss topics such as the complexities of bail and judicial decision-making. I really enjoyed hearing his views and opinions on the legal system, especially on bail. Overall it was an awesome day! Ella P (11 Gold).

Students were also fortunate to observe a live court proceeding, witnessing the formal exchanges between the prosecution, defence, and judge. Seeing the accused, the prosecution standing up and saying ‘objection’, and talking to the barrister afterwards was such an eye-opening experience. Charissa V (11 Silver).

The group toured several levels of the court building, gaining an appreciation for its structure and the different types of cases heard there. I really liked how we were able to sit in on an active case and pay close attention to the decisions made and what the judge said. Alannah M (11 Purple).

The excursion was both educational and inspiring, giving students a real-world perspective on the justice system they’ve been studying in class. It was such a success that the following day, County Court Education Liaison officer, Tyanna Bennet, testified to Ms Anderson that ‘Your students were extremely respectful to Judge Gucciardo, his Honour’s staff, myself, and other court users and carried themselves with maturity and awareness of the environment. They were extremely engaged in the observation and discussion with his Honour and asked insightful questions. I’m sure you and the school are very proud of them, and I hope they are proud of themselves. It is also a real credit to you as their teacher.’

Victorian Schools Music Festival – Year 7 Bands representing Our Lady of Sion College

Congratulations to the 111 members of our two Year 7 Concert Bands (the Monday morning group and the Tuesday afternoon group), and members of the Sion First Year 6 Music program, who performed at the 2025 Victorian Schools Music Festival on Monday. The girls presented the repertoire that they have been working on in the magnificent Hawthorn Arts Centre. Students also benefitted from an on-stage tutorial with the adjudicator and got to listen to bands from other schools.

Year 7 Spring Music Concert

All Year 7 ensembles, small groups, and those Year 7s in Intermediate level ensembles performed at the annual Year 7 Spring Music Concert on Tuesday evening in the LHC. It was a celebration of the hard work the girls have done all year in their large ensembles and small tutorial groups.

Instrumental Music Private Tuition 2026

Enrolments are now open and available on-line for Instrumental Music lessons in 2026. All the details including fees, instrument hire charges and conditions are available here. Confirmation of enrolment needs to be completed here. Please note that charges will be applied to your College fees statement in early 2026. Address any enquiries to the Head of Music at: mmacaulay@sion.catholic.edu.au

Instrumental Music Lesson Scholarship Applications

A limited number of music lesson scholarships, lasting two years, will be made available to students currently in Years 7 and 8 for the following instruments:

Viola
Cello
Double Bass
French horn
Euphonium
Trombone
Percussion
Guitar

Interested students/families should email Mr Macaulay for an application form mmacaulay@sion.catholic.edu.au

Sion First Concert and 2026 Sion First Music Program

It was another spectacular evening at our 2025 Sion First Music Graduation Concert. 36 Year 6 Strings and Concert Band musicians performed beautifully, showcasing their developing talent and enthusiasm for music. Congratulations to all. We look forward to seeing your musical journey continue and flourish at Sion in 2026.

We are approaching the end of the regular season for GSV weekly sport with one more game left to go! We hope all our students enjoy their last matches while wishing all the best to our teams who are in the running for finals.

This week saw the conclusion of our Preseason Swim and Dive training sessions. I would like to give a big thank you to our diving coach Olivia for all her incredible work with our divers, as well as Mr Rieusset and Mr Armstrong for their effort in taking the swim squad through stroke correction this term.

GSV Term One Sport Sign Ups

Sign-ups for Term 1 GSV sport have now closed for 2026 Year 8 to 12. If your child has missed out, they can email sport@sion.catholic.edu.au by 3.00 pm on Monday 17 November.

2026 Year 7s will receive their opportunity to sign up for Orientation Day trials from Wednesday 19 November.

The GSV weekly sport trials dates this term are as follows:

Senior Trials

Monday 24 November, Afternoon

Intermediate Trials

Monday 1 December, Afternoon

Wednesday 3 December, Morning

Junior Trials

Friday 28 November, Afternoon - Orientation Day (2026 Year 7s Only)

Monday 1 December, Morning (2026 Year 8s Only)

Tuesday 2 December, Morning (2026 Year 8s Only)

Sport Leaders

We have seen a surge of applications for Year Level Sport Reps and Individual Sport Captains this year. It has been wonderful listening to students talk about why they are passionate about being a sport leader.

We would like to thank each and everyone of our students who has put their hand up to be a part of the sport leadership team.

Sporting Achievements

Women’s Artistic Gymnastics - Gabriela T (10 White)

Gabriela T (10 White) has spent the last few weeks in Europe, representing Australia in the Women's Artistic Gymnastics at the 29th International Tournament Combs La Ville in France and at the Gympies Gymnova Cup in Belgium.

Gabriela has kindly provided a reflection of her first international gymnastics tour:

Earlier this term, I had the incredible honour of representing Australia in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics at two major international competitions - the 29th International Tournament of Combs-la-Ville in France (1–2 November) and the Gympies Gymnova Cup in Belgium (8–9 November).

I left Australia on 26 October and trained at several incredible venues, including the National Institute of Sport in France, where I had the chance to practise alongside some of the world’s top gymnasts. Stepping into the gym each day, surrounded by athletes from different countries, was both exciting and inspiring.

Throughout the tour, I built lifelong friendships, learned from elite gymnasts, and even found time to explore some incredible landmarks, from standing beneath the Eiffel Tower in Paris to enjoying freshly made Belgian waffles in Brussels. Every day was a mix of hard work, laughter and discovery.

Looking back, this journey taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, discipline, teamwork, and self-belief. Wearing the green and gold for the first time on the international stage was truly a dream come true. It’s an experience I’ll treasure forever - one that continues to inspire me to keep learning, growing, and chasing my goals. Gabriela T (10 White)

2025 Athletics Victoria All Schools Week 2 – Erin M (11 White) and Sophie F (10 Red)

College Sport Captain Erin M (11 White) and Sophie F (10 Red) had a sensational result at Week 2 of the Athletics Victoria All School Track and Field Championships. Erin finished second in the U18m 3000m by 0.969 seconds behind first, while Sophie finished sixth in the U17 3000m.

Past Students kicking goals – Georgie B (Class of 2024)

We would like to congratulate past student Georgie on being selected in the 2025 AFL Players’ Association 22 under 22 Team.

Senior Play Launch

The launch of the Senior Play was last week and I am pleased to announce that we will be performing "The Importance of Being Earnest" in May 2026! We were so pleased with the great turnout of students and the excitement in the room when the play was revealed! Auditions will be held in Smart Start for Years 9 to 11 who would like to be part of the cast and crew. Application forms will be due Friday 28 November. If you are interested in a crew or cast role please add yourself to the Google Classroom Code h2trywuk. As we are starting to look forward to the end of 2025, already within the Arts there are so many exciting opportunities being planned for 2026!

Visual Arts Competitions

This week it's all about the competitions with successes in and outside of the College!

As well as the 'House Mr Squiggle Competition' that was run as part of Creative Arts Week, we also ran a Mini Squiggle Competition where students were invited to take away a Squiggle to create their own artwork. We were blown away by the creativity in these entries. As well as receiving a House and Arts point towards their Colours totals this year we have decided to award a winner for Juniors and Seniors.

Pictured are the Mini Squiggle works of Eloise H (7 White) and Amy F (11 Gold). Congratulations to all students who showed off their creative flare!

A new competition that was added to the list this year was the ‘My Awesome Australian Portrait Competition’ and we entered ten Sion students. Two of our students were chosen to be a part of an online gallery of winning works.

Congratulations to Gemma K (8 Silver), Biyuan Z (7 Gold) and indeed to all students who put forward entries. We are reminded every day of the immense talent of our students and competitions like these allow us to share their gifts with a wider community!

We are launching the Poster Competition for The Importance of Being Earnest. All students are invited to submit entries. Their artwork could feature on publicity material for the production. Submissions for the competition will be due to the Visual Arts Competition classroom by 2 March 2026. The Classroom Code is prgxaxa, you can find all of the details you will need to submit your entry there!