Newsletter | With a Grateful Heart

Monday 16 October

• Creative Arts and Technologies Week begins
• SWOTVAC (until Monday 23 October)
• Parents' Association AGM, 7.00 pm, Ratisbonne Boardroom

• String Soiree, 4.30 pm, Miriam Theatre
  

Wednesday 18 October

• Creative Arts and Technologies Week Launch, 6.00 pm, Notre Dame Centre

Thursday 19 October

• Year 11 Drama Ensembles Performance, 7.00 – 8.00 pm
  

Saturday 21 October

• Intermediate Strings performance at St Thomas the Apostle Primary School Fete, 1.00 pm performance

Monday 23 October

• Term 4 Music Soiree, 5.00 pm, Miriam Theatre

Tuesday 24 October

• VCAA Exams start

Thursday 26 October

• Talk and Tour

This week we pray for the victims of the conflict which erupted last weekend in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. The tragic deaths and senseless suffering of the Israelis and the Palestinians reinforce the ongoing need for dialogue and respect for life, regardless of one’s beliefs. As mentioned in last term’s newsletters, I have recently had the privilege of undertaking a pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan.

The experience was one of renewal and learning, allowing me to deepen my own faith journey and to be able to share this experience with our students and staff.

An experience that I spoke about at last week’s whole school assembly was the opportunity to visit the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth and the Church of the Visitation in Ein Karem, just outside Jerusalem.

These sites mark two extraordinary and challenging events in the life of Our Lady, the mother of Jesus. The first, her response to God’s extraordinary invitation to be the mother of Jesus; her faith in God’s role in her life and her response to this invitation with a ‘Yes’. The second recalled Mary’s long and arduous journey to visit her cousin Elizabeth and share her good news.

On Wednesday evening, we welcomed our Year 12 families to celebrate the conclusion of secondary school life for our Year 12 students at the 2023 Graduation evening. On this occasion I shared with our graduating students and their families the following reflection that was shared with us on our pilgrimage.

There are two seas in Palestine. One is fresh, and fish are in it. Splashes of

green adorn its banks. Trees spread their branches over it and stretch out

their thirsty roots to sip of its healing waters. The River Jordan makes this

sea with sparkling water from the hills. So it laughs in the sunshine. And

people build their houses near to it, and birds their nests; and every kind

of life is happier because it is there.

The River Jordan flows on out into another sea. Here there is no splash of

fish, no fluttering leaf, no song of birds, no children’s laughter. Travelers

choose another route, unless on urgent business. The air hangs heavy

above its water, and neither people nor animals will drink. What makes

this mighty difference in these neighbouring seas? Not the River Jordan.

It empties the same good water into both. Not the soil in which they lie;

not in the country round about.

This is the difference. The Sea of Galilee receives but does not keep the

Jordan. For every drop that flows into it another drop flows out. The giving

and receiving go on in equal measure.

The other sea is shrewder, hoarding its income jealously. It will not be

tempted into any generous impulse. Every drop it gets, it keeps.

The Sea of Galilee gives and lives. This other sea gives nothing. It is named

Dead. There are two seas in Palestine. There are two kinds of people in this

world. What kind are we?

At this time of significant conflict in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank, both experiences exemplify for me the importance of being people who pursue peace by demonstrating a caring and generous spirit; not to hold onto what we receive just for our own benefit. The common good is never borne of selfishness. It is borne of empathy and unity in diversity, not of division and aggression.

In sharing my experience at this particular time, I invite all students and in particular those who are about to walk through the cherry red gates for the final time to consider what we are truly being called to do with our lives. How will we respond to the challenges and extraordinary events that may and probably will occur? How will we respond when we witness injustice and suffering? Will we be afraid, hold back and take the safe road by saying no, it does not impact me or will we say ‘Yes’, I can do something about this issue because it can lead to creating a better world?

Graduation Ceremony – Class of 2023

At our Graduation ceremony, I invited the Class of 2023 to look with positivity towards the future and continue to be givers of life; to be true Champions for the Human Spirit and to live their lives with the life-giving values that have sustained them during their time at Sion.

I extend my congratulations to the Class of 2023 as they conclude their formal studies. It has been a privilege to acknowledge their contribution to College life over the last six years. I particularly thank our 2023 College Captains, Ava and Bettina for the enthusiastic and committed manner in which they have worked with Charlotte, Chiara, Ella, Sofia, Scarlett, Megan, Lara, Alice, Chloe, Zoe, Ella, Laura, Niquita, Scarlett, Tahlia, Ciara, Lexi, Mia and Kate in their various portfolios. The College has certainly benefitted from the events and activities they have planned and led, and the support they have offered in the leadership of our school.

The next week will see Unit 3 & 4 students focussing on revision for the upcoming examinations and to this end I wish them every success. To our VCE VM students, know that we keep you in our thoughts and prayers as you begin the next stage of your education and career paths. We look forward to our final event with our Year 12 students and their parents/carers at the Valedictory Mass and Dinner on Friday 17 November.

Finally, I inform our school community that John McInerney, our Deputy Principal Faith & Mission will formally conclude his time at Our Lady of Sion College at the end of 2023. We thank John for the tremendous contribution he has made to the faith life of the College. He has witnessed to his faith in a very real and tangible manner over the last seven years, and his generosity and sensitivity to the needs of our staff and students have been greatly appreciated. We wish John all the very best in his retirement and the next fruitful stage of his life. At this time, I would also like to congratulate Anna Gionfriddo, our Religious Education Learning Leader who will commence her tenure as Deputy Principal Faith & Mission in the new year. Anna’s commitment to Catholic Education is unwavering and I know families will join me in congratulating Anna and wishing her all the very best as she prepares to commence this significant role in our school.

With every blessing for the fortnight ahead.

Tina Apostolopoulos

Last week we held the Investiture assembly for all of the new Year 12 student leaders.

There is so much that happens throughout the year in the life of Faith and Mission in our school. So many wonderful celebrations take place including masses, prayers for special feast days and events, Lenten reflections and leading the fortnightly Chapel prayer. All of these events are planned, prepared and led by the current Liturgy Captain and the Liturgy Reps at each year level.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Charlotte P (12 Blue) for her wonderful efforts as Liturgy Captain and leading her Reps in this important ministry area of the school. It has been a pleasure working alongside Charlotte and seeing the prayerful manner in which she has gone about her work.

Congratulations go to Emma G (11 Purple) as she now begins her role as Liturgy Captain for the next twelve months. We look forward to Emma sharing her gifts and talents with the school community.

Alongside the Liturgy role we have the Social Justice and FIRE Carrier Captains. Again, we have been truly blessed to have had such wonderful leadership from Chiara P (12 Blue) and Emma M (12 Blue) in these roles across the past twelve months. Awareness has been raised so much in relation to Aboriginal issues and, next year, we will again be in a position to offer students the opportunity to participate in an Indigenous Immersion.

In the area of Social Justice, we again raised funds for Project Compassion, supported our House agencies, began our inaugural St Vinnies group and raised awareness and funds on Sion Day for the San Luis Lumad Community High school in the Philippines.

We now congratulate Maddie S (11 White), Social Justice and Paige H (11 Purple), FIRE Carrier, in being appointed to the role of Captain in these areas and hopefully they receive the support from all members of the community in their important areas of school life.

Farewelling our Year 12s

This week we have paused many times to recognise, celebrate and champion the graduating class of 2023. This was not a difficult task as there are so many memorable moments to think about, so many personalities to laugh with and admire, and so many individual and group achievements to hold up as examples for others.

The Graduation Evening really highlighted to us how much this year level has worked as a team, shared each other's highs and lows, and always wished the best for each other. While the VCAA exams are still in front of many of them, the Class of 2023 are already successful. They have everything they need to be fulfilled and to bring fulfilment to others. For us, it is about waiting and watching as their lives unfold. Much love and best wishes to each and every student.

2024 Learning Resources

Parents will be able to access the booklist information through their Seqta login from Monday 16 October 2023. Our new 2024 Year 7 students will receive a copy of their booklist in their orientation bag on Monday 20 November, 2023.

Parents will need to access their previous account or set up a new Campion account in order to access the booklist and can then choose to use Campion to purchase their students' resources. Please be mindful to observe delivery and handling costs.

2024 Campion Booklist Dates

Any orders placed after the completion date will be processed and delivered over the January 2024 school break.

Any questions about the Booklist can be forwarded to Margaret Lawson, Head of Library and Information Services, mlawson@sion.catholic.edu.au

Navigating the Digital Maze: Setting Boundaries Around Social Media for Your Child's Wellbeing

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, especially for our children. It offers connectivity, knowledge, and entertainment, but it also presents challenges that most parents of teenagers are well aware of. As parents and carers, setting sensible boundaries around social media use is essential for your child's physical and emotional wellbeing.

Balancing Act: The Impact of Excessive Screen Time

One of the critical aspects to consider is the amount of time your child spends on social media platforms. Excessive screen time, especially during the late hours, can disrupt their sleep patterns. The culprit behind this disruption is the blue light emitted by screens. Blue light, primarily from phones and tablets, can interfere with our body's production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. This, in turn, affects the quality and quantity of sleep our children get, leading to fatigue and decreased academic performance.

Setting Healthy Boundaries: To address this issue, it's vital to set healthy boundaries around social media use. Here are some strategies to consider:

Establish Screen-Free Zones: Designate areas in your home, such as the dining room or bedrooms, where screens are not allowed. This helps create a clear boundary between screen time and personal space.

Screen-Free Bedtime Routine: Encourage your child to power down devices at least an hour before bedtime. This gives their brain time to relax and adjust to the darkness, making it easier to fall asleep. Reading on an iPad is not the same as reading a book before sleeping.

Communication is Key: Talk to your child about the importance of sleep and the effects of blue light. Open dialogue fosters understanding and cooperation.

Set Screen Time Limits: Limit the total time your child spends on social media platforms daily. Be consistent with these limits.

Model Healthy Behaviour: As parents/carers be a role model. Demonstrate responsible screen use and share quality offline activities with your child.

Empowering Parents: eSafety Commission Webinars

Navigating the digital landscape can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. The eSafety Commission offers a valuable resource for parents – free eSafety webinars. In Term 4, these webinars provide valuable insights and guidance on how to keep your child safe online, getting the most out of gaming, and navigating friendships online. They also offer practical strategies for fostering digital resilience in your child.

Please remember that together, we can ensure that our children's online experiences are positive and enriching.

Our particular thoughts and prayers go to Diya P (9 Gold) whose great grandmother passed away.

We remember Diya and her family in a special way at this sad time.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and may your perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen.

As our graduating class of 2023 conclude their classes this week, I would like to congratulate each and every one of them on their efforts throughout the year. It has been an absolute privilege to travel this final year of their secondary schooling with them. I admire the way this cohort of students have remained committed to their studies, persevered through the challenging times and supported one another throughout the journey.

Investiture Assembly

As part of farewelling our students, our 2023 leaders handed over their leadership to our incoming 2024 leaders last week at the whole school Investiture Assembly. I congratulate our leaders on the extraordinary job they have done this year within their different portfolios. I would also like thank Ms Jennifer Tilly for her guidance of these students in their different roles.

Tuesday marked a special celebration of gratitude for the teachers who have played a significant role in both the educational and personal growth of our students throughout their six years at Our Lady of Sion. The students generously catered and hosted a morning tea for all the staff within the school which I know was greatly appreciated.

In keeping with tradition, we acknowledged each individual student within the 2023 cohort at our Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday evening. This was a special gathering of students, staff and families as our students received their graduating certificate and gift from the school. As part of this evening some special awards were announced and I congratulate all recipients of these honourable awards. Thank you to all who attended for making this such a memorable evening for our students.

It is only fitting that I acknowledge and thank the Year 12 Homeroom teachers – Anna Gionfriddo, Naomi Linossier, Martin Macaulay, Francis Nguyen, Fiona McDonald and Rob Steward for their consistent efforts and support of our Year 12 students throughout the year. I would also like to thank the Year 12 subject teachers who have worked tirelessly to support our students with their academic endeavours. It is also important for me to recognise the ongoing guidance and expertise given by Dale Hunter and Brooke O’Hara to our students as they travelled this challenging year making decisions about their future beyond school.

As the farewell celebrations continue for our graduating class of 2023, I wish them well with the weeks ahead. For those who are sitting final exams I wish them well with their revision and study and for those who are not I hope you begin a well earned rest. As the journey draws to a close we will continue to support one another and celebrate everyone’s achievements.

Welcome back to all Year 11s and families! We hope you enjoyed your holiday break, and are feeling ready for one last term. During the first two weeks, students have been settling in to their class work, working on their final assessments for the year. With one term to go, we are looking towards spending time together during Homeroom and Pastoral.

During Week 1 the Year 11 cohort raised money for Ozanam House by coming together to watch Pitch Perfect. Ozanam House is a foundation which supports and cares for homeless people by setting them up with food and housing. By purchasing a ticket and lollies on the night the donations are going towards buying supplies for people in need. This experience allowed us to develop deeper connections with each other while also raising money for an important cause. Thank you to the student leaders for coming up with this idea, and the staff for attending the night! Grace M (11 Blue) and Olivia M (11 Blue)

During Pastoral this week, the Year 11s competed in a Bench Ball Tournament! The energy was high and the competitive spirit was alive. Homeroom versus Homeroom students faced off for 6-minute games to take out the House Cup. Throughout Rounds 1-3 Red, Purple and Gold won their games, eliminating White, Blue and Silver, respectively. 11 Red won their round with the largest margin which gained them an advantage moving onto the final round. 11 Purple and 11 Gold went head to head in a great semi final. 11 Gold proceeded to the final round against 11 Red, and came out victorious taking home the Homeroom Cup!

Congratulations to 11 Gold, three games back to back, with stamina and persistence. Well done to all Year 11s for competing and getting involved!

Welcome to Term 4

Throughout Term 4 we have set the Year 10s the challenge to be courageous, not comfortable and to do this, the students have been challenged to further develop their inner strengths, inner excellence to be the best versions of themselves as possible. We have identified the following as ways that our Year 10s can be courageous:

• Ask questions
• Seek clarification
• Arrive to class on time
• Present in perfect uniform
• Apply for 2024 leadership positions
• Sign up for 2024 GSV opportunities
• Prepare for final assessments early
• Develop sustainable study routines
• Limit screen time

There are many other opportunities to be courageous and it will look different for everyone. Term 4 allows us to challenge and be challenged to continue to grow and look forward, developing our intrinsic skills our #innerexcellence.

Term 4 moves quickly and I would like to share the following key dates with you all. I encourage you to print these dates out and stick them on the fridge.

30 October - 3 November: Assessment free week for our Year 10 students (normal classes will run and will focus on final assessment preparation)

8 November - 15 November: Year 10 and Unit 2 VCE exams will be conducted. (Only required to be at school when you have an exam. Full College summer academic uniform is required).

16 November - Student Free Day

17 November - 23 November: SmartStart week. All students will commence their Senior years program, be that VCE or VM pathway.

24 November - Final day for Year 10 students.

I ask that all Year 10 community members focus and remain supportive with preparing our Year 10s to continue to be the best Year 10 students they can be. This will facilitate them in completing their year strongly with the skill set required of them at this time as a Year 10 student.

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.

Welcome back to Term 4! We have a busy term ahead for the Year 9s with many exciting opportunities and events for our students to be involved in.

Last week the Year 9s concluded their fundraising events for ‘Days for Girls’ by holding a Year 9 Sausage Sizzle. This was very successful and the total amount raised for the year will be announced in the coming weeks.

In our Pastoral Lesson this week, the students wrote individual letters to all of the incoming Year 7 students for 2024. The Year 7 students will receive these on orientation day later this year. It is a beautiful and thoughtful way to welcome them to the College.

We also ran the last ‘packing day’ for ‘Day for Girls’, it was the last opportunity for 2023 for the students to volunteer their time to make reusable sanitary packs. These days (four throughout the year) have been extremely successful and we appreciate all the time donated to assist with this throughout the year.

Below are some key dates for our Year 9 students as the year draws to a close.

• Friday 13 October: 2024 Leadership Positions (SRCs and Portfolio) applications due
• Friday 13 October: 2024 Talk and Tour applications due
• Tuesday 24 October: Significant People, Significant Lives Launch
• 13 and 15 November: PAT Testing
• Monday 13 November: Drama, Shakespeare performance night
• 17 November: Closing of College colour points
• 17 – 23 November: Smart Start for accelerating students
• Thursday 30 November: Mind, Body, Soul Day
• Wednesday 6 December: Final Day for Students

In addition to these planned activities, we are encouraging the students to maintain a vigorous study program for the remainder of Term 4 as we prepare them for their transition into Year 10, 2024.

The students have a number of assessments they are currently working on and many more to come before the year ends, so it is important for them to maintain a committed approach and high levels of organisation during this time.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Welcome back to Term 4, the final term of year. We have an exciting term for the Year 8s with many events for the students to enjoy and be a part of. The main one being our big event for the year…CAMP!

We recently had our Friendship Day with three different workshops, designed to continue to develop the cohort’s skills in managing challenging individual and interpersonal situations. The day ended with a wonderful show of team spirit and togetherness through the performances of the Cheer and Dance competition. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Homeroom teachers, class leaders and all students for getting involved! I would also like to thank Mr Paul Kerr, along with our counselling team (Vanessa Cheng, Pam Ioannidis, Claire Jenkins & Sofia Stagnitta) for running the different sessions on this day.

As mentioned earlier, camp is fast approaching and can bring up a range of different feelings and emotions for our young people, for a variety of reasons. It is a fantastic experience and we want each and every student to get as much out of it as possible. If there are any concerns, please encourage your child to approach their Homeroom teacher or me and we would be more than happy to speak with them and support as best we can.

Year 7 has, as always, met their first weeks of term with renewed enthusiasm and engagement in all that life at the College has to offer. We have seen students trying out for GSV, continuing to attend their ensembles and choirs, and looking for opportunities to contribute to community spirit. In Pastoral this week we focused on having a growth mindset approach to our learning.

Having a growth mindset involves actively seeking feedback from peers and teachers about how best to improve, as well as recognising that success and progress are individual to each person. Students who are reflective in this manner often find themselves able to articulate their areas of strengths and weaknesses in a way that allows them to celebrate their achievements and personal development over the course of their schooling.

The Homerooms read two articles (linked below) to guide discussions and brainstorms around their understanding of their own self-talk and mindsets, as well as ways to improve their outlook and approach to their learning.

I encourage all families to take time to continue this discussion outside of school. The transition to secondary school has been challenging for many, and progress in our learning may not look, feel or sound as we are expecting it to. Approaching the remainder of the academic year with a growth mindset may help students to engage with their learning. Here are some links from ReachOut that you may mind helpful.

• Understanding mindsets.

• What is self-talk?

Educational Study Tour to Italy

Traveling to Italy alongside 18 Italian students, Ms Stott and Mr Wilkes was truly an extraordinary experience.

This Italian tour of a lifetime gifted our students with many unforgettable moments. It offered them the chance to immerse themselves in the rich history, captivating architecture, world-renowned fashion, exquisite art, delectable cuisine, and awe-inspiring panoramas that Italy has to offer. Furthermore, it provided a platform for the students to enhance their language skills and expand their knowledge through language classes in Florence. Witnessing their growing passion for both the language and the country's ancient culture was a real delight.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff members who assisted in making this trip possible. Without their unwavering support and hard work, it would not have been such an incredible experience for our students.

I also want to express my appreciation to our students, who acted as exceptional ambassadors for Our Lady of Sion College and Australia. Their time in Italy was undoubtedly a memorable one.

Keira D S (11 Blue) shared her insights and reflections with all of us below:

During the September holidays, 18 Italian students from Years 10 and 11 got the opportunity to travel to Italy on an Educational Study Tour. Throughout the trip we were able to practise our Italian and gain valuable knowledge about the Italian culture, history, and cuisine.

After a long journey and two flights, we finally made it to Rome, a city brimming with ancient history. During our three days in Rome, we had the opportunity to explore and visit famous landmarks including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain and the Bocca della Verità. During our visit we also spent a day in the smallest country in the world - The Vatican, exploring its 11 museums as well as the Sistine Chapel (which Michelangelo devoted nine years to painting) and St Peter’s Basilica (where St Peter was buried). We visited the church of St Andrea delle Fratte, where Alphonse Ratisbonne, experienced a vision of the Virgin Mary.

On our way to Sorrento, we stopped in Herculaneum and Pompeii for a guided tour, where we were able to learn about the ruins and the lives of the people who lived there before Mt Vesuvius erupted. While in Sorrento we caught a ferry to the Island of Capri where we marvelled at its amazing landscapes and we learned how to make delicious lemon gelato.

We then travelled to Assisi - a town filled with beautiful architecture. We visited the church of St Francis of Assisi and his tomb. Our next stop was Florence, but we were sure to visit the Baci factory on the way (to learn many secrets about chocolate) and Siena (to see the Piazza del Campo).

In Florence, we spent three days in language school where we improved our Italian conversation skills. Each day after school we would go exploring, visiting sites such as the leaning tower of Pisa (where we got to take our typical tourist photos), the Statue of David in the Academia and the Duomo di Firenze (Santa Maria del Fiore) for an evening mass. We also visited a market selling both souvenirs and delicious food. While in the market we got to practise our conversation and negotiation skills to try and get the best price!

Our next stop was the beautiful city of Venice - famous for being built entirely on water. We did, however, stop off in Verona on the way there to visit the balcony of Romeo and Juliet. In Venice we visited the Doges Palace, St Mark’s Square and St Mark’s Basilica. We also got the opportunity to go on a gondola ride.

Our last day in Italy was spent on the islands of Murano (famous for its hand-blown glass products) and Burano (famous for its handmade lace and colourful houses).

This was a truly unforgettable experience which has allowed us to create new memories, make new friends and learn so much more about Italy. Thank you to all the teachers that shared this incredible experience with us and made this trip so memorable. We will cherish it forever! Keira D S (11 Blue)

As Term 4 commences and the Year 12s are about to embark on their final exams, we congratulate our 2023 Drama Captain, Ella C (12 White) who has led this area with such passion, enthusiasm and positivity at every turn. Ella has planned and executed many events throughout the year including Theatre Sports, Drama Week Activities like the Drama Breakfast and a regular Drama Club which has been well attended by senior and junior students alike. Ella has given so much to the younger generations of Sion students by demonstrating her love of Drama, sharing her talents and supporting other students to do the same. Thank you Ella, for all that you have contributed to Drama this year. We congratulate Clea M (11 Purple) on her Captaincy of Drama for 2024. We are thrilled to welcome Clea into the role and look forward to seeing the area grow through new leadership and initiatives. Best wishes Clea as Ella passes the baton to you!

Year 12 Drama Solo Performances

Last week our Year 12 Drama students attended their solo performance examinations at Box Hill Town Hall. You can see some images from our parents showing the evening last Term. I am very proud of the work that these students have developed in preparation for this externally assessed examination. On the day there were many nerves and great excitement around performing in front of three ‘unknown’ assessors and some relieved smiles once exiting the examination room. Best wishes to our Year 12s as their time at the College draws to a close and thank you Year 12 Drama students for your zest and fervour for all things Drama in and outside of the classroom.

New Staff Welcome

I’d like to welcome Thilini Ranasinghe to Sion. Thilini is taking several Year 7 and 8 Drama classes as well as a Year 9 Drama class whilst Mrs Bennett is on long service leave. Thilini comes with a wealth of experience and energy to inspire all of our budding performers. Welcome Thilini.

Year 11 Drama

Our Year 11 Drama class will be performing their ensemble pieces next week to friends and family. Their performance structure is based around the book ‘The Arrival’ by Shaun Tan. We wish them all the best for these ensembles.

Watch out for Drama Club bulletin messages, we will be getting this back up and running for Term 4 very soon and welcome student facilitators.

Creative Arts and Technologies Exhibition

Join us on Wednesday 18 October from 5.30 pm at the Notre Dame Centre for our gallery opening and presentation of our major Creative Arts and Technologies week awards beginning formally at 6.00 pm. Our gallery will feature works made in Art, Digi Tech, Food Studies, Media, Textiles and Vis Com and will be a great opportunity for students and their families to view the tasks they have completed this year in addition to shining a light on what is to come in Senior years of the various subjects. Food will be served and live music will be featured from our Rock band.

Artwork photography – student reflection

Senior Visual Arts students recently set up their final works for a professional photography opportunity. Replicating industry practices, our Visual Communication and Design class put together physical embodiments of their designs in context, creating tangible architectural and graphic designs whilst Making and Exhibiting showed off their beautifully hand-crafted textile creations and Creative Practice displayed their intricacies through the technicality of their final artworks.

As all Unit 3/4 Arts students carefully posed their pieces, it was amazing to see everyone's final products. Everyone’s works clearly demonstrated their development of skills and many hours of hard work. Congratulations to our Senior Arts Students! Chloe L (12 White), Visual Arts Captain

Jazz Club at Holy Spirit Primay School Fete

Congratulations to the members of the Jazz Club who played last weekend at the annual fete at Holy Spirit Primary School in North Ringwood. It was really special that some of the girls who performed were graduates of Holy Spirit Primary School. Many thanks to Mr Ryan Parks who supported the girls.

VCE Music Performance Unit 2 Recitals

Earlier this week, we had the Year 11 Music students performing their major performance recitals which forms a large part of their assessment in Music this year. Students presented solo material, of differing styles and genres, with both live and pre-recorded accompaniment. Many thanks to Ms Adeline Han for her outstanding accompaniment skills.

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 and the Senior Strings who provided music for this important assembly.

Year 12 Final Open Mic

The music representatives arranged for a special Year 12 Open Mic last week – giving the current cohort one final chance to perform in front of a packed out, and very supportive piazza.

Term 4 Music Soirees

There are two dates for Music Soirees in Term 4. The String Soiree will be held on Tuesday 17 October, starting at 4:30 pm in the Miriam Theatre and the Term 4 Music Soiree will be held on Monday 23 October, starting at 5:00 pm in the Miriam Theatre. Please email Mr Macaulay mmacaulay@sion.catholic.edu.au if you are interested in signing up (and getting music points!)

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 Wednesday 16 November at the Hawthorn Arts Centre. This event is open to the public (and free) with more details to be announced in coming weeks.

Year 7 Spring Concert – Bookings now open

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 15 November 7:00 pm in the LHC. Bookings are now open via the TryBooking link here.

Sion First Year 6 Music Program 2024

Those families with students currently in Year 5 (Year 6 2024) are invited to the Sion First Music Program launch on Wednesday 15 November 7:00 Apm in the Miriam Theatre. Please see below for further information.

Upcoming Music Department Dates

• Term 4 String Soiree: Tuesday 17 October 4.30 pm, Miriam Theatre
• Creative Arts and Technology Week: Wednesday 18 October, 6.00 pm, Notre Dame Rock Band
• Term 4 Music Soiree: Monday 23 October, 5:00 pm, Miriam Theatre
• Year 7 Concert Bands (x2) to VSMF: Monday 13 November, Hawthorn Arts Centre
• Year 7 Music Spring Concert: Tuesday 14 November, 7.00 pm LHC. Book tickets here.
• Sion First 2023 Final Concert: Wednesday 15 November, 5.00 pm, Miriam Theatre
• Sion First 2024 Launch: Wednesday 15 November, 7.00 pm, Miriam Theatre

It has been a busy start to the term for Student Leadership and the House Program. In Week 1, the 2024 College, House & Portfolio Captains attended their Leadership Camp, held in Warburton. It was an enriching time which allowed the group to share their fears, their hopes and to come together as a team that is full of courage and enthusiasm for their leadership journey. When we returned to school, they experienced their investiture assembly and also met with the outgoing 2023 captains to discuss their roles and receive advice. It was special to see leadership so strong among both groups, with many Year 12 recalling their investiture just 12 months prior – how quickly time passes.

Congratulations to Loreto House for winning the 2023 House Cup and a special congratulations to the Loreto House Representative team who were led by Lexi M (12 Red) & Ciara D V (12 Silver). Loreto were quiet achievers, however, their consistent participation saw an accumulation of points from the various House events across the year.

Congratulations and good luck to all of the outgoing Year 12 Captains from 2023. You have worked tirelessly all year, supported each other, grown together and have made Sion a better place.

Welcome back to Term 4 and for what I hope will be an exciting conclusion to the year. On the last day of Term 3 we held a fundraising event 'Sports Colours Day' where students and staff were encouraged to wear a sports top of their choice and in return were asked to make a gold coin donation to support the work of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion. These initiatives provided opportunities to take action to help others in need, providing human dignity for all and living out our College theme 'with a grateful heart'.

Farewell Lunch

In the past weeks, Mr John McInerney and I held a lunch to farewell our Year 12 Liturgy, Social Justice and FIRE Carrier Captains, Charlotte P (12 Blue), Chiara P (12 Blue) and Ella M (12 Blue) respectively. I want to take this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to Chiara and Ella for their exceptional dedication and leadership. They have shown commitment to promoting social justice within our school community and I am incredibly thankful for all that they have accomplished. Their tireless efforts to raise awareness, initiate important discussions and organise events that support social justice issues has had a profound impact on our school community. We also welcomed our new Year 12 captains for 2024:

• Social Justice – Maddie S (11 White)
• FIRE Carrier – Paige H (11 Purple)
• Liturgy – Emma G (11 Purple)

Days for Girls

We also held our final packing day for Days for Girls for 2023. Year 9 students were generous with their time by volunteering to put together items to go into the packs that are distributed by DFG in areas around the world where young women don't have access to appropriate sanitary items. The cohort, with the leadership of Ms Jordyn Frood and Ms Rebecca Bennett, also held their final fundraiser for Days for Girls, a BBQ. The money raised throughout the year will be used to purchase materials required in assembling the packs that are distributed by DFG in areas around the world were young women don't have access to appropriate sanitary items.

St Vinnies Inner-City Soup Van

Members from the OLSC St Vinnies group and others from our Sion community volunteered their time to bake approximately 450 cupcakes and muffins for the Inner-City Soup Van. Soup Vans offer food, social connection and referral pathways out of homelessness and poverty, to people experiencing or at risk of, homelessness and disadvantage. Our donated baked goods will help to feed people living or who are homeless around North Melbourne, Fitzroy, Richmond and the city.

Dream big and dare to fail. Norman Vaughan (English Comedian)

Students and families can find the Fortnightly Careers newsletter here.

In this fortnight's newsletter there is information relating to:

• Dates to diarise – Year 12 VTAC very late applications
• Upcoming Events –2024 VTAC key dates, Box Hill Institute Free Careers Expo
• Career Industry in the Spotlight – Jobs in 2040
• Things to Consider – 2024 Year 10 Work experience, Melbourne Sports Institute (MSI recruitment drive Year 12 students), Automotive Apprenticeships and the BMW group
• Research ideas – Pathways through Science to Medicine at Monash University, Master of Medical Ultrasound at Monash University, News Courses at Federation University, La Trobe University – Master of Physiotherapy practice.

CGSAV Table Tennis

On Tuesday 10 October we were at the CGSAV Table Tennis Tournament at MSAC competing against eight other girls schools. It was a fun day full of enjoyment and enthusiasm with everyone showing amazing sportsmanship. We were lucky enough to meet a Table Tennis champion teaching an up and comer. They both taught us a few tips and tricks to improve our playing. Sion were competitive throughout with all teams making the semi-finals. A big congratulations to our Senior team who came away with the trophy! Darci D (9 Red) and Erin M (9 Purple)

GSV Representative Water Polo

On Friday 6 October Keets B (12 Silver) and Nat B (11 Gold) represented GSV in the Premier match against the APS held at Caulfield Grammar School. With some fabulous intercepts by Nat and wonderful saves by Keets, the GSV team prevailed as winners 14-1! Congratulations to the Barry sisters for this fabulous achievement.

Individual Sporting Achievements

We would like to recognise the following students for their outstanding achievements in sport:

• Gabriela T (8 Red). Gabriela participated in the Women's Artistic Gymnastics competition at the 2023 National Clubs Carnival, which took place from September 25–27 on the Gold Coast. We couldn't be prouder of her remarkable resilience, persistence, and unwavering determination. Overcoming a wrist injury was no small feat, but she triumphed, securing her first national individual and team titles in the future international category. Her achievements included a Silver medal in the Floor exercise, 6th place in the Beam exercise, and her team earned a well-deserved Bronze in the overall team competition. You can watch her award winning floor routine here.

• Lara H (12 Blue), Chloe T (10 Silver), Isla B (12 Gold) and Georgie B (11 Purple). On Saturday 23 September at IKON Park, Lara, Chloe, Isla and Georgie played in competing teams in the 2023 Coates Talent League Girls Grand Final. An achievement to be selected in such a program, an even bigger one to make the Grand Final. With Georgie and Isla playing for Eastern Ranges, and Lara and Chloe representing Oakleigh Chargers there was Sion talent all over the ground! In a hard-fought match coming down to the final minutes, Oakleigh Chargers prevailed victorious, with Lara accepting the trophy as Captain of the team and alongside Chloe, named the best players for the match. Congratulations to all four students who have shown immense talent, and we hope to see you all playing AFLW in the future!

Mental health is a universal right (2023 Theme)

On Tuesday 10 October it was World Mental Health Day. WHO recognises this day as an opportunity for people and communities to unite, improve knowledge and raise awareness by actively promoting and improving everyone’s mental health as a universal human right.

In Australia mental health disorders account for a substantial portion of ill health among people. Many of these conditions also affect an increasing number of adolescents and young people. It is therefore essential everyone has access to professional psychological and counselling support to look after their mental health and wellbeing.

Supporting young people with mental health assists them to cope with stressors in their daily lives, participate in loving relationships, contribute to the community and work towards achieving their goals to live a rich and fulfilling life. Mental health is important, and we can all benefit from looking after our own and our community’s mental health.

Here are some ideas on how to support young people look after their mental health.

• Get a good night's sleep

• Get creative - why not try some painting, drawing, cooking

• Limit social media consumption - have a chat with someone instead

• Drink lots of water and eat a balanced diet

• Get out in nature and be active - even a small walk outside can improve your mood

• Reach out and access professional support. This can be done by contacting our school Counselling department on Counselling@sion.catholic.edu.au your local GP, or one of the external services below.

• Lifeline on 13 11 14 - www.lifeline.org.au

• Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 - www.beyondblue.org.au

• Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 - www.kidshelpline.com.au

• Parentline on 1300 30 1300 - www.parentline.com.au