Newsletter | Work hand in hand, be the light that heals the Earth

Celebrating Excellence

One of the valued traditions of our College is dedicating our Term 3 Assembly to reflecting on and celebrating excellence. While excellence is often associated with awards, academic achievements, sporting success and other recognitions, the assembly invited students and staff to consider a broader understanding of what excellence truly is.

Excellence is not about being better than someone else; it is about becoming better than we were yesterday. It is found in the perseverance of a student who continues to learn despite challenges, in the dedication of a teacher who strives to improve their practice, in the compassion of a friend who supports others, and in the collective efforts of a community united by a shared purpose.

This understanding of excellence is deeply connected to our College vision: Sowing the seeds of hope, uncovering excellence within and inspiring a commitment to justice. Our vision reminds us that excellence is not simply about individual achievement. Instead, it is about recognising the unique gifts within each person, nurturing those gifts with hope, and using them to make a positive contribution to the lives of others.

To bring this message to life, our Music Department presented a powerful performance of Adiemus during the assembly. Through the combined work of our choirs and music ensembles students demonstrated that while individual talent is important, the most extraordinary outcomes occur when people work together.

The performance highlighted the richness that comes from diversity. Students of different ages, experiences, and abilities each contributed their unique strengths. Some were seasoned performers, while others were taking to the stage for the first time. Some led, others supported, yet every contribution was essential.

As the performance unfolded, it became clear that the beauty of the music was not the result of any single voice or instrument. Rather, it emerged through collaboration, attentive listening, trust and a shared commitment to a common goal. The performance served as a powerful metaphor for our College community and the way we pursue excellence together.

The message for our students was simple but significant: excellence is not about standing above others; it is about standing with others. It is not about perfection, but growth. It is not defined solely by what we achieve, but by who we become along the way.

The combined choir and orchestra reminded us that when individuals contribute their personal best to something greater than themselves, excellence becomes more than an achievement - it becomes part of our culture. It becomes the way we live out our vision of sowing the seeds of hope, uncovering excellence within, and inspiring a commitment to justice. And that is something truly worth celebrating.

Expanding Horizons

One of the great privileges of working in schools is witnessing young people discover their strengths, develop confidence in their abilities and begin to imagine the many possibilities that await them beyond school.

This term, our Year 10 students participated in work experience placements across a diverse range of industries and professions. For many, the experience offered a valuable glimpse into a potential future career, while others discovered pathways they had not previously considered. Through conversations with professionals, hands-on learning and exposure to workplace environments, students gained insights into the skills, attitudes and adaptability required in today's world of work.

Research from the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools highlights the significant role that confidence, agency and a willingness to embrace challenge play in shaping girls' aspirations and future success. When girls are encouraged to take intellectual risks, develop their voice and see themselves as leaders, they are more likely to pursue ambitious goals and engage with a wider range of opportunities.

One of the greatest benefits of experiences such as work experience is their capacity to expand students' sense of what is possible. By encountering a diverse range of careers, workplaces and individuals, students are encouraged to look beyond familiar options and consider pathways that align with their unique strengths, interests and ambitions. The International Coalition of Girls’ Schools notes that girls who develop confidence and agency are more likely to embrace challenge, pursue leadership opportunities and see themselves succeeding across a broad range of fields.

As a school community, we believe there is no single pathway to success. University remains an important aspiration for many students, but it is one of many valuable pathways. Vocational education, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, creative industries, emerging technologies, skilled professions and service-oriented careers all offer meaningful and rewarding opportunities. Our responsibility is to ensure that every student feels empowered to explore her interests, discover her passions and make informed decisions about her future.

While this reflection has been inspired by the experiences of our Year 10 students, it speaks to an important message for all of our students from Years 7–12. We want every student to remain curious, open-minded and optimistic about the future. The world they will enter is changing rapidly, and the opportunities available to them are broader and more diverse than ever before.

Our role, in partnership with families, is to encourage our students to dream big, embrace challenge and believe in their capacity to make a meaningful contribution to the world. When young women are given the confidence to see possibilities, there is no limit to what they can achieve.

Congratulations Allison Stott, Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching, Recipient of the 2026 PAVCSS Memorial Leadership Scholarship

We are delighted to congratulate our Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching, Allison Stott, on being awarded the 2026 PAVCSS Memorial Leadership Scholarship.

Presented by the Principal Association, this prestigious scholarship recognises Allison's dedication to professional growth and commitment to excellence in Catholic education.

This is a wonderful and well-deserved achievement, and we are incredibly proud to see Allison recognised with this honour.

Congratulations, Allison!

Year 7 Retreat Day

Last week, our Year 7 students headed to St Paul’s Retreat Centre in Wantirna for their very first Retreat day! Guided by the theme, 'Making our Mark at School Through Positive Action,' the day gave our newest secondary students a wonderful chance to reflect on our supportive and inclusive school community.

During the Retreat, students explored what it means to belong, show kindness, and lift up those around them. The day concluded with a beautiful Mass, inspiring the students to consider how they can make a positive impact both at Our Lady of Sion College and beyond.

The students engaged in workshops, including:

Delving into the principles of Catholic Social Teaching
Unpacking the meaning of our College Motto, Veritas in Caritate
Meditating with the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37).

We were also grateful to welcome Sr Mary Barbuto nds, whose presentation helped the students better understand our beautiful charism and the inspiring work of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion both here in Australia and internationally.

Year 9 Retreat Day

Our Year 9 students visited Melbourne’s Catholic Precinct for their annual Retreat this week. Exploring St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Chapel and Square, and the Mary Glowrey Museum, the students immersed themselves in local Catholic history and faith.

The Retreat offered students a wonderful opportunity to be inspired by the legacies of Saint Mary MacKillop and Dr. Mary Glowrey who was an Australian doctor and religious sister. On 21 November 2025, Pope Leo XIV formally recognised Mary Glowrey’s 'heroic virtues,' declaring her Venerable Mary of the Sacred Heart Glowrey - the second major step on the path to sainthood. It was pleasing to hear the rich questions and responses shared by the students and the interest and enthusiasm that was shown throughout the day.

As our Year 9 students continue their Sion journey, may they be encouraged to answer God's call and seek ways to live out our College theme into their daily lives: Work hand in hand, be the light that heals the Earth.

Sion Day 2026 Launch

At our College Assembly this week, Social Justice Captain, Anria A (12 White), officially launched our Sion Day fundraising which will once again go towards international social justice projects led or supported by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion through two scholarship programs via:

Bethlehem University
Our Lady of Sion Education Fund in Jerusalem for Primary and Secondary Students.

Also, in response to the crisis in Gaza, we will once again be donating money raised from Sion Day to the Caritas Australia's Gaza Emergency Appeal, to provide humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

Sion Day tickets are available to purchase through TryBooking until Wednesday 12 August. They are $12 and we ask that everyone joins in by purchasing a ticket, which covers:

Casual clothes for the day
A sausage sizzle and a drink (dietary requirements will be fully catered for)
And a donation toward our school fundraising efforts.

Please note that the ticket will now be in the form of a wristband which your child will receive from their Homeroom teacher on the morning of Sion Day.

Carnival tokens will once again be used instead of cash at each of the stalls. Each token is valued at $1 and will need to be purchased using credit/ debit card or cash, prior to Sion Day at lunchtime in Student Services on the following dates:

Years 7, 8 and 12: Monday 10 August
Years 9, 10 and 11: Tuesday 11 August
All Year levels: Wednesday 12 August
All Year levels: Thursday 13 August

Tokens will also be able to be purchased on Sion Day.

We are looking forward to celebrating this very special day.

Showing Up Matters

As a Deputy Principal at the College I have the privilege of attending many of the wonderful events that take place beyond the school day. From our inspiring Ensembles Concert in Term 2 to the Subject Selection Evening, Student Progress Meetings (SPMs), and the many student leadership interviews that Term 3 brings, I have a unique opportunity to witness the powerful role parents and carers play in their daughter's educational journey.

One of my favourite moments occurs at our music performances as students take their place on stage, many instinctively scan the audience, searching for a familiar face. The moment they spot a parent or carer, something changes. A nervous expression softens into a smile. Shoulders relax. A discreet wave from the choir is met with a proud smile from the audience. In that brief exchange, without a word being spoken, an important message is communicated: I'm here, and what you're doing matters to me.

Showing up for our young people extends well beyond performances. Over the coming weeks, families will be invited to attend the Subject Selection Evening and Student Progress Meetings. These events provide valuable opportunities to discuss your daughter's learning, receive feedback from her teachers, and thoughtfully consider the pathway that best supports her interests, strengths and future aspirations.

When parents and carers attend these events, they are doing much more than gathering information. They are sending a clear message that education is valued, that learning is important, and that decisions about the future deserve careful thought.

Term 3 also marks the beginning of our 2027 student leadership application process for students. For many students, applying for a leadership position is the first time they have put themselves forward to lead others. It takes courage to write an application, prepare for an interview and make yourself vulnerable to the possibility of disappointment.

Parents and carers have an important role to play throughout this process. Reading an application, offering constructive feedback, practising interview questions or simply encouraging your daughter to have a go can make a significant difference. Equally important is helping students develop perspective if they are unsuccessful. Leadership is not defined by a badge or title. Some of the most influential young people in our community are those who lead through service, kindness, initiative and integrity every day. Supporting your daughter to continue contributing, regardless of the outcome, builds resilience and reinforces that leadership is about character as much as position.

As we move through another busy term, I encourage every family to continue finding opportunities to show up. Whether it is applauding from the audience, attending an information evening, meeting with teachers, helping prepare a leadership application or simply asking about your daughter's day, your presence matters.

When schools and families work in partnership, we create a strong bridge of support around each student. Together, we help our young people not only achieve academically, but also grow in confidence, resilience and character. There is no greater investment we can make in their future than simply being present when it matters most.

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families resource

The Happy Families article for this edition is: Our Biggest Resilience Mistake

Welcome back to Term 3.

The first two weeks of Term 3 have been a dynamic and valuable time for our Year 10 students. Last week, our Year 10 students took part in work experience, stepping into new environments and exploring potential future pathways. We are incredibly proud of how they represented both themselves and our school community.

Work experience provides far more than just a taste of the workforce - it encourages students to develop important life skills such as organisation, punctuality, communication, and independence. The challenge now is for students to bring these skills back into the school environment and apply them consistently in their learning and interactions.

This experience often becomes a turning point - helping students recognise what is possible, or highlighting areas where growth is still needed. We encourage all parents/carers to continue supporting and reinforcing these positive habits at home. Over the next fortnight, your guidance can play a vital role in helping students embed these behaviours into their daily routines - ensuring the benefits of work experience extend well into the second half of the year.

Let’s keep the momentum going!

Ballroom Dancing

This week, over 100 of our Year 10 students began their Ballroom Dancing Program in partnership with Whitefriars College - and what a fantastic start it’s been!

The first session was a success on many levels. It was wonderful to see students learning the steps of their first dance, counting carefully to stay on beat, heads held high, and smiles all around. Even more encouraging was the positive interaction between students. There was a genuine sense of collaboration, with students supporting each other, sharing a laugh, and showing a real willingness to learn together.

Programs like Ballroom Dancing offer far more than just movement - they help build confidence, foster new friendships, and strengthen our students' sense of belonging. We’re excited to watch their progress over the coming weeks and to see how this shared experience helps them grow both socially and personally.

Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening

Shortly, all students and their families who have completed the Bronze award will receive an invitation to attend our Awards evening to be held on Tuesday 18 August in the Miriam Theatre, commencing at 7.00 pm. I take this opportunity to thank all families for their continued support of the Duke of Edinburgh program.

There are so many opportunities over the next two weeks for our Year 10s to be involved with Ballroom, GSV, Music, House, Art, preparation for Sion Day and I encourage the students to actively engage in as many of these events as possible.

The Languages Department is delighted to congratulate the following 11 students on reaching the finals of the 2026 Dante Alighieri Poetry Recitation Competition.

Maia F (9 Silver), Issy M (9 Silver), Evdoxia S (9 Silver)
Daniela DI (10 Blue), Isabella M (10 Blue), Mietta N (10 Red)
Gabby Z (10 Blue)
Lauren B (11 Silver), Alessia G (11 Blue), Elouise P (11 Gold), Lara R (11 Blue)

The final round was held on Tuesday 14 July at the University of Melbourne. We now eagerly await the official results.

Our finalists should take great pride in this outstanding achievement. Their selection as finalists reflects their talent, dedication, and hard work, placing them among the highest-performing students across the state.

We are also pleased to congratulate two of our Year 11 students of Italian, Lauren B (11 Silver) and Lara R (11 Blue), on their outstanding achievement in the Italian Competition My Italian Dream (Years 10–12 category) run by “Il gruppo dell’amicizia”.

Their entries received a Special Mention from the judging panel, recognising the creativity and high quality of their work.

This is a wonderful achievement, and we congratulate both students on this well deserved recognition and commend them on representing our school with distinction.

International Partnership Programs

Our International Partnership Programs offer students a unique opportunity to experience life in another country while building lasting global connections. By attending school and living with a host family, students gain valuable insights into different cultures, educational systems, and ways of life. These immersive experiences also provide an authentic environment in which to develop their language skills, broaden their perspectives, and grow in confidence and independence.

On 13 July 2026 we welcomed seven students from our sister school Notre Dame de Sion in Kansas City, USA – Nora G, Lauren E, Emily M, Ally C, Eleanore B, Liliana S, Evelyn C and their teacher Elizabeth Mulkey.

On 13 July, we also warmly welcomed seven students from our sister school, Notre Dame de Sion College in Evry, France – Nina M, Alice M, Camille P, Léa L, Marine P, Audrey M, Sérine B and their accompanying teacher Cécile Cloarac.

The past two weeks have been an exciting and memorable experience for our visiting students, their host sisters, and the wider College community. Our guests have proudly worn the Sion uniform, participated in classes across a range of subject areas, supported our students in developing their French language skills, and enjoyed exploring many of Melbourne's iconic attractions.

The excitement continues over the coming week with more engaging classroom experiences, excursions, and opportunities to strengthen the friendships they have formed with their host sisters and families and other students.

Ensembles Concert Night – music triumph!

Congratulations to every student musician who performed at the annual Music Department Ensembles Concert. In the last week of Term 2, over 300 students presented their band repertoire to a packed Miriam Theatre, the culmination being the orchestra and combined choir piece ‘Adiemus', made up of students from all year levels.

The highlight for me was being part of the combined choirs and orchestra piece ‘Adiemus’ because it was such a new and exciting experience for me to play in such a large group. Izzy E (9 Red)

It was great that the College Choir got an opportunity to sing ‘A Million Dreams’ and demonstrate their dedication and hard work. Also, ‘Music Down in My Soul’ was a highlight in CVE - such a fantastic song to sing! Chloe G (9 Silver)

Term 3 Principal’s Assembly

Congratulations to members of the Combined Choirs and Orchestra, CVE and Intermediate Concert Band who performed at the Term 3 assembly this week.

Victorian Schools Music Festival and Royal South Street Eisteddfod – Term 3

Sion will be represented at the annual Victorian Schools Music Festival and the Royal South Street Society Eisteddfod (Ballarat) events. The schedule of participating groups, dates and venues is as follows:

Intermezzo Strings VSMF Tuesday 28 July, Departing Sion 8.30 am returning 12.15 pm, venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre
CVE at Royal South Street Eisteddfod, Tuesday 13 August, Federation University Ballarat
Senior Concert Band VSMF Tuesday 18 August, Departing Sion 12.15 pm returning 4.45 pm, venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre
Intermediate Concert Band VSMF Tuesday 25 August, Departing Sion 12.00 pm, returning 3.30 pm, venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre
Jazz Club VSMF Tuesday 1 September, 11.15 am returning 3.00 pm, venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre
Senior Jazz Ensemble VSMF Friday 4 September, Departing Sion 11.45 am, returning 4.15 pm, venue: Hawthorn Arts Centre
CVE VSMF Tuesday 8 September, Departing Sion 12.00 pm, returning 3.00 pm, venue: Box Hill Salvation Army Hall

Term 3 Instrumental Music Soiree – Save the date!

Instrumental students will have another opportunity to perform solo and chamber ensemble material at the Term 3 Music Soiree on Monday 7 September at 5.00 pm. Students can sign up via their respective instrumental teacher.

St Francis Xavier - Hoop Time Coaching

This is the third year we have assisted with the SFX Basketball program. Mia R (9 Red) and Carla P (9 Red) were two of ten Year 9 students who coached St Francis Xavier at their Hooptime competition on Friday 17 July. Please see below a reflection from the pair:

Last Friday we were grateful to coach some Year 5/6 basketball teams from St Francis Xavier for Hooptime Tournament. This was really enjoyable for all of us and we found it a really valuable learning experience having to work with kids who had varying basketball skills.

Coaches worked in pairs, we had the opportunity of coaching the All Stars Girls team who were undefeated, going all the way to the grand final where they unfortunately lost in a close and tightly contested game. These girls were quite experienced with basketball, however this wasn’t the case for all the other teams which varied coaching styles between pairs.

I think we can confidently say though that all teams improved and all the coaches worked really effectively in guiding the players. At the end of the day, both the players and coaches left having had a fun day of basketball, overcoming challenges and improving in both team and individual skills. This was a great opportunity for us Year 9s, we all enjoyed it and were thankful to spend the day with these younger students who also enjoyed having us coaches. Mia R (9 Red) and Carla P (9 Red)

GSV Term 3 Season

Track and Field season is back in full swing! The squad is back training with high intensity on Monday and Wednesday mornings at Box Hill Track after the term break. We attended the first of three training meets at Box Hill track on Tuesday afternoon in the lead up to our Preliminary Carnival on Tuesday 11 August at Lakeside Stadium.

Similar to our record breaking Cross Country season, consistency at training will result in personal bests at our Preliminary and Championship Carnivals. We are in a great position to compete and continue the great run of success we have experienced this year.

Our Badminton, Indoor Cricket and Soccer seasons got underway this week with Intermediates and Juniors starting strongly, Seniors commence on Monday 27 July. The standard and attendance at trials was exceptionally high, to include more students we have listed a number of training partners for some teams. Training partners are encouraged to train with the squad to develop their skills and if a player is unavailable to play on a certain week they are welcome to play. Coaches will communicate with training partners each week after training.

U18 AFL National Championships

Maeve G (12 White) played 4 matches in the U18 AFL National Championships with Victoria Metro U18 Girls in the National Championships from 14 June - 11 July. Her team finished in 3rd place behind South Australia and Allies Girls.

We would like to congratulate Zara and Maeve on a fantastic tournament in their respective sports, especially during Year 12 where demands of training and study require a lot of balance!

School Sport Australia - National Championships

We are wishing the very best of luck to our students competing at the National Championships representing School Sport Victoria from Saturday 25 July - Friday 31 July. SSA Nationals this year are held in Melbourne, hosting the best age group athletes from around Australia in multiple sports. It is a busy schedule and we look forward to supporting our students as they represent our state!

Ana C (9 Blue) - U14 AFL Girls (White Team)
Olivia M (12 Gold) - Diving
Ella R (12 Purple) - Diving
Natasha M (7 Silver) - U12 Basketball Emergency

Go Sion!

Newsletter | Work hand in hand, be the light that heals the Earth

Important Dates

What's On

From the Principal

Principal's Message

Celebrating Excellence

Expanding Horizons

Congratulations Allison Stott, Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching, Recipient of the 2026 PAVCSS Memorial Leadership Scholarship

From the Deputy Principals

Deputy Principal Faith and Mission – Anna Gionfriddo

Year 7 Retreat Day

Year 9 Retreat Day

Sion Day 2026 Launch

Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing – Christine Kralj

Showing Up Matters

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families resource

In Remembrance

Pastoral Care

College Psychologist – Vanessa Cheng

Supporting your teen when a friend is struggling

Student Leader Spotlight

Student Leader Spotlight – Amy F (12 Silver), Music Captain

Year Level News

Year 12 – Kathryn Steward, Wellbeing and Growth Leader

Student Progress Meeting

VCE English Support for Year 12 students

Congratulations Zara!

Upcoming Dates

Year 11 – Leanne Anderson, Wellbeing and Growth Leader

Year 10 – Adam Rieusset, Wellbeing and Growth Leader

Ballroom Dancing

Duke of Edinburgh Awards Evening

Year 9 – Mrs Jennifer Tilley, Wellbeing and Growth Leader

Year 8 – Laura Malone, Wellbeing and Growth Leader

The 8s and their Student Voice

Year 7 – Jade Goss, Wellbeing and Growth Leader

Learning Area News

Languages – Gail Amato, Learning Leader

International Partnership Programs

Co-curricular News

Music – Martin Macaulay, Head of Music

Ensembles Concert Night – music triumph!

Term 3 Principal’s Assembly

Victorian Schools Music Festival and Royal South Street Eisteddfod – Term 3

Sport – Liam Cox, Head of Sport

St Francis Xavier - Hoop Time Coaching

GSV Term 3 Season

U18 AFL National Championships

School Sport Australia - National Championships

Careers and Pathways – Brooke O'Hara, Coordinator

Parent News

Sion Day Op Shop - Donations Needed

Parents' Association Term 3 Meeting Invitation

Significant Men's Breakfast – Save the Date

RYPEN (Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment)

Key details

Butterfly Foundation Free Webinar

Raising BodyKind Teens Webinar

A Night at the Theatre - Presented by Whitefriars College Performing Arts Department

Important Dates

From the Principal

From the Deputy Principals

Pastoral Care

Student Leader Spotlight

Year Level News

Learning Area News

Co-curricular News

Parent News

Important Dates

From the Principal

From the Deputy Principals

Pastoral Care

Student Leader Spotlight

Year Level News

Learning Area News

Co-curricular News

Parent News

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