Over the past fortnight, our students have embraced a wide range of opportunities that have challenged them to perform, create, explore, reflect and persevere. Whether on the stage, in the city, through the arts, in encounters with the Sisters of Sion, or in the examination room, these experiences remind us that learning takes many forms and that growth often comes when we step beyond our comfort zone.
Last week, our College community was captivated by the remarkable talents of our students in the Junior Production of Robin Hood. The confidence and energy displayed by our performers and backstage crew were outstanding. Opportunities such as this is a hallmark of an all-girls education, providing students with the confidence to take risks, discover their strengths, find their voice and support one another in achieving a shared goal. We congratulate all students and staff involved in bringing this production to life.
All our Year 8 students participated in the City Experience program this week. Through exploring Melbourne's cultural, historical and civic landmarks, students were encouraged to engage with the world around them with curiosity. Experiences beyond the classroom play an important role in helping young people develop independence, broaden their perspectives and make meaningful connections between their learning and the wider community.
Creative Arts Week provided another opportunity for students to showcase their talents and celebrate the many forms of artistic creativity that enrich life at Sion. We were delighted to welcome parents/carers and families to the Creative Arts Showcase and I thank families and staff for your ongoing support of our students' creative pursuits.
We were also privileged to welcome some International Sisters of Sion to the College. Their visit strengthened our connection to the global Sion community and provided a meaningful opportunity for students and staff to reflect on the rich heritage and mission that continue to shape our College today. We are grateful for the time they spent with us and for the ongoing witness they provide to the charism of Sion.
This week also marked an important milestone for our Year 12 students as they commenced their VCAA examinations. After years of learning, growth and preparation, they have now entered the final stage of their secondary education journey. We keep them in our thoughts and prayers and wish them every success in the weeks ahead.
Together, these experiences reflect the richness of life at Our Lady of Sion College and the many opportunities our students are given to grow in confidence, curiosity, creativity and resilience. We are proud of the way they continue to embrace new challenges and opportunities, preparing them to make a meaningful contribution to the world around them.
Parents' Association
At the recent Parents’ Association Annual General Meeting, we had the opportunity to acknowledge and thank our outgoing President, Jakki Poustie for her dedicated service and leadership over the past four years.
Through her generosity, commitment and enthusiasm, she has made a significant contribution to the life of the College and the Parents’ Association. Her leadership has helped strengthen connections within our parent community, support numerous College events, and foster a spirit of partnership between families and the College. On behalf of the entire College community, we extend our sincere gratitude for her years of service.
We are pleased to announce the Parents’ Association Committee for 2027:
President: Belinda van der Lit
Vice President: Gina Giusti
Treasurer: Ellissia Roper
We thank these committee members for their ongoing commitment to the Parents’ Association and their willingness to continue serving our community in these leadership roles. Their experience, dedication and knowledge will provide valuable continuity as the Association continues its important work in supporting the College and fostering connections among our families.
Seeking a new Secretary of the Parents' Association
We are seeking a parent to take on the role of Secretary of the Parents’ Association. If you are interested in taking on this role please contact principal@sion.catholic.edu.au.
From the Deputy Principals
Deputy Principal Faith and Mission – Anna Gionfriddo
As we look ahead to 2027, one important part of transition is appointing our new Year Level Liturgy Representatives. These students will have the opportunity to help strengthen our liturgical life and encourage their peers to grow in faith, compassion and care for others.
We are currently interviewing 17 students from Years 7–10 for these significant roles. It has been wonderful to see such enthusiasm and passion for the faith life of our College, and strong interest in contributing to our prayer, liturgical and Eucharistic celebrations.
The Liturgy Captain, Amelia W (11 Blue) and I have been most impressed by the interviews so far. The students have spoken thoughtfully about what they might bring to the role especially for Year Level Chapel and lunchtime initiatives. Their meaningful responses have highlighted the positive impact our school’s faith life has had on them and their growing desire to become more actively involved.
Thank you to every applicant for sharing their passion, gifts, ideas and commitment. Their willingness to serve is a wonderful sign of the vibrant faith community we are building together.
A Message from our new Liturgy Captain
My name is Amelia, and I am so honoured and excited to be the Our Lady of Sion College Liturgy Captain for 2027. Going into next year, I feel particularly passionate about engaging with all members of our Sion Community in the faith life of our school, for we are all part of God’s kingdom. This November I will be embarking on the ACU ‘School Leaders Program’, where I will spend two weeks in Rome and one in London deepening my understanding of leadership, the early Catholic Church and Western Civilisation. I know this will be an incredible opportunity for my faith formation, and I can’t wait to return and share all that I have learned with our College Community! Amelia W (11 Blue)
Wishing all members of the College community many blessings.
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing – Christine Kralj
Travel Safety and Looking After One Another
As many of our students travel to and from school independently, often using trains and buses, it is important that they feel confident, aware and prepared to respond safely if a situation arises that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
We encourage students to travel with friends where possible, stay in well-lit areas, and move towards other passengers or public transport staff if they feel uneasy. Students should trust their instincts, if something does not feel right, it is important to move away early rather than wait for the situation to escalate.
Students should also be cautious when using their phone cameras in public spaces. Attempting to take a photo of someone without their consent, even if intended as evidence, can escalate the situation, particularly if the person is prone to aggression. We encourage students to prioritise their safety first: move to a safe location, seek assistance from transport staff, police, or a trusted adult, and contact parents/carers or the College for guidance rather than taking direct photos in the moment.
If a student feels unsafe, they should contact a parent/carer as soon as they are able. If they cannot reach a family member, they may also call the College for advice and support while in transit. In urgent situations, students should contact Victoria Police on 000.
Students and families are encouraged to report concerning behaviour through the appropriate channels, including Public Transport Victoria, Metro, V/Line and Victoria Police. Please also notify the College of any incident or concerning interaction that occurs during travel. We record these reports and share them through a system that alerts other schools in our region to patterns of unsafe or harassing behaviour in the community.
When a student has experienced a distressing incident, we can provide practical support on arrival, check in with them throughout the day, and, if worries persist, arrange counselling and wellbeing support.
By encouraging students to look out for one another, speak up when something doesn’t feel right, and use safe, calm responses, we can help ensure that travel to and from school remains as safe and supportive as possible for all members of our community.
Our particular thoughts and prayers go to Lynne Hill, Food Studies Assistant, following the recent passing of her mother. Also, to Lauren R (9 Silver), on the recent passing of her grandmother.
We remember Lynne, Lauren and their families in a special way at this sad time.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and may your perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen.
Year Level News
Year 12 – Kathryn Steward, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
The past two weeks have marked a significant transition from celebration to focused study for our Year 12 students. This week, they commenced their final exams.
In the lead-up, they demonstrated a conscientious approach to their studies, actively seeking feedback and support from their teachers.
We are deeply grateful for the dedication of both our students and staff, whose shared commitment to learning has been evident throughout the year.
We wish all our Year 12 students every success in their final exams and beyond.
Year 11 – Leanne Anderson, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
Our Year 11 students are to be congratulated for their efforts during the past two weeks as they completed final assessments and outcomes for both the VCE and VM pathways.
As we enter into Week 4 of Term 4 with examinations and work placements around the corner, the Homeroom Teachers team and Year 11 subject teachers are working with the students to consider any preparation for their final assessments and placements. Students are encouraged to reflect on their progress this semester and to implement study skills and strategies that were effective for them in Semester 1.
Key Dates
Students were given a calendar of key dates at the start ofWeek 3 and detailed information has been put on the Year 11 Google Classroom regarding exams and other events leading into the end of the year.
In our Shatal session on Thursday afternoon the students had a presentation on details relating to exams and reminders were shared about techniques that can be used to prepare for the exam period. Separate information will be sent to students and families with full details and arrangements.
Year 11 students are currently navigating the Notre Dame Centre as the VCAA Year 12 Exam started this week. Some Homerooms have been asked to move lockers to accommodate these exams. The Year 11 students are to be commended on their co-operation with the changes that have taken place this week.
A big thank you and shout out to our SRC and Sport leaders who organised a dodge ball competition during our Pastoral session on Tuesday. Congratulations to 11 Silver who were the overall winners and will receive a morning tea of donuts as their prize.
I am also calling upon our Year 11s to support our annual St Vinnies Christmas drive. Students have been allocated toiletry items by their Homeroom leaders and are asked to bring these items into school by Thursday 5 November.
As we lead into this period of exams and work placements, we wish our students all the best. If you feel your daughter is needing extra support during this time please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Year 10 – Adam Rieusset, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
Our Semester 2 exams will commence on Friday 6 November. Earlier this week our Year 10s participated in another session on how to best prepare for their upcoming exams. Although much was learned by the students in Semester 1, it is always good to reflect on our learnings and plan out what the next few weeks will look like. At this time, I’d also like to share a resource from REACHOUT, that I feel will further support families during the exam period and our SmartStart period. Both time periods are full of challenges, navigating the unknown and asking the students to step into the uncomfortable.
Managing Exams is a good guide of how families can support their young person navigating exams. You will see that they do mention Year 12 exams as a point of reference. However, the habits they speak about, the mindset and approaches highlighted are very relevant for our Year 10 students. With the support of their families, our Year 10s ability to foster a positive mindset around exams will support them with every exam, test and interview they will have.
I want to wish all families all the very best over the coming cycle. As a family unit you will navigate much. Know that we are only an email or phone call away should you need any assistance. During this time, I would like to encourage all Year 10 families to focus on the habits that are being built: being consistent in our actions, being courageous by having the confidence to ask for help, being brave by always doing our best, even in challenging situations, and being kind by recognising, affirming and celebrating the acts of kindness we see in others.
Year 7 – Jade Goss, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
As we approach the halfway mark of Term 4, we are beginning to reflect on the successes, challenges and growth that has occurred for our Year 7s in 2026. In Pastoral lessons this term, the Year 7s have been given the opportunity to reflect on the SMART goals that they set themselves in Term 2 and to consider how they have grown from achieving these goals, or ways that they can still achieve these before the year ends. Transition has also commenced, with students putting in preferences for Year 8 Homerooms, as well as applications for leadership in 2027 closing.
With this stage of Year 7, we do often see mixed emotions in our students, ranging from anxiety to excitement. Parents/carers and family members are often a key support during this time, and we encourage you to consider the following when discussing this period in your child's schooling life:
Active listening: Give them your undivided attention when they’re speaking. Validate their feelings and avoid interrupting. Let them know that you're always there to listen, without judgement.
Encourage independence: Empower them to make decisions and solve problems on their own, without dwelling on the what - ifs that may drive anxious thinking. If they have concerns, please direct them to speak with myself, their Homeroom Teacher or another trusted staff member.
Help them develop coping strategies: Teach them healthy ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness, grounding techniques, journaling, or spending time in nature.
Offer support, not solutions: Help them brainstorm solutions and encourage them to take ownership of the situation.
Remember, every student is going to have a different approach to these life transitions. By fostering a strong parent/carer-child-school relationship, we can help them to navigate these challenges with confidence and resilience.
Learning Area News
Arts – Natasha Borg, Learning Leader
Creative Arts Week
Creative Arts Week 2026 brought our school to life with vibrant energy, highlighting the exceptional talent of our Visual Arts students across Years 7–12.
From the fast-paced Mr Squiggle House Competition to interactive gallery challenges and our student media screenings, the week showcased the remarkable depth of our creative community.
At the 2026 Creative Arts Showcase evening families and friends explored a multi-zone gallery trail spanning the College, accompanied by live sets from the College Rock Band, before gathering in the Notre Dame Centre for our major award presentations.
Year 12 Major Award Recipients
We are thrilled to celebrate our 2026 Year 12 Major Award Recipients:
Bezalel Art Award (Overall Prize): Aurelia H (12 Gold)
Principal’s Choice Award: Gabriella A (12 Purple)
Fine Art Award: Amy F (12 Silver)
Production Innovation Award: Matilda R (12 Gold)
Fibre Art Award: Lylah P (12 Blue)
Good Design Award: Sophia B (11 Purple)
Social Justice Award: Maya L (12 Blue)
Unit 3/4 Endeavour Awards
Creative Practice: Cassandra B (12 Blue)
Making & Exhibiting: Olivia M (12 Gold)
Media: Cecilia B (12 Red)
Visual Communication Design: Jessica P (12 White)
Overall, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made Creative Arts Week and our celebration of the Arts as a College community possible through their support across the week. Thank you to our students, staff, and College community for your passionate support of the Visual Arts. Congratulations to all our awardees and exhibited artists!
Languages – Gail Amato, Learning Leader
Last week was a wonderful celebration of language learning, cultural discovery and student achievement. Our Year 9 Italian students travelled back in time through their visit to the Rome Exhibition, deepening their appreciation of Italy’s rich history and cultural heritage. Meanwhile, our Year 9 Chinese students explored the fascinating stories and traditions of the Chinese community during their visit to the Chinese Museum and China Town.
We also celebrated a special moment of pride at the Dante Alighieri Award Ceremony, where one of our students Maia F (9 Silver) was presented with an award in recognition of her achievement. It was a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate her accomplishment.
Adding to the week’s highlights, our Year 12 language students completed their oral examinations, demonstrating their dedication and preparation. We wish them all the very best for the remainder of their examinations and commend them on their hard work and commitment.
These experiences reflect the many ways in which language learning extends beyond the classroom, fostering cultural understanding, building confidence and creating opportunities to celebrate success. Some of our students wish to share their reflections on these memorable experiences and the learning, inspiration and achievements they will take away from them.
Student Reflections
On Monday, all Year 9 Italian students had the opportunity to visit the Rome exhibition at Melbourne Museum. There were over 150 objects in this exhibition from two of Italy’s most important museums, Museo Nazionale Romano and Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Firenze with objects from the Imperial period 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE. This gave students an insight into the life of Ancient Romans especially those who were wealthy. We learnt about significant historical figures such as Julius Caesar and saw their statues while learning about his reign over Rome as dictator until his assassination. We also investigated his impact on Roman society and his revolution on money, being the first to put their face on coins. Finally, we learnt about the Roman goddess of love, Venus and how ancient Romans honoured many gods and goddesses and told stories of mythology. Our classes also visited Lygon Street, known as “Little Italy” where we were able to explore the area predominantly made up of Italian restaurants, that showcase the culture. Evdoxia S (9 Silver), Emily W and Chloe G (9 Silver)
On 23 October, as part of the Chinese curriculum, our Year 9 Chinese class accompanied by Mrs Amato and Ms Wang went on an exciting excursion to Chinatown. First, we visited Melbourne Central, where we had lunch and enjoyed some shopping in small groups.
At 12.45 pm, we made our way through the streets of Chinatown to the Chinese Museum. Along the way, we saw a variety of Chinese restaurants and shops, as well as bright and colourful decorations throughout the area. I really enjoyed exploring Chinatown and experiencing its lively atmosphere.
At the Chinese Museum, we learnt about the history of the earliest Chinese immigrants to Australia and some Chinese culture. I found it fascinating to see replicas of historical objects and displays showcasing Chinese temples, traditional beliefs and customs. I also learnt many interesting facts about Chinese festivals, including how they celebrate the Spring Festival today.
Overall, the excursion was a fun and rewarding experience as we all learnt new things, explored different places and created wonderful memories together. Alyssa H (9 Silver)
Participating in the Dante Alighieri Poetry Competition was a meaningful experience that made me appreciate Italian language and culture in a deeper way. Receiving the 3rd prize for Year 9 was a pleasant surprise, and I felt grateful to have the opportunity to attend the award ceremony last weekend. The event celebrated Italian literature, poetry and tradition through acknowledging everyone’s achievements and listening to the winning students recite their poems. The most memorable part of the event was listening to a speech given by the President of the Dante Alighieri society that reminded us of all the importance of preserving and celebrating the Italian language as it allows the culture of Italy to live on through all those who speak it. Maia F (9 Silver)
Co-curricular News
Music – Martin Macaulay, Head of Music
Sion Intermediate Concert Band at St Luke's Primary School fete Sunday 18 October
Congratulations to the wonderful Intermediate Concert Band who performed at the St Luke’s Blackburn South Primary School fete on Sunday 18 October. Both the weather and the music making were fantastic!
AMEB Results
Congratulations to the following students who have completed recent in-person or video assessments for their respective Australian Music Examinations Board instrumental music exams:
Maia F (9 Silver) Cello Grade 3
Ava A (8 Purple) Piano Grade 3
Ava A (8 Purple) Violin Grade 2
Emily B (9 Blue) Euphonium Grade 4
Natalie C (8 White) Viola Grade 1
Alice D (10 Purple) Flute Grade 5
Melissa G (8 Silver) Viola Grade 1
Lola M (9 Red) Flute Grade 3
Aliarne S (10 Purple) Flute Grade 5
Olivia W (8 Silver) Violin Grade 2
Suzie Y (8 Silver) Piano Grade 4
Anita Z (8 Gold) Flute Grade 5
2027 Instrumental Music lessons at Sion
Enrolments are now open and available on-line for Instrumental Music lessons in 2027. All the details including fees, instrument hire charges and conditions are available via this link. Confirmation of enrolment needs to be completed here. Please note that charges will be applied to your College fees statement in early 2027. Address any enquiries to the Head of Music.
Instrumental Music Lesson Scholarship Applications Closing Soon
A limited number of instrumental music lesson scholarships, lasting two years, will be made available in 2027 to students currently in Years 7 and 8 for the following instruments:
Viola
Cello
Double Bass
Electric Bass
French Horn
Euphonium
Trombone
Percussion
Guitar
Interested students/families should email Mr Macaulay for an application form.
Year 7 Junior Concert Bands – Monday and Tuesday Concert 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 (VSMF) on Monday 9 November, at the Hawthorn Arts Centre. This event is open to the public, free and live-streamed, with more details to be announced in coming weeks. String and voice students will have a special program on-site at Sion that day.
Year 7 Spring Concert – Save the Date
All Year 7 musicians, ensembles, small groups, and those Year 7s in Intermediate level ensembles will be performing at the annual Year 7 Spring Music Concert, on Tuesday 10 November at 7.00 pm in the Louise Humann Centre.
Tickets are free but must be booked via the TryBooking link here.
Artwork by Nicole C (7 White)
Sion First (Year 6) Music Program 2027
Those families with students currently in Year 5 (Year 6, 2027) are invited to the Sion First Music Program launch on Wednesday 11 November 7.00 pm in the Miriam Theatre. This is an opportunity to find out about this terrific program, students can trial a number of string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Please see below for further information and details on how to register.
Sport – Liam Cox, Head of Sport
Term 4 Sport
We are halfway through a cracking season of GSV for our Intermediate and Junior teams, while Senior GSV and preseason aquatics training has now concluded. A reminder that all fixtures can be found in Year Level Classrooms and at the following link Term 4 Fixture.
Congratulations to Senior A Basketball and Senior Years 9-11 B Cricket who both finished their seasons third overall. They both put in a valiant effort on Monday afternoon in their attempts to secure the final spot in their respective Grand Finals.
Our students have enjoyed undertaking preseason swimming at Nunawading, and preseason diving at PLC. We hope to return to our usual training location at Aquanation in the new year, and will advise swimming and diving students of any updates. A summer training program will be released on the ATFX Classroom shortly.
We have been informed by GSV that the College will be competing in the following championship divisions in 2027:
Division 2 - Diving
Division 3 - Swimming
Division 2 - Cross Country
Division 3 - Track and Field
CGSAV Table Tennis
On Tuesday 6 October, we proudly returned to the CGSAV Table Tennis Tournament at MSAC, with 30 students representing our school across the Senior, Intermediate and Junior divisions.
With more than 80 students trialling during lunchtime sessions, selecting the final squad was no easy task. The standard of play was exceptionally high, making for a competitive and challenging selection process. Thank you to all students who participated in trials and demonstrated such enthusiasm. The tournament format saw each team compete across seven rounds, with four pairs contributing to their team’s combined score over 30 minute matches. At the conclusion of the round robin stage, the top four teams progressed to the finals.
Our teams delivered some fantastic performances throughout the day. The Senior team narrowly missed out on finals, finishing in fifth place, while the Intermediate team fought their way through to the semi-finals, ultimately finishing fourth.
A huge congratulations goes to our Junior team, who won both their semi-final and grand final to be crowned CGSAV Premiers!
Well done to all students who attended and represented our College. A special mention to Eleni R (8 Orange) who was awarded best finals player in the Junior Premiership team!
CGSAV Junior Mixed Netball
Eleven Year 7s made their way down to Albert Park with students from Whitefriars to compete in the CGSAV Junior Mixed Netball competition at MSAC.
Our Junior teams performed well across the day, finishing seventh in Division 1 and sixth in Division 2. Well done to our students and the Whitefriars boys on a great effort!
Drama – Catherine Bennett, Teacher
A huge congratulations and thanks to all the very talented students who brought the world of Medieval England to life in our performance of Robin Hood.
This production showcased the incredible talent of so many of our junior students, from those managing lighting, sound, microphones and backstage operations to our amazing performers on stage.
After months of rehearsals, we had a fantastic run of shows to delighted audiences and families.
Congratulations on your fine portrayal of all the characters and even the arrows! We are very proud of your commitment, passion and support of each other and look forward to seeing you on stage in future Sion productions.
Careers and Pathways – Brooke O'Hara, Coordinator
Students and families can find the fortnightly Careers newsletter here.
In this issue of the Newsletter there is information relating to:
Upcoming Events: 2026 Year 12 VTAC Upcoming Key Dates
Careers Industry in the Spotlight – Project Management
Things to Consider – Monash University – Engage Engineer Event, 2027 Year 10 Work Experience
Researching options – Victoria University – Master of Project Management, CQU Melbourne – Studying Sonography, ACU Foundation Studies and Monash University – Monash Innovation Guarantee (MIG).
Parent News
College Psychologist – Vanessa Cheng
Supporting Your Teen Through Exams
As final exams approach, it is common for students to experience a mix of emotions, including anticipation, uncertainty, and stress. During this time, the support and understanding of parents/carers can make a significant difference to their wellbeing and confidence.
Practical ways to support your child during the exam period may include:
Helping them establish a realistic study schedule and avoid last-minute cramming
Providing a quiet, organised space for study where possible
Encouraging regular breaks, exercise, and time outdoors to support wellbeing
Encouraging healthy routines, including adequate sleep and nutritious meals
Checking in regularly and listening without judgment when they share concerns
Celebrate their effort, persistence, and small achievements, not just results
Encourage them to seek support from teachers, school wellbeing staff, or family members if they are feeling overwhelmed.
Be mindful of signs that stress may be becoming difficult to manage, such as significant changes in mood, sleep, motivation, or social connection. Often, simply knowing that trusted adults are available and supportive can make a meaningful difference.
Exam periods are a challenging but temporary stage. With understanding, encouragement, and practical support, parents/carers can play a vital role in helping their young person approach exams with resilience, confidence, and balance. In particular, we wish all the VCE students every success as they prepare for their final exams.
If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please reach out to their Wellbeing and Growth Leader or the Counselling Team for support.
