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

Community sits at the heart of who we are at Our Lady of Sion College. It is through relationships built on trust, care and shared purpose that our school truly comes to life. Our sense of belonging is strengthened when we gather, celebrate, reflect and support one another in meaningful ways.

In an all‑girls secondary school environment, the power of community is particularly significant. Our students at Our Lady of Sion College are encouraged to find their voice, take risks, and lead with confidence, supported by peers and role models who genuinely champion one another. Learning in this environment allows girls to engage fully, develop strong relationships and grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually within a culture that values collaboration, respect and courage.

Over the past fortnight, this strength of community has been clearly evident. Our students have come together with enthusiasm and pride through the House Athletics Carnival, House Cross Country, and GSV competitions, while creativity, and confidence were on display at the Term 2 Music Soiree, Open Studio, Debating, the Production, and Generations in Jazz. These experiences foster teamwork, resilience and a sense of belonging.

Our extended community of parents/carers and alumnae have continued to play a vital role in bringing our Sion charism to life. The Parents' Association Year 7 Meet, Eat and Greet evening, Parents' Association meeting, Significant Women’s Day Breakfast, and Year 12 Mentors' Breakfast were powerful reminders that education at Sion is a shared endeavour grounded in partnership and connection.

Moments of reflection and dialogue have also enriched our community in the last fortnight. The Sisters of Sion Conversation Café with VCE students and the Holocaust Memorial Service invited us to listen deeply, honour memory and respond with compassion and responsibility. In this edition of the Newsletter, you will be able to read more about these opportunities and the ways they enrich the life of Our Lady of Sion community. Fr Theodore Ratisbonne encourages us to 'look beyond, look further, look deeper,' a call that echoes the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Sion to build communities grounded in faith and understanding. As Scripture reminds us, 'We are one body with many parts' (1 Corinthians 12:12), called always to encourage one another and build each other up (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Together, our Sion community continues to be a source of strength, hope and purpose.

Holocaust Memorial Service

On Tuesday 5 May, Our Lady of Sion College had the privilege of hosting a Holocaust Memorial Service which remembered the destruction of six million Jews in the Holocaust. It is a continuing initiative involving members of the Catholic, Anglican, and Uniting Churches, and is supported by the Council of Christians and Jews (Victoria) and the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, Australia. It was wonderful to be able to welcome members of the Jewish community, along with principals, staff and students from other Catholic schools and members of the Catholic, Uniting and Anglican Churches to our College.

Our Year 12 students proudly led the service with readings and prayers, and the beautiful voices of the College Vocal Ensemble filled the memorial with a deep sense of reflection for all in attendance. Our Year 10 students dressed the altar with symbols which reflected the horror of the Holocaust. Firstly, the black cloth placed on the altar, represented the darkness of the Holocaust and a recognition of the human capacity for evil. The Star of David which was attached to the black cloth was the identifying sign Hitler commanded each Jew to wear on their outer garment. Next a white cloth for the Jewish liturgical colour of holiness and atonement, and also a reminder of the white shroud of burial, was placed on the altar. Six lit candles were then placed on the altar in memory of the six million Jews who were destroyed in the Holocaust.

The incredible story told by Holocaust survivor Dr George Deutsch OAM, was extremely moving and truly highlighted the significance of the evening. The musical reflection, which followed, Schindler´s List theme by John Williams, performed on the violin by Angelica N (12 Purple) and Ms Forsberg, accompanied by Ms Han on piano, was haunting and filled with emotion. The student reflection shared by Amelia W (11 Blue), where she spoke of the impact studying the Holocaust had on her, and what we as a society should do now and into the future to stand up against antisemitism was not only heartfelt but left a great impression on all those present. Mr Alex Kats from the Council of Christians and Jews (Victoria), recited the Kaddish which is a sacred and powerful Jewish prayer for those who have died.

As a part of the Concluding Rite prayer, the Candle of Hope was placed on the altar and the singing of Shalom Chaverim was a beautiful way to end the service.

Student Reflection

Prior to the memorial service, a kosher supper was shared where we welcomed other school groups including students and staff, as well as Jewish and Christian members of the public. This gave us the opportunity to connect and discuss the importance of recognising and remembering the Holocaust, especially in today’s society.

During the service we heard, Dr George Deutsch (OAM) talk about his life and how he owes his and his family’s lives to a kind family who helped them escape the Nazis. George also talked about how he is now a speaker for an organisation ‘Courage to Care Victoria’, which helps educate and inspire young people to become ‘upstanders’ rather than ‘bystanders’.

The Holocaust Memorial Service was very moving for all those who attended. Chloe M (10 Gold) and Clare N (10 White)

Wishing all members of the College community many blessings.

Understanding the 11 Child Safe Standards - Part II

Two weeks ago, I shared an overview of the first six Child Safe Standards and how we implement them here at the College. This week, I am pleased to conclude this series by detailing Standards 7 through 11.

I encourage you to take the time to read through this important information and engage with the ongoing work we are doing to keep our students safe.

7. Child-focused complaints processes - Students can raise concerns safely and confidently. Our approach includes:

Support flow chart provided to parents/carers and staff at PPC
Grievance Resolution Policy
Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy
Professional Learning - Mandatory reporting e-module

8. Child safety knowledge, skills and awareness - Staff are trained to recognise and respond to concerns. Our approach includes:

Mandatory Reporting Flowchart
Risk Documentation
Information Sharing Protocols
Student Wellbeing surveys - feedback to staff

9. Safe physical and online environments - Risks are identified and managed. Our approach includes:

Code of Conduct/Code of Belonging
Student Use of Technology Guidelines in planner
Pastoral Care lessons - bully busters/Your Safety Matters
Duty of Care Guidelines
College Firewall
Risk Management Plans

10. Continuous improvement - We regularly review practices to strengthen safety. Our approach includes:

Board review and approval of policies
Leadership Team agenda items - review of case management
Professional Learning giving Pastoral Care team access to best practice

11. Documented policies and procedures
Clear expectations guide consistent action. Our approach includes:

Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy
Mandatory Reporting Guidelines
Code of Belonging for parents/carers
Code of Conduct
First Aid Policy
Risk Management Policy

Together, these standards help ensure our College remains a safe, supportive and respectful community for every student.

Parent Webinar 2 with Dr Justin Coulson: Boys - Building Strong Young Men From the Inside Out

A Broadcast was sent on Wednesday 6 May 2026 with information for the second of the four Webinars offered for 2026. Please click HERE to access the information flyer and how to register.

Dr Justin Coulson’s Happy Families resource

The Happy Families article for this publication is:

Don't Burn the Chicken – click here to read.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand and manage our own emotions, while also being able to empathise with and respond to the emotions of others. It plays an important role in wellbeing, relationships, communication and resilience, particularly during the teen years, when emotions can often feel overwhelming.

Teens with strong emotional intelligence skills are generally better able to:

Cope with stress
Navigate friendship challenges
Manage conflict in healthy and respectful ways
Recognise when they need support and ask for help
Make thoughtful and healthy decisions
Develop self-awareness and empathy
Maintain positive mental health and wellbeing

Parents play an important role in helping adolescents develop emotional intelligence. One of the most effective ways to build these skills is through everyday conversations about emotions. Encouraging teens to name and describe their feelings helps develop emotional awareness and vocabulary. Rather than immediately trying to 'fix' a problem, it is often more helpful to listen calmly, validate their feelings and show curiosity about their experience.

Modelling healthy emotional regulation is also important, as teens learn a lot by observing adults. Demonstrating calm problem-solving, respectful communication and self-care teaches valuable emotional skills.

Creating regular opportunities for connection also helps teens feel safe, supported and understood, whether through family meals, car rides or small daily check-ins. Emotional intelligence develops over time, and consistent, caring relationships provide the foundation for this growth.

If you are interested in learning more about emotional intelligence and how to integrate this into your parenting/family, the Tuning into Teens program may help. We will be advertising soon for a Term 3 intake, so please keep an eye out for an EdSmart Broadcast in the coming weeks.

If you have any concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please do not hesitate to get in touch the Counselling Team here.

Earlier this week, the Year 10s took part in our second pastoral session that looked at ways to support their organisation for upcoming assessments and exams. We spoke about:

Procrastination and Motivation – struggle with delaying work and finding the motivation to start and complete tasks efficiently. Procrastination is an active choice as opposed to an inherent trait, and choices are something we can control.
Having the right study space set up – having a dedicated study space can help you more easily separate school work from the rest of your life.
Looking after yourself – sleep, exercise and healthy eating all enhance memory and concentration and improve academic performance (all performances to be honest).

Our focus in our study skills session focused on time management, prioritisation, study habits and focus. We spoke about the importance of using diary strategies that allow us to see what is occurring (coming up). Then we looked for spaces in our week that allow us to dedicate ourselves to our studies. Finally we spoke about how motivation comes from doing. By adopting our plan on a continuous basis, motivation will come because of this, of being consistent.

Executive Functioning:

In the second part of exploring executive functioning skills that can be developed and fostered over the coming weeks. In this edition I’d like to encourage our Year 10 students and families to explore:

Problem Solving (flexible thinking)

In this area I encourage our students and families to take on board a growth mindset approach. Look for positive ways to solve the problem that is before you. This could be breaking a bigger task down into smaller chunks, it could be navigating how to approach asking more questions in class. Or it could be seeing the opportunities within your week to spend time studying your subjects. I encourage our young people to ‘think critically and solve problems’. Parents/carers can, and will, act as the support. But allow our young people to own this process.

Seeking Support:

I encourage our young people, (and our parents/carers) to know that it is perfectly ok to seek support. We can seek support by asking questions, by starting conversations, by being curious on how others around us use their executive functioning skills to benefit what they do each day. By seeking support we can learn what might work for us. And support can come from many places, parents/carers, friends, teachers and extended family members. I promise you (young people, parents/carers) that you are not alone. Share your thoughts and concerns. By discussing these, you engage in explicit teaching and learning of seeking support.

In our first two articles with this space we have spoken about organisation, planning and prioritising, problem solving (flexible thinking) and seeking support. These executive functions we do every day, without noticing on most occasions. I want to encourage all Year 10 families to name these functions when you see them in action. “I like the way you solved that problem”, “I see how you planned out your day”, “I loved the way you sought out that help and advice”, “I acknowledge that shift in your mindset, to see what was possible on that occasion”. By naming what we see, our young people (all of us) will be able to grow with confidence, little bit by little bit.

Finally, I’d also like to thank those families who joined us at the Morrisby Information Evening this week. It was wonderful to see so many families present and I certainly agree with many of the parents'/carers' reflections on just how good the Morrisby report is for our young people. There is so much opportunity for exploration of what they may consider post secondary education.

As we head off into the next cycle, explore what is possible, be curious and ask plenty of questions.

Cybersafety and our Students

Year 8 students recently had the opportunity to hear from Youth Resource Officer Verity Newport, who delivered an important and highly engaging session focused on online safety and responsible digital behaviour.

A key message from Verity centred on protecting personal information online. Students were reminded never to share private details such as phone numbers, addresses, passwords or other identifying information with people they do not know or trust. Understanding the risks associated with oversharing is a crucial step in staying safe in digital environments.

Throughout the session, students viewed a range of potential real-life scenarios through video clips that highlighted potential online dangers. They listened attentively, asked thoughtful questions and contributed meaningfully to discussions. The Year 8s demonstrated a strong foundational knowledge of online safety.

Another important focus was the idea of 'think before you post.' Students were encouraged to pause and consider the impact of their words, images and comments, as well as how they may be perceived by others now and in the future. This connected strongly to the concept of an online footprint, helping students understand that their digital actions can leave a lasting record.

Verity also reinforced the importance of speaking to a trusted adult if students ever feel uncomfortable, unsure or unsafe online. Knowing when and how to seek support is a key protective strategy.

Overall, the session ensured students are better equipped to recognise risks and respond appropriately, helping them stay safe and informed in all online spaces they may encounter. As these new social media age restrictions are something schools and families are continuing to learn and navigate together, we acknowledge that this is a developing space for everyone. We are committed to supporting parents/carers as we work together to help our young people use technology safely, responsibly and positively.

Generations in Jazz

Congratulations to the 30 musicians who represented Sion at the ‘Generations in Jazz’ (GIJ) National Jazz Music championships held under the big tent in beautiful Mt Gambier, South Australia.

CVE and the Senior Jazz Ensemble performed the required test piece, ballad and own choice very well. Both groups were led by our senior musicians who are now veterans of GIJ: Amy F (12 Silver), Chantelle A (12 Silver), Angelica N (12 Purple), Sarita T (12 Red), Alessia D (12 Purple), Cecilia B (12 Red), Tiana K (12 Purple) and the younger members of both groups gained some valuable experience.

Over 350 schools, and 5000 students from across Australia participated. Congratulations to Amy F (12 Silver), who was named in the prestigious Division 4 Superband, which recognises outstanding musicianship (see below):

Highlights were:

The concert performances of guest artist ‘Tower of Power’ from Oakland, California, and the Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra
Listening to other school groups from around Australia
Vocal and Instrumental workshops with guest clinicians
The visit to the beautiful Blue Lake.

Please note the dates for next year: 30 April - 2 May 2027.

Significant Women’s Breakfast

Congratulations to director Ms Forsberg and members of the Vivace/Senior Strings who performed at this annual event last week in a packed Louise Humann Centre. It was a great opportunity for this group to perform some of the Celtic/folk style repertoire they have been rehearsing.

Term 2 Music Soiree

Congratulations to instrumental and classroom music students who performed at the Term 2 Music Soiree, held last Monday 11 May in the Miriam Theatre. It was a great opportunity to perform solo and chamber music, in preparation for upcoming elective music and AMEB assessments.

VCE Music Performance Unit 1 and 3 Recitals – Monday 18 May

VCE students studying Music Performance (Repertoire) at Year 11 and 12 are presenting their semester recitals on Monday 18 May at 5.00 pm in the Music Room RD 1.22. Parents/carers, and friends of these students are most welcome to attend.

Year 7 Ensembles Open Rehearsals – next week

Parents/carers of our newest Sionians are invited to attend one of the rehearsal sessions of the group your daughter is involved in. Go behind the scenes to see how an ensemble practise session runs! Please refer to the poster below for specific times for each group.

Prospective Students Years 3, 4, 5 Information Evening – Intermezzo Strings

The Intermezzo Strings, under the direction of Mrs Jackie Tinsley, are performing at the Prospective Families Information Night next week on Thursday 21 May. This performance supports the important information evening for families interested in sending their daughter to Our Lady of Sion College. Families involved have been sent information via EdSmart.

2026 Ensembles Concert Thursday 25 June 2026

We are very excited to present the annual Music Department Ensembles Concert this year as part of Music Week. All OLSC ensembles, large and small, will be performing. It will run in two ‘acts’ according to the schedule below. TryBooking links will open soon - tickets are free but you need to book.

Act 1 5.00 – 6.30 pm Year 7 Junior Concert Band 1 (Monday morning group), Jazz Club, Year 7 Junior Strings, Allegro Strings, Flute Ensemble, Intermezzo Strings, College Choir, Senior Concert Band, Symphony Orchestra and Combined Choir
Act 2 7.00 – 8.30 pm Combined Choir, Year 7 Junior Concert Band 2 (Tuesday afternoon group), Rock Band, Jazz Club, Year 7 Choir, Senior/Vivace Strings, VCE Music Class, Intermediate Concert Band, College Vocal Ensemble, Senior Jazz Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra and Combined Choir.

Watch this space for booking details.

House Athletics Carnival

What a fantastic day of House spirit we experienced on Wednesday 13 May. The sun was out and our staff and students were full of energy. The field events were well populated with frequent cheers heard from each pocket of the venue as students gave their best jump and throw in their selected events. Majority of track events were closely contested with an even spread of House colours taking out races. It was extremely tight all day, only 16 points separated 3rd and 1st places which is the closest finish we have experienced.

Lourdes took out the Novelty events with strong numbers and an unmatched chant which helped secure vital points towards the House Cheering Trophy. It was however, Fatima, for an eighth straight year retaining the overall title as House Athletics Champions by a very narrow margin.

A massive thank you to all staff that played their roles on the day, the atmosphere created was fantastic. Special mention to Mr Simon Armstrong who did a mountain of work in the lead up to the event with data entry. We could not put together an event without your support and enthusiasm! The Year 12 students celebrated their final House Carnival in style!

Year level champions will be announced at assemblies shortly. We are very excited to continue our rise with GSV Track and Field which will kick off later this term on Monday and Wednesday mornings at Box Hill Athletics Track. Everyone is welcome to participate in training which will be advertised as the Cross Country season begins to wind down.

Aerobics State Finals

All of our Aerobics teams are gearing up for State Finals on Saturday 23 May at The Performing Arts Centre, Rowville Secondary College after dominant performances on Friday 1 May at the State Qualifiers. The four teams (1 Junior and 3 Senior) were amazing and definitely received the loudest cheers thanks to the energy coming from Sion teams side of the stage. Only a few more training sessions to go!

Our Juniors are performing in Session 5 (3.00 pm) and the Senior Teams are competing in Session 6 (4.20 pm), would be great to have Sion support in the crowd!

Athletics Victoria All Schools Road Relays

For the first time, we submitted 5 teams to compete in the All Schools Road Relay 4x3 km with outstanding results! This was an initiative our Sports Captain Erin M (12 Red) brought to life, Erin has had a huge impact on our Cross Country squad and continues to inspire students at morning sessions. Below is a reflection from the event:

On Saturday 2 May, Our Lady of Sion College competed in our first ever Athletics Victoria All Schools Road relays. It was amazing to see 20 Sion girls running in five relay teams competing in age groups ranging from Under 16– Under 20. Each athlete completed a 3 km leg around Princes park which is an iconic running venue in Melbourne.

Amongst some competitive schools and 528 female athletes in total competing, our u16 teams finished 14th, 33rd and 36th respectively. Our Under 18 team finished 26th and our Under 20 team finished 1st!

This was an awesome opportunity for the Sion girls to compete against other schools from around Victoria in preparation for our upcoming GSV preliminary and championship events. What makes this event more special is the relay team aspect about working together and achieving results together makes the sport of cross country feel a lot more team based.

I am really grateful our Under 20 team got to share a joint team gold medal together as we had Molly D (8 Gold), Emma R (9 Blue), Sophie F (11 White) and myself showing a great sense of peer connection between the year levels and on the day no matter what year level someone was in, everyone was cheering and supporting one another creating that sense of unity the Sion sport culture brings.

Well done to everyone that competed on the day, and a massive thank you to Mr Rieusset for being there and supporting us on the day. Sports Captain Erin M (12 Red)

Our Lady of Sion presents our 2026 Senior Production of The Importance of Being Earnest

This week, our stage comes alive with wit, laughter, and the extraordinary talent of our students as we present ‘The Importance of Being Earnest.’

Months of dedication, rehearsals, creativity, and collaboration have led to this moment, and we could not be prouder of everyone involved. This year’s production features a double cast across four performances, giving even more students the opportunity to step into these memorable roles and share their work with our community.

Behind the scenes, students have also been working tirelessly backstage and on set painting, helping transform ideas into the beautiful world audiences will experience on stage. Their commitment, creativity, and teamwork have been an essential part of bringing this production to life.

The learning that comes from a school production extends far beyond what the audience sees under the lights. Theatre teaches students resilience, teamwork, responsibility, communication, creativity, and confidence. It gives students the unique joy of working together towards a shared goal and the satisfaction of seeing months of effort culminate in a live performance.

Productions like this create lasting memories - from rehearsals and late afternoons painting sets to the excitement before curtain call and the shared pride of presenting a finished show to an audience. These are experiences that help shape students not only as performers and creators, but as collaborative and capable young people.

We encourage everyone in our community not to miss this wonderful production. There is still time to secure tickets for Saturday’s matinee and evening performances, and we would love to see our community come together to celebrate the incredible efforts of our students.

There will be many people to thank once the final curtain falls, and we look forward to recognising all those who have contributed in the next edition.

Please secure your tickets via TryBooking here.