Year 11 Formal (Year 11 students dismissed at 1.30 pm)
Monday 20 July
Year 9 Retreat
Tuesday 21 July
Year 12 group photo
Wednesday 22 July
Principal's Assembly
Tuning into Teens, Miriam Theatre, 6.30 – 8.00 pm
Thursday 23 July
Year 10 Ballroom Dancing classes, LHC, 4.00 – 5.00 pm
Friday 24 July
Year 8 Medieval Day
From the Principal
Principal's Message
Each generation inherits the task of shaping its own era, of guiding history to become a place where the dignity of every person is safeguarded, justice is promoted and fraternity is made possible (Pope Leo XIV, Magnifica Humanitas, 2026).
In recent times, I have found that much of what I have been reading, listening to and reflecting on has centred on Pope Leo XIV encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence, which was released in May 2026. Its themes of human dignity, justice and fraternity offer both a challenge and an invitation, calling us to consider the kind of community we are shaping and the values that guide our daily actions.
The encyclical also speaks into our increasingly digital world, reminding us that the use of technology must serve the dignity of the human person and foster authentic connection rather than division. This is particularly relevant as artificial intelligence becomes more present in our classrooms and daily lives. It invites all of us, students, parents/carers and educators alike, to use these tools wisely and ethically, ensuring they enhance learning, support creativity and critical thinking, and never diminish the value of human relationships or the uniqueness of each person. As the encyclical reminds us, technological progress must always remain at the service of the human person and the common good.
These reflections resonate strongly with the charism of the Sisters of Sion, which calls us to keep the dignity of each person, the importance of relationships, and the search for truth at the centre of all we do. In a world shaped by rapid change and emerging technologies, this grounding becomes even more important, guiding not only learning but the way we relate to one another in all aspects of life. In our classrooms, in our homes, in our online interactions, and in all our everyday encounters. It shapes how we communicate, how we make decisions, and how we act with respect, compassion and a commitment to justice in our daily lives.
In this way, the encyclical is not something distant, but a living invitation that speaks to us all, guiding who we are and who we are called to be as a Sion community. I encourage our students, families and staff to take time to engage with its message, to reflect on its relevance in your own lives, and to consider how you each contribute to nurturing a community grounded in dignity, justice and authentic relationship.
Strengthening Our Shared Mission
Recently, College Leadership Teams from across the Family of Sion Schools in Victoria came together for a combined Leadership Teams Formation Day, offering a valuable opportunity for connection, reflection, and shared growth.
The day centred on deepening our understanding of the Sion charism and its expression in contemporary school life. Through reflective dialogue, we explored how identity shapes decision-making, culture, and the student experience, and considered ways to embed this more intentionally in practice.
Our discussions reinforced the importance of clarity of purpose and consistent communication in building strong, aligned communities. We shared practical approaches to strengthening team culture, nurturing relationships, and keeping mission at the heart of our work.
Collaboration across schools proved especially enriching, with diverse perspectives sparking fresh thinking and highlighting innovative practices for application in our own contexts.The gathering strengthened our relationships, deepened our collective understanding, and renewed our shared commitment to Sion’s mission, moving forward with a strong sense of unity and purpose.
Blessing of the Veritas Learning Centre
On Monday 22 June we officially opened and blessed our new Veritas Learning Centre. In our Catholic tradition, the blessing of a new space is an important act of prayer and dedication. It is a way of inviting God’s presence into the space, asking that all who enter may be guided in truth, wisdom and understanding. Through the act of blessing, we dedicated the centre not only as a place of learning, but as a place where faith and knowledge come together and where each person is supported to grow and flourish.
I share my Principal Address from the Blessing ceremony with you all:
Good morning and welcome to Our Lady of Sion College.
It is a privilege to gather together for this significant moment in the life of our College as we open and bless the Veritas Learning Centre. I extend a warm welcome to the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion, whose enduring vision and faith have shaped the life of this College across generations. We are also honoured by the presence of Fr Mark Reynolds, our long-standing College Chaplain.
Today is a moment of great gratitude and hope as we gather to officially open and bless our new Veritas Learning Centre. This space, transformed from its former life as science laboratories, now stands as a place where inquiry, creativity and truth will flourish in new and dynamic ways. This milestone also marks the completion of an important stage in the realisation of our College Masterplan.
I would like to begin by acknowledging Tina Apostolopoulos, our former Principal, who is with us today. Tina’s vision, leadership and commitment were instrumental in the design and development of this project. I feel privileged to have inherited a project so thoughtfully conceived and so close to completion. This centre stands as a lasting reflection of your dedication to ensuring our students have access to outstanding learning environments.
I also want to acknowledge the leadership of this project by Allison Stott, Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching, Renae Hill, Director of Business Operations and Infrastructure, and Alex Pote, Property Manager. Your collective vision, expertise and stewardship throughout the decision making process, and particularly in bringing this project to completion, have been critical. You have ensured that this centre is not only beautifully realised, but also highly functional, future focused, and aligned with the needs of contemporary learning.
I would also like to recognise our Library and Digital Technologies team. Under the leadership of Margaret Lawson and Moheb Michael, your professional expertise, insights, and deep understanding of student learning have helped shape how this space will be used and experienced. This centre reflects not only thoughtful design, but a clear educational purpose supporting creativity, collaboration and contemporary learning.
On behalf of the Our Lady of Sion College community, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks to the teams from Williams Ross Architects and Dimpat Builders who brought this vision to life.
Your collective expertise, creativity, and attention to detail have created more than just a building. You have shaped an environment that invites innovation, connection and discovery. Your ability to translate vision into a functional space is evident in every detail.
I also acknowledge our College Board and the College Finance Committee for their ongoing support and commitment to high quality learning environments. Their stewardship and belief in the importance of spaces like this enable projects to come to fruition and serve our community so well.
As a community grounded in the Sionion charism, this space holds an even deeper meaning. The name Veritas, meaning truth, sits at the heart of who we are. Our tradition calls us to seek truth. We recognise that truth is not something we simply possess, but something we seek through encounter, dialogue, study and reflection. The legacy we honour today lives on through our College vision, sowing the seeds of hope, uncovering excellence within and inspiring a commitment to justice. This centre will be a place where that vision is lived each day, where students are encouraged to question, to discover, to think deeply and to grow in wisdom.
To our students, this space has been created for you. Already, it has been wonderful to see the enthusiasm and curiosity with which you have begun to engage in this new environment. I invite you to continue to use it with curiosity, purpose and responsibility. Let it be a place where you seek truth, think critically, create boldly and work collaboratively. Take full advantage of the opportunities it provides. Challenge yourselves, support one another and strive always to grow in knowledge and understanding.
In this spirit we are guided by the words of Psalm 25: "Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation".
So to conclude, may this Veritas Learning Centre be more than a building. May it be a place where minds are opened, curiosity is nurtured and our shared commitment to truth and learning continues to shape the lives of all who enter.
Sion community generosity shines in 2026 St Vincent de Paul Society Grocery Drive
Our school community has once again demonstrated its extraordinary spirit of generosity through the 2026 Grocery Drive in support of the St Vincent de Paul Society.
In a heartfelt message of thanks, Mr Milan Poropat, President of the St Vincent de Paul Conference Box Hill, praised the outstanding effort made by students, families, and staff. He noted that the quantity and quality of food is extraordinary, reflecting the care and commitment behind every donation. Particularly meaningful were the thoughtful additions included in the donations.
Mr Poropat highlighted the impact of these small but significant gestures, sharing that special treats like Tim Tams and hot chocolate… will give a lift to our companions (people we visit). These items bring comfort and joy to those supported by St Vincent de Paul.
In addition to the groceries, the beautifully decorated calico bags added a personal and creative touch to the initiative. As Mr Poropat observed, the calico bags are very beautifully decorated and will also be a very meaningful gift to the people we support. The success of this year’s drive is a testament to the collective effort of our entire school community.
Mr Poropat extended his appreciation, asking that deep gratitude be passed to all the students and families as well as staff, with special acknowledgement of Lucy Miotello, Anna Gionfriddo, and Yolanda Muser for their leadership of the drive. We are incredibly proud of the compassion and generosity shown by our community.
From the Deputy Principals
Deputy Principal Faith and Mission – Anna Gionfriddo
Last week our Year 11 Students gathered in the peaceful and beautiful surroundings of the Don Bosco Retreat Centre in Lysterfield for their Retreat Day. It was wonderful for them to be able to spend time outside of the school environment to reflect, contemplate and to celebrate the Eucharist together, especially after such a busy time completing their Semester 1 assessments and exams.
The Retreat centred around the theme, 'Follow my lead to inspire others to make a difference,' As our students look ahead to upcoming leadership roles and their final year of schooling, the Retreat offered a valuable opportunity to explore what it truly means to lead, especially through the lens of servant leadership.
Throughout the day, the students engaged in a series of workshops designed to help them to deeply explore this theme. The students spent time reflecting on the dynamics within their families and the influence of significant people in their lives in the workshop called ‘Sitting on the Couch’. They participated in a meditation about servant leadership based on Jesus’ teachings found in the Beatitudes in Matthew’s gospel. In another workshop, the students discussed key servant leadership qualities such as empathy, listening, humility, integrity and compassion. They also reflected upon and discussed how servant leadership qualities were demonstrated by key female figures in the Bible, with Mary the Mother of God being a true role model. For the final activity, the students wrote letters to their future selves, outlining the kind of leaders they hope to become. These letters were collected and will be returned to them during their Year 12 Retreat at the beginning of next year.
Fr. Mark Reynolds, our College Chaplain, celebrated the Eucharist and it was a beautiful reminder of what it really means to follow Jesus. We live in a world that constantly tells us to chase power, status, and our own interests. Using the teachings from the readings Philippians 2:1-5 and Mark 9:33-37, Fr Mark challenged all present to do the exact opposite, and focus on leading with humble, and serving hearts.
Wishing all members of the College community many blessings.
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching – Allison Stott
Congratulations to all of our staff and students on the way that we have concluded Term 3. It has been a pleasure working with the different year levels around subject selection for 2027, and hearing their ideas for future pathways.
Reports will be released to families via SEQTA today. A letter will be sent to families just prior to this. As always, read summative reports as part of a bigger picture of student learning and growth, and for each task, extended feedback is provided by teachers within SEQTA.
I wish everyone a restful and enjoyable break, so that we return ready to take on the opportunities of Term 3.
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing – Christine Kralj
Policies Every Parent Should Know
Our College policies play an important role in creating a safe, consistent and supportive environment for every student. Understanding these policies helps parents/carers know how the College responds in specific situations, both proactively and when an issue arises. They also assist families in navigating College expectations, as well as wider MACS and government requirements, including ministerial directions related to areas such as Child Safety and Anaphylaxis.
Please be aware that if you have children attending different schools, especially across different school systems, some policies will be consistent across all schools, while others will reflect the specific needs, culture and standards of each individual school community, including our own College. Together, they guide our approach to wellbeing, learning, safety, communication and community partnerships.
Our Child Safety policies and related documents outline how we protect children, make reporting concerns understandable, and ensure students feel safe and supported. Policies such as the Child Safety Code of Conduct, Engaging Families in Child Safety, Reportable Conduct, PROTECT Reporting Obligations and our Pastoral Care Policy work collectively to build a culture of care and vigilance.
Other important policies help families understand expectations around areas such as attendance, behaviour, supervision, excursions, ICT and eSafety, assessment and reporting, medical and first aid management, grievance resolution and enrolment processes. Policies related to anaphylaxis, medical management plans and first aid outline how the College responds in health-related situations to keep students safe.
Operational and governance policies, including Privacy, Duty of Care, Occupational Health and Safety, Volunteer Induction, Whistleblower and Conflict of Interest, ensure that our College operates with transparency, integrity and accountability.
All College policies are available on our website and we encourage parents/carers to take the time to read those most relevant to their family. The more parents/carers understand how our policies guide decision-making and day-to-day practice, the better we can work together to support the wellbeing, safety and learning of every student. If you ever have questions about a policy or how it applies, please contact me or the relevant Deputy Principal for clarification.
Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families resource
The Happy Families article for this edition is: Here be Dragons
In Remembrance
Our particular thoughts and prayers are with Eliza N (9 Red), whose grandfather (Nonno) passed away recently.
We remember Eliza and her family in a special way at this sad time.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and may your perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul and the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen.
Pastoral Care
Director Pastoral Care – Paul Kerr
The Quiet is Not Empty
As we approach the term break, I find myself thinking about something that has become increasingly rare in modern life: quiet. Not silence necessarily. Not the complete absence of noise. But the experience of being unoccupied. Unstimulated. Unplugged.
Recently, I was sitting outside one evening, contemplating the pruning and trimming I need to do. No television. No emails. No phone in my hand. Just some time.
After considering the upkeep of my garden, a number of thoughts and ideas that had been sitting unfinished for weeks seemed to settle into place. Small problems that had occupied space in the back of my mind suddenly looked simpler. Ideas emerged that I had not consciously been searching for. By doing less, it felt as though my mind was somehow doing more. It turns out there is good science behind that feeling.
Researchers studying the brain have identified what is known as the 'Default Mode Network' (DMN). This network becomes active when we are not focused on an external task. Far from switching off, the brain uses these moments for reflection, memory consolidation, future planning, creativity, and making sense of our experiences. In simple terms, when we stop consuming information, our brains often begin processing it.
Many of us have experienced this without even realising it. A solution surfaces while walking the dog, going for a run, or exercising at the gym. A creative idea emerges during a long drive, or a difficult decision becomes clearer while sitting quietly and reflecting. Our brains need these moments of space, yet increasingly, both our students and we have fewer opportunities to experience them. Every spare moment can be filled with scrolling, and we have become so accustomed to constant stimulation that stillness can feel unfamiliar, and at times, uncomfortable.
Research by cognitive scientists has found that even the mere presence of a smartphone can reduce our available attentional capacity. The device does not even need to be in use. Part of our brain remains alert to its presence. If this affects adults, it is worth considering what it means for young people who have grown up in a world where moments of quiet are increasingly rare.
This matters because adolescence is a time when young people are developing a sense of who they are. They are forming values, beliefs, aspirations, and identity. Some of that work happens through conversations, classes, and experiences. Much of it also happens during unstructured moments when nothing is demanding their attention.
Perhaps one of the greatest gifts we can give our young people during the holidays is permission to have some empty space. Not every moment needs to be productive, not every car journey needs a soundtrack, and not every pause needs to be filled.
A walk without headphones. Time at a location without taking photos. Sitting in the backyard, or the balcony or reading a book, These may appear insignificant. In reality, they may be providing exactly what a busy mind needs.
As a school community, we provide many opportunities for students to step away from the normal pace of life through our sporting program, Year Level Retreat Days, camps, music programs, and experiences such as the Indigenous Immersion currently being undertaken by some of our students. These experiences are often largely free from the routines of school and, importantly, from the constant presence of devices. In creating this space, we also create opportunities for reflection, connection, and personal growth.
Over the coming break, I encourage our students to find a little time each day to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with themselves. They do not need to travel far or need an elaborate plan, just a little space.
The quiet is not empty. Sometimes it is where the most important thinking happens.
References
Ward, A. F., Duke, K., Gneezy, A., & Bos, M. W. (2017). Brain Drain: The Mere Presence of One's Own Smartphone Reduces Available Cognitive Capacity.
Black Dog Institute. Teens and Screens Study (Australian longitudinal adolescent mental health research).
Immordino-Yang, M., Christodoulou, J., & Singh, V. (2012). Rest Is Not Idleness: Implications of the Brain's Default Mode for Human Development and Education.
Smallwood, J., & Schooler, J. (2015). The Science of Mind Wandering
Hi everyone, my name is Ananya DS (12 Gold) and I am incredibly honoured to be the 2026 Fire Carrier Captain at Our Lady of Sion College. I am passionate about fostering understanding, encouraging participation, and helping create a school community where everyone feels connected and valued. Through the Fire Carrier program, I hope to promote reconciliation and deepen our appreciation for the rich cultures and histories of Indigenous Australians.
One of my favourite experiences at Sion has been celebrating Reconciliation Week with the school community. This year, we held a song screening session where students reflected on songs written by, or about, Indigenous Australians and the stories they tell. We also hosted a badge-making session featuring the theme All In, which saw a wonderful level of participation. Seeing so many students eager to engage and learn has been incredibly rewarding and has shown me just how committed our community is to reconciliation.
I was inspired to nominate for this leadership role because I believe education is one of the most powerful ways to create understanding and meaningful change. A particularly influential person in my journey has been Estella, who showed me the importance of creating opportunities for others to get involved, fostering determination, and encouraging students to feel confident enough to make a difference. Her passion and dedication motivated me to take on this role with the hope of inspiring others in the same way.
This year, I am especially excited about developing an Indigenous Seasonal Calendar display for our school. We hope to create interchangeable plaques that can be updated as the seasons change throughout the year. Evident through the facts on animal and plant wildlife that occur at each time of year. In the meantime, the Fire Carrier Ambassadors and I have been creating posters and short articles about the seasons, which you may have already seen displayed around the school.
I’m thrilled to bring this project to life and hope that whenever you come across the display, you take a moment to read about and understand the season we are in. Forming a greater appreciation, and respect for the traditions and values of the Indigenous peoples of Australia.
As Fire Carrier Ambassadors, we are guided by the meaning of FIRE: Fostering and Igniting Reconciliation through Education. I look forward to working alongside our school community as we continue this important journey together.
Year Level News
Year 12 – Kathryn Steward, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
As the term concludes, we are grateful for our Year 12 students, whose commitment to their studies and wider school life is reflected in the many ways they have engaged, contributed, and demonstrated leadership across a range of pursuits.
GAT and Trial English Exam
Year 12 students demonstrated strong commitment and adherence to VCAA processes, with their participation in the recent statewide General Achievement Test (GAT). This dedication was also evident during the English Trial Exam, where students engaged in rigorous academic practice to further develop their skills in their chosen English discipline. The exams will be externally marked, providing valuable feedback to support students' preparation for the term ahead.
VM Work Placements
Our Vocational Major students will participate in work placements across a range of industries in the first week of Term 3. These opportunities will enrich their learning, provide insight into future career pathways, and help build confidence, independence, and employability skills.
Pjs for a Purpose’- Supporting St Vincent De Paul Winter Appeal
Year 12 students proudly supported the Vinnies Winter Appeal by donating canned food items to assist those experiencing hardship during the colder months. To help raise awareness and engagement, the Year 12 students will have a ‘PJs for a Purpose’ day and will be allowed to change into pyjamas on Monday 3 August. A heartfelt thank you to Anria A (12 White), our Social Justice Captain, for leading this meaningful initiative, and to all Year 12 families for their generosity in supporting vulnerable members of our community.
Please note some of the important dates and events coming up for our Year 12s next term:
Tuesday 21 July: Year 12 Group Photo (All students are required to be in full academic uniform)
Wednesday 5 August: Year 12 VTAC Information Evening (Year 12 students and parents/carers)
Friday 14 August: Sion Day
Monday 28 September – Friday 2 October: Term 3 Break | VCAA Trial Exams
Thursday 19 November: Save the Date – Year 12 Valedictory Dinner, Olympic Room MCG at 7.00 pm
As we look forward to the much-deserved holiday break, I hope all our Year 12 students have the opportunity to rest, re-charge and maintain a balance between keeping on top of their study and finding the time to do the things that bring them joy.
Year 11 – Leanne Anderson, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
What a massive achievement for our Year 11 students to have reached the end of Term 2 after an incredibly busy month. Congratulations Year 11s.
VCE students have undertaken their Unit 1 subjects and received their exams back during Pastoral on Tuesday 23 June. Students are encouraged to reflect on their feedback, and check in with their subject teachers to clarify further opportunities for learning. VCE VM students have completed their projects, developed work-related skills, earned micro-credentials, and undertaken work placements and VET subjects.
We encourage the Year 11s to consider what their achievements were throughout Semester 1. Their overall progress, their potential and considerations for what the rest of the year might look like for them. For the remainder of this term, the Year 11s have started their Unit 2 subjects.
On Thursday 18 June we had the Year 11 Retreat at Don Bosco Retreat Centre in Lysterfield. As a cohort, students had the time to gather as a group and consider how to ‘inspire others to make a difference’. Engaging in workshops with a focus on servant leadership, students considered what it means to be in service to others, and others who are in service to these young people. It was great to see students engage in the set activities, enjoy each other’s company, and immerse themselves in the surroundings.
There is so much to celebrate and be proud of. Well done to all Year 11s for a great Term 2.
Looking ahead to Term 3:
Year 11 Formal Friday 17 July - a reminder about College expectations will be sent early next term
2027 Student leadership applications
Pastoral with a focus on Respectful Relationships curriculum (more information to come).
Year 10 – Adam Rieusset, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
Can you believe that Term 2 concludes at the end of this week. I can’t. The Year 10s have done such a great job in Semester 1 and in particular Term 2. The way in which the students concluded their exams was fantastic. They then commenced Semester 2, which meant a new set of electives and new teachers and classmates to meet and they have done this with a very positive attitude.
Earlier this week, the College hosted the VCE/VCE VM Subject Expo and Information Evening, giving students and families the opportunity to explore subject options for 2027 and gain a deeper understanding of what their Notre Dame Years (Years 11 and 12) may entail. I look forward to working alongside our students and families throughout Term 3 as they navigate these important decisions and prepare for the next chapter of their learning journey.
A quick reminder that our Year 10 Ballroom Dancingprogram will commence on Thursday 23 July. A broadcast was sent to all families late last week with dates and reminders about this program. I ask that all interested families respond as guided in the broadcast.
On Tuesday 18 August, commencing at 7.00 pm, we will gather as a Year 10 community to celebrate all those students who have completed their Duke of Edinburgh, Bronze Award. Currently we have 70 students who will receive this award and I look forward to authorising more awards in the coming weeks.
I would like to wish all the students (and families) all the best for week one Term 3 when the students will be out on work experience. This truly is a fantastic opportunity for the students and I am very much looking forward to hearing about their experiences.
Finally, I wish all families a well deserved Term 2 break. Our students have done such great work throughout the first half of the year and I am excited for what the second half will bring.
Remember to be curious, inquisitive and ask plenty of questions over the coming two weeks. The more we seek to understand, the better we can take a well informed, next step.
Year 8 – Laura Malone, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
The Year 8 Basketball Tournament
The Year 8 Basketball Tournament has been one of the highlights of the term. We have seen a fantastic display of teamwork, sportsmanship and school spirit. After two exciting rounds of competition, students have embraced the opportunity to represent their Homerooms and enjoy some friendly rivalry.
The games have been closely contested, with students demonstrating excellent teamwork, communication and perseverance on the court. What has stood out most has been the way students have encouraged one another and worked together towards a common goal. 8 White has taken an early lead on the ladder, but with several rounds still to be played, the race for the Year 8 Basketball Champions remains wide open. The tournament will continue in Term 3, and it will be exciting to see which Homeroom emerges as our Year 8 Basketball Champions.
As we head into the Term 2 holidays, I would like to wish all Year 8 students and their families a safe, restful and enjoyable break. It has been a wonderful term, and the Year 8 team and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching our Year 8 students grow in confidence, kindness and connection with one another. Whether through their involvement in pastoral activities, assemblies, sporting events or everyday classroom experiences, students have continued to embrace new opportunities and contribute positively to our Sion community. I encourage students to take some time to relax, recharge and enjoy time with family and friends. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in Term 3 for another exciting chapter.
Year 7 – Jade Goss, Wellbeing and Growth Leader
It was fantastic to see how each student participated and enjoyed Chesed Day on Tuesday 23 June. Chesed is a Hebrew word meaning 'goodness and kindness'. Staff developed three workshops for students, with the aim to continue developing their relationships skills and for students to consider ways that a growth mindset can be established and maintained throughout their time at the College.
Our first session, the Power of Words, focused on the importance of friendship, how friendships may change and ways to maintain friendships during difficult times. This session also gave our students the opportunity to hear from our Year 10 students, who offered their own experiences and advice to help in developing these relationship skills further.
Throughout the day, students also experienced a session on Growth Mindset and Resilience, hearing from our school counsellors about ways that they can work towards developing a growth mindset and understanding that there are some levels of nerves or distress that we are able to sit with (such as in the lead-up to assessments). The final session of the day, Your Safety Matters, provided students with information and practical strategies to help keep themselves safe in a range of contexts, including at school, within themselves (their mental health and wellbeing), with peers, online, and in the wider community.
In between sessions, we had the first games of the annual Year 7 Homeroom Netball Competition! The LHC was full of enthusiasm and cheering as the Homerooms put together teams to verse each other. This competition will continue in Term 3, and we encourage all students to get involved where they can - through organising teams, playing, umpiring, scoring or creating signs to cheer on their Homerooms.
Whilst the netball helped students to engage with existing peer relationships, the House Games was also a great way for newer connections to grow. Activities included bowling, Giant Jenga, the Rings of Power and Memory Trivia which saw the four Houses battle for points whilst developing their teamwork skills with new friends. The day was a great opportunity to take the time to learn some new emotional and social skills as we end Semester 1.
Co-curricular News
Music – Martin Macaulay, Head of Music
2026 Ensembles Concert
A fantastic culmination of Music Week and a Semester’s hard work was on display last night at the annual Music Department Ensembles Concert. Led by 2026 Music Captain Amy F (12 Silver), over 300 students performed in one (or more) of the 16 ensembles that operate at the College. Congratulations to everyone involved in a memorable night of music making.
Music Week House Jeopardy Competition
Congratulations to Lourdes House that won the overall Music Week House Competition. Second place was shared by Fatima and Loreto with Carmel finishing in 3rd place. This event was so ably coordinated by 2026 Music Captain Amy F (12 Silver).
Opening of the Veritas Learning Centre
A special thank you to members of the Senior/Vivace Strings under the direction of Olivia Forsberg and the CVE who performed at the blessing and opening of the new Veritas Learning Centre on Monday this week.
Victorian School Music Festival - Term 3
Six of our ensembles will represent Sion at the upcoming Victorian School Music Festival Ensemble in Term 3. Please note the times below for the respective ensembles.
Sport – Liam Cox, Head of Sport
CGSAV AFL
Our Junior and Intermediate teams travelled into Brunswick to participate in the CGSAV AFL tournament. We played against Our Lady of Mercy College, Mater Christi College, Avila College and Kilbreda College in a round robin tournament. Our teams finished 3rd in both age groups, narrowly missing the Grand Final with 2 wins and 2 losses. A big thank you to Rob Steward for leading the Juniors with Zara Bettiss and Teagan Murtic for helping with the Intermediate teams. We will be back bigger and better next year!
Senior Basketball
Katrina Gurciullo and our Senior Basketballers competed in the GSV Tournament at MSAC on Thursday 11 June. We narrowly missed out of the Grand Final with two tight losses in our five round robin matches. In the Bronze Medal match, we went down to MLC in a tight contest. We are very proud of our students and their consistency throughout the day. The nine students contributed terrifically and supported each other in each match.
GSV Weekly Finals
It has been a term to remember with our first Carnival win with Cross Country and an amazing representation of Sion teams across weekly sport finals for AFL, Hockey and Netball.
We would like to recognise the efforts of our students and coaches who participated in GSV Finals this week. With an incredible 17 teams involved out of a possible 20! Their placings below:
Premier Netball - Top 6
Senior Hockey - Top 4
Intermediate A Netball - 2nd
Intermediate B Netball - Premiers
Intermediate C Netball - Premiers
Intermediate D Netball - Top 8
Intermediate E Netball - Premiers
Intermediate B Hockey - 2nd
Junior A Netball Sion 1 - Top 8
Junior B Netball Sion 2 - 4th
Junior C Netball Sion 3 - 3rd
Junior D Netball Sion 4 - 3rd
Junior E Netball Sion 5 - 2nd
Junior F Netball Sion 6 - 2nd
Junior G Netball Sion 7 - Premiers
Junior H Netball Sion 8 - Premiers
Junior B AFL - Premiers
Athletics Victoria All Schools Cross Country
Five students braved the wet and muddy conditions at Bundoora at the Athletics Victoria All Schools on Saturday 20 June. Adam Rieusset accompanied the students who continued their strong form from our Cross Country season. A big Sion welcome to Koa P (8 Purple) who represented the College for the first time after starting last week.
U15 4km Koa P (8 Purple) 34th
U16 4km Mia A (9 Silver) 42nd Hannah P (9 Silver) 56th
U18 4km Sophie F (11 White) 10th
U20 4km Sam O (12 Blue) 22nd
Upcoming Events
After a fast paced term we hope everyone enjoys the term break and comes back refreshed and ready for a big Term 3. We are looking forward to Badminton, Indoor Cricket, Soccer and Track and Field seasons!
Drama – Alex Bleazby, Teacher
It has been an exciting and busy end to the semester in the Drama Department, with students enthusiastically embracing a range of lunchtime opportunities and preparing for an exciting Semester 2!
A highlight of the term was a fantastic dance workshop led by our Drama Captain, Georgia D (12 Blue). The workshop, based on Seussical's energetic song Oh, the Thinks You Can Think, attracted an excellent turnout of students eager to develop their performance skills. Georgia did a wonderful job teaching choreography and encouraging students to build confidence, creativity, and teamwork in a fun and supportive environment.
Auditions are also well underway for our highly anticipated 2026 Junior Production of Robin Hood. Lunchtime audition sessions have been extremely popular, with students demonstrating impressive preparation, enthusiasm, and talent. The standard of auditions has been exceptionally high, making the selection process a challenging one. While not everyone will be successful this time, we encourage all students to keep auditioning and continue developing their performance skills. Every audition provides valuable experience and helps performers grow in confidence.
Looking ahead, we are excited to offer a range of new lunchtime workshops next term, providing students with even more opportunities to explore acting, movement, performance techniques, and creative collaboration.
Our start to Semester 2 has also seen our Years 7–10 Drama classes begin new units of work. Students are already looking forward to the creative challenges ahead and are eager to immerse themselves in new performances, projects, and learning experiences.
When looking back on this busy term, we are so proud to have been able to offer our students such rich opportunities for involvement in the Performing Arts, from House Theatre Sports, Drama Week, lunchtime workshops, excursions to inspiring professional performances, performance evenings to showcase their own work and The brilliant Senior Play! Phew... what a term!
Watch this space next term for more exciting news and achievements from our Drama classrooms!
House and Student Leadership – Kate Apostolopoulos, Coordinator
The recent House Music Competition marked an exciting new collaboration between the House and Music departments, bringing a vibrant energy to the school. The event featured a high-stakes, Jeopardy-style game where Houses battled across categories such as Pop Culture, Music at Sion, Instruments, Music Theory, and the crowd favourite, "Name the Song." Led brilliantly by Music Captain Amy F (12 Silver), the competition saw an electric atmosphere, ultimately resulting in a double victory for Lourdes House, which dominated both the Intermediate and Senior competitions, and a win for Fatima for the Junior competitions.
House Social Justice Day further showcased our community spirit, beginning with morning House Homeroom discussions led by House Captains about their local charities. At lunchtime, the student-run House Bake Off raised vital funds for these worthy causes, which include Lourdes' support for Operation Toilet, Fatima's work with the Opening the Doors Foundation, Loreto's partnership with The Generosity Collective, and Carmel's contribution to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. Congratulations to Fatima for winning the Bake Off, and thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our students and staff. The day was a monumental success, raising over $1,100 to make a tangible difference in the community.
Careers and Pathways – Brooke O'Hara, Coordinator
Wishing our Year 10 cohort all the best as they begin Term 3 with Work Experience. This is an exciting opportunity for students to step outside the classroom, explore future pathways, and gain a real sense of what working life looks like.
Students and families can find the fortnightly Careers newsletter here.
In this issue of the Newsletter there is information relating to:
Upcoming Events – Year 10 Work Experience Week, University/TAFE open days 2026, 2026 Year 12 VTAC Information Evening
Careers Industry in the Spotlight – Career as a Biomedical Engineer
Things to Consider – University of Melbourne Course pre-requisites for entry to Melbourne, Subject Selection Useful Guides
Researching options – Deakin University – Accelerated Bachelor of Education (Primary), Monash University – Studying Psychology at Monash