I first came across this teaching called ‘Two Pockets’ when I was in high school and it has been something that has stayed with me all this time. It invites us to hold two truths at once: that our lives matter beyond measure, and that we are but a small part of a vast and unfolding universe.

Everyone must have two pockets to reach into, according to their needs.

In their left, a slip of paper reads: For my sake was the world created.

In their right, a slip of paper reads: I am but dust and ashes.

Rabbi Simcha Bunam of Pzhysha (Poland, 1765–1827)

With one pocket, we are reminded that each of us is holy, created with a divine spark, worthy and deserving of infinite love and blessing. The world is ours! We feel as if we can accomplish anything! In that pocket, we find the courage to lean into hard conversations with friends and family, to dismantle the walls that divide us, and to build bridges of true connection. 

With the other pocket, we remember that we are human — fragile, imperfect, made of dust, and returning to dust. There is so much that needs to change, and much we cannot change. With this pocket, we hold the truth that much of life is beyond our control, and the world will spin with or without us.  We feel our smallness, and we know that in our smallness there is holiness.

This is a great teaching to use with our children.  To always balance the belief that each of us is special with the humility that is required to be compassionate and loving towards others.

The upcoming holidays is a time to slow down, and depending on our needs, choose either the right or left pocket…or both!  Do we need a good dose of humility or a reminder of how great we are?  I hope these holidays provide time to rest, reflect and recharge.

- Ms Joanne Bacash

We had a busy day across the College on June 16. Students enrolled in a Year 12 subject attended school to complete the GAT (General Achievement Test) and teachers participated in a range of Professional Learning opportunities.

• Heggarty’s Phonemic Awareness program

This program helps students to recognise and manipulate sounds in words which is critical for decoding words when reading.

• Michael Minas Problem Solving and Learning Dispositions in Maths

Michael Minas leads professional learning for teachers to support high engagement in maths and a classroom with rich learning tasks that encourage all students to achieve success.

I’m looking forward to supporting teachers to implement the learning and ideas shared throughout the sessions. 

Semester Reports

Please be aware the Semester One Reports and Personalised Learning Plan Evaluation Reports will be available to view in SIMON (students) and PAM (parents) on Thursday. Please take time to read the reports received and celebrate the achievements of a busy Semester of Learning. It is a good time to reset over the holidays, set goals for learning for Semester 2, complete any holiday homework and continue to read lots of books (and watch the World Cup soccer). 

A video explaining the structure and features of the report is available to view: https://bit.ly/Report-Guide-for-Families-2026

Parent Teacher Interviews

On August 10 we will have an opportunity for families to meet with teachers during Parent Teacher Interviews to discuss the reports and learning progress. The Parent Teacher Interviews will be available all day and it will be a Pupil free day. Please note the following:

- There will be in-person interviews available at Cedar for a limited time in the morning before we move to online interviews

- There will be Year 8 student led interviews (these are in-person onsite at Saint Joseph Campus and replace the Parent Teacher Interviews)

- There will be Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews (these are online and replace the Parent Teacher Interviews)

More information will be communicated early in Term 3 to support families to book via PAM.

Pupil Free Days

On July 13 and July 14 Antonine staff will be involved in Professional Learning and Faith Formation. These days are Pupil Free days. On July 13 Jason Pascoe will be leading teaching staff through a series of workshops on Conferencing. Conferencing is a conversation between the teacher and learner to discuss the learning progress. It allows teachers and learners to gather information about what students know and understand, what they are struggling with and what they need to work on next. It aligns to our School Goal - To Improve Student Engagement by providing students with greater agency in their learning.

On July 14 Brother David Hall is joining all staff to unpack our College theme God is Love and our role as a Catholic school. We are very fortunate to be able to have internationally respected Catholic educator Professor Br David Hall FMS, a Marist Brother who has been a leader and teacher in the Catholic education sector for 40 years, as the keynote speaker at our Staff Formation Day.

Timetable

Across Year 7-12 we have moved into Semester 2 and VCE Unit 2 and 4 content. This timetable change occurred on the 15 June and will mean that students have some new teachers and classes, including elective subjects. Please take note of the updates and ensure you are working off the most current timetable to support your child. 

Reminder that next term students begin on Wednesday 15 July on a Day 8 of the 10 day timetable cycle (we will remind students via TEAMs). 

Many thanks for your support - enjoy the break.

- Ms Ria Coffey

As we come to the end of another productive and enriching term, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the continued growth, resilience and positive engagement of our students across Years 7–12. It has been a term marked by purposeful wellbeing initiatives, strong student support structures, and meaningful learning experiences that have strengthened both our community and our commitment to student safety.

In my role as Deputy Principal – Wellbeing & Student Management and Child Safety Officer, I am proud of the collective efforts of our staff and students in fostering a culture where every young person feels known, safe and supported. Central to this work is our ongoing commitment to the Child Safe Standards, particularly Child Safety Standard 1: Organisational Leadership, Governance and Culture. This standard reminds us that child safety must remain at the forefront of every decision we make and every interaction we have.

Throughout the term, our Wellbeing for Learning Expectations have continued to guide student behaviour and promote a safe, respectful and inclusive environment. These expectations are not just rules, but a shared commitment to ensuring that all students can learn and thrive free from harm or discrimination. We have focused on reinforcing positive behaviours, strengthening restorative practices, and providing targeted support for students requiring additional guidance.

A key highlight this week was the impactful presentations delivered by Pat Cronin to our Year 11 and 12 students. Pat’s message around resilience, respect and standing up against violence deeply resonated with our senior students. His story served as a powerful reminder of the importance of looking out for one another, making positive choices, and demonstrating courage in challenging situations. We are grateful for the opportunity to engage with such a meaningful and authentic voice, and we encourage families to continue these conversations at home.

Across the term, our wellbeing initiatives have also included:

• Ongoing support programs for students experiencing social and emotional challenges

• Workshops and guidance sessions addressing respectful relationships and decision-making

• Strengthened processes for monitoring student engagement, attendance and wellbeing

• Collaboration between staff, families and students to ensure personalised support where needed

These initiatives demonstrate our proactive approach to student wellbeing, ensuring that early intervention and care remain central to our practice.

As part of our ongoing responsibility, I would like to remind all families that Antonine College strictly adheres to Child Safety policies. We are committed to maintaining a school environment where:

• All students feel safe, respected and heard

• Staff uphold the highest standards of professional conduct

• Concerns about student safety are taken seriously and responded to promptly

Child safety is a shared responsibility, and we value the partnership between school and home in maintaining this standard.

As we move into the next term, we remain dedicated to building a strong, supportive school culture that prioritises wellbeing, safety, and positive relationships. Thank you for your continued trust and support as we work together to nurture confident, respectful and resilient young people.

- Ms Helen Diab

Dear Parents,

A PRAYER FOR THE END OF TERM

Loving Father,

As we come to the end of another term we turn to you in confidence and place any difficult 

relationships into the healing hands of Jesus, your Son. 

Enable us to leave behind any pain of the past and any regrets or bitterness, entrusting

the past to your mercy, the present to your love, and the future to your providence.

Help us appreciate more the need to keep a good balance in our lives. 

May the school holidays be for us a time of rest and recreation to help

restore us and re-create us in your image and likeness, as we enjoy more of the love and

presence of our families, on whom we ask your blessing.

Amen.

As we come to the end of another busy and rewarding term, I would like to thank our wonderful Antonine community for the trust, encouragement, and ongoing support you continue to provide me and all members of our staff. Your partnership and commitment to our school make such a difference and allow us to continue creating a positive, caring, and supportive environment.  A special thanks to Sr Veronique and our committed P&F committee that continue to donate their time and create amazing treats and activities for our students and staff. 

I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge our amazing staff. Each day, they come to school with dedication, passion, and a genuine love for our students. Even on the most challenging days, they continue to show resilience, kindness, and professionalism, always putting our students first and ensuring they are supported, encouraged, and never let down.

To our incredible students, congratulations on another successful term. It has been wonderful to see you continue to grow, learn, and develop during the term.  This term has been filled with so many memorable experiences and opportunities for our students to participate. From celebrating their First Holy Communion, representing our school at inter-school sports, participating in camps, sharing their learning and achievements through assemblies, engaging in SRC lunchtime activities, and taking part in a variety of excursions and incursions, our students have continued to embrace every opportunity with enthusiasm.

Wishing all our families a safe, restful, and enjoyable holiday break. I hope you have the opportunity to relax, spend quality time together, and return refreshed for another exciting term ahead.

Thank you once again for your continued support.

Teeth on Wheels:

We’re excited to announce that Teeth on Wheels will be returning to our School on September 2nd, 2026.

Teeth On Wheels makes dental care easy, fun and completely stress-free for children—right here at school. No time off work, no after-school appointments, just quality care in a familiar environment.

They specialise in working with children and offer services including check-ups, cleans and more. Their team is also specially trained to support neurodiverse patients, ensuring every child feels comfortable, safe and cared for.

If your child has already participated this year, there’s no need to complete the form again unless your contact details or your child’s medical history has changed.

If eligible under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS), your child may receive FREE dental care, making this a valuable and accessible service for families.

To secure your child’s place, simply complete the E-form below.

CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE YOUR FORM!

Spots are limited and fill quickly—don’t miss this convenient opportunity for your child to continue receiving high-quality dental care at school. Submit your form today, and the Teeth On Wheels team will be in touch to schedule your child’s appointment!

100 Days of Foundation – Friday 31st July:

What a wonderful achievement it has been to see our amazing Foundation students celebrate 100 days of school! This milestone marks 100 days of learning, growth, friendship, and countless memorable experiences.

Next term, we will come together to celebrate and acknowledge this special occasion. Parents will be invited to attend a morning session and share in the celebrations with their children.

Our Foundation staff have also organised a special surprise to make the day even more memorable for our students. We look forward to celebrating this exciting milestone with our Foundation families and recognising all that our students have achieved in their first 100 days of school.

Celebration of Learning

A huge thank you to our wonderful school community for attending our Celebration of Learning last Week.  It was fantastic to see such strong support and involvement for our Year 1 and Year 6 students. Well done to all the children for their great work and confident presentations you should be very proud. Our Celebration for Learning will continue during Term 3.  We are all looking forward to seeing you at school engaged with your child’s learning. 

- Mr Abraham Diab

Antonine College is currently preparing its annual NCCD data submission. This process is overseen by our College Principal, Ms Joanne Bacash, and coordinated by our Learning Diversity Leaders — Ms Jessica Hine (Cedar Campus) and Mr Dan Filippini (St Joseph Campus).

Ms Hine and Mr Filippini work closely with families to develop a thorough understanding of each child's individual needs. To support this process, we encourage families to share any relevant letters or reports with their child's classroom teacher. Documentation from medical and allied health professionals — including doctors, psychologists, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists — can be especially valuable in helping the school build a complete picture of your child.

These external reports, combined with school-based information such as assessment results, work samples, and learning plans, allow us to better understand and respond to each student's needs.

NCCD Information Sheet (English)

NCCD Information Sheet (Arabic)

- Mr Daniel Filippini

This month, our Rosary Club prayed in a special way for the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It has been a beautiful time of faith and reflection for our students.

At the end of the term, I prepared homemade biscuits, and the students enjoyed decorating them and celebrating together with joy and creativity.

May God bless all our students and their families.

“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart.” (Matthew 11:29)

O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in You!

- Sr Veronique Karam

Our students who recently celebrated their First Holy Communion came together for a Thanksgiving Mass, celebrating this important milestone in their faith journey. The Mass provided an opportunity for students to reflect on the gift of the Eucharist and give thanks for the support of their families, teachers, and parish community. We congratulate our First Communicants and pray that they continue to grow in faith and friendship with Jesus.

- Sr Veronique Karam and Ms Tanya Khattar

Mrs. Madona Farah Liliane’s mother, from Year 4, kindly prepared biscuits for all Year 3 and Year 4 students to celebrate those who received the Sacrament of the Eucharist on 30 May. She also provided a cake for the teachers.

Mr. Wade Malouhi Marie Joe’s father, from Year 4, generously gifted a rosary to each student.

Thank you so much for your generosity and thoughtfulness towards our students. It is truly beautiful to see parents working together with the school as a community. What a great joy!

- Sr Veronique Karam

Our Year 7 and 8 students gathered for a meaningful liturgy centred on John 14:21–27, where Jesus reminds us that those who follow His commandments live in His love and are strengthened by the gift of the Holy Spirit. Students reflected on how they can bring Christ’s peace into their daily lives through their words, actions, and relationships. The liturgy provided a valuable opportunity for our students to deepen their faith and grow as a community.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

As part of Faith Club this term, we worked towards planning a short prayer service for the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Students worked together to construct the PowerPoint and prayers. 

"Do not let the past disturb you. Leave everything in the Sacred Heart of Jesus and begin again with joy" – St. Teresa of Calcutta

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Students in Year 9 have been participating in a weekly Bible Study focussing on the Sermon on the Mount. In Term 1, these students focussed on unpacking the Beatitudes, and in Term 2, they discussed the rest of Chapter 5, where Jesus tells those listening that he came to fulfil the law, and what this means. Discuss was rich, with students discovering what it means to live like disciples, and the challenge of loving one another in the way Christ intended. They ended the term with a shared lunch. Next term, we begin Chapter 6, new students are welcome to attend.

- Mr Fadi Elbarbar

Students from across Foundation to Year 12 and their families enjoyed a relaxed evening of music at the College Music Soirée. The event provided an opportunity for students to share what they have been working on in their music lessons and perform in front of a supportive audience.

The program included a variety of performances from students learning guitar, piano/keyboard, voice, and drums. From solo pieces to group pieces, students demonstrated growing confidence and musicianship while showcasing the progress they have made throughout the year. Lee Parker, Dany Chamoun and Jacinta Elarmaly were present to support the students they are working with to showcase their talents. We thank them for all their efforts in providing instrumental and vocal lessons for our students.

Thank you to all the students who performed and to the families who attended and supported the event. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate music-making within our school community. 

- Ms Ria Coffey

This term, the Year 2 students participated in exciting Futsal Oz session, where they learned all about the game of futsal. Students took part in a variety of fun and engaging activities that helped them develop important skills such as dribbling, kicking, ball control and teamwork.

Students demonstrated great enthusiasm as they practised their skills and worked together to complete different challenges and games. The session provided a wonderful opportunity for students to build their confidence, improve their coordination and learn the importance of communication and sportsmanship.

To finish the program, students competed in a mini–World Cup tournament, where they put their new skills into action. It was fantastic to see everyone participating, encouraging one another and having so much fun. 

- Ms Adele Chamoun

Our Grade 4 students recently participated in an exciting and interactive Science Incursion focused on Natural Disasters. Throughout the day, students explored a range of natural hazards, including earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis, bushfires, cyclones, and floods.

The incursion provided students with hands-on learning experiences that helped bring science concepts to life. Students investigated how natural disasters occur, the impact they can have on people and the environment, and the ways communities can prepare for and respond to these events.

One of the highlights of the day was participating in engaging demonstrations and activities that allowed students to observe the forces behind natural disasters. They worked collaboratively to solve problems, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the Earth's dynamic processes.

The incursion linked closely with our Science curriculum and encouraged students to think critically about the world around them. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm, curiosity, and willingness to engage in scientific inquiry.

We would like to thank the presenters for delivering such an informative and memorable experience. The students thoroughly enjoyed the day and came away with a greater appreciation of both the power of nature and the importance of disaster preparedness.

- Mr Corrado Blanco

This term, 4A presented at assembly, sharing their learning across a range of curriculum areas. Students demonstrated their understanding of parts of speech, shared what they have learned about the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism Confirmation and Eucharist) and highlighted the importance of good  sportsmanship and playing fairly during sport.

Students also created detailed volcano models and informative posters. They presented them to the class and shared their knowledge of how volcanoes form, erupt, and impact the environment. We are proud of the enthusiasm, creativity, and confidence Year 4A displayed throughout their presentations.

- Ms Miriam Ayoub

The Grade 5 students were buzzing with excitement as we boarded the bus and set off for our camp at Sovereign Hill in Ballarat. After weeks of anticipation, the adventure had finally arrived!

Ballarat certainly welcomed us with its famous weather. The camp was cold, wet, and sometimes very muddy, but that didn't stop us from making the most of every moment. Armed with raincoats, beanies, and plenty of enthusiasm, we embraced the conditions and continued exploring.

One of the highlights was learning the traditional art of candle making. Students enjoyed watching how candles were made in the gold rush era and were fascinated by the skills and patience required. Another unforgettable experience was venturing deep into the mines, where we discovered what life was like for miners searching for their fortune underground.

The famous lolly shop was another favourite stop. Students marvelled at the old-fashioned sweets and enjoyed selecting some delicious treats to take home (or eat immediately!).

As night fell, we gathered to watch the spectacular Aura show. The impressive lights, sounds, and storytelling brought the history of the goldfields to life and left everyone thoroughly entertained.

Perhaps the biggest challenge of camp wasn't the weather or the mining—it was trying to get to sleep! Despite teachers' best efforts, many students seemed determined to stay awake well past bedtime, sharing stories, laughing with friends, and making memories that will last for years to come.

Of course, no trip to Sovereign Hill would be complete without panning for gold. As the weather cleared up on Friday, everyone eagerly searched through the water, hoping to strike it rich. While no one became an overnight millionaire, there were plenty of excited smiles when tiny flecks of gold were discovered

The camp was filled with learning, adventure, friendship, and plenty of fun. Even with the cold and wet weather, the Grade 5 students showed resilience, enthusiasm, and great spirit throughout the trip. It was an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

- Year 5 Team

As part of our current topic in Year 5 Religion we have been exploring the Holy Spirit and how it lives within us. Students designed 'homeowner manuals' on how we can create a safe and welcoming home for the Holy Spirit in our minds, hearts, bodies and towards others.

- Ms Tanya Khattar

In PE, 5B and 5C have been learning about Soccer and recently participated in an exciting mini tournament. The Year 5 students were divided into their house teams: Mauron, MacKillop, Nassar and Patterson.

The 3rd and 4th place final was played between Mauron and Patterson. It was a fast-paced and energetic game, with Patterson coming away with a strong 3–1 victory. Mauron showed fantastic determination and teamwork throughout the match and fought hard until the final whistle.

The grand final was between MacKillop and Nassar. It was an incredibly close and thrilling match, with both teams displaying excellent passing and defence. The game ended in a tense 2–2 draw, meaning the result had to be decided by a penalty shootout. The pressure was high, and every shot counted. In an intense finish, MacKillop held their nerve to take the win. 

- Ms Casey Crooks and Mr Nick Triantafillopoulos

This term, 5C students had the exciting opportunity to participate in rugby coaching sessions for the very first time. Throughout the program, students learned the fundamental skills of rugby, including passing, catching, teamwork, communication, and game strategies.

The coaching sessions encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and develop resilience while working collaboratively with their peers. It was wonderful to see students demonstrating sportsmanship, supporting one another, and embracing new challenges with enthusiasm.

The highlight of the program was watching students apply their newly acquired skills in modified games, where teamwork and positive attitudes were on full display. I am very proud of the effort, determination, and respect shown by 5C students throughout the coaching sessions.

- Ms Cosette Abou-Saba

In Religion in Year 6 this term we have been trialling a new unit called 'In the Spirit of the Saints'. Within this we are exploring the Fruits of the Holy Spirit and the saints which embodied them. For 'Peace' we explored St Francis of Assisi and his love for all living things. Students created visual representations of the peace that St Francis brings to the world

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Our Year 6 Science Fair was a fantastic success, showcasing the incredible curiosity, creativity and scientific thinking of our students.

Over the past few weeks, students worked hard to investigate questions that interested them. They designed fair tests, collected and analysed data and presented their findings in engaging and informative displays.

On Science Fair Day, students confidently shared their learning with classmates, teachers and visitors, explaining their hypotheses, methods and conclusions like true young scientists. It was wonderful to see them answering questions, demonstrating experiments and reflecting on what they had discovered throughout the investigation process.

A huge congratulations to all our year 6 students. Their dedication, effort and enthusiasm shown throughout the project was outstanding and the quality of work was a testament to their perseverance and love of learning.

Thank you to our staff, families and school community for supporting our budding scientists and helping make the event such a memorable experience. We are incredibly proud of all our Year 6 students and can't wait to see where their curiosity takes them next!

- Ms Chantelle Luciani

On 24 June, at the end of Term Two, our wonderful Parents and Friends team organised a successful pasta lunch fundraiser for the school. students enjoyed delicious servings of pasta Bolognese and pasta Napoli, with apple juice prepared with great care and generosity.

We extend our sincere thanks to all the parents and friends who contributed items, time, and effort to make this event possible. With 185 orders received, it was a fantastic achievement! 

Thank you for helping to build such a caring and supportive school community.

The ingredients used included 20 kg of pasta, 10 kg of mince meat, one bag of carrots, half a kilogram of onions, half a kilogram of tomatoes, oregano, 10 kg of tomato sauce, garlic, two bunches of parsley, two bunches of celery, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Thank you Parents and Friends

Thank you Rawa

Bon Appétit! / Sahtenصحتين! to all our students

- Sr Veronique Karam

Our World Cup Display this year creates a strong sense of community, teamwork, diversity, and participation of students, represented as paper figures in two team colours, the kangaroos and emus are playing against each other, and koalas are the referees.

A charming winter display scene Snow-covered mountains and falling snow. A village made from paper houses and recycled materials. Churches, homes, trees, and small decorative details that add depth and interest. A cosy atmosphere that encourages imagination and storytelling. The use of cardboard, paper rolls, and layered elements gives the display a wonderful 3D effect.

- Ms Georgette El Hajj

The Teachers vs Students Chess Tournament was a chance for students and teachers to talk to each other outside of class and become friends.

Everyone loves playing chess and The Teachers vs Students Chess Tournament was a way for students and teachers to share this love. 

The Teachers vs Students Chess Tournament was a success. It made our school a happier place. It was a great experience for students and teachers. All the matches haven’t finished yet there are three more matches to play but so far, the students are winning! 

- Daniel B, 8B

Congratulations to Daniel Boulos a year 8 student and keen Chess player, for his organisation, drive and determination to support the Chess club and organise the Teacher versus Student tournament. Ms Mezzatesta provided the chess sets and Ms Sala ensured players and results were recorded. We appreciate the support of all the participating teachers and made it such an exciting day. 

- Ms Josie Rovetto

Throughout Semester One, Year 7 students have been developing their performance skills through Dance and Drama classes. 

Students in 7A and 7B studied Dance, learning a class routine inspired by High School Musical. They watched and analysed dance sequences from the musical before rehearsing and performing as a class. Students also worked in small groups to choreograph and perform their own dances.

Students in 7C and 7D studied Drama, focusing on voice, movement and comedy techniques. They explored elements of clowning and worked in small groups to devise and perform their own original dramas.

At the end of the semester, all Year 7 students came together to showcase their work. Dance and Drama performances were presented to the cohort, giving students the opportunity to celebrate their achievements and see what they will be learning when the classes swap subjects in Semester Two.

Next semester, students will have the opportunity to experience the subject they have not yet studied, continuing to build their confidence, creativity and performance skills.

- Ms Indira Natoli

Following their unit on cost influencing food choices, Year 9 Food Technology students planned and prepared homemade sausage rolls while working within a budget of $20. Students calculated the quantities and costs of their ingredients, compared prices from different supermarkets and developed a shopping list to ensure their recipe remained affordable and under budget. 

This practical was a great opportunity for students to apply food preparation skills while also demonstrating an understanding of budgeting, cost management and informed consumer choices. In addition, this activity provided a real-world opportunity to connect financial literacy with food technology and meal planning.

- Ms Norma Francis

Recently the Year 10 Food Technology students applied their practical cooking skills by making traditional scones with jam and cream. This activity focused on accurate measuring, mixing techniques and baking skills while developing an understanding of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a classic food product.  Students were pleasantly surprised after tasting their creations and were very excited to share their scones with friends!

- Ms Norma Francis

Students recently attended our VCE Subject Expo, where they had the opportunity to explore the wide range of subjects available for senior studies. Current VCE teachers presented information about course content, assessment requirements and pathways beyond school, helping students make informed decisions about their VCE program. The event provided valuable insight into subject expectations and encouraged students to consider their interests, strengths, and future goals as they plan for the years ahead. 

Students will now use the information gathered from the expo, careers classes, assemblies along with discussions with teachers and families to finalise their subject preferences. Subject selection interviews and course planning will take place on Monday 10 August, providing students with the opportunity to make informed decisions about their senior secondary pathway.

- Ms Isabella Athaide

In HWB students have been studying CPR and first aid. Students at Year 10 are required to be able to plan, rehearse and evaluate strategies managing situations where their own or others’ health, safety or wellbeing may be negatively impacted at home, school and in the community. We were lucky enough to have Blue Cross First Aid Institute to provide a practical session and assessment for students to have a realistic application of CPR and first aid. This was an invaluable experience for our students. 

- Ms Isabella Athaide 

On Monday, 22 June 2026 Year 11 Chemistry students attended the Chemistry outreach program at The University of Melbourne, where they determined the concentration of ions or complexes in a water sample using UV-visible spectroscopy. 

- Ms Chantal Fitzgerald

On Tuesday 2 June, the Year 11 cohort were presented basic self defence techniques from Proactive self defence.  The session involved tailored programs specific for males and females to encourage them how to defend themselves physically if ever required.  The session allowed students to practice physical defence moves and build confidence within their movements and bodies.  Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the session and felt that it was a great way to learn about how to protect yourself.

- Ms Laura Adamson

Our Year 11 and 12 English students have been busy developing their writing skills and unveiling their creativity this term. As part of Units 1 and 3, students explored the writing frameworks of Culture and Conflict (Year 11) and Personal Journeys (Year 12). Drawing on a range of carefully selected mentor texts and stimuli, they used these themes as a springboard for generating ideas and crafting original pieces of writing.

It has been wonderful to watch their writing flourish and evolve throughout the term. Students have focused on using vivid sensory detail and effective language techniques to bring their stories to life and engage their readers.

We are incredibly proud of their efforts and are delighted to share a selection of excerpts from their imaginative and thought provoking creations below.

- Ms Tania Aoun 

Angi A, 11D

Who am I?
A daughter of a place
where voices are lowered before they rise.
Where we are taught to listen.
To speak softly.
To exist carefully.
Care for your husband, obey and nod
This is who we are,
From Iran
where silence is not absence,
but proof.
But proof.
Proof of patience.
Proof of faith.
“Khoda (God), sweetheart,” Mama says.
“He… always is watching… always.”
He sees what we carry.
He knows what we are meant to endure.
So, we do not rush.
We do not question.
We become still…
trusting that what is taken
is also chosen, even if broken.
But here,
in a country where everything must be said
to exist,
I learned early
to hold my voice
like something borrowed
spoken when needed,
but later swallowed.

Andre S, 11B

“He specialised in Berlin University,” Mama was saying the first time she delivered the news. Salma kept her head down, staring at her own feet and nodding obediently the whole time. “A cardiac surgeon, you can’t get luckier than that. And in Germany, you can’t buy your way in, unlike here,” she cast a long glance at my father.

Baba took a sip of the bitter coffee he drank every morning without fail. “Plus, he will take care of you much better than we can. So what do you say?”

His question was delivered in a sinister manner that foretold Salma there was no other option but to accept. She stayed silent.

I stood in the hallway, watching the scene unfold, Mama smiling cheerfully and explaining that Hassan and his family would come to ask for Salma’s hand in marriage exactly next week.

There was only one problem; my sister had already decided who she wanted to marry. And the one man she desired was someone neither Mama nor Baba would ever accept, because Joseph was a Christian. A Kafir. A man who could never be one with Salma under the watchful gaze of the Quran. I saw them a few times, meeting outside the school gates, hiding from the brutal sun underneath the shade of the olive trees.

Hannibal D, 12C

الجيل الثاني (Second Generation)

You told me about the times you felt split in two, belonging everywhere and nowhere at once. You had olives and labneh (yogurt dip) packed for lunch at school, while your Anglo counterparts enjoyed Vegemite sandwiches. You weren’t like the others, always different.

At school, English surrounded you. At home, however, Arabic was proudly spoken; you easily became fluent in a tongue that seemed so foreign to you.

Accompanying your father on your infamous fishing trips in Geelong, where you would casually exchange conversation in Arabic, became a delightful tradition. You had stopped this tradition because of fishermen who abhorrently swore “filthy wogs”. Such a term became familiar to you, growing up in the northern suburbs.

On the pier, you would watch groups of men grill their fish for their hearty lunch. They would drizzle olive oil on the grill; a dark green bottle with an inscription at the bottom reading: Imported from Jerusalem.

You swallowed your shame and dared not to speak of the cultural ties you had towards the kitchen staple.

Isabella I, 12B

The first gold I ever knew was not mine to choose. Before I could understand what it meant, it had already become part of me. Another thing I would have to carry before learning how to carry it well. My grandmother held me still as she pierced my ears, her hands steady and deliberate, as though she had done this before and would do it again. There was no way out of the pain that was to be bestowed upon my tender ears. I was young. Defenceless. Pure. The earrings were small, almost fragile, but they caught the light when she leaned back to inspect them.

…

One summer night, I realised this while listening to Fairouz’s song “Ghali El Dahab” (Precious as Gold). How she harmonised the importance and value of gold in the Arab world made me second-guess whether women were appreciated with even half that admiration. I did not view the story about gold; instead, I mirrored it to women. Their strength, value, importance, and purpose in life were constantly left on the shelf, collecting dust. I noticed that the journey of women needed to be uphill, not only for strangers, but as well for me. What connected these women was not perfection or obedience, but endurance. Their stories were not about finding an escape. They were about continuing despite the obstacles before them.

There are milestones throughout the year that symbolise the importance of being in Year 12.  On Monday 22 June, we celebrated together with the Year 12s at the Breakfast with the Principal followed by Graduation photos.  The day was filled with laughter as they feasted on food with staff and then came together as a group to try on their gowns and take photos together.  It was a beautiful morning creating memories for a lifetime.  Please find our LinkedIn post which captured this day so perfectly https://bit.ly/Year12Breakfast2026

Congratulations Year 12!

- Ms Laura Adamson

Students across Cedar and Saint Joseph Campus have been involved in Futsal Clinics provided by the Futsal Oz team from Brunswick. Please see below information about the futsal competitions available to join. 

U12-U19 Girls & Boys Flyer
🏆 Registrations Now Open! 🏆
Join our exciting Girls’ & Boys’ Futsal Competition!
Whether you’re new to the game or an experienced player, we have competitions for ages 12–19. Sign up as an individual and we’ll help place you on a team, or register your own team and play with friends.
Games are played on Friday evenings and throughout the day on Saturdays, with training sessions held during the week.
Don’t miss the fun, competition, and opportunity to develop your skills in a great team environment.
For more information or to register, contact us on 1300 788 799 or email mailto:evangelia@futsaloz.com.au

- Ms Ria Coffey

26 June: Last day of Term 2

13-14 July: Pupil Free Days

15 July: All students return for Term 3

31 July: Foundation 100 Days of School Celebration

4-7 August: Scholastic Book Fair

10 August: F-12 Parent Teacher Interviews 

18 August: Year 4-12 Feast of the Assumption of Mary Mass

24-28 August: Book Week - 'Symphony of Stories'

God is Love -  College Theme 2026