Catholic Education 2025

19 • March 2025

education

Catholic Primary Schools - pages 71 - 159

De La Salle College - pages 22 & 23

Emmaus College - pages 24 & 25

MacKillop College - pages 32, 33 & back cover

Marcellin College - pages 34 & 35

Sacre Coeur College - pages 6 & 7

Secondary Schools - pages 2 - 69

St Monica’s College, Epping - pages 4 & 5

Photo provided with the compliments of Xavier College

For further information refer to pages 2, 3, 68, 69 & 159

St Monica’s College Epping

ST MONICA’S College, Epping was established in 1964. We are a co-educational College based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

Our curriculum delivers education at the highest levels whilst ensuring our students personal development is fostered. Students are supported by staff committed to ensuring every student can be their best.

As well as a modern curriculum, a diverse range of VET courses are offered including Allied Health where students are educated to work in all facets of medical and health areas.

STEM is a constantly changing area of education with relevant studies for students that prepare them for the modern workplace.

We continue to provide superior resources to facilitate learning in state-of-the-art buildings that are student focussed and embrace world’s best practice design.

The College also offers a wide choice of sports supported by top level coaches committed to ensuring each student reaches their potential.

Our Performing Arts Faculty offers a range

Our students make their mark at all levels of society from medical to law, politics to education, commerce to trades.

of dance, drama and music programs. We also offer programs for accelerated learning students and special needs students.

At St Monica’s College, Epping we meet the diverse needs of students and ensure no student is left behind. Our students all understand what it means to ‘Be Monican’.

Sacré Cœur

Open Heart, Open Mind, Infinite Possibilities

OUR holistic approach to educating young women unites academic endeavour with deep care for each child. Founded in 1888, we have an unwavering commitment to nurturing future-ready young women. Educating for Human Flourishing

Our students’ wellbeing is at the core of their personal endeavour and achievement. As such, it will always be our first priority. We are committed to supporting the emotional and social development of each student, and the delivery of our Pastoral Care program is central to this.

We live in a rapidly changing world, one that provides challenges and opportunities for our future generations. For our young women to fully embrace the future and to help build a better society, we must provide them with the necessary capabilities, knowledge and skills.

Our current strategic plan recognises the challenges of our ever-changing world and how education must equip students with the skills and mindset required for tertiary education and the workplace. Our School’s Future Fit Framework underpins the learning and teaching of our school. Based on the values of Purpose, Excellence, Care, Hope and Connection and the actions of Developing Thinking, Deepening Understanding, Discovering Possibilities, it specifically links wellbeing and learning, aiming to create ambassadors of positive change.

Our students learn from highly qualified and passionate teachers, many of whom are curriculum experts. Within small classes, our teachers embrace each child as an individual, meeting their learning and wellbeing needs.

Learning in our Junior School, Joigny, focuses on building upon each child’s natural enthusiasm and curiosity within a caring environment.

In Senior School, academic endeavour and the holistic, personal development of each student are at the core of our focus. As a result, our young women flourish and achieve exceptional VCE results.

Our mission is to provide a comprehensive and guaranteed high quality education program that ensures ‘Success for All’.

Co-Curricular

We are committed to a well-rounded education and provide a wide range of cocurricular opportunities for students to explore in creative and performing arts, sport, public speaking, special interest clubs, leadership, competitions, travel and more.

Sacre Cœur is a member of Girls Sport Victoria, an interschool sporting association with 24 member schools, offering 16 sports. Our respected Brynmawr Music School provides lessons and the opportunity to participate in 16 ensembles and choirs from the junior years onwards.

Our Location

Located on the Glen Waverley train line, the 5, 6 and 72 tram routes and easy bus service from Chadstone and Caulfield. There are also numerous private buses servicing the Bayside area, Doncaster, Balwyn, Williamstown, Bentleigh and Oakleigh.

Academy of Mary Immaculate

AT the Academy of Mary Immaculate students benefit from a rewarding educational experience with a focus on academic excellence. We are a unique blend of the historic and the contemporary, educating students for 167 years.

Through our Educate for Excellence model, our model for Learning and Wellbeing, we strive to be a premier learning community recognised for developing young women of integrity and purpose who are empowered by the values of Mercy, creativity and social justice in pursuit of academic and personal success.

We believe students who feel secure in their learning environment will be confident making social connections and in pursuing academic goals.

Our Year 7 transition program creates opportunities for connection and belonging, through peer-led support and an embedded Wellbeing Program, that provides students with a strong sense of identity, purpose and a quest for social justice.

From our location beside the Carlton Gardens, we conduct classes in Melbourne’s premiere learning and cultural centres –including the NGV, Melbourne Museum, ACMI, and nearby world-class universities.

Our Year 9 program, Synergy, features a contemporary design thinking approach, a forward looking form of problem solving where students discover what “their” Melbourne looks like. They focus on the challenges of Melbourne and how can they contribute to a future Melbourne.

We match curriculum with support programs and co-curricular subjects –including the Arts, sports, social justice, and leadership initiatives.

The New Master Plan is a proposed development where we will create an education precinct reflecting Melbourne’s laneways, green open spaces and transformative learning hubs. Building on the Academy’s reputation as an established and respected institution, the New Master Plan is our vision to foster a place that is stimulating, harmonious, nurturing and minimises

From our location beside the Carlton Gardens, we conduct classes in Melbourne’s premiere learning and cultural centres’ including the NGV, Melbourne Museum, ACMI, and nearby world-class universities.

environmental impacts.

Historical context allows engagement with the best of the past while looking towards tomorrow. The aspiration of our Master Plan is the continued transformation of the Academy into a learning community to support the development of young women.

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College

CAROLINE Chisholm Catholic College is an inclusive and faith-filled co-educational secondary high school located in Melbourne’s inner west. We have three campuses across two sites, both located in the heart of Braybrook. Our unique setting allows students to learn in a single sex environment during their formative years at separate all-girls and allboys campuses, before moving to our senior co-educational campus in Years 10 - 12.

We are committed to an education that values each student as an individual, made in the image of God. We purse excellence in teaching and promote lifelong learning and spiritual growth. The College’s holistic educational, religious, pastoral and cocurricular programs are aimed at forming ‘men and women for others’ – young people who are compassionate, competent, conscientious, and committed. Our students develop knowledge and skills, such as communication teamwork and critical thinking, to allow them to be ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century, and we have seen strong academic growth that reflects this.

Our key focuses at the College include Student Wellbeing, Learning and Teaching as well as Faith and Mission. During a student’s time at the College we aim to encourage them to not only focus on their academics, but to achieve a well-rounded experience. We have

Our students develop knowledge and skills, such as communication, teamwork and critical thinking, to allow them to be ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century, and we have seen strong academic growth that reflects this.

extensive sport, music and performing arts programs as well as many different student clubs to encourage students to pursue their passions and talents during their time at the College. Students receive recognition for their efforts through our Waa program, named after Waa the crow, an important Indigenous ancestral being.

Students are supported by dedicated staff to ensure they can be the best they are called to be. Our College works in partnership with families to ensure that we offer the best school experience that our students in the Western Suburbs deserve.

EDUCATING IN FAITH ... EDUCATION FOR LIFE

Catholic Regional College North Keilor

Catholic Regional College North Keilor is a Year 7 to 10 co-educational College. We embrace and celebrate the rich diversity within our own and the wider community. We seek authentic relationships with all families, and we welcome and values each student, meeting them where they are at and supporting them on their learning journey. We hold high hopes for our students, aiming to instil in them a lifelong love for learning. Students are challenged to aspire to academic excellence and to develop the invaluable skills to think critically, work collaboratively, solve problems creatively, and adapt to an ever-changing world.

Emphasis is placed on positive and respectful relationships. Our unique vertical House Structure fosters a sense of belonging and community where dedicated staff support our students, ensuring that each individual feels known and cared for. We take the time to understand each person’s story, and we work to enable them to discover and pursue their passions. Student voice and advocacy are encouraged with many and varied opportunities provided for student leadership.

Catholic Regional College North Keilor values academic excellence and offers a contemporary, dynamic and supportive learning experience that includes a broad curriculum and a wide variety of electives and extension programs allowing our students to excel. In addition, there are numerous co-curricular activities and opportunities to enhance skills and challenge our students. This year has seen the launch of our Sports Academy. We are committed to providing a comprehensive and cohesive program that nurtures the athletic and personal development of all students from Year 7 through to Year 10. Through rigorous training, personalised academic support and spiritual guidance, we develop well-rounded individuals who embody faith, integrity their coummunities.

I invite you to book a College Tour to view our facilities, see learning in action and discover what makes Catholic Regional College North Keilor a nurturing and vibrant community.

Tullio Zavattiero Principal

Catholic Regional College St Albans

CHOOSING a school for your child is an exciting but challenging time, especially for families who are preparing their first child for secondary school. There are many options and it can be difficult to know where to begin. However, parents know their child, and the process of looking at different schools will help clarify which is the best fit for their child and family.

Families often ask us what makes our school different. The first things that come to mind is that we are a strong faith community where learning, wellbeing and family all matter. We celebrate and embrace the rich cultural diversity of our local community and endeavour to live as a community without borders.

We offer a broad learning program that engages both girls and boys and challenges them to be the best that they can be. Our students are encouraged to explore their faith, to care for others, to become active global citizens and to do their personal best in all things.

Secondly, I think that our school is just the right size for young people as they navigate adolescence to become young adults. With 125 students at each year level, we are small enough to ensure that students are known, have a strong sense of belonging and feel safe. At the same time, we are big enough to offer a broad and engaging learning program. I would describe the College as a small school with big opportunities.

Lastly, our dedicated staff, strong relationships

We offer a broad learning program that engages both girls and boys and challenges them to be the best that they can be.

with families, primary to secondary transition program and our links with parishes and the local community are all strengths of our school.

Co-curricular activities are an important part of the secondary education experience and prospective students and their families are often keen to know more about these. Activities range from the community garden, various clubs and sporting activities, to the school production, choir, homework club and cultural nights. The co-curricular program changes over time, depending on the interests of students and staff. Further details and a virtual tour are on the College website.

I hope this brief insight into our school will help you in making a decision about secondary education and I welcome your interest in the College. If you have further questions, we are happy to chat by phone or set up a meeting.

Christina Utri, Principal www.crcstalbans.catholic.edu.au

Sustaining physical education

PHYSICAL education is often considered a fundamental aspect of early education, focusing on fostering physical fitness, motor skills, and healthy lifestyle habits in young learners. However, the benefits of maintaining physical education extend well beyond the initial years of schooling. As students’ progress to the upper years of education, it becomes even more crucial to sustain physical education programs. In this article, we delve into the myriad advantages of continuing physical education during the upper years of school, emphasising its role in promoting physical, mental, social, and academic well-being.

■ Physical Health and Fitness: Physical activity remains essential for overall health, regardless of age. Engaging in regular physical education during the upper years of school helps students maintain or enhance their physical fitness levels. Adolescence is a critical time for growth and development, and physical education programs provide opportunities for cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and flexibility improvement. By continuing to prioritise physical activity, students can mitigate the risk of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other health issues later in life.

■ Lifelong Habits: Fostering healthy habits at a young age paves the way for lifelong well-being. By maintaining physical education in upper years, students develop a strong foundation for a physically active lifestyle. They are more likely to carry forward these habits into adulthood, reducing the likelihood of sedentary behaviors that contribute to health complications. Furthermore, the inclusion of physical education encourages students to find enjoyment in various forms of exercise, making fitness a part of their daily routines.

■ Mental Health and Stress Management: Physical activity has a profound impact on mental health. Engaging in regular exercise during the upper years of school can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Adolescents often face academic pressures, social challenges, and hormonal changes, making physical education a crucial outlet for stress relief. Exercise stimulates the

Physical education programs that emphasize positive body image and selfacceptance contribute to a healthier selfconcept.

release of endorphins, promoting a positive mood and enhancing cognitive function, which can ultimately improve academic performance.

■ Improved Academic Performance: Contrary to the misconception that physical education detracts from academic pursuits, research suggests a positive correlation between physical activity and academic performance. Regular exercise enhances cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. By participating in physical education, students can experience improved focus and concentration, leading to more effective learning in other subjects.

■ Social Interaction and Teamwork: Physical education provides a unique environment for social interaction and teamwork. In upper years, students have the opportunity to refine their interpersonal skills, develop leadership qualities, and learn to work collaboratively with their peers. Team sports and group activities foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, enhancing students’ ability to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts in various contexts.

■ Body Image and Self-Esteem: Adolescence is a time when body image and self-esteem can be particularly vulnerable. Physical education programs that emphasize positive body image and self-acceptance contribute to a healthier self-concept. Engaging in physical activities that challenge and nurture their bodies can boost students’ self-confidence and help them develop a realistic view of their physical capabilities.

■ Motor Skills and Coordination: Upper years of schooling provide opportunities for students to further refine their motor skills and coordination through various physical activities. These skills not only contribute to overall physical fitness but also impact daily tasks and recreational activities outside of school. Developing strong motor skills and coordination enhances students’ ability to engage in a range of physical activities with confidence.

■ Long-Term Benefits for Preventive Health: Engaging in physical education during the upper years of school can have a significant impact on preventive health measures later in life. Adolescents who cultivate healthy habits are more likely to continue engaging in regular exercise as adults. This, in turn, reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis in the long run.

■ Time Management and Balance: Sustaining physical education programs in upper years teaches students valuable time management skills. Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and physical exercise fosters a sense of discipline and organisation. These skills

are transferable to the demands of adulthood, where juggling various responsibilities is a constant challenge.

■ Setting a Positive Example: Educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping students’ attitudes and behaviors. By continuing to prioritise physical education in upper years, schools set a positive example for students. They send a message that physical well-being is integral to a holistic education, encouraging students to value their health and make informed choices about their lifestyles.

■ Sustaining physical education in the upper years of school is a multifaceted investment that yields lifelong benefits. Beyond the immediate advantages of physical fitness and motor skill development, the continuation of physical education promotes mental health, stress management, academic performance, and social skills. The habits formed during these crucial years lay the foundation for a healthier, more active and fulfilling adulthood. By recognising the far-reaching impacts of physical education, educational institutions can empower students to lead balanced, active lives that contribute positively to their overall well-being.

In2025,EmmausCollegeproudlybecameanEarlyLearning Centre(ELC)toYear12school,providingoutstanding educationthatnurturesandsupportsstudentsthroughout theirentirelearningjourney.Emmausisawarmandwelcoming communitywherestudentsareencouragedtoembrace curiousity,stepbeyondtheircomfortzones,anddevelopa lifelongloveoflearningandgrowth.OurHouseSystemfosters strongconnectionsacrossallyearlevels,ensuringeverystudent feels a deep sense of belonging.

LearningatEmmausisdynamic,engagingandtransformative, supportedinmodernspacessuchas theSeniorLearningCentre, PerformingArtsCentre,STEMBlock,FoodTechnologyrooms,anAFL-sizedoval,aSportsStadiumwithtwo indoorbasketballcourts,astate-of-the-artMusicandMediacentre,and cafés.Wecontinuetoinvestin and personal growth.

AtEmmausCollege,everystudentisnurtured,challengedandinspiredtobecometheirbestselves.Our creativeindividuals “ToKnowChrist”,students grow into people of integrity with a strong commitment to social justice.

WHEREDREAMSTAKEFLIGHT

ACHIEVEMENT THROUGH ENJOYMENT

EmmausCollegeisaCatholicco-educationalELCtoYear12schooldedicated tofosteringpersonalgrowth,learningandfaith.Guidedbyourmission Christ,weprovideasupportiveenvironmentwherestudentsareempowered todiscoveranddeveloptheirGod-givengiftsandtalents.Setamongstleafy groundswithexceptionalpurpose-builtfacilities,studentsareencouragedto shape their own unique pathway and be inspired to achieve.

THE EMMAUS LEARNING JOURNEY

ToKnow

AtEmmausCollege,wetravelwithstudentsthroughaseamlessandenriching learningjourney,fromthefoundationalyearstotheirpreparationforlife beyondschool.ThejourneybeginsatourJuniorSchoolcampus,whichalso

Years7&8studentsstudyabreadthofsubjectsatourVermontSouthcampus beforetravellingtoourBurwood campusfortheYear9@Eprogram. Herethey willenjoyacademicrigorandparticipateinopportunitiesuniquetomiddle yearseducation.FromYear10,studentsreturntotheVermontSouthcampus withrenewedpassionandpurposetoforgetheirownpathwayinSeniorSchool, whether it be VCE or VCE Vocational Major.

Visit our website for Open Days. For Tour Bookings or enquiries: www.emmaus.vic.edu.au 9845 3211 registrar@emmaus.vic.edu.au

Junior

John Paul College

JOHN Paul College is a co-educational Catholic secondary school in Frankston, dedicated to providing a supportive environment that values both academic achievement and student wellbeing. Offering a holistic education, the College fosters intellectual, physical, spiritual, and social growth, empowering students to thrive.

College Principal, John Visentin highlights the College’s commitment to student empowerment: “Our goal is to inspire students to take ownership of their education and engage meaningfully with the world. We celebrate each student’s journey and work together to create a strong, supportive community.”

At John Paul College, our diverse curriculum, shaped by the passion and dedication of our teachers, offers students a wealth of opportunities to explore their interests and develop their unique talents. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that build confidence, foster a sense of belonging, and promote community involvement. Our extensive range of activities includes sports, debating, public speaking, community service, youth ministry, social justice initiatives, lunchtime clubs, and the performing arts. These programs are designed to enrich the student experience and help develop well-rounded individuals.

Student, Jesse, shares, “The College is great

with catering for all interests and passion whether it’s in music, theatre or sports, there are amazing opportunities for everyone no matter your interest or skill level.”

We are proud of our state-of-the-art facilities, including the newly opened Chaminade Centre and the Food Technology Building, which offer modern learning environments that enhance our innovative teaching practices. These spaces inspire creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, allowing students to engage in a dynamic educational experience.

Faith is integral to life at the College. Through sacramental celebrations, prayer, liturgies, year-level retreats, and social justice initiatives, students are encouraged to deepen their personal faith and contribute to the broader community. This faith-filled environment promotes personal growth and the development of values that last a lifetime.

Looking toward the future, we prioritise creating a positive and engaging learning environment that prepares students for the challenges ahead. Our educators work closely with students, providing personalised guidance and mentorship to ensure every student feels known and valued within our College community.

Join us at our Discovery Mornings in 2025 to learn more about the enriching experiences

John Paul College offers. Register now at jpc.vic.edu.au.

Kilbreda College

KILBREDA College, in the heart of Mentone, is a contemporary and progressive Catholic school. Established by the Brigidine Sisters in 1904, we build on 121 years of experience in educating girls to become confident, independent women who seek to make a positive contribution to their community and our world. Our Brigidine and College motto, Strength and Kindliness, together with our core values underpin our extensive curriculum and co-curricular program and shape our relationships.

At our College, our innovative curriculum acknowledges, celebrates and values the experiences of students as they establish individual identities within our community. They will experience a contemporary learning environment and curriculum that empowers them to be well-informed, independent and critical thinkers in this everchanging world.

Our Wellbeing Team leads a comprehensive student wellbeing program which builds resilience and encourages positive and respectful relationships. Through a combined focus on wellbeing and academic growth, our students are challenged and supported to achieve their very best in all their endeavours whether it be in the classroom,

on a stage playing in a music ensemble or out on the sporting field.

Like the Brigidine Sisters, we are deeply committed to matters of social and environmental justice and seek to instil in our students an understanding of contemporary issues in society and a desire to enact positive change through their words and actions. We affirm the life and teachings of Jesus, which challenge us to be just and to live in peace. Our Living Justice, Living Peace Charter guides us in this endeavour and challenges both students and staff alike at Kilbreda to be agents of change for a better world.

We recognise that each young person is unique, bringing different gifts, talents and individual needs with them. We pride ourselves on being a welcoming community in which all students are known and valued, where we treat each other with respect and dignity at all times. Our tailored programs foster an inclusive, nurturing school culture that encourages a sense of pride, purpose and belonging.

We invite you to see our school in action at one of our Open Mornings or join one of our Principal’s Talk and Tours. For more information scan the QR code or visit our website www.kilbreda.vic.edu.au

Unraveling the gender disparity

IN recent decades, a noticeable trend has emerged within the education system: girls consistently outperform boys in numerous academic subjects. This phenomenon has raised questions about the underlying factors contributing to this gender disparity and their implications for the educational landscape. While it’s important to note that generalisations do not apply to every individual, various factors shed light on why girls are frequently achieving higher academic success than boys.

Learning Styles and Study Habits

One potential explanation for the gender gap in academic performance is related to differences in learning styles and study habits. Studies suggest that girls often excel in skills that are enhanced by meticulous planning, organisation, and attention to detail. They tend to be more disciplined in their study routines, diligently completing assignments and reviewing material in a systematic manner. On the other hand, boys may be more inclined towards active, hands-on learning and may struggle with tasks that require extended periods of focused reading or writing.

Classroom Behavior and Participation

Classroom behavior and participation patterns can significantly influence academic outcomes. Girls are often characterised by their attentiveness, willingness to ask questions, and participation in classroom discussions. These behaviors contribute to a positive learning environment and facilitate deeper understanding of subjects. Conversely, boys may sometimes exhibit more disruptive behaviors, which can hinder their ability to absorb information effectively. This divergence in classroom behavior can lead to divergent academic outcomes.

Social and Cultural Norms

Societal and cultural norms can also play a role in shaping academic performance. Traditional gender roles and expectations might discourage boys from engaging in activities that are perceived as “feminine,” including excelling in certain academic subjects. Similarly, girls may receive more encouragement and support for academic achievement, leading them to invest more time and effort into their studies. These societal pressures and expectations can impact students’ self-perception and motivation to excel

With computers and calculators readily available to perform complex calculations, some argue that traditional math skills are becoming obsolete.

in school.

Emotional Intelligence and Communication Skills

Emotional intelligence and communication skills are crucial for success in many academic disciplines. Girls often exhibit greater emotional intelligence, empathy, and interpersonal skills, which can enhance their ability to collaborate, communicate, and excel in subjects that emphasise teamwork and effective communication. These skills are increasingly valued in various fields, contributing to girls’ academic achievements and their ability to adapt to evolving workplace demands.

Focus on Soft Skills

The modern education system increasingly values a range of skills beyond academic prowess, often referred to as “soft skills.” Girls are more likely to excel in areas such as empathy, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are nurtured through activities that encourage cooperative learning and emotional engagement, which are prevalent in many subjects. As the job market evolves, the prominence of these skills gives girls an advantage in their future careers.

Teacher Bias and Classroom Environment

Teacher bias and classroom environment can inadvertently influence academic outcomes. Research suggests that teachers might unknowingly hold different expectations for boys and girls, affecting their assessments and interactions with students. Girls may receive more constructive feedback and encouragement, while boys’ potential might be underestimated.

Additionally, classroom environments that cater to specific learning styles might favour girls’ approaches to learning, inadvertently disadvantaging boys.

The phenomenon of girls consistently outperforming boys in many academic subjects is a complex issue influenced by a multitude of factors. These factors encompass learning styles, study habits, classroom behavior, societal norms, emotional intelligence, and the evolving demands of the job market. It is crucial to recognize that gender disparities do not indicate an innate superiority of one gender over the other but rather highlight the diverse ways in which individuals approach learning and succeed in different contexts.

Addressing this gender disparity requires a multifaceted approach that considers both the needs of boys and girls. Educators should focus on promoting diverse learning styles and creating inclusive classroom environments that encourage active participation from all students. Ultimately, recognising and celebrating the strengths and abilities of all students, regardless of gender, is paramount. By fostering an

It is crucial to recognize that gender disparities do not indicate an innate superiority of one gender over the other but rather highlight the diverse ways in which individuals approach learning and succeed in different contexts.

educational environment that values diverse learning styles, skills, and perspectives, schools can help bridge the gender gap and provide every student with the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Marist-Sion College

peop arragul and the surrounding districts. Situated on one campus of the aters for approximately 1139 students and is accessible by public transport

promote excellence in learning The d to enable eac udent and s

anging world, we seek to empower iduals and enable them to make a

Marymede Catholic College

MARYMEDE Catholic College is a young and vibrant school community with an established K-12 Campus in South Morang, and a new 7-12 Campus in Doreen.

We aspire, in the way of Mary, to give students a passion for life, a love of learning and a determination to be of service to others.

Our College is dedicated to recognising and developing the unique potential of every student, equipping them to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world.

As a result, our curriculum nurtures the individual to achieve fullness of life through a balanced emphasis on academic, spiritual, social, emotional and physical wellbeing.

Our growth has seen our College expand, not only with a new Campus in Doreen, but with a renewed and refocused Mission and Vision, and the development of our four Key Directions:

■ Encountering Christ

■ Empowering students to Flourish

■ Aspirations for All

■ Fostering a Positive Culture and Environment

Teachers and facilities provide students with every opportunity to develop their own

The College places a strong, dual emphasis on personal endeavour and pastoral care, guiding our graduates to enter adulthood with confidence, self-esteem and the skills to successfully tackle life’s challenges.

interests and skills. An education at Marymede incorporates the latest technology, delivered by educators who deeply care about student outcomes, within an environment that stimulates and encourages excellence.

The College places a strong, dual emphasis on personal endeavour and pastoral care, guiding our graduates to enter adulthood with confidence, self-esteem and the skills to successfully tackle life’s challenges.

The next Rembrandt?

A strong foundation

CATHOLIC primary education in the Sandhurst Diocese is focused on ensuring that students have every opportunity to succeed.

With the introduction of ‘Magnify Sandhurst’, our 41 schools which are situated across North-Western, Central, and NorthEastern Victoria, are reinforcing our commitment to providing students with the best possible opportunities for learning. At the heart of ‘Magnify Sandhurst’ is a wellstructured curriculum that emphasizes core knowledge in key subject areas, ensuring that teachers have a clear and consistent roadmap for delivering explicit and direct instruction.

Sandhurst teachers are empowered to deliver highly effective instruction, ensuring all students are supported as they develop their skills and knowledge. This approach creates a powerful cycle of learning, where students are continually challenged to apply their knowledge in new and meaningful ways.

While academic learning remains at the core of Catholic education in Sandhurst, our schools are equally committed to the holistic development of each child, supporting the emotional, social, spiritual and physical wellbeing of all children.

Catholic primary schools in Sandhurst are committed to fostering a strong sense of

belonging. Students are not just learners within a school, but integral members of a supportive and nurturing community.

Catholic schools in Sandhurst create welcoming and inclusive environments where every student, regardless of their cultural background or faith tradition, is embraced for who they are. This diversity enriches the learning experience, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and mutual respect.

Incorporating Magnify Sandhurst into Catholic primary education in the Sandhurst Diocese marks an exciting new chapter in the commitment to providing students with an exceptional learning experience. The focus on core knowledge, clear content delivery, and differentiated instruction ensures that teachers are equipped to support students in their academic growth, while continuing to foster the holistic development that has always been at the heart of Catholic education.

The Sandhurst Diocese extends from Kerang in the states North West, to Corryong in the North East and includes the major regional areas of Bendigo, Echuca, Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga as well as many vibrant smaller communities.

Nazareth College is Catholic CoEducation at its best and we stand apart as more than just a secondary school; we are a dynamic learning community dedicated to academic excellence and the holistic development of every individual— physically, intellectually, socially, and spiritually.

Our goal is to prepare students for life, equipping them with skills, knowledge, and values to become responsible, compassionate, and successful citizens.

Join the Nazareth family for a unique educational experience that encompasses faith, wisdom, and knowledge. Enrol now to be part of something extraordinary.

Manning Drive, Noble Park North 03 9790 8100

www.nazareth.vic.edu.au enrol@nazareth.vic.edu.au

Visit our new building improvements including:

• State-of-the-art media centre with green screen room and recording studio

• VCE & VET Hospitality Centre

• Specialised science wing

• The brand new Maker Space for STEM/Robotics/Lego

• Outdoor classroom

• VCE Study Centre

•Brand new $8million Student Hub & Wellbeing Centre coming in 2026

Celebrating 40 years of excellence in 2025.

Sports School of Excellence

Ask about our free coaching programs for students.

Student-led school tours are available all year, visit qrco.de/nazevents for the latest dates.

ParadeCollegewasestablishedin1871andcomprisestwo campuseswiththeYear7to12VCEPathwayatBundoora CampusandYear10to12VCEVMatourPrestonCampus. Withover40VCEsubjectsavailable,and20VETCertificates, ParadeCollegeoffersaworldofopportunities.Paradeisalso a RegisteredTrainingOrganisation(RTO)providing apprenticeshipandVETtraininginourpurposebuilt,stateof the artfacilities.

EducationatParadeCollegeisdeliberatelyholisticensuring therearemanyopportunitiesforthegrowthofthewhole person–academic,physical,emotional,creative,and spiritual-withourHouseSystemprovidingthefoundation forstudentwellbeing.Anextensivenetworkofsupport programsisalsoavailabletoassiststudentsincludingalarge multidisciplinaryLearningDiversityTeam,Careersand AcademicAdvisors,Counsellors,andYouthWorkers.

OuracademicprogramsincludetheAltiorprogramforhighly ableYear7-9students, with students placed in classes andtheExCELprogramforYear 9 studentswhichincludesavarietyofExtendedLearning Projects,aswellaslearning4life,aseriesofPersonal Developmentseminars.Studentswhoarehighachieversin Year9arewell-placedwhenapplyingtoaccelerateinto availableVCEUnit1and2subjectsinYear10,andVCEUnits 3and4,inYear11.

alongside like-minded peers, 12734443-FR09-25

ParadeCollegehasrecentlyintroducedanewTertiary PathwaysProgram(TPP),whichincludesaSportAcademy andBusinessAcademyatourPrestonCampus,with enrolmentsavailableforthefirsttimeforfemalestudents fromYear112025.Uponsuccessfulcompletionof these programs,SportAcademyandBusinessAcademygraduates willgainVETCertificatelevelqualificationsanddirectentry intoarangeofundergraduatecoursesatLaTrobe University;thispathwayismadepossiblethroughParade’s uniquepartnershipwithLaTrobeUniversityandoffersan alternativepathwayforYear11and12studentswhoare seekingauniversitypathwaywithoutthepressureofsitting VCEExaminationsandhavingtogainanATAR.

Supporting every child to thrive

IF you are looking for a school that will challenge and inspire your child, then we invite you to explore Catholic schools in the Diocese of Sale.

The Diocese covers 39 Catholic Primary Schools and seven Catholic Secondary Colleges spanning from Narre Warren and Cranbourne in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, to Wonthaggi and Phillip Island in the south, all the way through Gippsland to Orbost in the east. In 2025 we look forward to the opening of our newest Catholic Primary School – St Josephine Bakhita at Clyde North.

Our schools are an excellent choice for families looking for a high quality, affordable education grounded in strong moral and spiritual values. There are many benefits to choosing a Catholic school for your child’s education.

Inspiring Faith

The Religious Education Curriculum of the Diocese of Sale, To Live in Christ Jesus, invites students to develop a capacity for reflection, for deepening their appreciation of their life, the lives of others and the environment and to look to the future with optimism and hope; being open to seeing and serving God in all things.

Safe and welcoming

Our Catholic schools aim to provide a safe and

welcoming environment with a Holistic Development approach to student learning. Working in partnership with parents and carers, Catholic schools strive to educate and develop the ‘whole’ child – spiritually, academically, emotionally physically and socially.

Teaching excellence and a love of learning

Our schools offer a wide range of subjects, from the core academic disciplines to creative arts and technology as well as specialist activities, from sports and music to drama and social justice initiatives. The curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire students of all abilities and develop life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience.

Service to others

A distinctive feature of Catholic schools is the emphasis on service to others which enables children to grow into compassionate and responsible citizens. Students have opportunities to participate in service to the school and local community through activities such as food and clothing collections and fundraising activities where they learn to recognise the needs of others and those less fortunate.

To find out more about Catholic education in the Diocese of Sale go to: www.doscel.catholic.edu.au

Penola Catholic College

school, equipping them with the skills and confidence necessary for higher education. This innovative approach encourages reallife learning, empowering students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts.

milestone, families are invited to explore what makes Penola a vibrant and nurturing place for learning. Interested families can visit the penola.vic.edu.au to book a studentled tour, experiencing firsthand the rich culture and community spirit that has defined the college for the past 30 years. Join us in celebrating our legacy and envisioning a bright future together!

Salesian College Sunbury

AT Salesian College Sunbury, we take immense pride in preparing our students for the future through a holistic education rooted in our Salesian charism. Our commitment to quality education is reflected in the promotion of our core values: Community, Learning, Excellence, and Faith. These values are woven into everyday life at our school, shaping our interactions, guiding our decisions, and reinforcing our goals in all we do. Our students experience these values not only in the classroom but also in extracurricular activities, spiritual life, and community service, creating a truly immersive educational experience. Inspired by the teachings of Saint John Bosco (Don Bosco), the founder of the Salesians, we follow his educational approach based on “Reason, Religion, and Loving Kindness.”

A cornerstone of Don Bosco’s philosophy was his dedication to shaping young people into “Good Christians and Honest Citizens.”

At Salesian College Sunbury, we strive to continue this vision by empowering our students to excel in all aspects of life, with the aim of making a positive and lasting impact on the world. We want our students to leave as young adults who not only achieve academic success but are also compassionate, socially responsible, and equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.

Understanding that each student is unique, with individual educational needs and

A cornerstone of Don Bosco’s philosophy was his dedication to shaping young people into “Good Christians and Honest Citizens.

varying academic abilities, we embrace innovative teaching and learning strategies to support our diverse student population. Our vertical curriculum, My Salesian Passport (MSP), provides a dynamic and personalised structure that fosters student agency and motivation. This curriculum is designed to encourage self-direction and resilience, which are essential for future success. We are already seeing fantastic results as students take ownership of their education, inspiring them to excel across a range of disciplines and in all areas of school life.

We encourage our students to actively participate in their learning journey, giving them a voice in their education. Our broad range of subjects is carefully designed to challenge them, expand their horizons, and help them realize their full potential in a supportive environment.

STEM is more than just Science

NEW research says that to prepare students for the real world, schools need to break down the barriers between individual subjects and enable students to solve complex problems using knowledge from a range of curriculum areas.

Lightning-speed learning on circuitry for a light festival; sleuthing water samples from the local river to measure the effect of pollution; controlling a chain reaction with a Rube Goldberg machine to grasp Newton’s Laws of Motion – these are just a few of the school projects discussed in a new Routledge book.

The author, Dr Jane Hunter of the University of Technology Sydney, says such projects enable students to bring together knowledge from multiple subjects, understand how school is relevant to life, and gain vital problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Her book combines over 4 years of research across 14 Australian primary schools and 59 teachers with a cohort of 1,500 students using “Integrated STEM” methods. Findings are based on large data sets from interviews, classroom observations, focus groups with students, surveys of the teachers, and the author’s knowledge of teaching and learning from her work as a teacher, policy advisor, and education researcher.

STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and maths, and it’s often used as a fancy word for science and maths education. But this is a big mistake, says Dr Hunter. She argues the whole point of STEM is to integrate these subjects: to bring them together to solve complex problems. Her research found that often teachers used the arts and humanities too, adding an A to make “STEAM”.

Four years ago, Dr Hunter was invited by school leaders to work with teachers in their schools to build professional confidence and capacity in STEM subjects, to set up integrated teaching and learning opportunities, provide elbow-to elbow support in classrooms, and then set about understanding what happened. The findings of the research provide the basis for the book.

Students and teachers from diverse schools loved Integrated STEM, says Dr Hunter. “They were enthusiastic about participating in authentic and meaningful learning instead of being more passive and experiencing each subject as separate from the other.”

“It was a real eye opener to trust the students and give them more ownership over complexity in their learning in multiple curriculum areas,” said one teacher.

“When the students learned how a machine works, they had to make up their own questions. It gave them more agency and took them to content in areas they wanted to explore. It was great. The students changed the way I teach. They led the way, and it really surprised them and me.”

According to another teacher, “The Year 5 girls in my class said … they have never done this before but now I really love teaching this way … we talked about famous female scientists, and the girls are experimenting more in maths, writing to scientists, and reflecting on their work.”

Integrated STEM is something all schools can do, says Dr Hunter. Teaching across subjects means wisely using the resources at hand. Many of the students came from economically disadvantaged families, spoke languages other than English at home, or had severe learning challenges.

“I really like using my hands to create and make things change,” said one young student in a special needs support unit. “We can ask lots and lots of questions and now we also find answers by ourselves. It’s good. I love this class.”

Dr Hunter mentioned a group of 8-yearolds at another school who worked out how to make a fully functioning hydraulic pump during a project on water and conservation. Applying engineering and physics principles, hands-on-skills, and perseverance, they built the pump out of milk cartons, rulers, tubes and syringes.

Yet Dr Hunter says it was frustrating to see certain students missing out on STEM learning opportunities due to a lack of material resources.

“At some of the schools, there wasn’t enough equipment to go around,” she said. “Teachers would, for example, have to decide who could use the scarce hardware resources. Students would dismantle what they were doing to provide parts for students in other classrooms. It’d really help if industry and philanthropists would invest more in school-level STEM education and do it long-term.

“Many teachers said they needed much more professional learning in Integrated STEM to ensure they could grow and develop their practice of bringing content areas together.”

Dr Hunter believes her research in STEM has implications for how integration is approached in primary schools.

“I want politicians, education regulators and parents to know that teachers and schools are doing highly relevant learning that is preparing young people for the world, but they’re slowed down by loud voices outside of education that have limited understanding of the field.

“Principals, teachers and schools are caught in this tension, and are stifled from doing what they’ve been trained to do because they have to get through piles of paperwork that take them away from their real work: teaching and student learning.

“It’s not just about getting students excited about what they are learning,” says Dr Hunter. “It’s also about teaching them the skills they’ll need to survive in a complex, rapidly changing world.

“Firstly, workplaces beyond school expect teamwork where individuals contribute their expertise. Secondly, in a world of complexity issues like COVID-19, climate change, and ethical tech don’t always fit into a single subject.”

“To address the current pandemic, for instance, epidemiologists, mathematicians, education experts,

economists, social workers, communications creatives and a whole range of other disciplines have had to work together – while the arts have also been vital to making lockdown more bearable.

“We need an education shake up. The research in this book shows how powerful and meaningful learning can be. It’s time to get cracking. We’ve been talking about education transformations for a long time and these classrooms show what’s possible. Now we must trust principals, trust teachers – and give them more time and autonomy to get on with it.”

Dr Hunter says there are simple ways parents too can help their child’s learning in Integrated STEM. “The main thing is to spark your child’s curiosity. Lots of families are time poor. But there’s still so much you can do just by encouraging interest in the outside world – spending time in nature, asking questions and reading … but not always on a screen. If there’s any positives to come out of COVID, it’s that it’s given some families more time to talk, learn and discover together.”

Jane Hunter. (2021). High Possibility STEM Classrooms: Integrated STEM Learning in Research and Practice. New York: Routledge.

For more information or an interview, please contact Associate Professor Jane Hunter at the University of Technology Sydney at jane.hunter@uts.edu.au

St Aloysius College

ST ALOYSIUS College proudly welcomes its third co-educational Year 7 cohort this year, following the momentous transition from an all-girls institution to a co-educational format that commenced in 2023. With over 135 years of rich history, the College has embraced this change, responding to the strong desire of families in Melbourne’s Inner North West to provide a Catholic education for both their sons and daughters. The overwhelming support from parents, students, and staff underscores the College community’s commitment to fostering an environment where students thrive academically, personally, and socially.

Rooted in the Catholic tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, St Aloysius College goes beyond academics, exemplifying the profound benefits of a values-based education. Guided by the Mercy Education values of compassion, justice, hospitality, service, respect, and courage, students are not only prepared for academic success but also empowered to navigate the complexities of the modern world with a holistic approach to mind, body, and spirit.

Central to the College’s educational vision is a dedication to individual wellbeing. Recognising the uniqueness of each student, St Aloysius College programs prioritise their wellbeing and lay the groundwork for academic and personal brilliance. The coeducational curriculum emphasises collaboration, respect, and understanding between genders, fostering empathetic leaders capable of engaging in respectful dialogue and driving positive change in their communities.

St Aloysius College’s comprehensive curriculum integrates academics with the Universal Learning Program (ULP) and a diverse range of co-curricular activities spanning STEAM, sport, languages and the Arts. This approach provides students with opportunities to explore their interests and develop essential skills, nurturing critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. The College’s commitment to an individualised approach recognises the needs of the whole person, equipping students with interpersonal skills, adaptability, and resilience for success in the many diverse professional and social

The co-educational curriculum emphasises collaboration, respect, and understanding between genders, fostering empathetic leaders capable of engaging in respectful dialogue and driving positive change in their communities.

environments they will experience throughout their lives.

As the College embarks on this transformative co-educational journey, it prepares students for the real world beyond the school gates. Graduates of St Aloysius College emerge as compassionate, confident, and well-rounded individuals, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead. Enrolments for Year 7 in 2027 are now open, with applications closing on Friday, 15th August 2025. Families are invited to join a campus tour and become part of a community that values curiosity and co-education, preparing students for a brilliant future.

St Columba’s College

THE Foxford Innovation Centre was officially opened in February 2025, bringing a fresh, dynamic space where creativity, collaboration, and innovation thrive. Designed with flexible, agile breakout areas, the building features cutting-edge IT connectivity, adaptable furniture, and seamless access to the outdoors. These spaces are purposefully crafted to evolve with the changing needs of our curriculum, allowing students and staff to work together, learn from one another, and push boundaries.

But why is it named the Foxford Innovation Centre? The name honours the legacy of Foxford Woollen Mills in Ireland, founded in 1892 by Mother Agnes Morrogh-Bernard, a member of the Sisters of Charity who also established St Columba’s College. When she arrived in Foxford, the community was struggling. Motivated by the village, its people, and the river that flowed through it, Mother Agnes saw the potential for change. She founded the mill to improve the livelihoods and prospects of the local people. Her spirit of resilience and innovation continues to inspire us today.

The Foxford Innovation Centre embodies this same spirit, serving as a hub where students will follow in her footsteps -

With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on STEAM education, the Foxford Innovation Centre will provide our students with the tools and environment to excel, creating a foundation for their success in an everevolving world.

designing, creating, collaborating, and innovating for a better future. This new building represents a major investment in the future of St Columba’s College and plays a crucial role in our vision of offering a modern, world-class educational experience. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on STEAM education, the Foxford Innovation Centre will provide our students with the tools and environment to excel, creating a foundation for their success in an everevolving world.

Team Work

St Joseph’s College

ST JOSEPH’S College focuses on academic excellence complemented by programs to enhance wellbeing, personal growth, spirituality and physical development. Our motto, ‘Agite Quae Didicistis’, translated as ‘Put into practice what you have learnt’, underpins our approach to a holistic education for boys in the 21st Century.

Innovative and progressive teaching methods are applied to maximise engagement and success. Our curriculum is designed specifically to cater for boys’ needs with a ‘hands on’ approach to learning. Our trademark Year 9 program operates at the Valdocco Campus within our beautiful grounds at the foot of the Dandenongs.

The College offers after school tuition four nights a week. The GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) program provides students with opportunities for enrichment and acceleration. There are several programs that support students with special needs.

Students enjoy a range of extra-curricular opportunities including numerous interstate and overseas experiences.

Our Masterplan ‘Towards 2040 and Beyond –An Adventure in the Spirit’ responds to the challenges of 21st Century Learning. State of the art Year 7, Science, STEM, Digital Technologies facilities offer the most incredible start to secondary school. Our senior students absolutely love the Year 11 and 12 spaces which include collaborative Learning Hubs. Dynamic new Visual and Performing Arts facilities complement the skills and creative flare of young men. A new Year 8 Centre, Pathways and Student Wellbeing Hub will open in 2026.

The College’s extensive sports facilities are newly opened with an improved AFL Ground, a FIFA size Soccer Field and Hockey Pitch. To further complement the developments, eight Tennis Courts, Australian standard Cricket Nets, Athletics Track and a range of Field Events are featured in the incredible expansions. As a member school of the Associated Catholic Colleges (ACC) competition, students enjoy opportunities in an extensive range of sports, debating, public speaking, arts and technology, chess, drama, music and rally days.

The College’s Sports Academy offers a HighPerformance Sports Program providing students with access to specialist coaching, skills development and mentoring.

The teacher-student, teacher-family and student to peer relationships cultivated at the

Students enjoy a range of extra-curricular opportunities including numerous interstate and overseas experiences.

College are what truly set St Joseph’s College apart. Teaching respect within relationships is what prepares our boys for life.

The College works to ensure that students are equipped to effectively take up roles in a rapidly changing world. Our students are equipped with iPads and MacBooks from the beginning of their journey at the College. STEM, Digital Technologies and Robotics form part of our Learning Program. Digital Citizenship approaches enable students to embrace responsible citizenship within a global community.

The teacher-student, teacher-family and student to peer relationships cultivated at the College are what truly set St Joseph’s College apart.

We offer the best of both worlds – an outstanding VCE pathway and an impressive VCE Vocational Major pathway with vocational and trade options taking place on campus and externally. As experts in boys’ development, we focus on the growth of their academic skills, faith and spirituality, relationships and physical and emotional wellbeing.

The Xavier Boarding House

prides itself on creating a community based on Catholic values, where students and staff forge lasting bonds and where every student experiences a broad and challenging program in a small Boarding House setting.

At Xavier College we will strive to engender a love of learning that will last long after graduation from the College. We do this by providing a caring community within which boys from Years 9 to 12 are encouraged to develop personal leadership skills, to become responsible members of the community, to strive for excellence and to become ‘men for others’.

A vital facet of a Xavier College education is our focus on ensuring that boys are connecting with a welcoming and caring community. Xavier boarders appreciate the opportunity to live, work and play with their best mates.

2024 Year 12 Boarder and Captain of Boats, Harry Glass, summarises this idea perfectly: “Becoming a boarder at Xavier is one of the best decisions I have made in my life thus far. It has exposed me to a variety of opportunities that I would not have found elsewhere. Many of these friendships I have found within our boarding family. Being part of such a tight knit boarding community made the transition to living in the city very enjoyable and easy. It has given me the chance to build such strong connections with people that I will carry with me beyond my time at the college.

One of the most unique things that sets Xavier apart from all the other schools is when one of our Year 12 students voluntarily makes themselves vulnerable in front of their peers. It is a safe time for them to share general wellbeing difficulties

or reflect on how they have navigated through difficult times of their life. This vulnerability and trust explains some of the incredible bonds and lifelong friendships that are forged during your time here. It recognises the need for young males to share their feelings and demonstrates how we support each other on our journey throughout life.

The Xavier experience has been life changing for not only me, but also my family and I thoroughly encourage anyone considering boarding to seize the opportunities at Xavier.”

The Boarding House seeks to enhance each boy’s sense of respect for the members of his community.

The relatively small size of the house ensures that students know one another well and are therefore in a position to contribute positively to the learning and development of their fellow boarders.

Our key entry point of Year 7 is now accommodated in an exceptional, new state-of-the-art Year 7-8 learning precinct on the Senior Campus, opened at the beginning of the 2024 school year. Preceding this will be a seven-year journey through an amazing, brandnew P-6 Junior School.

Xavier prides itself on delivering a unique Jesuit education, and 2028 will mark 150 years of developing exceptional graduates through inspiring learning experiences.

Buoyed by strong recent VCE results and APS sporting success, the College now looks ahead with excitement and anticipation. Xa vier College is very much on the move.

Xavier College

is an educational community within the Jesuit network of schools and universities. As a school that enrols boys, Xavier is committed from the commencement of a boy’s education to developing respectful and aspirant learners.

We encourage the boys to speak up and to express themselves; creating such a culture is important, especially for young men. There is a strong focus on pastoral care in which we seek to build a school community in which each student is known and valued as a unique creation, and in which their individual talents and interests are nourished and respected.

Central to our students’ education is Cura Personalis, the ‘care of the individual’, and our House system which offers great support and an embedded sense of community which characterises the experience of a Xavier education. Beginning in the Early Years and continuing through to the Senior Years, students are allocated a House and participate in friendly competitions, fundraising initiatives and communitybuilding activities together. In the Senior Years, students experience a vertical House system.

From Year 9, students are allocated into one of 10 Houses, and as part of that, a Tutor Group. Tutor Groups, comprised of up to 10 students from Years 9-12 from within the same House, are overseen by an allocated Tutor for the entirety of this four-year journey. The Tutor Group system not only provides students with peer support from younger and older students, but the Tutor also provides a consistent point of contact and source of pastoral support.

Extending upon our co-educational Kindergarten for 3- and 4-year-olds, Xavier is moving to a 2-year staged model of educational delivery from Prep to Year 12. This will coincide with a comprehensive building program to enhance every aspect of each campus.

Our key entry point of Year 7 is accommodated in an exceptional, new state-of-the-art Year 7-8 learning precinct at the Senior School, opened for the start of 2024. Preceding this will be a seven year journey through an amazing, brand new P-6 Junior School.

As we have welcomed the new enrolments of Year 7s and 8s to the Senior School, we are delighted to know these new and reimagined facilities enable the continued fostering of the human connections and

relationships that have made Xavier the muchloved College that it has become throughout many generations.

We live in an increasingly interconnected world; environment, security, economy; in a real sense our graduates become citizens of the world, and a Xavier education provides opportunities for our students to engage with the global context. The Old Xaverians’ Association (OXA) exists to promote the welfare and advancement of Xavier College through the activities of the past students. It seeks to remain engaged with as many past students of Xavier College as possible through reunions, events and ongoing communication. Indeed, as part of the Jesuit network of schools and universities that educates some two million students worldwide, Xavier is well positioned to take on this international dimension, through international immersions, tours and exchanges, amongst others.

A pressing concern in boys’ education today is how schools can effectively support the mental health and wellbeing of their students. Fr Chris Middleton SJ captures this well: “A strong sense of belonging, community, and active engagement in school life are crucial protective factors for young people, particularly boys. Xavier College, with its rich cocurricular offerings and emphasis on brotherhood and mateship, provides this foundation. However, it’s equally important that these values are rooted in a healthy understanding of masculinity, where qualities like gentleness, respect, and empathy are truly valued. By fostering an open culture where boys feel free to express themselves, Xavier can create a supportive environment for your son to thrive both emotionally and academically.”

Opening Hearts and Minds

ARE you looking for a Catholic secondary education for your child in Melbourne’s outer south-east or Gippsland region?

There are seven Catholic Secondary Colleges in the Diocese of Sale spread over a wide geographic area from Beaconsfield and Cranbourne in Melbourne’s outer growth corridors to the regional centres of Leongatha, Warragul, Traralgon, Sale and Bairnsdale in Gippsland.

Catholic Colleges in the Diocese are welcoming places where the focus is on developing each student as a ‘whole’ –spiritually, academically, socially, culturally, physically and Emotionally.

Teaching Excellence

Our Catholic Colleges offer excellent learning and teaching facilities in modern faith-filled environments. Students are encouraged to develop a love of learning, an enquiring mind and desire to strive for their personal best. Colleges offer a wide range of subjects, from the core academic disciplines to creative arts and technology, and specialist programs in areas such as music, sport and social justice. The curriculum is designed to challenge and inspire students of all abilities.

Values for Life

In our Catholic Colleges, education is more than just learning of content. The aim is to develop well-rounded young adults to be citizens and leaders of the future. Values of social justice, faith, inclusion, equality and respect underpin the Catholic education.

Growing Faith

The Religious Education curriculum of the Diocese of Sale, To Live in Christ Jesus, invites students to develop a capacity for reflection, for deepening their appreciation of their life, the lives of others and the environment and to look to the future with optimism and hope; being open to seeing and serving God in all things.

Youth

Ministry

and Service to Others

Youth Ministry events are one of the ways students from across the Diocese’s seven Secondary Colleges can collaborate and share spiritual connections and projects with their peers. Each year at the beginning of Lent, students are involved in the launch of

Project Compassion, the annual drive from Caritas to raise funds for communities in need in Australia and overseas. In March 2024, the Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend, Greg Bennet met with Youth Ministry student representatives at Marist-Sion Catholic College in Warragul to launch Project Compassion. Through projects such as these, students are encouraged to see beyond their own needs and embrace their ability to effect positive changes in the world both locally and globally.

Catholic Secondary Colleges in the Diocese of Sale:

■ Bairnsdale - Nagle Catholic College

■ Berwick, Beaconsfield and OfficerSt Francis Xavier Catholic College

■ Cranbourne and Clyde NorthSt Peter’s Catholic College

■ LeongathaMary MacKillop Catholic Regional College

■ Sale - Catholic College Sale

■ Traralgon - Lavalla Catholic College

■ Warragul - Marist-Sion Catholic College

To find out more about Catholic education in the Diocese of Sale go to: www.doscel.catholic.edu.au

Catholic Primary Schools

Holy Family Primary School

HOLY Family Catholic Primary School is inclusive of all.

The school has been educating the children of Doveton for over 60 years. It is a coeducational Prep to Year 6 school, with enrolments open to all.

We are a proud Catholic school and welcome children of all faith and cultural backgrounds.

Within the last year, our Prep enrolments have doubled and we were awarded a Monash Health award to recognise our efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of our community.

Our grounds are spacious, with abundant space to play and learn. We have large classrooms, plenty of play equipment, a large oval and two basketball courts.

Our teachers are dedicated, passionate and go above and beyond to share their passions with our students. Every student is known by name.

Our expert teachers work hard to understand the students’ point of need, and provide explicit teaching that extends the students’ capabilities. We have a strong focus on phonics and oral language. We use data to ensure our teaching is specific to our students’ next steps.

We foster engagement with families during formal and informal opportunities and share a partnership with the family to create positive outcomes for all students.

Our education support staff work with students who require further assistance to show their strengths. In line with our Inclusive of All mantra, we work to ensure that all students have access to tailored learning opportunities, utilising a strengths based approach.

We have soccer, dance, art, cooking and chess clubs, so students can find their passions.

Our vegetable garden, supported through a Stephanie Alexander Garden grant, is thriving and feeding many of our families and providing produce for students to cook with.

We visit local places regularly to ensure

Our teachers are dedicated, passionate and go above and beyond to share their passions with our students.

our students put their learning into action.

Our Breakfast club has 60 attendees daily and demonstrates our commitment to supporting families.

We emphasise enjoyment. We intentionally encourage our students to have fun.

We have recently completed a full upgrade of our website and enrolment process.

Enrolments can be completed online. You will also be provided with great images that show our stars in action.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly on principal@hfdoveton. catholic.edu.au

Every day, I am inspired by our community. Come and see what difference we can make to student’s lives.

Paul Sharp, Principal

Our Holy Redeemer in Surrey Hills continues today to help children grow, learn and succeed in all facets of their development.

Open Mornings are scheduled for Wednesday 12 March and Thursday 1 May, with both sessions commencing at 9am. Regular school tours with the Principal are conducted on a weekly basis, so please make an appointment to visit and see our learners in action.

Principal: Mr Frank Dame

We are a school that is committed to community, offering a contemporary curriculum that enables students to become active and connected global citizens through:

• fostering a strong faith community for every child, in the Catholic tradition

• a commitment to excellence in Literacy and Numeracy provision

• developing a renowned reputation in the community for our emphasis on public speaking

• participation in an annual intensive swimming program

• providing a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment that fosters student wellbeing

• integrating a range of technologies and strategies to support students in becoming critical, creative and innovative thinkers

• engaging in authentic and purposeful STEM education experiences

• offering a camp program for Years 3 – 6

• participation through the Inter-school Sport program, as a member of SSV

• the provision of before and after-school care programs run on site by a team of caring professionals

Holy Trinity Primary School

MY name is Adrian Scutt and I am extremely proud to be the Principal at Holy Trinity, Wantirna South.

Holy Trinity, as part of the Parish of St Jude’s, Scoresby, has a proud history and tradition within the local and wider community. Our school has been providing rich and broad learning opportunities for students in our Parish since 1986. Holy Trinity is a diverse and welcoming community that aspires to cater for the needs of all of our students.

Holy Trinity has a strong emphasis on learning, both for our staff and students. Our collaborative approach to learning focuses on the opportunity for all students to flourish and to reach their full potential. Holy Trinity is focused on the education of students as 21st Century Learners, with the use of a range of digital technologies and contemporary learning environments.

Our students enjoy an inclusive and welcoming environment and experience a range of programs that address the Victorian Curriculum.

As Principal l am passionate about providing learning opportunities for all children in a safe and supportive learning environment. At Holy Trinity we are committed to living out our school vision of ‘Love One Another’.

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a School Principal is providing school tours for prospective students and families. At Holy Trinity our school leaders assist with the school tours. It is wonderful to listen to these students talk so positively about their own experience at Holy Trinity and be the greatest advocates for our school. It certainly makes me proud to be the Holy Trinity School Principal.

On a more personal note, I have been working in Catholic Education for more than 25 years, with the privilege of leading two school communities as School Principal. Catholic schools are essentially learning communities, with the Gospel Values central to who we are. As staff members we are

We are committed to educating the whole person to their individual potential and we invest heavily in teaching our students the values of: Tolerance, Optimism, Respect, Confidence and Honesty which underpin our extensive values and social skills program.

called to be witness to these values in our everyday relationships with students, staff and parents. These relationships, in context of the Parish community of which we belong, help form our Catholic Identity.

I would invite you to carefully consider Holy Trinity for the education of your child and welcome you to attend a school tour.

Warm Regards,

Adrian Scutt, Principal

Holy Trinity Catholic Primary School’s motto ‘Love One Another’ permeates all that we do.

Our dedicated and caring staff provide an engaging and challenging curriculum. We offer an education that caters for the development of the whole child and equips them for a bright future.

Pre-schoolers warmly invited to attend Kinder Kids reading sessions throughout the year.

Some of our extra curricular activities include:

• Specialist Technology & Multimedia Lessons

• Student Wellbeing initiatives • Sacramental Program

• Physical Education & Sport • Italian • Visual Arts

• Camping Program • Integration Program with St Mary’s College for the Deaf

• Before & After School Care • Various lunchtime clubs

Features of the school include:

• Contemporary Library/Technology Learning space

• Adventure playgrounds & huge sandpit

• Basketball courts • Grassed oval • Harmony garden 10 Riddell Rd Wantirna South

Parents

Email: info@htws.catholic.edu.au

Benefits of extracurricular activities

EXTRACURRICULAR activities play a crucial role in the holistic development of school students. These activities, which encompass a wide range of interests and passions beyond the traditional academic curriculum, offer students numerous benefits that extend far beyond the classroom walls.

From boosting academic performance and fostering social skills to nurturing personal growth and building character, participation in extracurricular activities equips students with essential life skills and helps shape them into well-rounded individuals.

This article explores the transformative power of extracurricular activities and highlights the manifold advantages they provide to school students.

Contrary to popular belief, engaging in extracurricular activities can have a positive impact on academic performance.

Research indicates that students involved in extracurriculars often exhibit higher levels of motivation, better time management skills, and improved organisational abilities.

Participation in activities such as debate clubs, science fairs, or mathematic competitions stimulates intellectual curiosity and enhances critical thinking and problemsolving skills. Students who engage in extracurriculars are more likely to develop discipline and perseverance, attributes that contribute to academic success.

These activities provide a practical application of concepts learned in the classroom, reinforcing academic knowledge and deepening understanding.

Extracurricular activities can also offer opportunities for mentorship and access to resources that extend beyond the school environment, further enriching the learning experience.

Extracurricular activities provide an ideal platform for students to develop crucial social skills that are essential for their personal and professional lives.

Through teamwork, collaboration, and interaction with peers who share similar interests, students learn to communicate

From boosting academic performance and fostering social skills to nurturing personal growth and building character, participation in extracurricular activities equips students with essential life skills and helps shape them into wellrounded individuals.

effectively, resolve conflicts, and build relationships. Whether it’s participating in team sports, joining a music ensemble, or working on a community service project, students gain exposure to diverse perspectives, fostering empathy and cultural sensitivity.

These activities also promote leadership skills, as students often assume roles of responsibility, such as team captains, club presidents, or project coordinators. By engaging in extracurricular activities, students develop self-confidence, assertiveness, and the ability to adapt to different social contexts, qualities that are vital for success in the future.

Extracurricular activities serve as fertile ground for personal growth and character building. These activities encourage students to explore their interests, discover their passions, and develop a sense of identity. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby like painting or learning a musical instrument, extracurriculars provide a creative outlet for self-expression, fostering a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Furthermore, these activities teach students resilience and perseverance, as they often face challenges and setbacks along the way.

Through practice, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence, students develop a growth mindset, embracing failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Extracurricular activities also instil important values and virtues such as discipline, integrity, and teamwork. In sports, for example, students learn the value of fair play, respect for opponents, and the importance of teamwork to achieve common goals. In clubs and organisations, they learn to navigate responsibilities, manage time effectively, and develop organisational skills. These activities provide a platform for students to learn from mentors and role models, who impart valuable life lessons and guide them towards ethical decision-making.

Beyond the school years, the skills and values gained through extracurricular activities contribute to college admissions and career success. Participation in these activities demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Extracurricular activities offer students a myriad of benefits that extend far beyond the academic realm. From enhancing academic performance to fostering social skills and nurturing personal growth, these activities

Participation in these activities demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, a willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone, and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

play a pivotal role in shaping well-rounded individuals. By participating in extracurriculars, students develop skills and qualities that prepare them for the challenges of the future, both academically and personally. It is imperative for educational institutions and parents alike to recognise and encourage the power of extracurricular activities, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to explore their interests, pursue their passions, and grow into confident and capable individuals.

Our Lady of Fatima is a small Catholic primary school that delivers evidence-informed programs in a warm and supportive community environment. The school is situated in Rosebud on the Mornington Peninsula, approximately 85km south of Melbourne, serving the Catholic communities of both Rosebud and Dromana.

Our School motto is ‘Dream, Believe, Achieve’, with a focus on meeting each child at their point of need. Student wellbeing is at the heart of what we do and our staff ensures that your child is supported to make the very most of their academic potential. With a rigorous teaching program, our staff hold a common vision of academic success for all students where teaching capabilities and relationships are nurtured to support students' academic results, spiritual development and wellbeing.

With an extensive campus, Our Lady of Fatima offers spacious and modern learning spaces, a dedicated specialist learning area, Hub, School Hall, substantial playgrounds and sporting fields, all located on a quiet street frontage that provides a sense of privacy and security for our students and families.

Working together in partnership is of utmost importance to our school, where together we build the highest possible level of care and trust between students, staff and families. We place learning at the centre of our everyday encounters, while ensuring that a strong sense of wellbeing and community is maintained.

To book a tour call us on 5950 0400 or visit us at 16 Hinton Street Rosebud 3939 office@fatimarosebud.catholic.edu.au

Our Lady’s Primary School

Inspiring Hearts and Minds.

At Our Lady’s Primary School, the students are always at the centre of all we do. We are an inclusive community committed to providing a personalised and explicit approach to learning and teaching. Our students are all known by name, and their passions, skills, and interests are built on and celebrated. Our staff are highly committed to the education of the whole child, they are professional, caring, and dedicated. Our broad range of extracurricular activities ensures that our students are extended and challenged across a broad range of curriculum areas. We invite you to come and experience the Our Lady’s difference.

Learning Programs and Extra Curricula Opportunities

•Camp Program including a study tour of Canberra in Year 5/6

•Bi Annual Sailing Program on Albert Park Lake

f Cannberra in Yeear 5/6 rk k

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•Lunch Time Clubs including Lego Club, Choir, Art Club and Sustainability Programs

•Skipping and Coding Clubs

•Music Bus

•Robotics Club

•After school tennis program

•Maths Olympiad/ Academic Competitions

•Public Speaking Competitions

•The Resilience Project

•The UR Strong Friendship Program

•Multi Sensory Structured Literacy

•Explicit Phonic Program: Soundwaves

•Prep to Year 6 Swimming and Bike Ed Programs

•Biannual Arts Festival and School Performance

•Before and After School Care

OUR LADY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL SURREY HILLS

Specialist Programs Prep to Year 6

•STEM

•Performing Arts

•Visual Arts

•Language: Mandarin

•Physical Education

Accelerated Learning

•Learning Enhancement including a Gifted Program

Our school is situated at the corner of Glenferrie and Cotham Roads in the inner Melbourne suburb of Kew. It sits behind the iconic Sacred Heart Kew Parish Church. We are located just 5 kilometres from the city centre of Melbourne. Our school has been educating children in the Kew area for over 130 years.

Sacred Heart School Kew is a welcoming environment where our aim is to ensure that all students and their families feel a sense of connectedness and belonging. Our staff, students and parents make every effort to welcome and include all individuals in our activities and we pride ourselves on our strong community spirit and our happy and friendly environment. There is a genuine sense of caring for others within our community.

Our school community believes strongly in social justice and we build a sense of global awareness – that people beyond our boundaries may benefit from our support and that we can, and do, make a positive difference in our world. We aim to foster a community of lifelong learners where we set high expectations for ourselves and

high expectations for our whole school. We aim to support our students to experience success and fulfillment, a sense of purpose, hope, confidence and positive self esteem.

We believe at Sacred Heart School Kew that your child will be inspired and challenged every day by our dedicated and knowledgeable staff. Our classrooms, buildings, facilities and school grounds are engaging environments, providing the perfect setting for your child to develop themselves, throughout their primary school years.

Take a virtual step into life at Sacred Heart School Kew. This offers prospective parents a window into life at our school, for you and your family. Have a look around and see what you think www.shkew.catholic.edu.au

Please contact the school on 9853 5859 to arrange a time for you to tour the school and see our community in action. We look forward to meeting you and your family and showing you what lies behind the fence here at 116 Cotham Road, Kew.

Children who read books daily...

Books Matter - UK study has lessons for Australia

A STUDY of 43,000 students in the United Kingdom released recently has demonstrated that it not only matters that kids read: it matters what they read.

The significant study showed that students who engaged in reading high-quality books daily scored much higher in tests than those who chose to read items such as magazines. .

Griffith University’s Beryl Exley, Professor of English Curriculum & Literacies Education in the School of Education and Professional Studies, explains why it is important to encourage the reading of books - and why other reading materials are still important:

“Comics, newspapers and magazines don’t escalate children’s cognitive skills as much because they usually present everyday concepts with everyday vocabulary in a practical way.

“Story books and information books usually present academic concepts with a more technical vocabulary in an abstract way. This is what grows cognitive capacity.

“That’s not to say that comics, newspapers and magazine don’t ever focus on academic concepts, but it’s less likely that will happen.

Children still should be encouraged to read comics, newspapers and magazines for pleasure, to add to their general knowledge and to be politically aware. Breadth of reading opportunities is the goal.”

For more information, please contact Professor Beryl Exley, Deputy Head of SchoolLearning & Teaching in the School of Education and Professional Studies at Griffith University at b.exley@griffith.edu.au

Associate Professor Michael Nagel from the University of the Sunshine Coast says,”This study resonates with a growing corpus of literature suggesting that reading paper based books offers a distinct advantage for achieving excellent standards of literacy and higher academic achievement.

“Aside from a range of issues associated with reading on screens, and an oft held sacred cow suggesting that children should be offered anything to read just as long as they are reading, this study links with others that have identified that children prefer to read books on paper

rather than screens and that academic success is linked to developing a rich understanding of complex text through books over the school years.

“This is not to say that children should be discouraged from other types of reading but that books should be at the forefront of such endeavour. Reading, and reading comprehension, are not general skills and both are nurtured through incrementally complex text in age appropriate books over the course of a child’s life and educational journey.”

For more information, please contact Associate Professor Michael Nagel in Child Development and Learning at the University of the Sunshine Coast at mnagel@usc.edu.au

Children who read books daily score higher in school tests, vast new study states

What children choose to read outside school directly influences their academic performance according to a major new study by the University of Malaga and UCL, and published in the peerreviewed journal Oxford Review of Education.

Using longitudinal census data to look at more than 43,000 students, aged 10 to 11 and then again when they were 13 to 14, the research provides substantial evidence that pupils who enjoy reading high-quality books daily score higher in tests.

The average marks of pupils who read books rose by 0.22 points overall, which is the equivalent of 3 months’ worth of additional secondary school academic growth.

The study demonstrated no similar advantage for children’s reading daily newspapers, comics or magazines, and only marginal benefits from short stories.

The findings have important implications for parents, teachers and policymakers, and the international research team is recommending that young people devote their reading time solely to books.

“Although three months’ worth of progress may sound comparatively small to some people, it equates to more than 10% of the three academic secondary school years measured –from when these young people are aged 11 years old to 14, which we know is a hugely developmental period,” explains co-author Professor John Jerrim, from the UCL Institute of Education.

“In an increasingly digital world, it’s important that young people are encouraged to find time to read a good book.”

Professor Oscar Marcenaro-Gutierrez, from the University of Malaga, added: “Other less complex and less engaging forms of reading are unlikely to bring the same benefits for their cognitive development, and shouldn’t be counted as part of their reading time.

“This is particularly important for lowachievers, where any association is likely to be strongest.”

Co-author Dr Luis Alejandro Lopez-Agudo, from the University of Malaga, says: “Reading is a fundamental skill that plays a key part in all our lives.

“Our results provide further evidence that it’s not only whether young people read or not that matters – but also what they read.”

The amount of time children spend reading is already understood to help develop their literacy skills. This ability increases through practice and by trying longer and more challenging texts.

Few studies though have focused on whether the type of material children choose influences their achievements at school.

This study, looking at pupils in Spain, attempted to establish whether a link exists between literacy and mathematics scores and the type of material children look at in their spare time, as well as how long they spend doing this. Comics, short stories, books, newspapers and magazines were the texts included in the research.

The researchers used data from a census carried out by the Andalusian Agency of Education Assessment. This included questionnaire responses completed during 2008 to 2009 by 10 to 11-year-olds, and from

those aged 13 to 14 during 2011 and 2012. Children’s attitudes towards school were considered along with prior achievement levels. Parents were also asked about their own reading habits and how involved they were in their child’s education.

The results showed the more frequently children read books, the better they performed in school tests as teenagers. The same effect was not observed with comics, newspapers and magazines. Specifically, researchers found:

■ 13 to 14-year-olds who read books every or almost every day scored 0.22 standard deviations higher (the equivalent of three months) on the literacy test than those who read books almost never.

■ There is evidence of positive spill-overs into other subjects, with a difference of around 0.20 standard deviations in mathematics.

■ There was some benefit from short stories for children who enjoyed them at least once a month. The researchers concluded though that increasing the frequency of this to weekly or daily was unlikely to bring any further benefits.

The study also highlighted the reading patterns across different groups of children. It showed:

■ Girls seem to read short stories, books and newspapers more frequently than boys, and comics and magazines less frequently.

■ Young people from advantaged backgrounds read all the text types more frequently than those from disadvantaged homes.

■ High-achieving students (according to their 5th grade test scores) were more likely to read tales/short novels and books compared to low-achieving students, though with little difference in terms of reading comics, newspapers and magazines.

The findings of this study should be interpreted in the context of some limitations and the need for further research. These include the research being carried out in one particular region within Spain, and the focus upon academic progress made during the early teenage years. At this point, reading skills are already quite well-developed – there is no data for younger children.

Achieving Together in Faith

St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School

SEE how your child can thrive at St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School!

Located in the heart of Cranbourne, St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School is a nurturing and welcoming community, that provides a high-quality education aimed at supporting every child to thrive.

Committed to developing well-rounded individuals, we offer a variety of specialist programs designed to inspire and engage young minds.

As a proud Catholic school, we are dedicated to sharing the traditions, rituals, values, and stories of the Catholic faith. Guided by the Diocese of Sale’s Religious Education Curriculum, ‘To Live in Christ Jesus’, we instil these principles into our daily practices fostering a strong community grounded in compassion.

At St Agatha’s, we recognise that strong foundations in literacy and numeracy are key to academic success. Our teachers are committed to enhancing these essential skills, empowering students to tackle future challenges with confidence.

Beyond core subject areas, we provide an enriching selection of specialist programs, in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), Visual Arts, Physical Education, Performing Arts, and Japanese language studies. These hands-on experiences not only enrich learning but also prepare students for a successful transition to secondary school

As a proud Catholic school, we are dedicated to sharing the traditions, rituals, values, and stories of the Catholic faith.

and beyond.

We prioritise Student Wellbeing through a Whole-School Approach to Positive Behaviour Supports and active participation in the Mental Health in Primary School (MHiPS) initiative. Our nurturing environment aims to promote resilience, respect, and socialemotional growth, where every student feels valued and supported.

Partnership is at the heart of our success at St Agatha’s. We collaborate closely with families to create a caring community where every child can flourish. We welcome families from all backgrounds and faiths. Join us on a journey of discovery and excellence at St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School. Book a tour today and witness the difference firsthand! For more information, call us on 59962724 or visit our website at https://www.stacbourne. catholic.edu.au to find out more.

• Wellbeing through engagement

• Curriculum through community

• Extracurricular Opportunities

Encouraging curiosity and creativity and teaching through learning

• Specialist Classes Enhancing inclusive authentic partner -ships with families

• Encouraging the deep questions of life linked to Catholic Faith

• Learning in perfect harmony

• Promoting high expectations and the full flourishing of every person.

St Anthony's Primary School 90 Buckley Street Noble Park principal@sanoblepark.catholic.edu.au 9546 0044 www.sanoblepark.catholic.edu.au

STRONG ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

IMPRESSIVE NAPLAN RESULTS OVER MANY YEARS

CARING AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

BUDDY PROGRAM

SMALL JUNIOR SCHOOL CLASSES

EXPERT TEACHERS

FAITH IN ACTION

CONCESSIONAL SCHOOL FEES AVAILABLE

Keeping our planet clean & healthy

IN today’s rapidly changing world, the need for environmental stewardship and sustainability has become more urgent than ever. Schools play a crucial role in shaping the minds and values of future generations, making them an ideal platform for instilling eco-consciousness and promoting responsible environmental practices. The following explores how schools can actively contribute to keeping our planet healthy and clean through various initiatives and educational approaches.

■ Environmental Education: Schools can incorporate environmental education into their curriculum to raise awareness and understanding of environmental issues. By teaching students about ecosystems, climate change, waste management, and conservation, schools empower students with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions and take positive action. Environmental education can be integrated across subjects, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility in students.

■ Sustainable Infrastructure: Schools can lead by example by implementing sustainable infrastructure and practices within their own premises. This can include energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, waste management programs, and recycling initiatives. By showcasing sustainable practices, schools inspire students to adopt similar habits in their own lives and create a culture of environmental responsibility.

■ Green Spaces and Gardens: Creating green spaces and gardens within school premises not only enhances aesthetics but also provides hands-on learning opportunities. Schools can establish vegetable gardens, native plant nurseries, or butterfly gardens, where students actively participate in planting, nurturing, and caring for these spaces. This fosters a connection with nature, promotes biodiversity, and encourages responsible land management.

■ Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Implementing waste management strategies is essential for schools to contribute to a cleaner and healthier planet. Schools can introduce recycling programs, encourage waste reduction through composting, and educate students about the importance of reusing materials. Setting up designated recycling stations throughout the

By instilling a sense of environmental stewardship from an early age, schools contribute to creating a brighter, cleaner, and healthier future for generations to come.

campus and involving students in waste sorting activities promotes a sustainable mindset and reduces the school’s ecological footprint.

■ Community Engagement: Schools can actively engage with the local community to promote environmental awareness and conservation efforts. This can involve organising community clean-up drives, tree planting campaigns, or collaborating with local environmental organisations. By involving students, teachers, parents, and community members in such initiatives, schools foster a sense of collective responsibility and instil the importance of taking care of the planet.

■ Encouraging Sustainable Practices: Schools can encourage sustainable practices among students and staff through various means. This can include promoting walking, biking, or carpooling to school to reduce carbon emissions, advocating for plastic-free lunchboxes, and promoting the use of ecofriendly materials and products. By integrating sustainability into daily routines, schools nurture a sense of environmental mindfulness in individuals.

Schools have a vital role to play in nurturing an eco-conscious generation that values and takes responsibility for the health and cleanliness of our planet. Through environmental education, sustainable infrastructure, green spaces, waste management initiatives, community engagement, and the promotion of sustainable practices, schools can equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to be environmentally responsible citizens.

St. Brigid’s Catholic Primary School

School Profile

ST. BRIGID’S Catholic Primary School has the great Irish saint, Brigid as its patron. It is her example of faith and charity that has inspired our school motto ‘Grow in Wisdom and Love’. School spirit, community engagement, excellent educational and wellbeing programs, that focus on the individual child contribute to St Brigid’s being the school of choice in the Yarra Valley Region.

History

St. Brigid’s school dates back to 1901 when the Sisters of Mercy took on the task of bringing Catholic education to the children of Healesville. In 1904, the main brick building was constructed and then in 1915 the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ) continued this mission until 1924. Between 1925 until 1988, the Sisters of St. Joseph were in charge of the school and developed a strong standing within the community. From 1989 until the present day, lay teachers and principals have managed and improved students’ educational and wellbeing outcomes. The school has continued to evolve over the years with the needs of the students, having completed a series of refurbishments and capital works projects and is now comprised of 14 classrooms, an office and administration block, staff amenities, STEM Room, Library,

multi-purpose room, Arts Wing, and many other internal and external facilities.

Vision

A Christ-centered community, learning from the past, challenging the present, creating the future.

Mission

At St. Brigid’s we seek to provide children with the best kind of education possible, one that fosters a formation of the whole person that is deeply and enduringly humanising. With parents as partners, St. Brigid’s school seeks to provide an environment in which students are enabled to encounter God in Christ and deepen their relationship with Him; to pursue wisdom and truth encouraged by a supportive academic culture; to grow in the practice of virtue, responsible freedom and serving the common good.

Profile

312 students, 14 single year level classes, 34 staff with class sizes at 20-25 students

Specialist classes including Art, Library, Music, Physical Education, Performing Arts and STEM

Innovative approach to teaching Italian as a second language from Prep to Year 6

Focus on providing opportunities for students to flourish - as our motto says Grow in Wisdom and Love

St Clare’s Catholic Primary School

EVERY school has a motto or mission statement that outlines how each member of the community can benefit from being part of the school community. St Clare’s Primary School, Officer, has the following school motto: Faith leads to courage, wisdom and compassion

In order to live out this motto, all members of our community are asked to follow our school wide expectations which are Respect, Optimism, Courage, Kind and Safe - ROCKS.

Our students follow these in their daily actions at school by doing their job, having a go, making positive choices, seeking help when needed, modelling and practising kindness and keeping themselves and others safe.

At St Clare’s these expectations are modelled and explicitly taught and reinforced in an ongoing way. Our student awards are based on living out ROCKS and we link these expectations to scriptures in the Bible. Our hope is that all members of our community will leave St Clare’s with our school wide expectations and our motto instilled in their minds as they go through life.

We look to nurture the holistic development of each child at our school. For the St Clare’s family, numeracy and literacy skills are core elements of education; but so is Religious Educationdeveloping empathy, social justice and a strong moral compass. We encourage active play and healthy bodies; understanding other cultures through learning languages; and the confidence that comes with developing creativity through the performing and visual arts.

Student achievement is measured not only by

At St Clare’s our aim is to have each child reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individual - within a supportive and caring learning environment.

academic growth but by each child’s emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing. Being part of faith-filled community instils our students with a sense of identity, a feeling of belonging and above all, a powerful sense of self-worth.

At St Clare’s our aim is to have each child reach their potential; to be a well-rounded individual - within a supportive and caring learning environment.

Visit our website www.stclaresofficer.catholic. edu.au and tour our “virtual tour” to get a real feel for our school. School Tours are also available, please contact the school on 5940 6777 to book a time.

For all enquires or to receive our enrolment documentation please phone 5940 6777 or email enrolments@stclaresofficer.catholic. edu.au

• We recognise and embrace the importance and significance of Catholic religious traditions and the richness of our cultural diversity

• We aspire to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where staff and families work in partnership to nurture the whole child within a safe and supportive environment

• Specialist and support subjects: Sport, Art, Auslan, Wellbeing, New Arrivals and English support

• After school Learning Club for homework support and Lunchtime clubs including Lego, Art, Board games, Robotics, Building and Construction Club

• Co-located Community Hub offering playgroups, parent education sessions, English language classes, cooking classes and more!

St Dominic’s Catholic Primary School

As a Catholic educator of 30 years and a parent of two, I highly value the importance of selecting the right P-6 primary school for your child and family.

A helping hand

The crucial role of mentoring

MENTORING programs in schools play a pivotal role in shaping the academic, social, and emotional development of students. Recognising the significance of positive role models and personalised guidance, schools around the world are increasingly implementing mentoring initiatives. Here we explore the importance of mentoring programs in schools, examining how they contribute to student success, foster a sense of belonging, and empower individuals to navigate the complexities of academic and personal growth.

Academic Success and Goal Achievement:

One of the key advantages of mentoring programs is the provision of personalised support. Mentors work closely with students to understand their unique strengths, challenges, and learning styles. This personalised attention enhances academic performance by tailoring strategies to meet individual needs, fostering a sense of confidence and competence in students.

Mentoring programs empower students to set and pursue academic and personal goals. Through regular discussions with their mentors, students can identify their aspirations, create action plans, and receive guidance on overcoming obstacles. This goal-setting process not only enhances academic achievement but also instills valuable life skills such as time management and perseverance.

Social and Emotional Well-Being:

Positive mentor-student relationships contribute significantly to the development of confidence and self-esteem. Mentors serve as supportive figures that encourage students to recognise and embrace their strengths, fostering a positive self-image that extends beyond the academic realm.

The school environment can be socially challenging, especially for students facing issues such as peer pressure, bullying, or a sense of isolation. Mentors provide a reliable and empathetic ear, guiding students through these challenges, offering coping strategies, and helping them develop interpersonal skills crucial for healthy relationships.

Career Exploration and Skill Development:

Mentoring programs often include components focused on career exploration. Mentors can introduce students to a variety of career paths,

share insights about their own professional journeys, and provide guidance on educational pathways that align with students’ interests and goals.

Mentors play a vital role in nurturing the development of essential life skills, including communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Through real-world discussions and hands-on experiences, students gain practical insights that extend beyond the classroom, preparing them for future academic and professional endeavours.

Sense of Belonging and Community:

Mentoring programs contribute to the creation of a supportive community within the school. The mentor-student relationship fosters a sense of belonging, as students feel valued and understood. This support network can be particularly crucial for students who may face challenges at home or in their personal lives.

Promoting Inclusivity:

Mentoring programs have the potential to promote inclusivity by pairing students with mentors who may share similar backgrounds or experiences. This connection helps bridge gaps and creates a more inclusive school environment where diversity is celebrated, and students feel acknowledged and accepted.

Resilience and Coping Skills:

Life is filled with challenges, and mentoring programs equip students with the resilience and coping skills necessary to navigate adversity. By fostering a growth mindset and providing strategies for overcoming setbacks, mentors empower students to face challenges with determination and a positive attitude.

The impact of positive mentor-student relationships extends far beyond the classroom, influencing students’ lifelong learning journeys and personal growth. By recognising the importance of mentorship and investing in these programs, schools create environments where students not only thrive academically but also develop the skills, resilience, and sense of community needed to navigate the complexities of life beyond the educational setting. As we continue to prioritise the holistic development of students, mentoring programs stand as invaluable tools for guiding the future leaders, thinkers, and contributors of our society.

St Francis De Sales Primary School

Welcome to Our School

WE passionately create the opportunities for our young people to excel as learners, enlightened by faith, animated by love and filled with hope for their unique capacity to make a difference. As our patron saint St. Francis de Sales said, “Be who you are and be that perfectly well.”

Care, Safety and Wellbeing

We are a happy, inclusive community, where respectful relationships and positive behaviors are the foundation for learning and daily interaction. We encourage our children to be confident and resilient, excited about exploring their potential as learners.

Learning and Teaching

We are a high performing school, with a proven record of accomplishment in learning and teaching. The curriculum and pedagogy is student-centered and personalised in response to the learning needs of each child. Assessment informs the next learning stage to be explicitly targeted and taught.

We value high quality learning and teaching strategies that are informed by best practice and research. We ensure:

■ consistent, structured framework

■ strong focus on the Victorian Curriculum Standards

As one in faith we learn and grow.

■ high expectations for all learners

■ Individual student goals

A student’s age or year level are not barriers for learning

Excellent Contemporary Facilities

We have excellent fully air-conditioned purpose built indoor and outdoor learning spaces. Our contemporary environment encourages fluid and flexible use of spaces to target learning needs seamlessly at the point of need. Our new Multipurpose Hall was officially opened in October 2023.

Parents as Partners

We are committed to building our relationship and partnership with parents to ensure the very BEST outcomes.

We’d Love to Welcome You and Your Child

Book a tour via our website or call 87736700. Website link www.sfslynbrook.catholic. edu.au/event-registration-form/

St Francis Xavier Primary School

ST FRANCIS Xavier Catholic Primary School

is an inclusive and innovative learning community located in the heart of Frankston. We offer a high level of individual care and attention to children and their families, which only a small school can provide.

Our school vision is “An Inclusive Community, Connected through Faith, Aspiring to Challenge and Empower.” We are committed to this vision and ensure that every child feels safe, valued, and connected.

With around 160 students, we are able to provide a rich, engaging, and individualised learning experience for each child who enrols at our school. All students experience success and personal achievement. Our learning environment is vibrant, fun, engaging, and focused on enhancing each child’s love of learning.

A wide range of learning experiences is always offered, as the school continues to embrace innovation and progressive thinking. Students have the opportunity to engage in extra-curricular activities such as coding and robotics groups, photography clubs, keyboard and guitar lessons, and other student-led initiatives.

At St Francis Xavier, student wellbeing is at the forefront of everything we do. We embrace

Students

have the opportunity to engage in extra-curricular activities such as coding and robotics groups, photography clubs, keyboard and guitar lessons, and other student-led initiatives.

our diverse community and recognise the dignity of each individual. Our staff understand that children need to feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and connectedness in their lives to flourish, and this is the environment we strive to provide.

We believe that “every day is an open day” here at St Francis Xavier. We welcome school tours any day of the week and look forward to welcoming new families into our thriving school community.

Tuesday 11th February 2025: 9.30am - 11am

Wednesday 12th March 2025: 9.30am - 11am

Tuesday 29th April 2025: 9.30am - 11am

Wednesday 4th June 2025: 9.30am - 11am

Wednesday 13th August 2025: 9.30am - 11am

Tuesday 21st October 2025 9.30am - 11am

St James Catholic Primary School

I HAVE the privilege to welcome you to St James Catholic Primary School, where every child is known by name and provided with opportunities to fully flourish. We are a Prep to Year 6 boutique style school that can cater for up to 260 student enrolments.

Our Learning and Teaching team together with our dedicated teaching staff attend to the academic, spiritual, wellbeing and social emotional needs of all students in alignment with the Victorian Curriculum.

As Principal of St James I have two wishes for you and your family as you embark on this educational journey.

The first wish is for the students: May you come to school each day filled with energy and excitement as though it was your first day of school. May you never lose the energy and excitement for learning. Enjoy each day making new friends and working with your teachers and other students. May you appreciate that learning will be fun filled and challenging. May you continue to grow as individuals, trusting one another and creating treasured memories together.

The second wish is for the parents: As the first educators in your child’s life, may you continue to encourage your child to do their very best each day. May you celebrate their successes and support and encourage the times where they feel challenged.

Our Learning and Teaching team together with our dedicated teaching staff attend to the academic, spiritual, wellbeing and social emotional needs of all students in alignment with the Victorian Curriculum.

May St James School support you in your journey, as we work together for the benefit of your children, so that they may be equipped with the skills, knowledge and a healthy mindset to be responsible global citizens. Please feel free to contact me directly if you have any queries. I look forward to working collaboratively with you to ensure your child is provided with the opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and optimism required to enrich the world and live a meaningful life.

Carmelina Corio, Principal

Handwritting - Still Essential

St James Primary School Vermont

St James Primary school fosters a nurturing learning environment where students are fully supported to reach their full potential. All members of our school community are valued and work together in partnership to educate students spiritually, socially, academically, physically and emotionally.

Our dedicated staff are committed to students safety, ensuring students are central to everything that we do at St James, with a sense of belonging.

For Tours and Open Days

Please contact our office on 9874 1830 or email office@sjvermont.catholic.edu.au

Tours at 9.15am

• Wednesday 5th March

• Thursday 13th March

• Monday 24th March

• Tuesday 1st April

• Wednesday 7th May

Unique Features Include:

•After School Care

•Sustainability Focus including; farmyard animals, veggie patches and recycling

•Students Representative Council

• Synthetic Grass on our outdoor netball/ basketball court

•Grassed Oval

•Specialist Programs - STEM, Phys ED, Visual Arts, Performing

As a Catholic School, the Faith and person of Jesus Christ is central to our mission.

St John’s is more than a school, it is a place where ‘Love is Life’ is encouraged for all members of our community. This message of hope and love cannot be heard loud enough in our world and it is our children that we must love and fill with hope to overcome some of the challenges we have inadvertently set for them. Challenges in our

environment, challenges to peace in the world and certainly challenges in establishing a great deal more understanding in our lives.

At St John’s we have high expectations of our children, both in relation to their learning and their behaviour. We are there to help them when they fail, to pick them up and encourage them to continue in the face of adversity. This can be seen in everything we do, from our House Team days to

the Social Justice programs we run and in the day to day interactions with the children in our care.

Our aim is to ensure that all students experience what success feels like. We offer a wide range of opportunities to challenge different skills and intelligences, from language skills to developmental coding and robotics, sporting and academic pursuits, which all students from Prep to Grade 6 are able to experience.

We believe that students should learn how to foster a love of learning. To become lifelong learners, problem solvers, risk-takers and above all, to believe in hope, justice and doing the right thing by others. If this sounds like something you would like for your child.

Give us a call and let us help you shape your child’s future.

We Walk with Families in Faith and Knowledge Nestled in the heart of Mulgrave, St. John Vianney’s Primary School offers a peaceful setting for learning and growth. Our beautifully landscaped grounds feature spacious play areas, well-maintained gardens, and modern facilities that foster creativity and collaboration.

We are a welcoming community dedicated to nurturing the hearts and minds of our students. Our school is built on strong values, academic excellence, and a commitment to creating lifelong learners through engaging teaching practices.

Student Wellbeing

Learning through Explicit Teaching

At St. John Vianney’s, we proudly use Explicit Instruction as our core teaching approach. This effective method breaks down complex ideas into manageable steps, offering clear guidance through direct explanations, modeling and guided practice.

Explicit Instruction fosters active engagement, enabling students to participate fully in their learning. It also provides immediate feedback, helping them clarify misunderstandings quickly. We believe this approach lays a strong foundation for academic success!

At St. John Vianney’s, student wellbeing and relationships are key! We embrace the Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) framework as an essential part of our culture. PBL promotes positive behaviour and helps create a safe, supportive learning environment.

With PBL, every student is explicitly taught expected behaviours, and clear, consistent boundaries are established. Our dedicated staff takes a proactive approach to ensure every student thrives. By focusing on positive behaviour, we aim to set our students up for success both inside and outside the classroom!

9.15am & 10.15am

ABOUT

US OUR FACILITIES

18 Classrooms

Library/Digitech

Oval/Courts/Playgrounds

Canteen

Visual Art Room

Performing Arts

Meeting Rooms

At St John Vianney’s, we take great pride in our evidence-based teaching practices and the exceptional outcomes achieved by our students. Come and see us in action.

Term 1

Monday 3rd March

Thursday 6th March

Friday 21st March

Monday 24th March

Term 2

Thursday 24th April

Wednesday 30th April

Monday 5th May

The St Jude’s Difference

AT St Jude’s we have strong partnerships to ensure that every student can become a confident, resilient and successful learner.

We have a terrific reputation for high quality teaching staff and attract the best school leaders.

LEAP - Learning Extension and Achievement Program

St. Jude’s LEAP program is an effective initiative in meeting student academic needs, from supporting those needing extra assistance right through to the high flyers who need extension.

We have highly skilled classroom teachers, a Speech Pathologist and Occupational Therapist, who solely focus on extension and intervention strategies. Many of our students are working well beyond their year level’s curriculum standards and enjoy our acceleration programs in English, Maths, Science, Music and Italian.

Positive Behaviours for Learning

Our Positive Behaviours for Learning program outlines all the ways that you can ‘Be Your Best Self’. This behavioural framework is organised under the headings: Be Respectful, Be Safe and Be Responsible. The positive reinforcement of these expectations right across the school creates a calm and orderly learning environment.

St. Jude’s is a Resilience Project Partner School

We provide emotionally engaging programs that are evidence-based and include practical strategies to build resilience. Every student works towards being a GEM! Someone who

shows Gratitude, is Empathetic by being kind to others, and practices Mindfulness. Our children make many friends and are encouraged to share their interests with each other through a range of extra curricular activities.

A High Performing School

St Jude’s was recently acknowledged through an external review process as being high performing in:

1. The explicit improvement agenda for the school

2. Developing a positive culture that promotes all aspects of learning

3. The targeted use of school resources to meet student needs, including students needing extension

4. Systematic curriculum delivery

5. School community partnerships.

St. Jude’s received a commendation for our approach to Student Wellbeing and a special mention for our Wellbeing Centre - The Well.

The Well is open before school, during play times and after school. It is a place where adults and children can come to simply ‘Be Well’ by: enjoying their favourite activities, socialising, catching up with a friend or even speaking to staff about how to improve mental health and wellbeing. The Well hosts a number of our lunch clubs and is home to our own Playgroup. All families with preschool aged children are welcome.

Come and visit St. Judes!

“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl.

Instead they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light“.

Luke 11:33

St. Jude’s School is a welcoming community built on the foundations of a strong Catholic Parish. We welcome all families, Catholic and non-catholic. We celebrate diversity and offer outstanding educational programs and extra-curricular opportunities. Our students enjoy a large school site, with generous playgrounds and facilities.

At St. Jude’s we believe in developing children with a strong sense of self-worth. We know that small positive actions matter every day - a welcoming smile, an understanding nod, a listening ear, a word of encouragement. Our students know we care and in turn care about themselves, each other and their learning.

We help every child shine brightly!

Our quality teachers, terrific academic results, enthusiastic student and parent engagement, all reflect a vibrant learning community.

Tim McMullen Principal

St Kevin’s Primary School

WE wish to extend a warm welcome to your family on behalf of our school community. At St Kevin’s, our students are at the centre of all that we do. We have a strong commitment to providing a safe and harmonious school environment where successful relationships thrive. Our strength lies in the close partnerships between students, staff, parents and the wider community which is highly valued by us all.

We endeavour to educate our students to develop a foundation of knowledge, skills and attitudes for life-long learning. The school is focused on the students being prepared for a world yet to be imagined and in providing all classes with the right tools to support their engagement in a contemporary learning environment. At St Kevin’s, we build the expectation that each of us has the potential to contribute to the development of our changing world.

We provide an exciting educational program where learning is inclusive, relevant, fun and caters to the whole child. Our devoted teachers stay updated on the latest research and implement evidence-based practices to ensure quality educational outcomes for all students. We strive for excellence, to instil a love of learning into our students and to make school a place where children want to be. This is achieved through the extensive range of

academic, sporting and cultural activities organised by the school.

Our school is a Learning Community. In partnership with parents, staff work together to create a culture that enables children to think creatively, confidently express themselves, independently follow their curiosity and manage their learning in an organised and persistent manner to the best of their ability. We expect our students to work hard and to care for each other and to invest in making St Kevin’s a very positive place of learning.

We are so proud of our school, and meeting potential new members of our community brings us great joy knowing that we may be at the beginning of creating and developing new and powerful relationships. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss them. Our school community is vibrant and enthusiastic and we hope your involvement at St Kevin’s will be enriching, enjoyableand rewarding.

We warmly invite you to explore our website, subscribe to a video tour or even book a physical tour so you can see for yourself why St Kevin’s is the school of choice in Hampton Park. St Kevin’s is a fantastic school – come and visit us.

We know you will be impressed.

WE wish to extend a warm welcome to your family on behalf of our school community. At St Kevin's, our students are at the centre of all that we do. We have a strong commitment to providing a safe and harmonious school environment where successful relationships thrive. Our strength lies in the close partnershipsmunity which is highly valued by us all.

We provide engaging educational programs where learning is inclusive, relevant, fun and caters to theing styles of all students where quality educational outcomes remain their constant focus. We strive for excellence, to instill a love of learning into our students and to make school a place where children want to be. This is achieved through the extensive range of academic, sporting and cultural activities organised by the school.

We endeavour to educate our students to develop a foundation of knowledge, skills and attitudes for lifelong learning. The school is focused on the students being prepared for a world yet to be imagined and in providing all classes with the right tools to support their engagement in a contemporary learning environment. At St Kevin's, we build the expectation that each of us has the potential to contribute to the development of our changing world academic, sporting and cultural activities organised by the school.

Our school is a Learning Community. In partnership

that enables children to think creatively, confidently express themselves, independently follow their curiosity and manage their learning in an organised and persistent manner to the best of their ability. We expect our students to work hard and to care for each other and to invest in making St Kevin's a very positive place of learning.

We are so proud of our school and meeting potential new members of our community brings us great joy knowing that we may be at the beginning of creating and developing new and powerful relationships. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss them. Our school community is vibrant and enthusiastic and we hope your involvement at St Kevin's will be enriching. enjoyable and rewarding.

We warmly invite you to explore our website, subscribe to a video tour or even book a physical tour so you can see for yourself why St Kevin's is the school of choice in Templestowe Lower. St Kevin's is a fantastic

We know you will be impressed.

Term 1

2025 OPEN DAYS

Discovery Tour on Open Days everyday of the week for 2025!

Wednesday5th March | 9:30am -11am

Saturday 15th March | 9:30am -12pm

Term 2

Monday28th April | 9:30am - 11am

Monday28th April Information Night | 7:30pm Adults only

Saturday 17th May | 9:30am -12pm

Term 3

Tuesday 29thJuly | 9:30am -11am

Thursday 7thAugust | 9:30am -11am

Saturday 19th July | 9:30am -12pm

Term 4

Saturday 18thOctober |9:30am-12pm

Wednesday29thOctober| 9:30am-11am 'Story, Dramaand Dance Time!'

Term 1

Thursday27th February 9:30am to 11:00am& 1:30pm to 3:00pm

Term 2

Tuesday 6thMay 9:30am to 11:00am& 1:30pm to 3:00pm

Term 3

Wednesday 13 August on 9:30am to 11:00am& 1:30pm to 3:00pm

The importance of handwriting

IN an increasingly digital age, the importance of teaching students handwriting skills may seem diminished. However, the art of handwriting holds significant value that extends beyond mere practicality. The following explores the enduring importance of teaching student’s handwriting skills and highlights the cognitive, educational, and personal benefits associated with this fundamental form of communication.

■ Cognitive Development

Handwriting engages various cognitive processes, contributing to the development of fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and spatial awareness. The intricate movements required for forming letters and words stimulate neural connections in the brain, enhancing cognitive development. Research suggests that handwriting improves memory retention and information processing, as the physical act of writing reinforces learning and comprehension.

■ Communication and Expression

Handwriting offers a unique form of selfexpression and personal connection. It allows individuals to convey their thoughts, emotions, and ideas in a distinct and tangible manner. Handwriting can be more personal and intimate than typed text, as it reflects an individual’s personality, style, and individuality. The act of physically writing helps individuals connect with their thoughts, fostering creativity and a deeper understanding of the content being written.

■ Cognitive Engagement and Retention

Writing by hand enhances cognitive engagement and information retention. The physical act of writing engages multiple senses, including touch, sight, and kinesthetic awareness, resulting in a more immersive learning experience. Studies have shown that students who take notes by hand demonstrate improved comprehension and recall compared to those who rely solely on digital devices. Handwriting promotes active thinking, critical analysis, and the organisation of thoughts, leading to more effective learning and long-term memory retention.

■ Literacy Development

Teaching handwriting skills is closely linked to literacy development. As students learn to write, they simultaneously reinforce their reading skills, phonemic awareness, and understanding of language structure. Handwriting helps students recognise letter forms, letter-sound relationships, and word formation, ultimately

It serves as a foundational step towards proficient reading and writing abilities.

supporting their overall literacy skills. It serves as a foundational step towards proficient reading and writing abilities.

■ Historical and Cultural Preservation

Handwriting carries historical and cultural significance. It connects us to our past, allowing us to decipher historical documents, letters, and manuscripts that were handwritten. By teaching students handwriting, we ensure the preservation of this valuable heritage. Handwriting enables individuals to appreciate the artistry and personal touch behind handwritten artifacts, fostering an understanding and respect for our shared history.

■ Practical Applications

While digital technologies have become pervasive, there are still situations where handwriting remains practical and necessary. Not all environments or circumstances allow for the use of digital devices, and being able to communicate effectively through handwriting ensures individuals can adapt to various situations. Handwritten notes, letters, and forms remain prevalent in many areas of life, such as personal correspondence, legal documents, and signatures.

Despite advancements in technology, teaching students handwriting skills remains essential for their cognitive, educational, and personal development. Handwriting engages cognitive processes, enhances communication and expression, promotes cognitive engagement and retention, supports literacy development, preserves historical and cultural connections, and maintains practical applications. The art of handwriting holds timeless value, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper connection to our thoughts and ideas. By teaching handwriting, we equip students with a valuable skill that transcends the digital realm, empowering them to communicate effectively and express themselves authentically in an everevolving world.

Come and visit St Martin’s!

We LOVE learning!

St Martin of Tours School is a vibrant learning community. The school consists of three straight classes per year level from Prep to Year 6. We offer a broad range of opportunities for learning and development, where each student is known, safe and cared for to develop to their greatest potential. In line with the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools’ Flourishing Learners Statement, our teaching encourages the students to build their knowledge across all curriculum areas, practise and embed it, and apply it in their home and broader community life. The students often work together, gaining valuable insights from others and learning how to collaborate and cooperate.

At St Martin’s, we have embedded the Science of Learning explicit teaching approach across the curriculum, incorporating our knowledge of structure and sequence, research about cognitive load and the implementation of daily reviews to assist retention in memory. We implement a structured phonics approach to the teaching of reading in the P-2 area and continue to deepen the students’ knowledge of morphology in Years 3-6. The same explicit teaching approach applies in Mathematics, with topics revisited to build upon prior learning. Whenever possible, we link our foci in Religious Education and Inquiry Learning, so that the students connect faith with life’s experiences. We aim to help the students to develop as faith-filled, responsible and ethical young people, aware of others in their own community and the wider world. It is important for students to action their learning.

Our Specialist areas are enjoyed by the students and include Physical Education, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, STEM and our LOTE is Italian. We aim for the students to develop conceptual and thinking skills, creative and artistic skills, physical skills, the ability to experiment, problem solve and articulate possible solutions, to make decisions and pose ideas as active community members.

Some of the highlights of our school include:

• Preparation of the students for the sacraments at Years 3, 4 and 6

• A biennial whole school Performance and a Visual Arts Show

• A wonderful Buddies program across the school

• Regular Assemblies

• Camps and excursions

• Sports Days and Swimming

• Leadership roles in Year Six and a P-6 Student Representative Council

As a Fire Carrier School, the students build their knowledge of our Indigenous history and respect for the culture of our First Nations peoples.

We encourage our parents and families to be involved in and connected to the learning being offered at school. We have a fabulous Parents and Friends Association for the social and fundraising aspects of school life, and a supportive and involved School Advisory Council to share parent views for the continuous development of the school. We have a fantastic community!

ST MARY’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL

ENROLMENT

St Mary’s embraces the whole child, parents and community. We are a family.

Community connection & compassion

Individualised curriculum support

Dynamic learning environments

Faith centered

Vision, values, relationships

Pastoral care and wellbeing

Bookings are essential

St. Mary’s Parish Primary School

Williamstown

Our Place, St Mary’s

• Open to all students.

• Victoria’s oldest Catholic faith based school with a Sacramental program.

• Supports the practice of the Science of Reading

• Strong community and connections, become part of our family School Tours are held throughout an individual tour with the School Principal.

Providing Strong Academic Results

Learning Programs & Facility Highlights

• Sacramental Program

• Contemporary learning spaces with interactive whiteboards & Smart TVs, current innovative technologies & online resources; Coding, BeeBots

• STEM & weekly Science Lessons

• Computer Resource Centre

• eSmart School - sponsored by the Alannah & Madeline Foundation

• Literacy & Mathematics focused teaching sessions & high quality instruction for all

• Specialist Programs: Physical Education, Performing Arts, Visual Arts & Science/ Digital Communication

• Functional language approach: Italian

• Maths Olympiad

• Extension & enrichment learning opportunities

• FIRE Carrier Program

• Lunchtime Clubs: Chess Club, Calm Club, Comedy Club, Prep, Junior and Senior Choir & Disco Fridays on the Piazza

• Buddy Program

• Student Wellbeing Support Team

• The Resilience Project P-6.

• Multi-Sensory Structured Literacy (MSL)

• Explicit Phonics/Science of Reading

• Positive Behaviour in Learning (PBL) School

• Extra-curricular Programs: dance, swimming, tennis, choirs, gymnastics, circus skills, Orienteering, Rugby and Futsal

• Hands on Music - music lessons

• Excursions & Incursions

• Outdoor Camps for Years 5 & 6

• Biennial School Concert & Art Show

• Before & After School Care

• Interschool Sports

• Tuckshop

• Retail Uniform Shop

• Uphold Child Safety Standards

St Monica’s Primary School Footscray

SCIENCE is full of things that are small in stature but big in impact and Footscray’s St Monica’s Catholic Primary School just might be another of them.

Despite having fewer than 100 students, St Monica’s has recently taken on and beaten much larger schools in science competitions, including being named the top performing independent school in Victoria in the science talent search competition.

St Monica’s recently received the prestigious Peter Craig award for it’s achievements in the talent search which included a project entered by the kitchen science class as well as entries from individual students.

“For a little school of 90 students to beat all the top independent schools in Victoria is an incredible achievement,” said St Monica’s kitchen science teacher Jodie Donaghey.

“I’m blown away.”

Making St Monica’s achievements all the more impressive is the fact that this is the first time the school has entered the science talent search competition.

“We had our very first science fair this year and from there some of the students were selected to go to the science talent search competition representing St Monicas,” said Ms Donaghey explaining how it came about.

“We also entered a class project. In kitchen garden science class some of the students noticed that the water was running straight off the soil and wanted to know why, so they investigated what hydrophobic means and how to fix the soil to make our garden more productive.

” After designing and conducting a range of experiments over the course of a whole term, the students came up with an unusual solution. “They discovered that worm casting or worm poo was the most effective treatment for rectifying hydrophobic soil,” said Ms Donaghey of the project which received a major bursary in the talent search competition.

Combined with 10 St Monica’s students receiving bursaries for their individual entries, it led to the school taking out the overall award.

St Monica’s has also received national recognition, with the kitchen class project coming second prize in the national science week competition.

Money won in both competitions will go towards buying more science equipment so St Monica’s students can conduct more experiments.

Ms Donaghey said the ultimate aim wasn’t winning competitions though. “We’re trying to encourage the students to see that science is everywhere in everyday life”

In the spirit of St Patrick, we are a Catholic community working together as one to inspire faith filled, lifelong learners. As a Catholic school, we are called to teach the Catholic tradition, celebrate faith, promote educational excellence and to nurture the growth and wellbeing of all students. Come and see learning in action !

office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au

St Paul Apostle South Primary School

St. Paul Apostle South Primary School is a Prep – Year 6 Catholic school with children from a variety of cultural backgrounds.

We provide a safe, learning environment where the children are challenged and supported in their learning.

Our curriculum is underpinned by our Catholic tradition and values.

Our staff are dedicated to providing quality learning experiences and are committed to ongoing professional development.

We cater for the wider interests of students

and we offer programs such as Music, Art, IT, Physical Education and Mandarin.

Extra curricular activities include Interschool sports, Sporting Schools program, school performances and swimming.

We offer before and after school care programs each day.

Our Open Days are every day

Enrol for 2025 & 2026

We ensure that each individual child is recognised and valued in an environment that nurtures and cares.

PRINCIPAL: PAUL GLEESON

9 William Hovell Drive Endeavour Hills (right next to the St Paul Apostle Parish Church)

Email: principal@spsendeavourhills.catholic.edu.au | Website: www.spsendeavourhills.catholic.edu.au

Contact us: 9700 3663

St Paul’s Primary School

For further information on enrolment and open days please contact the school office on 9363 1568.

ST. PAUL’S Catholic Primary School began in 1956 and has maintained its multi-cultural links to the West Sunshine Community. St. Paul’s celebrates the traditions of the Catholic Church and, as a community, we live the Gospel Values.

At St. Paul’s we value the gifts that each person brings and respect the uniqueness of each individual. We encourage students to reach their full potential by offering educational and extra curricular activities where all have an opportunity to succeed. Our staff are committed to meeting the needs of all students to ensure they are prepared for life long learning.

Students, staff and parents are proud to be part of the school community and work together to achieve and succeed.

St Peter’s Primary School

Welcome to St Peter’s Primary School – A Place of Growth, Community and Faith

AT St Peter’s Primary School, we are a vibrant Catholic community where our love of God, self and others is central to our learning and all that we do. Our commitment to faith is reflected daily in our students’ interactions and in their journey of learning and growth.

We nurture a dynamic learning environment with a strong focus on developing social and emotional skills, empowering students to become confident, resilient and responsible. Our students are inspired to approach each day with enthusiasm, reflecting on their learning and applying it in meaningful ways.

Through a supportive and inclusive approach, we celebrate each student’s unique talents, fostering personal growth and positive self esteem. By embracing individual learning styles, backgrounds and perspectives, we create a space where every child feels valued and connected.

At St Peter’s, students and families experience a welcoming, productive, and safe community. Here, we encourage young minds to take thoughtful risks, solve problems with compassion, and understand the impact of their choices on others.

Join us at St Peter’s Primary School – where community, faith, and a love of learning inspire bright futures.

Programs Offered

Whole School Wellbeing Program

A holistic approach that fosters a supportive and nurturing environment for all students.

Peer Support Program

Year 5 and 6 leaders mentor multi year groups, building strong bonds and fostering leadership.

Buddy Program

Foundation students are paired with Year 5 buddies, and Year 1 students with Year 6 buddies, helping younger students feel supported and connected.

Student Leadership & Voice

Our Student Representative Council empowers students to participate in school decisionmaking.

Engaging Lunchtime Clubs

From board games and dance to art & craft and LEGO, students enjoy a variety of club activities during lunch.

House Competitions

Annual Athletics, Swimming and Cross Country events promote school spirit and healthy competition.

Interschool Sports

Year 5 & 6 students represent our school in competitive sports, building teamwork and resilience.

Year Level

Camps

Camps for Years 4, 5, and 6 offer adventure, team building and memorable experiences.

Swimming & Lifesaving Programs

Water safety programs for Foundation to Year 5, with lifesaving skills for Year 6, to ensure all students are safe and confident around water.

Targeted Literacy & Numeracy Programs

Intervention and extension programs to meet each student’s learning needs.

Comprehensive Specialist Curriculum Classes in Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Japanese, Physical Education, and Digital Technology enhance the learning experience.

Developing Lifelong Learners

Faith and Community Focus:

A vibrant Catholic school community where the love of God, self, and others guides all aspects of learning and growth.

Holistic Student Wellbeing:

Programs that nurture social and emotional skills, fostering confidence, resilience and responsibility in every student.

Inclusive Learning Environment:

Personalised support that values each student’s unique talents, backgrounds and learning styles.

Engaging Extracurricular Opportunities:

Lunchtime clubs, performing arts workshops, instrumental music, sports, camps and House competitions that build skills, teamwork and school spirit.

826-844 Centre Rd, Bentleigh East 03 9575 0909

principal@spbentleigheast.catholic.edu.au www. spbentleigheast.catholic.edu.au

Welcome to our school

St Philip’s is a small school, yet we are a vibrant community. We are situated in beautiful, expansive grounds that offer a calm and safe environment in Blackburn North.

From the moment you set foot in our school you will experience our welcome and inclusive community where everyone is known and nurtured.

Modelling the teachings of Christ, St Philip’s School community aspires to be a place of welcome that provides many learning environments to meet the challenges of an ever-changing world.

At St Philip’s we believe that every student can learn and thrive in a learning environment that supports their ability to succeed. To ensure that every student experiences success, either academically, socially and emotionally, we provide students with tailored support.

For learning to take place we need to ensure that every child feels safe, happy

and confident within themselves – and so a huge emphasis is placed on a strong wellbeing and support program that achieves just that!

Some of the programs that we offer at St Philip’s are:

• Design and Sustainability

• Performing and Visual Arts

• Language (Italian)

• Physical Education

We pride ourselves on our parent and family engagement. Families are involved and engaged in all aspects of school life, from the day to day activities, supporting learning in the classroom, and membership on the School Advisory Council and the Parents and Friends Committee.

Private tours of our wonderful school are available Monday to Friday all year round. Please contact the school to arrange a suitable time to come in on 9878 6501

Michelle Worcester – Principal

St Roch’s Primary School

St Roch’s, Glen Iris

SELECTING your child’s school is a huge life decision. At St Roch’s we help each student find their own voice and strengths giving them the best opportunities to lay a secure foundation at the beginning of their learning journey.

We will support your child’s academic, social and creative needs. Our staff deliver an engaging curriculum that delivers a balanced approach to learning to ensure the best start for your child’s future. St Roch’s is committed to developing students who think critically and creatively and are empowered to be collaborative problem solvers.

From Prep to Year 6, we are committed to developing an environment where every child can succeed through different subjects, activities and strong leadership opportunities.

With small classes sizes our teaching is designed around the individual needs and interests of students. Our dedicated staff create communities of learning that invite questions, support students to be curious and to develop the skills and resilience they need to succeed as lifelong learners.

Our recently finished award winning Learning centre is now open. The innovative design compliments our existing facilities ensuring that St Roch’s remain one of the best performing Catholic primary schools.

Analysis of the 2024 NAPLAN Results shows that we are among the top 7 percent of all primary schools in Victoria to achieve excellent NAPLAN Results.

Your child’s faith will be nurtured with a strong connection to the St Roch’s Parish. Our students are given many opportunities to develop their spirituality through their participation in religious education and social justice activities.

By joining the St Roch’s community your family will become an integral part of our school. We celebrate diversity and our focus on wellbeing ensures that everyone belongs and feels connected. At St Roch’s we believe that every face has a place - whether you are

With small class sizes our teaching is designed around the individual needs and interests of students.

a student, a parent, a member of the family or staff member.

St Roch’s is committed to child safety and providing a secure environment for all students and young people. All students attending St Roch’s have the right to feel safe, happy and empowered. The care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people is a fundamental responsibility of all within our school.

A St Roch’s education is a wonderful gift, and you are warmly invited to discover the St Roch’s difference for yourself.

Angie Mastoras, Principal

Hello, I’m Kasey Easdown I’m Kasey Easdown

And I am delighted to welcome you to St. Scholastica’s Primary School Burwood.

As a parent, selecting the right school for your child is a significant decision. I encourage you to explore our school and see for yourself why we are consistently the top choice for families in our community.

At St. Scholastica’s, our vision is to build strong, collaborative partnerships with families and the wider community. families and the wider community

Together, we nurture confident, curious learners who are eager to question, engage, and make meaningful contributions to the world. We are committed to ensuring that every student reaches their full potential, supporting their growth across spiritual, academic, social, and emotional dimensions

I look forward to meeting you and welcoming your family to our school

Warm regards, Kasey Easdown

St Sc holastica’s Scholastica’s Primary School

• We joyfully welcome families from all cultures and faiths

• Explicit teaching practises catering to individual needs of students

• Class sizes tailored to create opportunities for excellence

• Each child is known and valued

• Social, emotional and wellbeing underpinning all teaching and learning

• Specialist programs – Physical Education, Arts, Language and STEM

Open Day Tours 2025

Tuesday 25th February 9:30 – 10:30am

Saturday 22nd March 10am – 12pm

• Catholic Education Week

Wednesday 26th March 9:30 – 10:30am

Monday 28th April 9:30 – 10:30am

Thursday 15th May 9:30 – 10:30am

• Try A Morning In Prep

Thursday 12th June 9:30 – 10:30am

Friday 11th July 9:30 – 10:30am

Phone number: 03 9808 7279

email: principal@ssbennettswood.catholic.edu.au

address: 4 - 8 Starling Street, Burwood VIC 3125 website: https://ssbennettswood.catholic.edu.au/

St Therese’s Primary School

AT St Therese’s Primary School our vision is simple: do all that you do with love. We aspire to provide a faith-filled, safe, respectful and welcoming community where everyone thrives.

From the very first moment a child enters the school, they are invited to encounter God through interactions with students and staff within a calm and nurturing environment. St Therese’s strives to ensure that each student grows in faith to be understanding and respectful of one another.

St Therese’s school welcomes diversity with students attending the school from a wide range of cultures. Differences are embraced to create an inclusive school rich from learning from and with one another.

St Therese’s School is focused on providing excellent educational opportunities through a differentiated approach to Numeracy and Literacy.

Our classroom practitioners use student learning data to identify each students’ learning goals. An inquiry-based approach to learning in Religious Education means that our students leave St Therese’s with a holistic view of the Catholic traditions and scripture stories and how they may relate these to their lives in today’s ever-changing world and

These spaces include fully fitted kitchens that can be used with small groups or whole classes.

bringing them to know the fullness of God.

Our Junior and Middle Learning Neighbourhoods provide flexible and contemporary classrooms with large, multiuse project spaces. These spaces include fully fitted kitchens that can be used with small groups or whole classes.

‘In addition, the school offers rich and diverse learning opportunities that include weekly classes in Visual and Media Arts, Physical Education, Japanese and Performing Arts’.

St Therese’s is one of the smallest primary schools in the Cranbourne area which allows the staff to proudly share that ‘every name is known’.

To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, please contact the school office on 5996 7525 to book your personal tour.

Enrolments for 2026 are now open.

St Therese’s Catholic Primary School is a welcoming and happy place where every name is known and children are nurtured to become independent and responsible learners.

Teachers at St Therese’s are focused on ensuring each child learns fundamental English and Mathematics skills to prepare them for their future. In addition, the school offers rich and diverse learning opportunities that include weekly classes in Visual Arts, Physical Education and Japanese.

To learn more about what St Therese’s has to offer, contact the school on 5996 7525 to book a personalised tour, or visit the school’s website www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au

Principal: Felicity Broughton

We look forward to welcoming you and your family to St Therese’s Primary School.

131 Endeavour Drive, Cranbourne North Victoria 3977 Telephone: 5996 7525 www.sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au

St Thomas the Apostle School

ST. THOMAS the Apostle School, Greensborough North is a vibrant and welcoming community where academic excellence, spiritual growth, and student well-being are at the heart of all we do. Set amidst a picturesque natural environment, our school fosters a strong connection to the outdoors, providing students with enriching opportunities to discover, engage, and thrive in a supportive and vibrant setting.

We are proud of our long-standing tradition of faith-based education, which serves as the foundation for our mission to develop wellrounded, compassionate, and confident individuals. At St. Thomas the Apostle, we integrate these values into all aspects of school life, fostering a strong sense of belonging, resilience, and moral purpose in our students.

Our teaching practices reflect evidenceinformed strategies and the latest research in the science of learning. We deliver structured literacy and mathematics instruction that equips students with essential skills and fosters a deep understanding of core concepts. Our passionate and dedicated staff are committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where collaboration, creativity, and innovation flourish.

St. Thomas the Apostle School boasts outstanding facilities that enhance our students’ learning experiences, including a Bush School, Vegetable Garden, Science Block, Food Technology Building, Basketball Stadium, and Athletics Track. These spaces, combined with small class sizes, allow students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally while enjoying a rich variety of opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.

We are a school that celebrates the whole child, encouraging students to grow as curious learners, responsible citizens, and compassionate leaders. From the youngest members of our school family to those preparing for the next stage of their education journey, every student is known, supported, and inspired to shine.

To learn more about our school, visit our website at www.stgreensboroughnth.catholic. edu.au Book a school tour, or contact us at Tel: (03) 9434 4565. We would love to welcome you and show you all that St. Thomas the Apostle School has to offer.

Join St. Thomas the Apostle School and become part of a vibrant community where every child is empowered to learn, grow, and thrive.

School Motto:

St Thomas the Apostle Primary School

Enrichment and Care

Open Day Tours 2025

TOURS START AT 9:30AM

Tuesday 11 February

Wednesday 19 February

Thursday 6 March

Tuesday 11 March

Wednesday 26 March

Thursday 24 April

251 Diamond Creek Road, Greensborough North, Victoria, Australia

Tel: (03) 9434 4565

Email: principal@stgreensboroughnth.catholic.edu.au

Website: www.stgreensboroughnth.catholic.edu.au

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

Specialist Lessons:

• Visual Art

• Performing Art

• Science

• Bush School

• Food Tech - Stephanie Alexander Garden

• Physical Education

• Italian - TCL - Teachers as Co-Learners Approach

Unique Facilities:

• Flexible learning spaces designed for whole class and small group instruction

• STEM Room with digital technology tools, 3D printer and coding devices

• Athletics Track

• Food Technology Room

• Library

• Basketball Stadium

• Visual Art Room

• Performing Art Room

• Science Room

Future leaders

OUR secondary colleges prepare students for the future, offering a full range of subjects aimed at engaging, challenging and igniting students with a passion for learning. Catholic schools recognise that every child is special and unique and make every effort to cater for your child’s individual learning needs.

As we focus on the importance of educating the students in our colleges, we cannot merely consider the academic instruction of a child, as the physical, spiritual and emotional development of each child is of equal importance. We want our students to be confident, capable, compassionate and to be mindful of the world in which they live.

Catholic Education Sandhurst provides primary and secondary education to more than 20,000 students in 58 educational settings across central and North-Eastern Victoria, including primary, secondary, Foundation - Year 12 settings, Early Learning Centres and two alternative educational settings.

A distinctive mark of Catholic schools is the emphasis on community – principals, teachers, staff and parents working together and with the wider community to educate and develop the whole child: emotionally,

academically, physically, socially, and spiritually.

Catholic schools in the Sandhurst Diocese are committed to providing an environment where students, staff and families are all partners in the education journey.

As students’ approach the end of their education, we hope they graduate with awareness of their gifts and talents, valuing themselves and others as unique children of God. It is hoped that students are able to nurture positive relationships and build community, always striving to reach their full potential, responding to God’s call to be balanced, compassionate adults.

Catholic Schools in the Sandhurst Diocese are part of a robust education system that parents are choosing for their children in ever increasing numbers. We do not take this responsibility lightly and we are proud of the skilled educators and the school structure which is supported by the Catholic Education Office and the Catholic Education Sandhurst Ltd Board.

The Sandhurst Diocese extends from Kerang in the states North-West, to Corryong in the North East and includes the major regional areas of Bendigo, Echuca, Shepparton, Wangaratta and Wodonga as well as many vibrant smaller communities.

Xavier College

XAVIER College has recently restructured its Early and Middle Years programs as part of a comprehensive realignment of the entire College.

Building on its co-educational Kindergarten for 3- and 4-year-olds, Xavier is transitioning to a 2-year staged educational model from Prep to Year 12. This transformation is accompanied by significant building developments to enhance each campus.

Starting in 2024, the Junior School (P-6) will be housed at the Burke Hall Campus. The curriculum is organized into stages: Prep to Year 2 (Stage 1) in the St Louis Building, Years 3 and 4 (Stage 2), and Years 5-6 (Stage 3), which serves as a key entry point for many students.

Year 7, another major entry point, is now located in a new state-of-the-art Year 7 & 8 precinct at the Senior School.

As a boys’ school, Xavier is dedicated to fostering respectful, aspirant learners from the start of their education.

Grounded in Jesuit values, the school aims to instil its ASPIRE qualities—authenticity, spirituality, positivity, inspiration, resilience, and empathy—throughout every stage of learning.

The curriculum encourages curiosity, independent thinking, collaboration, and reflection.

Xavier emphasises action and service, preparing students for lives of meaningful contribution. In the Early Years (Prep - Year 2) at Burke Hall, Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital Technologies are prioritised, alongside the Expeditions program, which fosters curiosity and engagement with the natural world. Outdoor experiential learning, integrated with science and project-based learning, encourages students to explore their environment through a hands-on curriculum.

Music is also a core part of Xavier’s identity, with students from Kindergarten onwards participating in a vibrant classroom music program that focuses on “learning by doing.” From Prep to Year 2, students build foundational music literacy skills.

Xavier College understands the critical role of a strong Primary education in shaping a child’s future. The Early Years experience is designed to be joyful, nurturing students’ skills, passions, and sense of belonging within the community, setting the foundation for their lifelong journey.

Playing is Learning

School Listings

Primary Schools

Corpus Christi Primary School ................72 & 73

De La Salle College ...................................22 & 23

Emmaus College .......................................24 & 25

Holy Family Primary School Doveton ......74 & 75

Holy Family Primary School Mt Waverley ........76

Holy Trinity Primary School Wantirna .... 78 & 79

Marymede Catholic College .....................44 & 45

Our Holy Redeemer Primary

School Surrey Hills ............................................77

Our Lady of Fatima Primary School .........84 & 85

Our Lady of the Assumption

Primary School .........................................82 & 83

Our Lady’s School - Surrey Hills ..............86 & 87

Sacre Coeur College .....................................6 & 7

Sacred Heart Primary - Kew .....................88 & 89

St Agatha’s Primary School ......................94 & 95

St Anthony’s Primary School - Noble Park ..................................96 & 97

St Bernadette’s Primary - The Basin.................98

St Brigid’s School - Healesville ...........102 & 103

St Christopher’s Primary School ......................99

St Clare’s Primary School - Officer ......104 & 105

St Dominic’s Primary School - Broadmeadows .....................106 & 107

St Dominic’s Primary School – Camberwell ..........................108 & 109

St Francis De Sales Primary School .....................................112 & 113

St Francis Xavier Primary - Frankston .............................114 & 115

St Gregory the Great Primary School ....................................116 & 117

St James Primary School Brighton ....118 & 119

St James Primary School - Vermont..............121

St John’s Primary

School - Frankston ..............................122 & 123

St John Vianney’s Primary School ......124 & 125

St Jude’s Primary School .....................126 & 127

St Kevin’s Primary

School - Hampton Park .......................128 & 129

St Kevin’s Primary School

Templestowe Lower ............................130 & 131

St Martin of Tours

Primary School – Rosanna ............................134

St Mary’s Primary

School - Greensborough .....................138 & 139

St Mary’s Primary School - Hampton ............133

St Mary’s Primary School - Mt Evelyn ...........135

St Mary’s Primary School -Williamstown .........................136 & 137

St Monica’s Primary School – Footscray.......140

St Patrick’s Primary School ............................141

St Paul Apostle North Primary School ..........142

St Paul Apostle South Primary School ..........143

St’s Peter & Paul’s Primary School ...........92 & 93

St Peter’s Primary School – Bentleigh East .....................146 & 147

St Paul’s Primary School - Sunshine ..............144

St Philip’s Primary School - Blackburn ..............................148 & 149

St Roch’s Primary School ....................150 & 151

St Scholastica’s Primary School .........152 & 153

St Simon’s Primary School .............................145

St Therese’s Primary School - Cranbourne ...........................154 & 155

St Thomas the Apostle Primary School ....................................156 & 157 Xavier College ............Front cover, 2, 3, 69 & 159

Secondary Schools

Academy of Mary Immaculate .................10 & 11

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College ........12 & 13

CRC Caroline Springs ................................14 & 15

CRC North Keilor .......................................16 & 17

CRC St Albans ...........................................18 & 19

De La Salle College ...................................22 & 23 Emmaus College .......................................24 & 25

John Paul College .....................................26 & 27

Kilbreda College ........................................28 & 29

MacKillop College .................32, 33 & back cover

Marcellin College ......................................34 & 35

Marian College ..........................................36 & 37

Marist Sion College ...................................38 & 39

Marymede Catholic College .....................40 & 41

Mater Christi College ................................44 & 45

Mount Lilydale Mercy College ..................46 & 47

Nazareth College.......................................48 & 49

Parade College ..........................................50 & 51

Penola Catholic College ...................................53

Sacre Coeur College .....................................6 & 7

Salesian College - Sunbury .......................54 & 55

Simonds Catholic College ........................58 & 59

St Aloysius College ...................................60 & 61

St Columba’s College ................................62 & 63

St Joseph’s College.............................65, 66 & 67

St Monica’s College, Epping ........................4, & 5

Xavier College ............Front cover, 2, 3, 69 & 159

Academy of Mary Immaculate ...............10 & 11

Caroline Chisholm Catholic College .......12 & 13

Catholic Primary Schools .................................71

CEO Melbourne .....................................8, 9 & 100

CEO Sale ...................................................52 & 70

CEO Sandhurst .......................................43 & 158

Children who read books daily ..................90 & 91

Corpus Christi Primary

School Kingsville ........................................72 & 73

CRC Caroline Springs ...............................14 & 15

CRC North Keilor.........................................16 & 17

CRC St Albans .............................................18 & 19

Crucial role of mentoring programs.................111

De La Salle College ..................................22 & 23

Emmaus College ......................................24 & 25

Holy Family Primary School Doveton .....74 & 75

Holy Family Primary School Mt Waverley ........76

Holy Trinity Primary School Wantirna .......78 & 79

John Paul College ....................................26 & 27

Keeping our planet clean & healthy..................101

Kilbreda College..........................................28 & 29

MacKillop College ................32, 33 & back cover

Marcellin College ........................................34 & 35

Marian College ............................................36 & 37

Marist Sion College ....................................38 & 39

Marymede Catholic College ......................40 & 41

Mater Christi College..................................44 & 45

Mt Lilydale Mercy College..........................46 & 47

Nazareth College ........................................48 & 49

Our Holy Redeemer Primary School

Surrey Hills ........................................................77

Our Lady of Fatima Primary School ..........84 & 85

Our Lady of the Assumption

Primary School ...........................................82 & 83

Our Lady’s School Surrey Hills...................86 & 87

Parade College............................................50 & 51

Penola Catholic College ...................................53

Sacre Coeur College ........................................6 & 7

Sacred Heart Primary School Kew............88 & 89

Salesian College Sunbury ..........................54 & 55

School listings ...................................................161

Simonds Catholic College .........................58 & 59

Ss’s Peter & Paul’s Primary School ...........92 & 93

St Agatha’s Primary School .......................94 & 95

St Aloysius College.....................................60 & 61

St Anthony’s Primary School

Noble Park...................................................96 & 97

St Bernadette’s Primary The Basin.....................98

St Brigid’s School Healesville ................102 & 103

St Christopher’s Primary School.........................99

St Clare’s Primary School Officer ........104 & 105

St Columba’s College .................................62 & 63

St Dominic’s Primary School

Broadmeadows ....................................106 & 107

St Dominic’s Primary School Camberwell ..............................108 & 109

St Francis De Sales

Primary School .....................................112 & 113

St Francis Xavier Catholic

Primary School Frankston ...................114 & 115

St Gregory the Great Primary School ...116 & 117

St James Primary School Brighton .....118 & 119

St James Primary School Vermont................121

St John Vianney’s Primary School ......124 & 125

St John’s Primary School

Frankston East .....................................122 & 123

St Joseph’s College ..............................65, 66 & 67

St Jude’s Primary School .....................126 & 127

St Kevin’s Primary School

Hampton Park ......................................128 & 129

St Kevin’s Primary School

Templestowe Lower ............................130 & 131

St Martin of Tours

Primary School Rosanna ..................................134

St Mary’s Primary School Hampton .................133

St Mary’s Primary School Mt Evelyn ................135

St Mary’s Primary School

Williamstown ........................................136 & 137

St Mary’s Primary School

Greensborough.....................................138 & 139

St Monica’s College, Epping............................4 & 5

St Monica’s Primary School Footscray ..........140

St Patrick’s Primary School ............................141

St Paul Apostle Nth Primary School ..............142

St Paul Apostle Sth Primary School ...............143

St Paul’s Primary School Sunshine ..................144

St Peter’s Primary School

Bentleigh East ......................................146 & 147

St Philip’s Primary School Blackburn ... 148 & 149

St Roch’s Primary School ....................150 & 151

St Scholastica’s Primary School .........152 & 153

St Simon’s Primary School Rowville.................145

St Therese’s Primary School

Cranbourne ...........................................154 & 155

St Thomas the Apostle Primary School

Greensborough Nth..............................156 & 157 STEM is more than just Science ...............56 & 57

Sustaining Physical Education ..................20 & 21

The Benefits of Extracurricular Activities ............................80 & 81 The Importance of Handwriting Skills .............125

Unravelling the gender disparity ................30 & 31

Victoria School Guides Website .....................163

Xavier College .........Front cover, 2, 3, 68, 69 & 159

Victoria School Guides

Whether you are seeking information about a particular school in your area or are looking for a school for your child, then this site is for you.

Several frequently asked questions have been answered and if you have a question that hasn’t been addressed then send it to our team for their input.

Check out the many interesting stories on students and their achievements, while many other educational issues have also been featured.

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