Ending a chapter to start a new one in a journey of learning

As we approach the midpoint of the year, it’s a good time to stop and reflect on our learning journey so far; to celebrate what has been a terrific school year to date, and to think about the steps we can each take to keep moving forward.

At Caroline Chisholm Catholic College, we believe that learning is not just about achieving end goals and high grades, but about growing as thinkers, problem-solvers, and resilient learners along the way. Every student is capable of improvement, and even small, consistent efforts can lead to powerful results, making the ordinary extremely extraordinary.

Whether your child is feeling confident or facing challenges, it is important to encourage them to ask in reflection, how can I take responsibility for my learning this week? Teachers often ask students to improve learning by asking more questions in class, setting goals for an upcoming assessment, creating a better homework routine, seeking feedback and using it to improve, and supporting a classmate or forming a study group, since collaboration leads to in-depth learning.

Our collective encouragement of students makes a big difference. Showing interest in what your child is learning, helping them manage their time, and celebrating their efforts, and not just results, can have a lasting impact in their learning journey as they transition from Semester One to Semester Two.

Over the last few weeks, we have experienced many examples of great success by our students and their teachers. The Winter Music Concert was a great display of skill and commitment by the students, and the support of their teachers was also evident. We have held subject information evenings, subject conferences and our Year 12 students celebrated their formal. Each event was a great celebration and demonstrated to our students that they matter and that their education is not just about books and classroom routines but also belonging, celebrating success and holistic learning.

I take this moment to pause and reflect on two deeply significant aspirations: our journey of Reconciliation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, which we acknowledge during reconciliation week, and our shared hope for an end to war and conflict in our world.

Reconciliation calls us to acknowledge the truth of our nation's history, to honour the enduring culture and contributions of First Nations peoples, and as Christians, to be committed to building a future grounded in justice, healing, love, compassion, empathy and mutual respect. At our school, we walk alongside the Traditional Custodians of the land, listening deeply, learning together, and fostering a spirit of truth-telling and unity. We recognise that reconciliation is not a destination, but an ongoing commitment, one woven into our relationships, our curriculum, and the way in which we embrace community life.

In recent days, we have been alerted to further unrest in the world. I pray that for the deep longing for peace across the globe, so that an end to the suffering caused by war, displacement, and division can be reached. As children of God, we believe that education is a powerful force for peace. By encouraging empathy, critical thinking, and global citizenship, we hope to prepare our students not only to succeed, but to stand for compassion, equity, and dignity in the world. I encourage you to have discussions with your child about the power they hold to make a difference to our world.

In 2 Corinthians 5:18, St Paul reminds us that “God has reconciled us to Himself through Christ and given us the ministry of reconciliation.”
This call to reconciliation is not only spiritual but deeply relational and communal. It challenges us to listen deeply, speak truthfully, and walk humbly with our First Nations brothers and sisters, honouring their stories, cultures, and ongoing contributions to our nation and Church.

Similarly, Jesus teaches in the Beatitudes: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).
In a world marked by division and conflict, we are called to be instruments of peace—within our homes, our school, and the global community. We pray for an end to war and suffering, and we commit ourselves to building a culture of compassion, understanding, and justice.

May the Spirit of God guide us to be healers and bridge builders; faithful in the work of reconciliation, and courageous in the pursuit of peace.

Napoleon Rodezno
College Principal

The Christ the King Year 7 cohort recently engaged in a well-deserved wellbeing morning during Learner Mentor, where a rotation of activities including mindful art, yoga, bracelet making, sports and board games were conducted. These aimed to provide some stress relief after the Year 7s completed their first ever examinations.

A Mental Fitness presentation was also delivered by an elite athlete who have been trained to share their experiences with young people to help them recognise the strategies they can implement to improve mental health and wellbeing for themselves and their friends.

Thank you, Ms Xie, for all your hard work in creating both a fun and relaxed atmosphere for our Year 7s.

Our Year 8s heard from the Butterfly Foundation presenting ‘Let’s Talk Body Image’. This presentation aims to empower young people, through the way they use and view social media platforms, to have a safer, more positive online experience.

There has been a focus on Positive Movement in Year 8 Learner Mentor in response to student feedback. A very well received initiative that the Year 8s are loving!

Thank you, Ms De Git, for tailoring Learner Mentor to the needs of our students.

Our Year 9 cohort is buzzing with exploration and excitement as they undertake their subject selection process. Careers counselling conversations are just one way that students are guided through this process, helping them to explore their passions and potential future pathways.

The CTK & SJ cohorts came together for a collaboration morning during Learner Mentor on 15 May. Calm Youth, an external presenter, visited the College to lead activities designed to enhance communication, cooperation, and problem-solving skills; perfect preparation for the cohorts coming together in 2026.

Thank you, Ms Kaur, for looking after our Year 9s and for thoroughly preparing them for what lies ahead.

Our CTK readers have tested themselves this Term by engaging in the Read Your Height Challenge. With some healthy competition, many students are developing a greater love for reading than ever before. Thank you to Ms Tsoulfidis for organising and guiding our students through an experience that will improve literacy skills as well as spark curiosity.

With just three weeks remaining in Term 2, I encourage every student to make the most of every opportunity at school; engage in activities, strengthen connections, and embrace experiences that foster personal growth and enrichment. We look forward to all that Semester 2 has in store for our campus.

Ms Bianca Markovic
Director of Campus, Christ the King

It has been a dynamic and positive time at our St John's Campus, with students engaged in a variety of meaningful learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom. The sense of energy, enthusiasm, and community spirit across the campus has been truly uplifting, and reflects the hard work and commitment of both staff and students.

A recent highlight has been the Year 7 Learning Mentor Soccer Tournament, which brought a buzz of excitement and friendly competition to the Year 7 cohort. The tournament provided students with the chance to bond with their Learner Mentor groups, build teamwork skills, and enjoy some physical activity in a supportive environment. Staff were equally involved, fostering stronger relationships with students while promoting active and healthy lifestyles. The matches were filled with good-natured rivalry, laughter, and encouragement, and it was wonderful to see so many students cheering each other on.

Our Year 9 Outdoor Education Camps have also proven to be a powerful bonding experience for our students. Over several days, students embraced the challenges of outdoor activities, including hiking, rope courses, and team-building tasks, all designed to develop resilience, independence, and collaboration. These camps play a crucial role in fostering personal growth, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Students returned with a renewed sense of confidence and a deeper appreciation for nature and teamwork.

In support of student wellbeing, we were fortunate to host the Proactive Policing Unit, who delivered valuable sessions on Cyber Safety to our Year 7 and 8 students. These presentations focused on the importance of making smart, respectful, and safe choices online. Topics included protecting personal information, responsible use of social media, and how to respond to inappropriate online behaviour. The sessions were engaging and practical, leaving students with a clear understanding of the responsibilities that come with digital citizenship.

Alongside these activities, the campus has embraced the Push-Up Challenge, a nationwide initiative raising awareness for mental health. Students and staff have been participating enthusiastically, logging push-ups and engaging in conversations about wellbeing. The initiative has added a positive energy to the school day and sparked important discussions around mental health and resilience.

Despite the busy calendar, our students have shown an excellent work ethic during the current exam period. Across all year levels, there has been a noticeable focus and maturity as students prepare and sit their assessments. Staff have been incredibly proud of the dedication shown and the thoughtful way students have approached their studies.

Overall, the atmosphere at St Johns Campus has been one of positivity, connection, and growth. It’s encouraging to see students thriving across so many areas—academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether it’s through sport, outdoor education, wellbeing initiatives, or academic achievement, students are embracing every opportunity with enthusiasm and determination.

We look forward to the rest of the term with confidence and optimism, knowing that students are continuing to grow into well-rounded, capable, and compassionate individuals.

Tony Muller
Director of Campus, St John's

We are now coming to the end of Term 2 and there has been a lot happening at Sacred Heart. The Year 10 and 11 exams are finished, they are receiving feedback and are heading into Semester and Unit 2, whilst Year 12s begin Unit 4. This is exciting for all students at Sacred Heart.

Prior to exams they had a presentation titled “Study Sensei” presented by Elevate in LM on Thursday 22^nd May. The session focussed on:

• Utilising the subject content to frame study

• Structuring and reviewing organised notes

• Conceptual learning to develop deep understanding

• Utilising practice exam papers and revision

• Standing out through independent learning

This enabled the students to start the exam period in a mind frame that supports tapping into their way of learning and revision and setting them up to achieve success.

We had our Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast this term and it was wonderful to see so many Sacred Heart families there. We had Parent Teacher Subject Conferences where families had the opportunity to meet their child’s teachers and ensure we are all working together to enable success and the best results for our CCCC students.

It is a very exciting time for our Year 10s who had their Senior Pathways Course Selection Evening and Subject Expo on Thursday 29^th of May. This night was a huge success with so many students and their families attending. This is the first part of beginning their 11 and 12 pathways journey as they will then have Course Selection early next term to accompany this. This night also runs similar sessions for the Year 9 students from St John's and Christ the King, as they begin their journey towards entering Year 10 at the Sacred Heart Campus in 2026.

The Year 12s have had a big term so far, which will continue over the coming weeks. They attended year 12 Retreat at the Phillip Island Adventure Resort. Unlike previous years where three/four groups have gone to different locations, this year 216 Year 12s went to the same location to reflect, bond with each other, and reset as they head towards their final few months of secondary school. Both teachers and staff had a wonderful experience, and the students were able to create amazing memories to take away with them. The Exam Ready Program in LM, which is usually during term three, started in week 7 of Term 2 this year. This program is where the Year 12 students begin to prepare for the end of year exams. This program is in its fourth year now and we believe it is a part of the success our Year 12s have had in recent years.

The year 12 Formal was on Thursday 12^th of June. They all had a wonderful time and looked amazing. It gave them time to relax and dance the night away with their peers….and some teachers were able to get in on a little boogie also.

The GAT is Tuesday 17^th of June, and this is a day where there are no Year 12 classes, as running over 2 sessions the GAT takes most of the day.

We will end this Semester with our Sacred Heart Day celebrations, we look forward to these and hope that all our students will get involved.

I look forward to the remainder of the term for the staff, students and families of Sacred Heart.

Molly Coyne
Director of Campus, Sacred Heart

Upcoming important dates:

Friday, 20th June: Vinnies Winter Sleepout

Monday, 30th June: Brennan Fun Run

Thursday, 03 July: College Assembly, full uniform required

Friday, 04 July: Sacred Heart Day Fair, last day of term

Tuesday, 22 July: Students return for Term 3

Winter Music Concert 

Our Winter Music Concert is always a highlight of the calendar, and this year was no different! 

We had a whole host of performances, from solos to bands, with genres ranging across the board. 

Every act was amazing, and we're incredibly proud of the calibre of music that was displayed.

Thank you to all the staff and students who worked so hard to ensure the night went off without a hitch. Everyone's efforts were particularly appreciated in light of the change of location, with the auditorium unavailable. 

Year 7 and 8 Police Presentation

Our Year 7 and 8 St John's students heard from our local police force about the importance of staying safe online. 

Homework Club

Supporting our students in academic success is an important part of our College, and programs like homework club do a great job of helping with that. Homework club runs every Wednesday afternoon, and we encourage any and all students who want to get ahead or get a hand with their homework to give it a go! 

Push Up Challenge

Our students (and teachers!) have been busy at recesses and lunch.

The Push Up Challenge aims to raise funds and awareness for mental health and suicide, with the goal for each group or organisation to take on 3214 push ups (or other exercise) over 23 days, representing the 3214 lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2023. 

You can contibute by donating here: https://www.thepushupchallenge..., or just encouraging one another to get involved!

Elevate Education Seminar

On the 22nd of May, during the extended LM, Year 10 and 11 stude ts engaged in the Study Sensei Seminar incursion run by Elevate Education. This program is a seminar designed to help students develop effective study habits and strategies. It focuses on evidence-based methods and aims to support students as they prepare for exams. 

Lynne Chau -Year 10

In our extended LM on 22^nd of May we attended the Elevate Study Sensei Seminar which was extremely helpful leading into our mid-year exams. It offered useful methods for improving study skills and increasing productivity. The presenter Sophie, was especially interactive and knew how to keep us engaged. The workshop also provided practical advice on how to organise and format notes. Overall, Elevate gave me insightful information and inspired me to pursue my studies more effectively and intently.

Lily Rawnsley – Year 11

On the 22^nd of May, during the extended LM, year ten and eleven students engaged in an incursion focussed on developing and refining effective study skills, in preparation for the exam period ahead. The guest speaker, Sophie from Elevate, shared practical strategies guiding us on how to manage our time, stay organised, and ensure we can get the best out of ourselves academically. The compelling presentation provided a helpful insight on how to work smarter rather than harder when it comes to studying. Sophie offered a range of tips on how to stay on track, taking us from when we first learn the content, to the coming days spent revising before the exam. The most significant insight I drew from the incursion was that to succeed in VCE, we must build on what we learn in class, outside of class, in order to stand out from our peers. The Elevate incursion was an enlightening experience which has allowed us all to walk away with a toolkit of skills to support us along the last years of our high school journey.

Year 7 Textiles:

To celebrate the final day of Textiles for Term 2, students took part in a fun and creative Toilet Paper Challenge, where they worked in teams to design and construct an entire gown using nothing but toilet paper. 

The activity encouraged teamwork, imagination, and a whole lot of laughter, ending Term 2 textiles on a high note!

Art club

Over the past three weeks at CTK Art Club, we’ve been exploring the theme of peace through hands-on creativity. Students expressed their ideas using 3D tissue art, experimenting with texture, colour, and form to bring their peaceful visions to life.

As part of our Art Club’s exploration of the theme peace, students created beautiful peace beads featuring affirmative words such as “hope,” “kindness,” and “unity.” These thoughtful creations are now proudly hanging in the CTK corridor, spreading a message of positivity and calm throughout our school community

Heavenly Father, 

As the cold winds of winter surround us, we remember those who face the season without warmth, shelter, or comfort.
Open our hearts, Lord, to see Christ in every person we encounter, especially in the poor, the homeless, and the forgotten.

Lord Jesus, You were born in a humble manger with nowhere to lay Your head.
Teach us to notice the needs around us and to respond with love, generosity, and action.

Holy Spirit, Just as You came at Pentecost with tongues of fire, ignite in us a flame of compassion that does not burn out.
Let Your fire warm our hearts and inspire us to reach out to those in need with courage and hope.

Help us to be instruments of Your peace in our school, our families, and our communities.
May the warmth of our kindness reflect the fire of Your love.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.