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(03) 5421 1200
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Today’s long reflection is taken from the AMSSA Student Conference’s closing liturgy held yesterday in our College chapel. It draws heavily on the words of Kyneton’s own Sr Madeline Duckett rsm and highlights the importance that tangible objects can play in exploring meaning and symbolism.
2024 AMSSA Student Conference – “Mercy Pathways of Joy and Hope”
This week, Sacred Heart College has been privileged to cohost, with Catherine McAuley College Bendigo, the biennial student conference of the Australasian Mercy Secondary Schools Association (AMSSA). AMSSA is an association that brings together more than 50 secondary schools from across all Australian states and territories as well as New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Importantly, the schools come together annually for either staff or student conferences with Kyneton and Bendigo able to host the student event after several years of Covid-driven delays.
The conference included almost 150 students and staff with activities running from Monday 24 – Thursday 27 June. The activities included guest speakers, workshops, liturgies, visits to local tourist sites as well as a formal conference mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo and a conference dinner at Bendigo’s Town Hall.
I was fortunate to be able to attend every day of the conference and found the experience energising and quite moving. Highlights for me included:
- The personal stories and witness of a number of young women connected to Mercy and committed to nourishing the spirit of Catherine McAuley, and the Sisters of Mercy, in the 21st century.
- The enthusiasm and determination of the young people who attended the conference and brought those gifts into the discussions and activities. The hope of a young person is very special thing.
- The opportunity to showcase Sacred Heart College to schools from across Australia, and provide students and staff an insight into why it is a wonderful Mercy school.
Appropriately, I want to include a number of comments from SHC students who attended the conference:
On 25th - 27th of June, a group of six Sacred Heart College Kyneton students attended the AMSSA conference. We interacted with students from various Mercy schools around Australia.
We visited Central Deborah gold mine, the heritage trams and the Great Stupa in Bendigo. On Tuesday, we attended Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral and then had dinner in the Bendigo Town Hall, we had a delicious meal and danced the night away.
On Thursday, we returned back to Sacred Heart, with everyone from the conference being welcomed into our community.
A highlight of the conference was creating care packages for women and children escaping family violence. We also exchanged our own personalised business cards with other students throughout the conference to connect with each other once we left.
Sacred Heart College Canteen – Semester 2 Prices
Please click the link below for the new canteen pricing for Semester 2. As I detailed in previous newsletters, the change in price reflects increases in salaries and food costs.
End of Term Arrangements
Please find below, reminders regarding arrangements for the end of Term 2 and the start of Term 3 at Sacred Heart College:
Monday 15 July SHC Faith Development Day (no student classes)
Tuesday 16 July Term 3 commences for all students
Bereavements - Your prayers are asked for the following families who are mourning the passing of a loved one recently. The Rix family on the passing of Stephen Halloran, grandfather of Aden Year 10 and the Hemphill and McLeish families on the passing of John Burn, uncle of Clare Year 7, Kate Year 8 and Emily Year 9.
Yours in Mercy,
Dr Darren Egberts
Principal
Lake Mungo Immersion 2025
We are excited to announce plans for an immersion experience to Lake Mungo, beginning in 2025. Students currently in Year 8 and Year 9 will be welcome to apply to join this immersion experience. The immersion will take place from Monday 5 May - Saturday 10 May 2025, and will be facilitated by Red Earth, a social enterprise that partners with First Nations Traditional Owners, families and communities.
You can read further information about the immersion via this document.
We will be inviting students to apply for this immersion early in Term 3.
In support of this, we will be holding an information session for families via Zoom on Thursday 25 July - 6:30pm.
You can register to attend this information session via this link.
We hope to see many of you there.
ASRC and McAuley Services collections - Thank you!
Warm thanks are offered to the community for the generous donations received in support of our recent campaigns in support of the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASEC)and McAuley Services for Women and Children.
The ASRC were grateful for the supply of non-perishable food items gifted to them in support of their food bank program, and the items for McAuley Services have been packaged up into Welcome Packs for women and children seeking shelter from homelessness and family violence.
While our formal campaigns have come to a close, items in support of either organisation can continue to be dropped off throughout the year at the collection point near the Chapel. It is also timely that we express our gratitude to the many SHC staff who choose to offer regular financial contributions to both ASRC and McAuley Services via our Payroll Giving Program.
Australasian Mercy Secondary Schools Association (AMSSA) Conference 2024
In high spirits of companionship and a shared world view, close to 120 students from Mercy schools across Australia spent time connecting with each other at this week’s AMSSA Conference. The theme for this year’s event was “Mercy: Pathways of Joy and Hope”, and the Conference was co-hosted by Catherine McAuley College, Bendigo and our own school community. We were enormously proud of our student leaders, who offered our many conference guests a warm welcome, in a spirit of generous hospitality. The event featured many high points, and a number of high calibre guest speakers and presenters. All participants travelled home, whether to destinations near or far, enriched with a renewed appreciation for the spirit of Mercy that unites us all.
Semester Two Subject Changes
Subject changes for Semester Two are now closed. Students will receive their new timetable before the start of Term 3
Subject Selection: 2025
Subject selections for 2025 are underway for Year 11 moving into Year 12, with Subject Selections for Year 10 and Year 9 commencing in the first few weeks of Term 3. Please note the dates for the specific year levels.
Year Level (2025) | Student Information Session | Parent/Carers Information Session | Web Preference Subject selection due |
12 | Completed | Wednesday 17 July at 5 pm | |
11 | Wednesday 17 July | Thursday 18 July at 7 pm (Zoom) | Wednesday 21 August at 5 pm |
10 | Tuesday 30 July | Wednesday 31 July at 7 pm (Zoom) | Wednesday 21 August at 5 pm |
Parents are reminded that enrolments for Year 7 2026, students currently in Grade 5, will be closing on Friday 26 July. This includes siblings of current students. Applications can be downloaded from our website: https://www.shckyneton.catholi...
SHC Office Hours over the Term Break
Monday 1 July - 8.30am to 4pm
Friday 12 July - 8.30am to 4pm
Monday 15 July - OFFICE CLOSED
Any queries outside these hours please ring 5421 1200 and leave a message.
Uniform Shop Hours over the Term Break
Thursday 11 July - 11.00am to 3pm
Kyneton Rotary Club - Seeking a Host Family
Sacred Heart College has had a long relationship with the Rotary Club of Kyneton, and their Student Exchange Program. Many students have been sponsored to travel overseas and benefit from all that the exchange program offers. Current SHC student, Mila Pereira, is presently studying in Spain due to the sponsorship program.
The Kyneton Rotary Club is now seeking the assistance of a host family for a student who will be attending the College in 2025. The male student is from the Czech Republic, is fluent in four languages, plays Piano and likes sport (running) and will be in Years 11/12 during his stay here. Rotary is looking to place him with a family for a period of 3 months during his stay. He will be attending SHC for the year of 2025 and two kind families have offered to accommodate him for the remainder of the year.
For more details contact the Rotarian John Condliffe 0419397936.
At Sacred Heart College, we value the partnerships formed between families, the College and Community. Our intention is to support parents/carers/guardians while raising awareness of the benefits of engaging in their child’s education. Studies have shown that a family’s engagement has a direct, positive impact on a child’s learning success.
We invite all parents in the Community to our Parent Engagement Evenings in 2024
Bookings are essential. Further information can be found on the College Website via this link Click Here
On Thursday 13 June we had Luke from METS Performance, attend the College to work with the Unit 3/4 PE students. This was a great experience, and one that is only normally possible in a sports science laboratory. Luke brought in specialist equipment which meant our students could experience both a VO2 Max Test and a 30 second Wingate Test. This great opportunity allowed our students to see and experience real life data collection, and see the theory in action. The students thoroughly enjoyed working with Luke and I’m sure this experience has consolidated their understanding, and helped prepare them for the end of year examination.
This week, all French students will receive a jar of Bonne Maman Hazelnut spread. The website France at Home, which sells French food, drinks and other items here in Australia, organised a giveaway for schools teaching French. The aim was to promote their website of course, but also the upcoming Paris Olympics (26 July – 11 August). We want to thank them for this and hope you all enjoy this taste of France.
A Global Hunt for 'Wally' Fuels Humanities Week Fun
Last week, students across the school were treated to a delightful celebration of learning during Humanities Week. A variety of engaging lunchtime activities brought the subjects of Humanities to life.
One favourite was the "Where's Wally?" challenge. Students had to use outlines of countries to find the elusive 'Wally' hidden amongst the continents. The clever twist? They weren't limited to just their own detective skills. Modern technology came to the rescue in the form of Google Earth, allowing them to zoom in on different regions. But for those who preferred a more traditional approach, trusty globes were on hand to provide a reliable, old-fashioned search method.
This creative blend of digital exploration and classic classroom tools perfectly exemplified the spirit of Humanities Week. It highlighted the importance of embracing both modern advancements and time-tested techniques to create well-rounded and enriching learning experiences. Ultimately, the "Where's Wally?" challenge wasn't just about finding the stripy-shirted adventurer; it was a celebration of the joy of discovery.
Many thanks to all who participated to help make this a very engaging and rewarding week.
During the last two weeks of the Term the Year 7 students have been working extremely hard to complete the production of a race car.
The students used a piece of acrylic, and then built their car by placing wheels, battery pack, switch and a motor on to it. They were required to solder wires from the switch to the battery pack and motor to make their car run.
After completing the assembly of the components, it was racing time! We had several heats before the final, that was won by Maxwell Eames with a very fast car.
Student have done an amazing job to complete the race cars in a short time. Well done to everyone!
On Thursday 6 June, we had 19 very excited Sacred Heart Japanese language students meet their exchange students from our Sister School, Ibaraki Nishi High School in Osaka. Sacred Heart students and their families have very kindly volunteered to host a student from our sister School from the 30th of July until the 9th of August. This is the first time the school has been visited since 2018. So we are all very excited. In the first online exchange, our students introduced their name and year level in Japanese while the Ibaraki Nishi students introduced themselves in English. Since then, there have been lots of e-mails exchanged between the students in both English and Japanese. If you see the Japanese students and teachers around the school or your class in August, please make them feel welcome. Please see some photos of the exchange below.
Last Wednesday our senior debating team participated in their fourth DAV Schools competition debate at Ballarat and Anglican Grammar School. The DAV Schools competition is the largest English-language debating competition in the world. Our debating teams both argued the negative position on the topic - That Australian government elections should be conducted online. The results of both debates were close. Congratulations to our students for a fabulous effort.
Special thanks to Mr Gallagher for hosting our first debating presentation skills workshop. Our debaters were given valuable tips from Mr Gallagher to improve their manner skills.
With one last round of debating for our senior debaters on 26 June, we will then commence our junior debating program in second semester. Twenty-eight junior students have expressed their interest in joining our junior debating program which is very pleasing.
JUNIOR NETBALL
On Wednesday 26 June a group of our Year 7 and 8 students showcased their skills at the School Sports Victoria Netball Competition In Sunbury. Both Year 7 girls' teams were undefeated in their pools. This produced an exciting showdown between both SHC teams in the grand final. Meanwhile, our undefeated Year 8 girls secured their spot in the next round alongside the winning Year 7 team.
A big thinks to Mrs Wattie, Mr Zanic and Ms Brennan, Matilda, Charli, Melia and Macey for coming to coach the girls.
CROSS COUNTRY
Congratulations to all competitors who competed in last weeks NMR Cross Country event at Kilmore Race Club. A cold but sunny day saw students brave the weather and produce some terrific runs.
14yo Boys 3km:
1st Tyler Fynch 9 min 24 sec
4th Michael Brown 10 min 24 sec
12th Jett Ager 10 min 59
The three boys also qualified first for the team event.
16yo Girls 3km:
1st Sarah Fitzpatrick 11 min 37 sec
These students will now compete in the State Cross Country Championships on 18 July at the Yarra Valley Racing Club.
SENIOR BASKETBALL
On 24 June, 3 teams of senior basketball players made their way to Broadmeadows Stadium to compete in the Senior Basketball Competition. Our three teams had a competitive day but were unable to make it through to the next round.
Year 12 Boys Team
We had a strong start winning our first two games by approximately 10 points. Our third game we lost to Edgar’s Creek, but had a convincing win in the last game to put us through to the final on percentage. Unfortunately, we lost the final to just miss out on moving through to the next round. A great effort from all players on the team to play so competitive with such great sportsmanship.
Year 11 Boys Team
We had a great day winning one out of our three games. We played really well as a team, and were able to enjoy our day together outside of the classroom. We are looking forward to next year where we can try to win a few more games.
Senior Girls team
Unfortunately, we lost our first game against Mount Ridley meaning no chance of making it to the next round. Although this was the case, everyone kept their heads high and played with amazing effort and determination. We won our second game against Craigieburn ending our day on a high note. Overall, it was a great day and all everyone played really well!
Thank you to our coaches Mr Williamson and Ms Vandenham
Refugee Week (Sunday 16 -22 June) is a time to celebrate the achievements of those born overseas and find themselves in Australia due to war and persecution. Even though they have experienced trauma, fear and death of loved ones, they come to Australia with hope.
This year’s theme is Finding Freedom with a focus on Family. Many families are separated when they flee their homes due to displacement through war.
Finding Freedom: Family
In 2024, we shine a light on the bonds created throughout the refugee journey which have the power to transcend borders and create profound long-lasting relationships that can change lives. The resilience of families torn apart by conflict or persecution inspires communities to come together and extend a hand of solidarity and compassion to those seeking refuge. Let us show compassion and celebrate the resilience that makes up parts of our wider community. For freedom should not be an ask, it should be a way of life. www.refugeeweek.org.au
This term the Year 7 and 8 Food Technology classes have been completing a Healthy Hamburger Design Brief. This involved investigating common ingredients that usually go into hamburgers and generating hamburger ideas, to then design their own. Students were required to write their own shopping list and had an opportunity to independently cook their own hamburger design in a practical lesson. Afterwards they evaluated how healthy their hamburger was, justifying their decision using the Healthy Eating Pyramid. Students were all excited to have an opportunity to cook a hamburger of their choice and I am extremely proud of their creations.
For our final RE lesson this Term, 9A students designed and created their own special set of wooden Rosary beads. Inspiration came in many forms - from nature and the cosmos, to favourite sports teams' colours and emblems. Everyone did a great job, and had a quiet moment of reflection at the end of the class, praying a decade of the Rosary. Have a safe and happy holiday everyone!
Riley Corry-Thomas - Year 12
Year 12 student, Riley Corry-Thomas, has secured a very competitive apprenticeship with Jetstar Airlines. Riley was chosen from 700 applicants, and has been offered a full Mechanical Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Apprenticeship, one of only 15 apprenticeships offered each year! Well done Riley.
Arabella Dietz - Year 8
Arabella Dietz has been selected to play at the approaching U16 National Basketball Championships, being held in Bendigo at Red Energy Arena 6-14 July. Arabella was listed as an emergency player for the U16 Girls Victoria Country team and has been in training for the last 3 months. Recently Arabella, along with one other Victoria Country athlete, has been given the unique opportunity to play at Nationals, through a Basketball Australia Initiative in partnership with Basketball Victoria and Basketball NT. She will play for the U16 girls Northern Territory team.
It's a wonderful opportunity for Arabella, to be able to represent at Nationals, particularly as a bottom aged athlete. We wish Arabella all the best for the coming competition.
Student Achievements
We love to hear about our students achievements outside of school. If you have a story about your child doing well in their chosen activity, hobby or sport etc. please email: newsletter@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au
As part of our entry into the Netball Victoria School Championships, we are required to source and supply one umpire per team. We have three teams competing. One Junior, one Intermediate and one Senior. Umpires are required to hold a minimum C Badge accreditation. It is also a requirement that all umpires 18 years and older hold a current Working with Children Check to umpire School Championships. If you are interested, have the umpire requirements and available all day on THURSDAY 15 AUGUST please email Mr Zanic by the end of the school holidays. dzanic@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au
Open Day Information and Full List of University Open Days
CSEF Applications & Discount
If you are a current Health Care Card holder you may be eligible for the $250.00 from the Camps Sport & Excursion Fund (CSEF) per child.
Should your application be successful the college will match the $250.00. This will entitle you to a credit of $500.00 per child of your family account.
Applications close on Friday 28 June.
