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This week’s prayer reflects the focus of the school’s programs for this week as 'Wellbeing Week'. Reflecting the importance of wellbeing for young people (as well as adults), a range of activities have been held that provided different experiences for students and staff. As highlighted in the Sacred Heart College Strategic Plan (2023 – 2026), high quality learning and teaching is inextricably linked to wellbeing. Students cannot be in the best place to learn unless they are happy and safe.
Appointment of new Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching
It is with great pleasure that I can announce the appointment of Mr Sam Weir as Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching at Sacred Heart College from the beginning of the 2025 school year.
Sam is very well-known to all in the Sacred Heart College community having had two stints on staff (2013 – 2017 and 2020 – ongoing). In his time at Sacred Heart, Sam has held a number of leadership positions including Justice and Service Coordinator, RE Learning Area Leader, Year 9 Level Leader and, most recently, Director of Faith and Mission. Sam has also had a range of teaching and leadership appointments at Santa Maria College, Northcote (Deputy Principal Learning Faith) and Our Lady of Mercy College Heidelberg (Social Justice Coordinator).
He is a man of great faith and brings this gospel witness to both his vocation at Sacred Heart as well as his local parish of Our Lady of the Rosary in Kyneton.
Sam has modelled an ongoing commitment to learning having completed a range of postgraduate qualifications including Masters of Educational Leadership, Master of Arts (Theology) and Masters of Religious Education and is a passionate Religious Education, English and Humanities teacher.
Sacred Heart College was privileged to attract a strong field of more than a dozen applicants with five candidates short-listed for interviews and two candidates for second interviews. The field included current and past deputy principals from Victorian Catholic and Government secondary schools. The interview panels included Ms Judy Young (Mercy Education), Ms Tracey Kift (Principal – Penola College Broadmeadows), Mr Brian Turner (Principal – Catherine McAuley College Bendigo) and myself.
Personally, I would like to congratulate Sam on this appointment and look forward to welcoming him in this new role in 2025.
Students and Staff Activities
It has been a remarkably busy couple of weeks at Sacred Heart College with a series of important events and activities occurring:
Yesterday, I hosted the recently appointed Chief Executive of Mercy Education Ltd (MEL), Ms Louisa Rennie. Louisa has responsibility for the thirteen MEL schools across Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia. Louisa and I spent time touring the school, meeting with the College Leadership Team as well as visiting a number of classes and talking with a range of SHC students.
Sacred Heart College has been privileged over the last ten days to host 20 students and staff from our Japanese sister school, Ibaraki Nishi High School in Osaka. The students have been hosted by local SHC families and have enjoyed a range of activities in school and beyond.
As part of this year’s visit, I was honoured to be able to co-sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mr Moriwaki Masahiro, Principal of Ibaraki Nishi High School. This MOU recognises the strength of the relationship between our two schools and the opportunities it provides students from both schools educationally, socially and culturally.
On Tuesday, the College hosted Bree Gorman who spoke to our staff as well as parents and community members on the important topic of gender, inclusion and diversity. Her presentation provided a significant professional learning opportunity as part of Wellbeing Week.
Last Thursday, the whole school community gathered to celebrate our Semester One Awards. These awards recognise excellence in learning improvement, determination and capacity for independent learning – well done to all award winners. Alongside the award presentations, students and staff were privileged to listen to two performances by the Sacred Heart College Show Band.
Related to the previous item, last Tuesday night saw the Semester 2 Music Ensembles evening held in the Mary Moloney Theatre. Each time that I hear the quality of performances as part of these ensembles, I am in awe of our students’ talents as well as the quality of the instruction they receive from the College’s Instrumental Music teachers.
Yours in Mercy,
Dr Darren Egberts
Principal
Wellbeing Week
This week marked our annual Wellbeing Week. Wellbeing Captains Charli Pelham, Otis Smith, Bridget Eames and Scarlett Booth, along with our Wellbeing Counselors organised a range of activities throughout the week to profile and raise awareness of the importance of looking after your wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.
Students engaged in writing and sharing affirmations with each other. Students were able to enjoy watching the Olympics at lunch time. Our Health Centre Coordinator, Maintenance Team and Canteen Staff arranged a free breakfast for students and staff to enjoy this morning. However, our big event took place on Tuesday with Farmer Daryl Sheridan bringing his mobile farm to the College. Throughout the day our students were able to come and spend time with his vast array of animals. It was a beautiful sunny day and it was so good to see all the joy and smiling faces of our students as they were interacting with the beautiful animals.
Another offering in Wellbeing week was our Parent Engagement Evening with Diversity and Inclusion consultant, Bree Gorman. Thank you to Bree and the parents who came to this event for sharing your stories, seeking support and engaging with Bree and this event.
Year 9 Melbourne Experience
Coming up next week, our Year 9s will begin their Melbourne Experience days. Students and teachers have been busy planning and organising each of the days, and are looking forward to to exploring our state capital.
I would like to draw particular attention to this Information Booklet which is attached to the your permission acknowledgement in PAM.
Things to note:
- Transport to Melbourne will be by bus each day, departing SHC at approximately 9am. This means students can arrive at school as per their normal day.
- Transport returning from the city will vary each of the days for students, depending on their homeroom. Please pay particular attention to the pick up times and locations identified on the PAM permission form and in the Information Booklet.
- Please be aware of our legal duty of care responsibilities. Teachers must sight and sign students over to their parents/guardians at the end of the day.
- Parents, Guardians must notify in writing to Angelica Violante or Matt Carroll (aviolante@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or mcarroll@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au) if you are organizing for another parent or guardian to collect your child. This person must be sighted, and sign for both students.
- Students may only be collected from the scheduled drop off points identified on the PAM permission form and in the Information Booklet.
- Any parents wishing to collect their child from Melbourne, must communicate this ahead of the day to Angelica Violante or Matt Carroll (aviolante@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or mcarroll@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au) and must be there in person and be at the nominated pick up location. If parents are late, particularly where public transport is involved, teachers will have to take the student with them back to Kyneton.
- No students will be allowed to go off unsupervised to catch other public transport or meet their parents at another location. Again, this is because of our legal duty of care obligations.
If you have questions please contact Angelica Violante or Matt Carroll (aviolante@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or mcarroll@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au)
Afterschool Reflection Session
I sent out a communication earlier in the term regarding changes we have made to follow up for students who have not met the Colleges expectations for behavior and uniform. I have included part of this communication below. Please refer back to your emails for the entire communication.
Beginning in Term 3, 2024, we have implemented some changes to the way we follow up with students who consistently breach the College’s expectations the following ways:
- Disrupting the learning environment in class
- Exhibiting disrespectful behavior towards other students and staff
- Not completing class work or assessment tasks
- Not wearing uniform correctly
We have implemented an After School Reflection Session (ASRS) on Mondays each week from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Here students will have the opportunity to either catch up on class work, study or finish outstanding classwork, or engage in service activities for the College. The session will be supervised by the Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing.
- Prior to the implementation of the ASRS, students and parents will have already received a number of notifications through SIMON/PAM.
- A student will only receive an ASRS relating to uniform if there have been 5 or more unexplained occurrences over a 30 day period.
- If parents have any questions about notifications they can seek clarification by contacting the reporting teacher identified at the bottom of notification via PAM, phone or email.
Students and parents/guardians will be notified of an ASRS in two ways.
- An automatic letter will be generated and sent to the email you have registered with us indicating the time and date of the ASRS.
- Year Level Leaders or Heads of School will also reach out to you to confirm the session.
Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop
On 8 August each year, we join with the Catholic family across Australia to celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. St Mary MacKillop holds a special place as Australia’s first saint, and her fearless work to offer education and to advocate for justice serves as a model of living faith for us to follow.
St Mary MacKillop’s feast day is also a time when we turn our hearts towards the ongoing works of MacKillop Family Services, one of our Mercy Ministry Companions. MacKillop Family Services continues the work of their namesake, offering education and support to vulnerable children and families, and following St Mary MacKillop’s adage that we should “never see a need without doing something about it.”
VCE Texts and Traditions: Theology in the city excursion
Last week our VCE Texts and Traditions class spent a day in Melbourne, visiting biblical studies theologians and spending some time exploring significant collections of theological texts. The class were thrilled to spend an hour in conversation with Dr Catherine Playoust, the Deputy Master of Catholic Theological College. Dr Playoust shared stories about her experiences as a professional academic and offered advice and wisdom for our own young scholars. Later in the day the class visited the Dalton McCaughey Library, which houses one of the largest theological collections in Australia. The staff were exceedingly hospitable, offering us a special tour of their rare books collection, and spending time showcasing some of the extensive literature written on the Gospel of Luke. On departure, each student was gifted with a commentary of the Gospel of Luke, which was received in a spirit of warm gratitude. We extend great thanks to the communities at the Catholic Theological College and the Dalton McCaughey Library.
Last week we welcomed 19 students and 2 teachers from our Japanese sister school Ibaraki Nishi High School. They left a balmy 35 degrees in Osaka to come to our chilly Kyneton winter, but there were warm smiles all round when host families met their exchange students for the first time.
Over the week, the Japanese students joined various classes with their hosts, participated in an EAL lesson and attended our academic awards assembly. They also learned a lot about Australian school life by doing seemingly normal things such as catching the bus and visiting our school canteen. The first week culminated with an excursion to the city with the Years 9 - 12 Sacred Heart Japanese classes. We visited the Melbourne Museum and Queen Victoria Markets, with activities designed to get the students speaking to each other in both Japanese and English. It was wonderful to hear all the chatter and laughter.
On Monday, the Japanese students visited Our Lady of the Rosary along with two teachers and three Year 12 students from SHC. They taught the Grade 5/6 classes how to fold origami cranes and how to play Japanese games such as kendama and jyan ken. They also taught the Grade 1 classes how to do a special Ibaraki version of the Obon dance.
Wednesday saw the official signing of our ongoing sister school agreement with Ibaraki Nishi High School. We had an online meeting and ceremony between our two principals, and formalised our relationship to ensure future exchange opportunities.
A huge thank you to our generous host families who have opened their homes to our Japanese guests, and to the broader SHC community who have made them feel very welcome.
Please see attached updated pricelist for 2024/25.
As a business we acknowledge the impacts the current ‘cost of living crisis’ is having on families right now. As we continue to support families and communities with this in mind, where possible we have retained the majority of the pricing across the uniform range to be the same as last year. You may notice a couple of items have increased slightly and this is only on items where it was necessary to do so within your uniform range.
Thank you for your continued support throughout the year.
On Monday 29 July, Casual Relief Teacher, Liz Payne, who is also a volunteer for Anti–Slavery Australia gave her time to speak to all the Year 11 RE students about some of her knowledge and experience of modern slavery in Australia. Year 11 RE students have been studying the topic of Modern Slavery in RE classes, and this incursion gave them a different perspective of this topic and the opportunity to ask questions outside of the classroom environment. The Year 11 RE teachers wish to thank Liz Payne for volunteering her time to speak to our students.
This Semester our Year 8 History students are delving into the fascinating world of Medieval Europe, exploring topics that range from the rigid structure of feudal society to the tragic impact of the Black Death.
To kick off our unit, students have been immersing themselves in the complexities of feudalism. Recent classroom activities included a lively game of "celebrity heads" where students took on the roles of different social classes, from powerful kings to humble peasants. Students devised a series of questions to ask each other to elicit their identities. This engaging exercise helped students understand the hierarchical nature of medieval society and the relationships between different groups. Lots of laughter was had by all.
We're also looking forward to our upcoming Medieval Europe incursion, a hands-on experience where students will have the opportunity to step back in time by dressing in traditional clothing and learning about daily life in the Middle Ages. This immersive activity will bring our studies to life and provide students with a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of medieval people.
Stay tuned for more updates on our medieval adventures!
The Unit 4 VCE Food Studies students recently visited 2 local farms to complement their understanding of the key knowledge related to ethical and sustainable farming.
The first stop was to Chin Chin Farm where students sat around the campfire with Stuart and Sonia to discuss organic and sustainable farming, what crops grow well in our local area and the importance of improving soil health without the use of fertilisers and pesticides. There was a big emphasis on selecting native plants as they are drought tolerant and help to improve biodiversity on the property. We had an opportunity to walk around the front paddock of the farm and sample some of the 26 indigenous herbs and spices grown there. After our walk, the class enjoyed a hands-on experience of making damper and flavoured it with their choice of indigenous herbs and honey.
Next, we drove to Sidonia Beef where a lovely lunch of beef burgers and Hardcourt Apple Juice had been prepared for us. Sam and Miranda spoke to us about the ethical farming of their cows and managing the land including holistic grazing management and water use. We gained an understanding of what cow breeds are suitable for our local area and the importance of biodiversity. The class had an opportunity to see the cows happily grazing, including around 160 that had either recently calved or were currently pregnant.
It was a fantastic day, and we all learned so much more about ethical and sustainable farming, whilst also taking part in an amazing 'paddock to plate' experience.
On Tuesday 30 July the Mary Moloney Theatre was filled with an audience that was treated to music of absolute quality. On stage were performers from Year 7 through to VCE in a variety of different ensembles including percussion, folk, guitar, rock bands, vocal and big band. The VCE music class also had the opportunity to perform the pieces they had worked on over first semester. We also learnt some fun facts about the instrumental music staff. For example, Henry who teaches strings used to be big in the punk rock scene back in the day, even recording with the likes of Nick Cave. Peter, who teaches drums has an identical twin brother who was on Lego Masters and Sue who teaches brass has a Masters Degree in Art Conservation and has worked at the Gallery of Victoria.
Thank you to all who came out on a cold night to support our students performers. Thankyou also to our music captains for 2024 - Lachlan Hyatt and Amelia Walsh who formed part of the back stage crew for the evening.
Missed out on seeing the performances? Keep an eye out for the Music Leaders Concert in Term 4.
Wicked
The Unit 4 Theatre Studies class attended a performance of ‘Wicked’ in Melbourne on Wednesday 24 July.
Theatre Studies students are required to analyse a professional performance, looking at the relationship between the written script and the decisions that have been made when interpreting the script, in acting, direction and design as well as the use of theatre technologies. Students will write about the play in the end of year exam.
The play was fabulous and we were very fortunate, as part of the excursion, to attend a Q & A with members of the cast and crew after the play. They talked about their roles in the production and what it takes to mount a huge production like ‘Wicked’.
As an added bonus, we were lucky to have a backstage tour with Madison, the chief ‘Mechanist’ on ‘Wicked’, who took us on a tour of the set, to look at the way the machinery functioned, although he wasn’t able to give away some of the ‘trade secrets’ of the play and if you have seen the play, there’s lots of ‘stage trickery’ involved.
We are very grateful for the support of Ms Andrea Knight, who accompanied us on the trip and especially to Mr Peter Ashman, our Arts-Technology Assistant, who used his contacts in the theatre industry to organise the tour for us.
Intermediate Girls Netball
On Friday 2 August the Intermediate Girls Netball Team went to Macleod for the second round of the competition. Our first game was very tough and we went down by 10 against Hazel Glen College. Despite the score, all the girls persevered and played their hardest. The second game was challenging again, and we unfortunately lost by 9 against Preston College. After playing two games, we came together as a team and formed some great connections. The 3rd and final game was an amazing game to play. The game finished with a draw (20-20) against Macleod College. Despite being very tired, everyone put in 100% and played so well. It was a great day and we all had a lot of fun, even if we didn’t win. It was a great experience playing against some amazing players and teams.
Anna Elliot & Audrey MacDonald - (Year 9)
Year 7 Girls Basketball
On Wednesday 31 July I accompanied the Year 7 girls on a trip to Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium. Eager and ready, the girls played their first game. Three of our games were successful but unfortunately the one game we had to win to get to the grand final, we lost by 6 points!
It was disappointing, but the girls played such an amazing game and they all tried their absolute hardest. All the girls played really well together and listened to any advice on plays I gave them. Overall it was a great day!
Akira Powell, Coach (Year 12)
Senior Girls Soccer
On Monday 5 August the Senior Girls Soccer Team attended the Northern Metropolitan Regional Finals in Thornbury. The team played with a lot of heart, and won two of their three games. Sian Hooppell was a standout, scoring 6 goals for the day. Many of our team are in Year 11 so we are looking forward to what we can achieve in 2025
Mr Chris Morton
Yr 7 Boys Basketball
The Year 7 Boys Basketball Team had a blast playing in the Mickleham Division competition at Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium last Wednesday 31 July. They played four games and were coached by Year 10 students Ruben Hewitt and Jordan Baldwin. The Year 7 boys played amazingly and put on a stella performance, winning two games, and drawing two. The boys tried their hardest but sadly didn’t make it through to the next level of competition. Better luck next time.
Jordan Baldwin - (Year 10)
The 2024 first round of the Sacred Heart College Junior Chef Competition was held recently, involving students in Grade 4 representing six Catholic Primary Schools from the region. Held in the College’s Frayne Hospitality Centre, the primary students were challenged to prepare a stack of pancakes with a mixed berry sauce.
The Junior Chef competition aims to provide Grade 4 students with an opportunity to experience the secondary environment, while building on their culinary and teamwork skills. This competition also provided an opportunity for the VET Hospitality students at Sacred Heart College to act as mentors to these primary students. The primary schools used their own methods for selecting the students for their teams, some asking them to provide a written application on why they would like to be involved, with others challenging students to a pancake cook-off to secure their place. The event, which was first held in 2018, continues to grow in popularity, and schools regularly have large numbers of students eager to be involved.
“It was fantastic to see the young people so excited and engaged in cooking. They all worked extremely well in their teams and had obviously practised their recipes several times in advance,” said Deputy Principal, Haley Galloway.
The teams will participate in the final to select the winning team on Tuesday 20 August where they will be challenged to make home made fettucine pasta. The winning school will receive a $250 gift voucher from the Riddell's Creek Nursery to allow them to purchase plants for their school.
All at Sacred Heart College hope that this experience will be the start of an interest in cooking for the students involved for years to come.
On Friday 26 July we celebrated Schools National Tree Day by planting 70 native grasses, shrubs and trees that are indigenous to the area, on our bottom oval. The students braved the cold and wet conditions to do their best for the environment!
VCE English Support
Any VCE English/English Language/Literature students who would like additional support with class work, homework or practice tasks have the opportunity to access senior English teachers each Wednesday lunchtime in Dwyer. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ms Laura Sheppard lsheppard@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au
English and Book Week – August 19 – 23
‘Reading is Magic’
As part of our celebration of all things Literacy this year, on Friday 23 August we will again by offering students the opportunity to either dress as their favourite book character, or come to school in casual clothes. Students who dress up may participate in our book parade in the Catherine McAuley Library at lunchtime. Prizes will be on offer for best and most creative costumes. All students who dress up or come in casual clothes must make a gold coin donation to support Mercy Works projects throughout Australia and overseas, including tutoring programs for vulnerable students.
Finding Communications, documents and much more
Ruby Fraser – a current Year 10 student who is completing her Certificate III in Racing (Track Rider) as a School Based Apprenticeship, has been selected in the Trackwork Development Squad, Victoria, in addition to her studies and riding.
Ruby travels down to Flemington Race Course to participate in track riding, training and other activities associated with the racing industry. The photo is of Ruby on the mechanical horse used to assess student’s riding style and ability.
Well done Ruby, and keep following your dream!
How parents can increase motivation and confidence in children - Part 2
How Parents can increase motivation and confidence in children - Part 1
Open Day Information and Full List of University Open Days
This week’s prayer reflects the focus of the school’s programs for this week as 'Wellbeing Week'. Reflecting the importance of wellbeing for young people (as well as adults), a range of activities have been held that provided different experiences for students and staff. As highlighted in the Sacred Heart College Strategic Plan (2023 – 2026), high quality learning and teaching is inextricably linked to wellbeing. Students cannot be in the best place to learn unless they are happy and safe.
Appointment of new Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching
It is with great pleasure that I can announce the appointment of Mr Sam Weir as Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching at Sacred Heart College from the beginning of the 2025 school year.
Sam is very well-known to all in the Sacred Heart College community having had two stints on staff (2013 – 2017 and 2020 – ongoing). In his time at Sacred Heart, Sam has held a number of leadership positions including Justice and Service Coordinator, RE Learning Area Leader, Year 9 Level Leader and, most recently, Director of Faith and Mission. Sam has also had a range of teaching and leadership appointments at Santa Maria College, Northcote (Deputy Principal Learning Faith) and Our Lady of Mercy College Heidelberg (Social Justice Coordinator).
He is a man of great faith and brings this gospel witness to both his vocation at Sacred Heart as well as his local parish of Our Lady of the Rosary in Kyneton.
Sam has modelled an ongoing commitment to learning having completed a range of postgraduate qualifications including Masters of Educational Leadership, Master of Arts (Theology) and Masters of Religious Education and is a passionate Religious Education, English and Humanities teacher.
Sacred Heart College was privileged to attract a strong field of more than a dozen applicants with five candidates short-listed for interviews and two candidates for second interviews. The field included current and past deputy principals from Victorian Catholic and Government secondary schools. The interview panels included Ms Judy Young (Mercy Education), Ms Tracey Kift (Principal – Penola College Broadmeadows), Mr Brian Turner (Principal – Catherine McAuley College Bendigo) and myself.
Personally, I would like to congratulate Sam on this appointment and look forward to welcoming him in this new role in 2025.
Students and Staff Activities
It has been a remarkably busy couple of weeks at Sacred Heart College with a series of important events and activities occurring:
Yesterday, I hosted the recently appointed Chief Executive of Mercy Education Ltd (MEL), Ms Louisa Rennie. Louisa has responsibility for the thirteen MEL schools across Victoria, Western Australia and South Australia. Louisa and I spent time touring the school, meeting with the College Leadership Team as well as visiting a number of classes and talking with a range of SHC students.
Sacred Heart College has been privileged over the last ten days to host 20 students and staff from our Japanese sister school, Ibaraki Nishi High School in Osaka. The students have been hosted by local SHC families and have enjoyed a range of activities in school and beyond.
As part of this year’s visit, I was honoured to be able to co-sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Mr Moriwaki Masahiro, Principal of Ibaraki Nishi High School. This MOU recognises the strength of the relationship between our two schools and the opportunities it provides students from both schools educationally, socially and culturally.
On Tuesday, the College hosted Bree Gorman who spoke to our staff as well as parents and community members on the important topic of gender, inclusion and diversity. Her presentation provided a significant professional learning opportunity as part of Wellbeing Week.
Last Thursday, the whole school community gathered to celebrate our Semester One Awards. These awards recognise excellence in learning improvement, determination and capacity for independent learning – well done to all award winners. Alongside the award presentations, students and staff were privileged to listen to two performances by the Sacred Heart College Show Band.
Related to the previous item, last Tuesday night saw the Semester 2 Music Ensembles evening held in the Mary Moloney Theatre. Each time that I hear the quality of performances as part of these ensembles, I am in awe of our students’ talents as well as the quality of the instruction they receive from the College’s Instrumental Music teachers.
Yours in Mercy,
Dr Darren Egberts
Principal
Wellbeing Week
This week marked our annual Wellbeing Week. Wellbeing Captains Charli Pelham, Otis Smith, Bridget Eames and Scarlett Booth, along with our Wellbeing Counselors organised a range of activities throughout the week to profile and raise awareness of the importance of looking after your wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.
Students engaged in writing and sharing affirmations with each other. Students were able to enjoy watching the Olympics at lunch time. Our Health Centre Coordinator, Maintenance Team and Canteen Staff arranged a free breakfast for students and staff to enjoy this morning. However, our big event took place on Tuesday with Farmer Daryl Sheridan bringing his mobile farm to the College. Throughout the day our students were able to come and spend time with his vast array of animals. It was a beautiful sunny day and it was so good to see all the joy and smiling faces of our students as they were interacting with the beautiful animals.
Another offering in Wellbeing week was our Parent Engagement Evening with Diversity and Inclusion consultant, Bree Gorman. Thank you to Bree and the parents who came to this event for sharing your stories, seeking support and engaging with Bree and this event.
Year 9 Melbourne Experience
Coming up next week, our Year 9s will begin their Melbourne Experience days. Students and teachers have been busy planning and organising each of the days, and are looking forward to to exploring our state capital.
I would like to draw particular attention to this Information Booklet which is attached to the your permission acknowledgement in PAM.
Things to note:
- Transport to Melbourne will be by bus each day, departing SHC at approximately 9am. This means students can arrive at school as per their normal day.
- Transport returning from the city will vary each of the days for students, depending on their homeroom. Please pay particular attention to the pick up times and locations identified on the PAM permission form and in the Information Booklet.
- Please be aware of our legal duty of care responsibilities. Teachers must sight and sign students over to their parents/guardians at the end of the day.
- Parents, Guardians must notify in writing to Angelica Violante or Matt Carroll (aviolante@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or mcarroll@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au) if you are organizing for another parent or guardian to collect your child. This person must be sighted, and sign for both students.
- Students may only be collected from the scheduled drop off points identified on the PAM permission form and in the Information Booklet.
- Any parents wishing to collect their child from Melbourne, must communicate this ahead of the day to Angelica Violante or Matt Carroll (aviolante@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or mcarroll@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au) and must be there in person and be at the nominated pick up location. If parents are late, particularly where public transport is involved, teachers will have to take the student with them back to Kyneton.
- No students will be allowed to go off unsupervised to catch other public transport or meet their parents at another location. Again, this is because of our legal duty of care obligations.
If you have questions please contact Angelica Violante or Matt Carroll (aviolante@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au or mcarroll@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au)
Afterschool Reflection Session
I sent out a communication earlier in the term regarding changes we have made to follow up for students who have not met the Colleges expectations for behavior and uniform. I have included part of this communication below. Please refer back to your emails for the entire communication.
Beginning in Term 3, 2024, we have implemented some changes to the way we follow up with students who consistently breach the College’s expectations the following ways:
- Disrupting the learning environment in class
- Exhibiting disrespectful behavior towards other students and staff
- Not completing class work or assessment tasks
- Not wearing uniform correctly
We have implemented an After School Reflection Session (ASRS) on Mondays each week from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Here students will have the opportunity to either catch up on class work, study or finish outstanding classwork, or engage in service activities for the College. The session will be supervised by the Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing.
- Prior to the implementation of the ASRS, students and parents will have already received a number of notifications through SIMON/PAM.
- A student will only receive an ASRS relating to uniform if there have been 5 or more unexplained occurrences over a 30 day period.
- If parents have any questions about notifications they can seek clarification by contacting the reporting teacher identified at the bottom of notification via PAM, phone or email.
Students and parents/guardians will be notified of an ASRS in two ways.
- An automatic letter will be generated and sent to the email you have registered with us indicating the time and date of the ASRS.
- Year Level Leaders or Heads of School will also reach out to you to confirm the session.
Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop
On 8 August each year, we join with the Catholic family across Australia to celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. St Mary MacKillop holds a special place as Australia’s first saint, and her fearless work to offer education and to advocate for justice serves as a model of living faith for us to follow.
St Mary MacKillop’s feast day is also a time when we turn our hearts towards the ongoing works of MacKillop Family Services, one of our Mercy Ministry Companions. MacKillop Family Services continues the work of their namesake, offering education and support to vulnerable children and families, and following St Mary MacKillop’s adage that we should “never see a need without doing something about it.”
VCE Texts and Traditions: Theology in the city excursion
Last week our VCE Texts and Traditions class spent a day in Melbourne, visiting biblical studies theologians and spending some time exploring significant collections of theological texts. The class were thrilled to spend an hour in conversation with Dr Catherine Playoust, the Deputy Master of Catholic Theological College. Dr Playoust shared stories about her experiences as a professional academic and offered advice and wisdom for our own young scholars. Later in the day the class visited the Dalton McCaughey Library, which houses one of the largest theological collections in Australia. The staff were exceedingly hospitable, offering us a special tour of their rare books collection, and spending time showcasing some of the extensive literature written on the Gospel of Luke. On departure, each student was gifted with a commentary of the Gospel of Luke, which was received in a spirit of warm gratitude. We extend great thanks to the communities at the Catholic Theological College and the Dalton McCaughey Library.
Last week we welcomed 19 students and 2 teachers from our Japanese sister school Ibaraki Nishi High School. They left a balmy 35 degrees in Osaka to come to our chilly Kyneton winter, but there were warm smiles all round when host families met their exchange students for the first time.
Over the week, the Japanese students joined various classes with their hosts, participated in an EAL lesson and attended our academic awards assembly. They also learned a lot about Australian school life by doing seemingly normal things such as catching the bus and visiting our school canteen. The first week culminated with an excursion to the city with the Years 9 - 12 Sacred Heart Japanese classes. We visited the Melbourne Museum and Queen Victoria Markets, with activities designed to get the students speaking to each other in both Japanese and English. It was wonderful to hear all the chatter and laughter.
On Monday, the Japanese students visited Our Lady of the Rosary along with two teachers and three Year 12 students from SHC. They taught the Grade 5/6 classes how to fold origami cranes and how to play Japanese games such as kendama and jyan ken. They also taught the Grade 1 classes how to do a special Ibaraki version of the Obon dance.
Wednesday saw the official signing of our ongoing sister school agreement with Ibaraki Nishi High School. We had an online meeting and ceremony between our two principals, and formalised our relationship to ensure future exchange opportunities.
A huge thank you to our generous host families who have opened their homes to our Japanese guests, and to the broader SHC community who have made them feel very welcome.
Please see attached updated pricelist for 2024/25.
As a business we acknowledge the impacts the current ‘cost of living crisis’ is having on families right now. As we continue to support families and communities with this in mind, where possible we have retained the majority of the pricing across the uniform range to be the same as last year. You may notice a couple of items have increased slightly and this is only on items where it was necessary to do so within your uniform range.
Thank you for your continued support throughout the year.
On Monday 29 July, Casual Relief Teacher, Liz Payne, who is also a volunteer for Anti–Slavery Australia gave her time to speak to all the Year 11 RE students about some of her knowledge and experience of modern slavery in Australia. Year 11 RE students have been studying the topic of Modern Slavery in RE classes, and this incursion gave them a different perspective of this topic and the opportunity to ask questions outside of the classroom environment. The Year 11 RE teachers wish to thank Liz Payne for volunteering her time to speak to our students.
This Semester our Year 8 History students are delving into the fascinating world of Medieval Europe, exploring topics that range from the rigid structure of feudal society to the tragic impact of the Black Death.
To kick off our unit, students have been immersing themselves in the complexities of feudalism. Recent classroom activities included a lively game of "celebrity heads" where students took on the roles of different social classes, from powerful kings to humble peasants. Students devised a series of questions to ask each other to elicit their identities. This engaging exercise helped students understand the hierarchical nature of medieval society and the relationships between different groups. Lots of laughter was had by all.
We're also looking forward to our upcoming Medieval Europe incursion, a hands-on experience where students will have the opportunity to step back in time by dressing in traditional clothing and learning about daily life in the Middle Ages. This immersive activity will bring our studies to life and provide students with a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of medieval people.
Stay tuned for more updates on our medieval adventures!
The Unit 4 VCE Food Studies students recently visited 2 local farms to complement their understanding of the key knowledge related to ethical and sustainable farming.
The first stop was to Chin Chin Farm where students sat around the campfire with Stuart and Sonia to discuss organic and sustainable farming, what crops grow well in our local area and the importance of improving soil health without the use of fertilisers and pesticides. There was a big emphasis on selecting native plants as they are drought tolerant and help to improve biodiversity on the property. We had an opportunity to walk around the front paddock of the farm and sample some of the 26 indigenous herbs and spices grown there. After our walk, the class enjoyed a hands-on experience of making damper and flavoured it with their choice of indigenous herbs and honey.
Next, we drove to Sidonia Beef where a lovely lunch of beef burgers and Hardcourt Apple Juice had been prepared for us. Sam and Miranda spoke to us about the ethical farming of their cows and managing the land including holistic grazing management and water use. We gained an understanding of what cow breeds are suitable for our local area and the importance of biodiversity. The class had an opportunity to see the cows happily grazing, including around 160 that had either recently calved or were currently pregnant.
It was a fantastic day, and we all learned so much more about ethical and sustainable farming, whilst also taking part in an amazing 'paddock to plate' experience.
On Tuesday 30 July the Mary Moloney Theatre was filled with an audience that was treated to music of absolute quality. On stage were performers from Year 7 through to VCE in a variety of different ensembles including percussion, folk, guitar, rock bands, vocal and big band. The VCE music class also had the opportunity to perform the pieces they had worked on over first semester. We also learnt some fun facts about the instrumental music staff. For example, Henry who teaches strings used to be big in the punk rock scene back in the day, even recording with the likes of Nick Cave. Peter, who teaches drums has an identical twin brother who was on Lego Masters and Sue who teaches brass has a Masters Degree in Art Conservation and has worked at the Gallery of Victoria.
Thank you to all who came out on a cold night to support our students performers. Thankyou also to our music captains for 2024 - Lachlan Hyatt and Amelia Walsh who formed part of the back stage crew for the evening.
Missed out on seeing the performances? Keep an eye out for the Music Leaders Concert in Term 4.
Wicked
The Unit 4 Theatre Studies class attended a performance of ‘Wicked’ in Melbourne on Wednesday 24 July.
Theatre Studies students are required to analyse a professional performance, looking at the relationship between the written script and the decisions that have been made when interpreting the script, in acting, direction and design as well as the use of theatre technologies. Students will write about the play in the end of year exam.
The play was fabulous and we were very fortunate, as part of the excursion, to attend a Q & A with members of the cast and crew after the play. They talked about their roles in the production and what it takes to mount a huge production like ‘Wicked’.
As an added bonus, we were lucky to have a backstage tour with Madison, the chief ‘Mechanist’ on ‘Wicked’, who took us on a tour of the set, to look at the way the machinery functioned, although he wasn’t able to give away some of the ‘trade secrets’ of the play and if you have seen the play, there’s lots of ‘stage trickery’ involved.
We are very grateful for the support of Ms Andrea Knight, who accompanied us on the trip and especially to Mr Peter Ashman, our Arts-Technology Assistant, who used his contacts in the theatre industry to organise the tour for us.
Intermediate Girls Netball
On Friday 2 August the Intermediate Girls Netball Team went to Macleod for the second round of the competition. Our first game was very tough and we went down by 10 against Hazel Glen College. Despite the score, all the girls persevered and played their hardest. The second game was challenging again, and we unfortunately lost by 9 against Preston College. After playing two games, we came together as a team and formed some great connections. The 3rd and final game was an amazing game to play. The game finished with a draw (20-20) against Macleod College. Despite being very tired, everyone put in 100% and played so well. It was a great day and we all had a lot of fun, even if we didn’t win. It was a great experience playing against some amazing players and teams.
Anna Elliot & Audrey MacDonald - (Year 9)
Year 7 Girls Basketball
On Wednesday 31 July I accompanied the Year 7 girls on a trip to Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium. Eager and ready, the girls played their first game. Three of our games were successful but unfortunately the one game we had to win to get to the grand final, we lost by 6 points!
It was disappointing, but the girls played such an amazing game and they all tried their absolute hardest. All the girls played really well together and listened to any advice on plays I gave them. Overall it was a great day!
Akira Powell, Coach (Year 12)
Senior Girls Soccer
On Monday 5 August the Senior Girls Soccer Team attended the Northern Metropolitan Regional Finals in Thornbury. The team played with a lot of heart, and won two of their three games. Sian Hooppell was a standout, scoring 6 goals for the day. Many of our team are in Year 11 so we are looking forward to what we can achieve in 2025
Mr Chris Morton
Yr 7 Boys Basketball
The Year 7 Boys Basketball Team had a blast playing in the Mickleham Division competition at Broadmeadows Basketball Stadium last Wednesday 31 July. They played four games and were coached by Year 10 students Ruben Hewitt and Jordan Baldwin. The Year 7 boys played amazingly and put on a stella performance, winning two games, and drawing two. The boys tried their hardest but sadly didn’t make it through to the next level of competition. Better luck next time.
Jordan Baldwin - (Year 10)
The 2024 first round of the Sacred Heart College Junior Chef Competition was held recently, involving students in Grade 4 representing six Catholic Primary Schools from the region. Held in the College’s Frayne Hospitality Centre, the primary students were challenged to prepare a stack of pancakes with a mixed berry sauce.
The Junior Chef competition aims to provide Grade 4 students with an opportunity to experience the secondary environment, while building on their culinary and teamwork skills. This competition also provided an opportunity for the VET Hospitality students at Sacred Heart College to act as mentors to these primary students. The primary schools used their own methods for selecting the students for their teams, some asking them to provide a written application on why they would like to be involved, with others challenging students to a pancake cook-off to secure their place. The event, which was first held in 2018, continues to grow in popularity, and schools regularly have large numbers of students eager to be involved.
“It was fantastic to see the young people so excited and engaged in cooking. They all worked extremely well in their teams and had obviously practised their recipes several times in advance,” said Deputy Principal, Haley Galloway.
The teams will participate in the final to select the winning team on Tuesday 20 August where they will be challenged to make home made fettucine pasta. The winning school will receive a $250 gift voucher from the Riddell's Creek Nursery to allow them to purchase plants for their school.
All at Sacred Heart College hope that this experience will be the start of an interest in cooking for the students involved for years to come.
On Friday 26 July we celebrated Schools National Tree Day by planting 70 native grasses, shrubs and trees that are indigenous to the area, on our bottom oval. The students braved the cold and wet conditions to do their best for the environment!
VCE English Support
Any VCE English/English Language/Literature students who would like additional support with class work, homework or practice tasks have the opportunity to access senior English teachers each Wednesday lunchtime in Dwyer. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Ms Laura Sheppard lsheppard@shckyneton.catholic.edu.au
English and Book Week – August 19 – 23
‘Reading is Magic’
As part of our celebration of all things Literacy this year, on Friday 23 August we will again by offering students the opportunity to either dress as their favourite book character, or come to school in casual clothes. Students who dress up may participate in our book parade in the Catherine McAuley Library at lunchtime. Prizes will be on offer for best and most creative costumes. All students who dress up or come in casual clothes must make a gold coin donation to support Mercy Works projects throughout Australia and overseas, including tutoring programs for vulnerable students.
Finding Communications, documents and much more
Ruby Fraser – a current Year 10 student who is completing her Certificate III in Racing (Track Rider) as a School Based Apprenticeship, has been selected in the Trackwork Development Squad, Victoria, in addition to her studies and riding.
Ruby travels down to Flemington Race Course to participate in track riding, training and other activities associated with the racing industry. The photo is of Ruby on the mechanical horse used to assess student’s riding style and ability.
Well done Ruby, and keep following your dream!
How parents can increase motivation and confidence in children - Part 2
How Parents can increase motivation and confidence in children - Part 1
Open Day Information and Full List of University Open Days
