As we near the end of a very busy term, it is important to stop and consider some of the significant matters covered.

Vision for Engagement

Parents would remember that the College has embraced the new Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) ‘Vision for Instruction’ over the past 12 months. This is starting to have a real impact on our classroom teaching and ultimately learning outcomes.

On Wednesday, 11 June, I attended the launch of the MACS' new ‘Vision for Engagement’. The release of this new document was covered by the media in both The Age and via other news platforms..

The MACS ‘Vision for Engagement’ is an evidence-informed and authentically Catholic initiative dedicated to fostering calm, respectful, and inclusive classrooms where each student can succeed academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

It emphasises the development of learning environments that support respectful behaviour, consistent routines, and a sense of safety and belonging.

This vision aims to address the complex challenges faced by students today, promote mental health and wellbeing, and strengthen partnerships between schools and families.

We look forward to exploring and implementing this approach within our community.

Mrs. Anna Salmic (Deputy Principal – Students) and Mrs. Melanie Paino (Director of Students) will lead this initiative to ensure all students have access to high-quality teaching and are supported in achieving literacy and numeracy proficiency.

2025 Walk for Others - 'Stride for the Magis'

Each year, the College observes St. Ignatius Day on 31 July to commemorate St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits. St. Ignatius transitioned from a soldier to a saint, showing how faith can be expressed through action. This day serves as a reminder of his commitment to serving others and his legacy of being ‘people for others’, which we continue to live out in the Loyola College community.

On St. Ignatius Day, Loyola College students participate in a Walkathon around Watsonia. Students enjoy a 7km walk around our local neighbourhood and as part of this initiative, seek sponsorships to raise funds for their respective House charity.

Contributing to charity in an Ignatian school aligns with our core values of faith in action and commitment to others. It encourages students to actively support those in need, fostering empathy, responsibility, and a sense of community. Such actions help cultivate a culture of generosity and service.

Students have been establishing a fundraising profile using the online platform ‘Raisely’ in Religious Education classes over the last fortnight and are encouraged to share their profile links with their families. We invite parents to distribute these links to others, offering the opportunity to contribute to charitable causes.

We do not intend to put demands on parents in terms of donations as we understand the current challenges with cost of living. We kindly ask parents to support this initiative by simply sharing the donation links with family members, colleagues, or through social media to invite broader contributions.

End of Term Assessment

The conclusion of the second term is typically a period of increased activity for students, involving numerous final assessments and examinations. Students should focus on organized study schedules, reviewing key material, and managing their time effectively to ensure thorough preparation.

Parents can support their children by providing a conducive study environment, encouraging healthy habits, and offering positive encouragement.

Anxiety can become heightened at this time. To help students maintain a sense of calm, it is important to promote relaxation techniques, ensure adequate rest, and foster open communication about any concerns they may have during this busy time. Parents can support students by remaining regulated and helping students to do the same.

It is very important to ensure students are attending regularly so that they are involved in revision and study strategies to help them prepare for examinations. Staying home to study, while missing material covered at school is a false economy.

I wish all students well for the examinations and a positive end to the school term.