Memorial Mass

On Thursday 29 October, the College community gathered for our annual Memorial Mass, a special occasion that provides an opportunity to remember and honour loved ones who have passed away. Through prayer, reflection, and shared remembrance, we celebrated the lives of those who continue to hold a treasured place in our hearts and our community.

During the Mass, we also remembered a much-valued member of our College community, Sammy Maddela (L: 23 – 26), and the light he shared with others through his warm smile, kindness, and genuine care for those around him. Sammy's presence touched many lives, and his memory remains deeply cherished by students, staff, and families.

To honour Sammy's contribution to our community, a memorial plaque will be placed in the Chapel, with a second plaque installed in the Memorial Garden. These spaces will provide a place of reflection where students, staff, and family members can pause, remember, and give thanks for Sammie's life and the positive impact he had on our community.

Our sincere thanks to Mr Adam Calderone, Deputy Principal Ignatian Mission and Identity, for preparing and leading such a beautiful and meaningful liturgy. His thoughtful planning ensured a fitting and prayerful occasion that brought comfort, hope, and connection to all who attended.

Examination Period

The Year 12 VCAA examination period is now well underway, and we commend our students for the positive and mature manner in which they have approached this important time. Their preparation, perseverance, and commitment have been evident, and we wish them every success as they continue their examinations.

As our Year 10 and Year 11 students prepare for their upcoming exams, it is important to remember that effective study is built over time. Consistent revision, good organisation, and regular breaks are far more beneficial than last-minute cramming. Trying to learn large amounts of content at the last minute can often lead to unnecessary stress, panic, and anxiety. Students are encouraged to maintain healthy routines, seek support from their teachers when needed, and approach their preparation with confidence, knowing that steady effort is the key to success. Parents can support this process by encouraging balanced routines, healthy habits, and regular study patterns while providing reassurance and maintaining a calm, positive environment at home. We wish all students the very best as they prepare for and undertake their examinations.

World Teachers' Day

Friday 30 October marks World Teachers' Day, a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the commitment, expertise, and generosity of our teachers. Every day, teachers invest enormous amounts of time, energy, and care into supporting the learning, growth, and wellbeing of our students. Their work extends far beyond the classroom as they mentor, encourage, challenge, and inspire young people to become the very best versions of themselves.

As a community, we are grateful for the contribution our teachers make to the life of the College. Parents can show their appreciation in many ways, including through respectful and positive communication, recognising the commitment of teachers, and taking opportunities to acknowledge the care and support they provide to their children. A simple word of thanks or affirmation can go a long way in recognising the important difference teachers make in the lives of our students every day.

2027 School Fees

Communication regarding school fees for 2027 will be emailed to parents on Friday 30 October. Every effort has been made to keep fees increases to a minimum while continuing to provide the high-quality educational opportunities, programs, and support services that are central to a Loyola education.

2027 Annual Action Plan

On Friday 30 October, members of the College Consultative Team attended a leadership planning session at the Catholic Leadership Centre, focusing on the development of the College's 2027 Annual Action Plan (AAP). The day provided an opportunity to reflect on our strategic priorities and identify key areas for ongoing school improvement.

Areas of focus currently being explored include Numeracy and Literacy growth, Retrieval practises, effective feedback practices for staff, student engagement and the ongoing strengthening of faith formation and Ignatian identity across the College. These priorities reflect our commitment to continuous improvement and to providing the highest quality educational experience for every student.

A more detailed overview of the 2027 Annual Action Plan will be shared with the community as priorities and implementation plans are further refined over the coming months.

New Provincial for the Australian Society of Jesus

The appointment of a new Provincial is a significant moment in the life of the Society of Jesus and the broader Jesuit community. We warmly congratulate Fr Chris Middleton SJ on his appointment as Provincial of the Australian Province of the Society of Jesus. As he begins this important ministry of leadership and service, we assure him of the prayers, support, and encouragement of the Loyola and JACSA communities. We are grateful for his commitment to the Jesuit mission and wish him every blessing as he leads the Province into this new chapter.

As we celebrate All Saints and All Souls Day on November 1 and 2 respectively, we are reminded that we belong to a community of faith that extends across generations. All Saints Day honours those whose lives reflected Christ's love, courage, and generosity, while All Souls Day invites us to remember and pray for our loved ones who have died. In the Ignatian tradition, we give thanks for the witness of those who have gone before us and reflect on how we are called to live as people for and with others. May these sacred days inspire hope, gratitude, and a deeper awareness of God's presence in our lives.

Co-curriculum and Academic Colours

Loyola College recognises significant achievement amongst its student body with the awarding of Co-curriculum Colours (known as ‘Colours’) twice each year.

Students who achieve Colours are recognised for their qualities of active participation, team spirit, positive conduct, goodwill and co-operation in a specific area of the College Co-curriculum program.

Co-curriculum Colours are awarded in the areas of:

· Christian Service

· Drama

· Music

· Public Speaking and Debating

· Sport

· House

In addition, Academic Colours are awarded to those students who finish in the top 5% of each year group. At Awards Evening, these students receive a certificate and are eligible to have an open book motif and year (i.e. 2026) embroidered on their blazer pocket.

Students who are awarded Co-curriculum are also eligible to have their blazers embroidered with a symbol which celebrates their Colours at the end of each Semester. Semester Two Colours Applications have now opened and all students in Years 9-12 are invited to apply.

Depression & Young People

Depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect how children and young people think, feel and interact with the world around them. While occasional sadness and mood changes are a normal part of growing up, depression is more persistent and can significantly impact a young person’s relationships, school engagement and overall wellbeing.

Recognising the signs of depression can sometimes be challenging, particularly during adolescence when emotional and behavioural changes are common. Academic pressures, friendship difficulties, social media and challenges around identity and belonging can all contribute to emotional distress. Understanding the warning signs and knowing when to seek help are important steps in ensuring young people receive the support they need.

This edition of SchoolTV explores the signs and causes of depression, offering practical guidance and strategies to help recognise concerns early and provide appropriate support.

Here is the link to this topic http://loyola.vic.schooltv.me/...

Year 9 Students Take Part in the Real Industry Job Interview (RIJI) Program

Our Year 9 students recently participated in the Real Industry Job Interview (RIJI) program, an engaging and practical experience designed to prepare them for the world of work.

As part of the program, students applied for an age-appropriate job and attended a mock job interview, giving them the opportunity to experience the recruitment process in a real-world setting. The experience encouraged students to develop their communication skills, practise presenting themselves professionally and build confidence in responding to interview questions.

The program provided a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on their strengths, consider the expectations of employers and develop important employability skills that will support them in their future pathways.

We were particularly proud of the way our students approached the experience. Their enthusiasm, positivity and cooperation were noted by the staff involved in the program, reflecting positively on both the students and Loyola College.

We thank the Banyule and Nillumbik Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN) and the team involved in delivering this valuable initiative for providing our students with an authentic insight into the world of work.

Well done to our Year 9 students for embracing this opportunity and taking another important step towards their future careers!

Art And Design Show

It is that time of year again, where we get to acknowledged and celebrate the work of students in the Visual Arts and Design Technology.

Our annual Art and Design Show is happening in Cardoner on Friday 6 November from 6pm till 8pm. Families, friends and members of the Loyola community are warmly invited to attend this celebration of student achievement.

The evening will feature a diverse exhibition of artworks and design projects, interactive experiences, live entertainment food, refreshments and coffee.

Begin your weekend with art, food, and entertainment as well as a chance to explore the minds of our very creative young people. We hope to see you all there.

Jacqueline Di Stefano and Adrian Stojkovich

Congratulations to Year 10 student, Laura Greig (10/XJGA) who was recently awarded 3ème Prix (3rd Prize) in the Year 11 Oral Examination at the 2026 Alliance Française Berthe Mouchette Competition!

Competing against around 7,000 students from 117 Victorian schools, this is an outstanding achievement and a wonderful recognition of Laura's dedication to learning French.

Loyola College is extremely proud of your efforts!

Félicitations Laura!

2027 School Fee Payment Options

IMPORTANT NOTICE - Commencing January 2027, all weekly, fortnightly and monthly arrangements must be paid via a direct debit arrangement. Failure to submit a Direct Debit Request form, these arrangement requests will automatically default to an annual arrangement.

Any queries regarding this change should be directed to the Finance Department at fees@loyola.vic.edu.au

Community Carols & Market Night

Loyola College, in conjunction with the Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA) will be hosting the annual Community Christmas Market & Carols Night on Friday, 27 November 5.00pm – 9.00pm.

As in previous years, this wonderful family event will include food trucks, children’s entertainment, Christmas performances by our students, the Good As New Uniform Sale and a festive Christmas Market - offering families the opportunity to purchase unique and handmade gifts. The evening attracts approximately 1000 people from both the College and local communities.

Open Your Home, Open a World of Opportunity!
In February 2027, we are delighted to welcome students from St Laurensia School, Indonesia, to our College community.
As part of this exciting cultural exchange, we are seeking families to host a visiting student from 18-22 February 2027.
Hosting a student is a unique and rewarding experience for the whole family. It offers a wonderful opportunity to build international friendships, share Australian culture and daily life, and gain a deeper understanding of Indonesian traditions and customs - all from the comfort of your own home.
Many host families find that the connections made during these exchanges create lasting memories and friendships that continue well beyond the visit.
If your family would be interested in being part of this exciting cultural experience, I would love to hear from you. Please contact me on 9433 0228 or at quigleyc@loyola.vic.edu.au.

Donation of Loyola Uniform
Thank you to all the families who generously donate second-hand uniforms throughout the year to support our Good As New Uniform Sales. As we prepare for 2027, we are accepting donations of washed uniforms.
If you have any items that you no longer need and are in excellent condition, please leave them with Reception. Your contributions help support families in need and are greatly appreciated.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE OLD STYLE SPORT UNIFORM CAN NO LONGER BE WORN BY STUDENTS AND MUST NOT BE SENT TO RECEPTION. Parent co-operation in this matter is kindly appreciated.
For more information, please contact community@loyola.vic.edu.au or 9433 0228.

Return of Unused ACS Player Uniforms
Parents are requested to return any unused ACS player uniforms to the Sports Office as soon as possible.
If your child has been issued a uniform and no longer participates in the program, returning the unused items helps us maintain accurate stock and ensures availability for future teams.
Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Morning Tours 2026
Our last Morning Tour for 2026 will take place from 9.15am – 11.00am on Tuesday 24 November
Please visit the College website at www.loyola.vic.edu.au to book a Tour.

For Your Calendar:

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