Ignatian Newsletter: 2024 - Edition #17

From the Principal

Written by
Alison Leutchford
Principal

Our Year 12 students are currently progressing through their final examinations. As our VCE students complete each subject examination, their academic load gradually diminishes. We look forward to celebrating their completion of this assessment period and learning about their future pathways in 2025.

Next week will be an assessment-free period for our Year 10 and 11 students, allowing them to focus on revising for their upcoming examinations. Additionally, examinations for Year 8 and 9 students are approaching rapidly. Term Four is a crucial time for students to remain focused, organized, and strategic in their studies.

The orientation period for Year 11 and 12 has been extended this year to provide students with a strong foundation for their 2025 curriculum.

Ignatian Ethos and Identity Review

Last week, Jennie Hickey (Formation and Education Office at Jesuit Education Australasia), Barbara Watkins (Executive Director of Jesuit Education Australasia), and Fr. Gerry Healy SJ visited our campus to engage in discussions with students, staff, and parents. Their objective was to assess the implementation of the Ignatian tradition within our College.

During their visit, several strengths were identified, such as our commitment to inclusivity, outreach and service opportunities, as well as our effective induction process for new staff and the initiation of our new teaching and learning framework.

They also identified areas for improvement, including the ongoing formation for Consult, staff, parents, and the School Advisory Council, as well as the continued development of our learning framework, particularly in relation to the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm.

Memorial Mass

Next Thursday, 7 November, all members of the College community are cordially invited to attend our annual Memorial Mass. An invitation is included in this edition of the Ignatian. This Mass provides a meaningful opportunity to honour and remember our significant family members who have passed away.

Memorial Mass

Year 7 Parent Information Evening

On Wednesday, October 29, the College hosted an information evening for our incoming Year 7 students and their parents. It was truly gratifying to see so many enthusiastic individuals interested in becoming part of the Loyola College community. Our ongoing strong enrolment figures reflect our commitment to our Ignatian values, including our Catholic identity, sense of inclusion, and strong community engagement.

Theatre Studies

Congratulations to Ms. Bryans and the Year 10 and 11 Theatre Studies classes. Each class delivered an exceptional performance over the past two weeks, demonstrating their remarkable talents. Our commitment to the Performing Arts continues to be a priority, and we take great pride in the high quality of work showcased within our community.

ACS Sport

I would like to acknowledge and commend our Girls' ACS Cricket team for their participation in the inaugural ACS Girls' Cricket tournament. Promoting the involvement of young women in sports is a key priority for Loyola College. Engaging teenage girls in sports offers numerous benefits, including enhanced mental and physical health, improved social skills, and a strengthened sense of belonging and identity.

Long Weekend

I wish students and their families a safe and happy long weekend.