Fire Carriers Garden

On Friday, March 14, a substantial group of parents participated in our twilight working bee. Parents were assigned to various tasks, with the majority focusing on the development of the new Fire Carriers Garden, located just inside the Grimshaw Street entrance. This garden, inspired by traditional Indigenous storytelling, is designed in the shape of a goanna. Our Head Gardener, Mr. David Kelly, along with Mr. Trevor Busuttil and Mr. Daniel Hartigan, conceptualized the garden, and our parent volunteers contributed to its completion by planting a diverse array of flora that is significant to the narrative of our First Nations peoples, serving both nutritional and practical purposes.

I would like to thank our gardening team and the parents who generously donated their time to help cultivate this beautiful and meaningful space. The garden stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering a culturally safe community, where our students gain an appreciation for the importance of Indigenous perspectives.

Parents who have not seen this new space, may be interested in watching the clip accessed through the picture/link below.

House Masses

Last Sunday marked the conclusion of the Sunday House masses for the 2025 school year. I would like to thank the parents who supported our House masses. I would also like to express appreciation for the House parents who coordinated the morning tea, creating an opportunity for parents to connect and engage with one another.

We are fortunate to receive substantial support from our Parish Priests. I would like to thank them for welcoming us into their parishes, embracing our families, and reminding students that the church is their spiritual home, where they are always welcome. We acknowledge the considerable demands placed on our priests due to their diverse responsibilities, and we are truly grateful for their generous contributions to the Loyola community.

The foundation parishes played a significant role in the establishment of our college, and our ongoing partnership with these feeder parishes facilitates smooth transitions and strengthens connections.

Many thanks to Mr. Adam Calderone, Deputy Principal of Ignatian Mission and Identity, and Sr. Nelia Llanto, Parish Liaison, for their efforts in organizing and preparing the students for the House liturgies.

Annual Action Plan 2025

The 2025 Annual Action Plan has been finalized and submitted to Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS). Below is a summary of the goals for this academic year:

• To ensure students are engaged, motivated, and committed to becoming lifelong and independent learners through a Vision for Learning
• To improve student achievement in numeracy in Years 7-9.
• To improve student achievement in writing in Years 7-9.
• To continue improving student engagement with a particular focus on student attendance at Years 9 and 10.
• To enhance faith formation opportunities for students, staff, and families
• To build a culture of discernment, ensuring:
  • All stakeholders are heard.
  • Leaders are listening.
  • Decisions are made after considered reflection.

Happy Easter

As we enter the final week of the term and approach the vacation period, I remind families that Easter falls at the conclusion of the school holidays.

As we approach the celebration of Easter, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to our community. Easter represents a time of renewal, hope, and new beginnings. I hope this season brings peace, happiness, and cherished moments with loved ones.

May the spirit of Easter fill your hearts with joy and your homes with love.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement in our school community.

I look forward to sharing many more wonderful experiences with you and your children upon return in Term Two.