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.

Prayer of The Examen
By William Hand (12/AMJT)

2025 Walk For Others Campaign - 'Stride for the Magis'

As we approach St. Ignatius Day on Thursday, 31 July, we are excited to celebrate this special occasion with our annual Walk For Others Walkathon. By now, you may have received an email from your child/children with their profile and links to sponsor them on the walk. We encourage students to reach out to many family members and friends in order to gain sponsorship. This event is a wonderful opportunity for our students to embody the values of St. Ignatius through service and generosity.

The Walk For Others: A Tradition of Giving

The Walk For Others is more than just a walkathon; it is a cherished tradition that unites our community in support of our House charities. Each step your child takes is a step towards making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. This year, as we prepare for the walk, we invite you to reflect on the importance of fundraising and the impact it has on our community and beyond.

Why Fundraising Matters

Fundraising is a crucial aspect of our walkathon. The funds raised by our students go directly to our House charities, which support a variety of causes, including:

By participating in the Walk For Others, your child is not only raising money but also raising awareness about these important issues.

Living the Jesuit Mission

St. Ignatius taught us to be people for and with others, a principle that lies at the heart of our fundraising efforts. Through the walkathon, your child has the opportunity to live out this mission by showing compassion, solidarity, and a commitment to social justice. Each donation, no matter how small, is a testament to their dedication to making the world a better place.

Past Successes

Our community has a proud history of successful fundraising efforts. Last year, we raised over $30,000 for our House charities, surpassing our target and making a significant impact. These achievements highlight the incredible generosity and dedication of our students and families.

How You Can Support Your Child

We encourage you to support your child's involvement in the Walk For Others. Whether by sponsoring their walk, helping them reach out to potential donors, or simply encouraging their efforts, your support is invaluable. Together, we can help our students reach their fundraising goals and make a significant impact on our House charities.

A Day of Celebration and Reflection

St. Ignatius Day is a time for celebration, reflection, and action. As we gather for the Walk For Others, let us remember the teachings of St. Ignatius and strive to embody his values in our daily lives. As St. Ignatius said, "Love is shown more in deeds than in words". Let us walk with purpose, knowing that our efforts are making a difference.

Thank you for your continued support and generosity. We look forward to seeing your child participate on Thursday, 31 July as we come together to walk for others and celebrate the spirit of St. Ignatius.

Semester One Examinations:

Semester One Examinations will only involve Years 9 and 10.

Students who are absent will receive a mark of 0% unless a medical certificate, statutory declaration, or pharmacy certificate is submitted to the Head of House or Miss Wilson.

Information detailing expectations and procedures have already been distributed to families. Please contact the College, if you have not received a letter.

Term Three: Looking Ahead...

Term Three will be an extremely busy term at our school with a number of curriculum and learning related events including:

In order to prepare you for these upcoming events, please find a summary below:

Parent Teacher Interviews:

This year, our Parent Teacher Interviews will be held on Wednesday, 14 August and Thursday, 4 September. For the first time, we have intentionally spread the interviews across two dates in response to feedback. This approach aims to better support:

• Senior students, by offering an earlier opportunity to reflect and prepare for the final stages of VCE, and
• Semester-based subjects, by allowing time for meaningful feedback later in Term Three.

Wednesday, 14 August
We strongly encourage Year 10,11 & 12 parents/carers to attend on this earlier date. This provides valuable insight into student progress so far, and more importantly, allows parents to support their child as they prepare for the final assessments and Trial Exams, which take place during the first three days of the holidays.

Thursday, 4 September
Parents/carers of students in semester-based subjects are encouraged to book interviews on this date, as it provides teachers with adequate time to assess and discuss student progress for the second half of the year.

Naturally all parents/carers are welcome at either/both dates where relevant.

Subject Selection 2026:

The Subject Selection Process begins in Term Three, Week 2.  Please find a summary of the main events regarding Subject Selection:  

Application for Accelerated Subjects in 2026

In Term Three our Year 9 and 10 students will be considering their Year 10 and Year 11 subjects for next year. Please find details below:

Current Year 9 2025:
A number of students may wish to complete a Unit 1/2 Subject (Year 11 subject) in 2026.

Acceleration requires demonstrated consistent high academic achievement and an ability to take on the demands of an accelerated subject. Therefore, a student will need to be committed to their studies, be well organised and able to meet deadlines. English will be one of the subjects in which the student needs to demonstrate a consistently high level of academic ability.

Stages of the Acceleration Process: 

1. Letter of invite from the Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning to those students who meet the desired criteria of 5A’s (5 x 80%) (one of which must be English) (75% for Enhanced / CLIL students)
2. Completion of Application Form
3. Completion of VCE Ready Test
4. Invitation for an interview with the relevant Head of Learning
5. Students and parents informed of the outcome by Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning.

Students have been informed of this process at the beginning of the year.

Current Year 10 2025:
An invitational letter, from the Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning, will be sent out to students currently studying an accelerated Unit 1/2 subject. Acceptance for Unit 3/4 is not automatic. Letters will be sent to students who have been able to sustain a high level of academic ability and meet the demands of the accelerated Unit 1/2 Units. 

The subject selection process takes place in Term Three for all of our students and once again students will be asked to complete their subject choices online, with your guidance.

Vocational Process in 2025: Pre-V (Year 10) and VCE VM (Year 11) 

As students consider their future pathways, they may feel that a vocational curriculum (Pre-V and VCE VM) is more suited to their needs. That may be in terms of the curriculum areas offered or simply a vocational approach best suits their learning needs. Please find below brief outline of the two Programs. 

Current Year 9 2025 - Pre-V: 

The Pre-V Program at Loyola is designed to provide students with valuable exposure and practical experience in various vocational fields. It aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge required to make informed career choices and excel in their chosen fields.   

Current Year 10 2025 - VCE VM: 

Students already enrolled on the current Pre-V course will automatically continue their vocational studies into Year 11 and Year 12. There is the opportunity, however for students in Year 10 to join the VCE VM Program in 2026.  

Student enrolment for both Vocational Programs is by invitation only and recommendations are made following careful consideration and review of the academic record, skills and interests of the students, alongside conversations with staff. For those students who do not receive a letter of invite, parents/guardians are welcome to contact Mr. Langford (Head of VCE VM) or Miss Wilson if they feel a vocational program will suit the learning needs of their child.

The Great Loyola Coffee Debate - Have Your Say!

Together with the Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA), our school is currently exploring the possibility of launching a new Loyola College Coffee Fundraiser and would love your input to make it a success.

By sharing your taste preferences, you’ll help us customise a coffee that members of our school community will most enjoy. The resulting product can be purchased by our school community and may also be used at school events or as part of our school's 'Coffee Cart' Co-curricular program!

It only takes a minute - and your feedback makes a big difference. You can have your say by clicking the link below:

CLICK HERE TO TAKE PART IN OUR LOYOLA COLLEGE COFFEE DEBATE!

Thank you for your support!

Grandparents Mass and Morning Tea

Tickets to our annual Grandparents’ Mass & Morning Tea on Tuesday, July 29 will be available to book online from Monday, 23 June at 7.00pm!

The special event will commence with Mass at 10.00am, followed by a special Morning Tea at 10:45am for our guests and their grandchildren (Loyola College Students). Students attending during Period 2 on this day will be required to wear their full winter uniform (no sport uniform).

Please Note: A ticket is required for each adult, student and carer (if required).

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS ONLINE

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Monica Agius - College & Community Engagement Assistant via community@loyola.vic.edu.au

LPFA Trivia & Games Night tickets are on sale now!

Brains, Banter & a Spit Roast Banquet!

It’s time to gather your team, sharpen those pencils (and your wits), and prepare for an evening of laughs, friendly competition, and great food!

Your ticket includes a delicious spit roast dinner, and drinks will be available at bar prices throughout the night. With trivia rounds, fun games and amazing prizes up for grabs, it’s the perfect excuse for a night out.

WHEN: Saturday 9 August
WHERE: Loyola Companions Hall, Loyola College
TIME: 6.00pm – 11.00pm

This is an adults-only event, so don’t miss your chance to be part of the fun. Book your table today and get ready for a night to remember! Creative team names are encouraged – the more outrageous, the better!

Don’t miss out on one of the most entertaining nights on the Loyola calendar!

Are you a local business owner?

If you or your family own a business and would like to support the night, we warmly welcome prize donations for our games and raffles. It’s a great way to showcase your business to the school community while helping us raise vital funds. All donors will be acknowledged on the night and in our event communications.

To donate or learn more, please contact Ms. Monica Agius - College & Community Engagement Assistant via lpfa@loyola.vic.edu.au

Join Our Canteen Volunteer Team!

The Canteen is always on the lookout for helpful parent volunteers to join the team! If you can spare just one day a month, your support would make a big difference in helping us provide great service to our students.

No experience is necessary—just a willingness to lend a hand and a sense of community spirit.

If you're interested, please email our Canteen Manager, Joanne Polley, with your available days: polleyj@loyola.vic.edu.au

We’d love to have you on board!

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. We are now 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 Monica Agius at 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.

2025 Entertainment Guide

Support LPFA fundraising efforts and enjoy hundreds of everyday savings!

Entertainment Guide is the easy to use App packed with incredible savings of up to 50% off and 2-for-1 offers, so you can save on takeaway, dining, shopping, groceries, gift cards, activities and more! And what’s more, 20% of every membership purchased via the following link goes towards supporting the College through the Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA)

Digital memberships can be purchased HERE

Financial Assistance – Camps, Sports, Excursions Fund (CSEF)

The CSEF offered by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families by reducing the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities included in the Loyola fees, has been increased to $256 annually. Eligible families that did not apply for the CSEF in 2024 may also be entitled to the 2025 School Savings Bonus of $400.

Families that hold a valid means-tested concession card such as a Health Care Card or Pension Card, temporary foster parents as well as asylum seeker and refugee families are welcome to apply.

If you applied for the CSEF in 2024, you do not need to complete an application form in 2025 unless there has been a change in your family circumstances such as:

• new student enrolments; this is your child’s first year at Loyola College and you hold a valid means-tested concession card.
• changed family circumstances; such as a new sibling commencing at Loyola College in 2025, change of custody, change of name or concession card number.

Please click here to access the CSEF application form or contact the school office to obtain a copy. For queries regarding eligibility, please call 9433 0292.

A reminder to kindly check out our Learning Pathways Page, which will be regularly updated with information about in-school programs for Years 10-12. It will also feature the release of our Careers newsletter. You can access the page via the LMS using this link: Companion Learning - Learning Pathways

As we approach the time of the year for tertiary open days, it is important to be checking the newsletter to be able to be kept up to date with what is being offered from the tertiary institutions.