Term Four is well underway, and our Year 12 students have now commenced their final exams. This marks a significant milestone in their educational journey, and we commend them for the hard work and resilience they have shown throughout the year. The exam period is a time of both challenge and opportunity, and we wish each student the very best as they demonstrate the knowledge and skills they’ve developed. The entire college community stands behind them with pride and encouragement.

During our recent college assembly, the new names for several college entities were announced. I would like to share this information with our community.

Acutis House

Students and staff were both excited to hear that our new orange House would be named Acutis House after Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian teenager who died of leukemia in 2006, known for his deep Catholic faith and devotion to the Eucharist. He used his skills in technology to create a website documenting Eucharistic miracles, earning him the nickname “God’s Influencer.”

Carlo lived a life of kindness, service, and spiritual maturity, inspiring others through his example, including his own family and friends. He was beatified in 2020 and canonised as a saint in 2025 after two confirmed miracles attributed to his intercession.

Carlo is now known as the first millennial saint and the “patron saint of the internet.” Naming a House after Carlo Acutis will challenge our students to see that you don’t have to be famous or perfect to make a difference, you just must use your gifts with heart, courage, and integrity.

The Ngurra Garden

At the Grimshaw Street entrance, our Fire Carriers have supported the establishment of a new garden, designed by our Gardening team and planted for us by parents, students and teachers. This garden will now be known as the Ngurra Garden.

The word Ngurra comes from several Aboriginal languages and is often translated as home, camp, or place of belonging. But its meaning goes far deeper than just a physical location. For many First Nations peoples, Ngurra represents a profound connection to land, culture, community, and identity. It is a place where stories are held, where ancestors are remembered, and where people feel they truly belong.

At our college, the garden at the front of Grimshaw Street is more than just a green space. It is a welcoming place—a space where students, staff, families, and community members can gather, reflect, and feel grounded. Naming this garden Ngurra acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land and honours the deep cultural significance of place and belonging in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

By calling this space Ngurra, we are saying:

• You are welcome here.

• You belong here.

• This is a place to connect—with nature, with each other, and with the stories of this land.

The Ricci Centre

I am pleased to inform our community that the new STEM Centre is approaching completion, with an anticipated opening date of Friday, 10 November. New furniture and materials have been ordered, and we are eager to utilise this new and contemporary learning space.

The building will be named in honour of Matteo Ricci, SJ, a distinguished Jesuit from the 16th century known for his contributions to science. He played a key role in introducing mathematics, astronomy, and geography from Europe to China. Throughout his work, he demonstrated a commitment to the dissemination of knowledge, respect for diverse cultures, and the use of science to foster understanding and connection. Naming our STEM Centre after him serves as a reminder that education extends beyond facts to encompass curiosity, collaboration, innovation, and the collective pursuit of positive global impact.

All Saints Day and All Souls Day: A Time to Remember and Rejoice

As we enter November, the Church invites us into a sacred rhythm of remembrance and hope. On All Saints Day (1 November), we honour the countless women and men—named and unnamed—who have lived lives of holiness and now dwell in the fullness of God’s presence. These saints, both canonised and ordinary, inspire us to live with courage, compassion, and faithfulness in our own time. This year, we especially celebrate the Saints whose names adorn our Houses and College: St. Ignatius Loyola, St. Mary MacKillop, St. Francis Xavier, and newly canonised this year - St. Carlo Acutis.

The following day, All Souls Day (2 November), is a more contemplative moment. We remember all who have died, especially our loved ones, and pray for their journey into eternal peace. It is a day steeped in Ignatian spirituality, where we reflect on the mystery of life, death, and resurrection, trusting in God’s mercy and love.

At Loyola College, these days remind us of our shared mission—to form people of conscience, compassion, and hope. Whether through prayer, liturgy, or quiet reflection, we are called to honour those who have gone before us and to live lives worthy of remembrance.

May these days deepen our connection to the communion of saints and renew our commitment to walk humbly with God.

Vinnies Wishing Trees

With the start of November and deep into the Advent Term at the College, we are invited to think of those less fortunate in our local community in the north-eastern suburbs. We are collecting new toys for children of all ages through the Vinnies Wishing Trees appeal, where families can donate gifts this Christmas season. Vinnies collect them on our behalf and distribute them to kids who would ordinarily go without presents at Christmas.

Students can leave toys and gifts (wrapped or unwrapped) under the Wishing Trees at each Head of House office.

We once again thank you for your continued support of this worthwhile cause. Click Here to View Vinnies Wishing Tree

Social Media Age Restrictions

The following information, adapted from the eSafety Commissioner website, pertains to the social media restrictions for young people under the age of 16.

As you may be aware, from 10 December 2025, many social media platforms will not be permitted to allow young people under the age of 16 to create or keep an account. This is to protect them from spending too much time on social media as well as exposing them to content that may potentially harm their health and wellbeing.

We encourage all families to take the time to review the information on the following site Social media age restrictions and your family| eSafety Commissioner, which not only provides information about the social media age restrictions, but also offers advice and tools which families are able to access.

Farewell to the Class of 2025

On Friday, 17 October, our Loyola College community took the opportunity to congratulate and farewell our Year 12 students as they completed their final year of secondary education.

As our Year 12 students move on from Loyola College, we encourage them to remember the Ignatian values of Justice, Mercy and Faith which they have been inspired to live, see, and practice every day during their time with us.

On behalf of the College, we wish our 2025 graduates every success as they venture into the next phase of their life and hope that they leave us with a sense of achievement and belonging to an Ignatian community.

Following on from the article I shared in the previous Ignatian, “The easy and cheap tip to help students get a 40-plus VCE study score”, I would like to share another insightful read: “Secrets to ATAR Success: Practice Questions Are Key to High Study Scores”, which explores research on what drives strong VCE results. VCE success: Practice questions are key to high study scores, research shows

The article reports on a recent analysis of more than 57,000 VCE students, which found a clear link between completing large numbers of practice questions and achieving study scores above 40. In subjects like biology, top-performing students often completed more than 800 practice questions before exams.

Practice questions help reinforce learning, reduce exam anxiety, and identify areas for improvement. They’re widely available through schools and the VCAA, making them an accessible and effective study tool.

Students who have embraced this strategy report feeling more confident and prepared for both SACs and final exams. Educators and experts agree: deliberate, targeted practice is one of the most reliable ways to boost academic performance.

Subject Selection 2026

Students and parents will receive confirmation of their subject preferences for 2026 in the next week or so. Preferences have been carefully considered, and the College has worked diligently to assign students to the subjects they requested. However, owing to timetabling constraints, some students may find themselves assigned to subjects from their reserve preferences. There is the opportunity to request a change of subject by completing a form (link will be available in the confirmation letter) alongside an interview with Mrs Bosco (Head of Learning Pathways). Students will have a week to compete this process. Thereafter, no changes will be allowed.

End of Year Examinations (Year 8-11)

The dates for all examinations can be found below.

Further details will be issued to parents in the next couple of weeks, but a summary can be found below.

Attendance

Students who fail to attend an exam and cannot show a medical certificate will receive 0%. This includes students on holiday. Students with a medical certificate will receive exempt.

If a student misses an examination, they are welcome to collect the relevant examination from Ms Freeman (OL127) after the examination window.  Whilst staff are not required to mark the exam, they will provide feedback if requested by the student.

Dress Code

All students must attend examinations in full school summer uniform (including wearing the school blazer).

Students not in full school uniform will not be allowed in the examination and will be directed to go to the iCentre to complete revision. These students will then be required to complete any examinations they have missed on 6 December at 1.30pm.  Failure to attend this session will result in 0%.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phones and/or smart devices are not permitted in an exam room. If a student has a mobile phone or electronic digital device on their person in the exam, it will be removed from the student, and a 0% recorded.

Equipment

• Water bottles and pencil cases must be clear.

• Mobile phones will not be permitted. Any student found with a mobile phone will receive 0% for that examination (see above)

Orientation

Orientation for 2025 Units 1 – 4 will run from 24 November to 4 December. Further details will be issued nearer to the time. Any subject changes made by students will be reflected in the Orientation week timetable.

Booklist Provider

As already mentioned in a previous Ignatian edition, the College will continue to use Box of Books as our booklist provider.

Parents are able to recycle physical books from siblings or purchase second hand physical books (as long as the book has not changed). As part of the College’s eBook levy, Year 7-9 students will automatically receive digital resources for Maths, Science, Humanities and RE and hard copies for English.

STEM Research Program

We are excited to share that applications for the Fall Cohort of the STEM Research Program are open for motivated students (ages 14–18) keen to explore their passions while working on cutting-edge STEM topics.

Led by researchers at MIT, Caltech, and Stanford, the STEM Research Program introduces ambitious students to the cutting edge of scientific field of interest. Students will work 1-on-1 with a PhD mentor and create an independent research project.

Explore cool topics like astrophysics, quantum mechanics, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, robotic control, game theory, genetic engineering, and many more!

Timeline

• Week 1: Introduction to your mentor and align on a topic

• Week 2-4: Explore the topic and identify the research question

• Week 5-9: Compose research paper with 1-1 support from research mentor

• Week 10-12: Complete final edits and submit the paper for final evaluation

Complete this application below to be considered for participation and receive more information. We look forward to working on interesting science with you!

STEM Research Program Application

There's no such thing as perfect parenting. But by understanding different parenting styles, we can better support our children in healthier and more effective ways.

Most of us parent as a blend of our own upbringing, lived experiences and external influences such as books, podcasts or parenting websites. And while parenting is always a challenge, it can become even more complex through divorce, separation, blended families, trauma or bereavement. Not to mention life's many other hurdles.

The concept of "parenting styles" was first introduced in the 1960s by Diana Baumrind, a clinical and developmental psychologist. She identified four main categories of parenting. Each style shapes a child's development in different ways and comes with both strengths and challenges.

Although well-intentioned, each parenting approach can have drawbacks in a child's development. Every child is unique, and their needs change as they grow. An authoritative style may suit younger children, but teenagers often require a greater balance of guidance and independence. The goal is to create a secure environment where children feel respected, heard, and supported.

By learning more about the different styles and how they influence children, you can make informed choices about the approach that best suits your family. And remember, styles are not fixed. They can evolve over time as your child grows and their needs change.

We invite you to watch this Special Report and complete the quiz to discover your own parenting style. You might also like to compare your results with your partner's and reflect together on the different approaches you each bring to parenting.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://loyola.vic.schooltv.me...

Congratulations to our Italian, Indonesian, and French Year 12 students who were the first in their cohort at Loyola College to begin their VCE examinations, by completing the oral component of their language studies.

Italian – Thursday 9 October

On Thursday 9 October, our Year 12 Italian students completed their VCE Italian oral exam in Preston. It was inspiring to watch the way they supported, encouraged, and reassured one another in the lead-up, a true display of teamwork and resilience.

To celebrate, the class shared a well-earned meal with their teacher (Daniela Maitilasso) and language assistants at a local Italian restaurant, enjoying panini, pasta, and time together. Games, conversations, and plenty of laughter reflected the strong sense of connection formed over the year.

Indonesian – Friday 10 October

The very next day, our Year 12 Indonesian students took on their oral exams with confidence and composure. Their preparation throughout the year was evident in their calm approaches and their ability to speak fluently and authentically about their chosen topics. Staff accompanying them (Raymond Setiawan and Justiana Tjaya) commented on their maturity and poise, as well as the pride they took in representing the college and the Indonesian language.

French – Monday 13 October

Finally, on Monday 13 October, it was the turn of our Year 12 French students. They too rose to the challenge, demonstrating clarity, accuracy, and cultural awareness in their responses. Their perseverance and dedication to mastering a second language have been remarkable, and this milestone marks the first step in their examination journey. Their teacher, Andrew McDonnell, was extremely proud of their efforts!

Well done to the students and thank you to their teachers for the hard work throughout the year!

The Visual Arts and Design Technology Areas are proud to present their annual Art & Design Show. The night will showcase the very talented work of our students from Years 7 – 12 on Thursday, November 6, 2025, from 6pm till 8pm.

Join us in the Cardoner Building to enjoy some light refreshments, view our displays and experience our interactive Art & Design workshop, inspiring artwork, smooth tunes, cinematic experience and coffee!

2025 Art & Design Show

Tuesday, November 6, 2025

6.00pm – 8.00pm

Free entry!

Artist in Residence

Unit 2 Art Creative Practice: Collaborative Mural Project

Students in Unit 2 Art Creative Practice worked alongside a professional artist in residence, Ines Brenneman, to create a collaborative mural exploring cultural identity, diversity, and shared experience. Through workshops and creative dialogue, students stepped outside their comfort zones, developing teamwork, visual storytelling, and reflective thinking. The mural will be officially unveiled at the upcoming Art and Design Show, celebrating the students’ artistic growth and collective voice.

Cybersafety Part 4: Student computers hijacked by Block Chain miners

The Australian education sector is known to be a focus for hundreds of international cyber threat actors.

School students in particular are a target because many spend much of their free time online gaming, which requires their computers being hooked into the Internet for lengthy periods.

Threat actors wishing to capitalise on this pool of online computing power place Block Chain mining software in gaming add-ons, which, once loaded onto an unsuspecting gamer’s device, starts using their device to mine crypto currency. Crypto currency mining is a very expensive electrical process because it is very CPU and RAM intensive and requires many hours per day to complete. This chewing up of computer resources causes performance to lag, the fan to thrash constantly and the battery to drain much sooner!

If you are a gamer and your computer appears to be ‘going crazy’ when it’s supposed to be idle, consider the possibility of it being infected with Block Chain mining software! As per the ICT Acceptable Use Policy, student devices should only be used for educational purposes, not gaming.

By Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, Adolescent Psychologist

The Albanese Government’s upcoming social-media ban for under-16s has divided the nation. Whether you cheer it or curse it, one thing is certain: it’s coming this December. And it won’t be the politicians who determine its success. It’ll be parents, in kitchens, cars, and living rooms, deciding whether this becomes a public-health breakthrough or a household breakdown.

This isn’t punishment. It is protection. Let’s stop framing this as some draconian move. This is about protecting developing brains from platforms built to hijack attention and distort self-worth. As the World Health Organization warned in 2024, "Excessive screen use in adolescence is linked to sleep disruption, anxiety, and poor academic outcomes."

Neuroscience tells the same story. Every ping and like fires dopamine in the brain’s reward system, the same neural pathway lit up by gambling.
As Professor Jonathan Haidt of New York University puts it starkly: “We gave teenagers slot machines disguised as phones.” So yes, when those apps vanish, expect withdrawal.

Here are five ways parents can prepare:

1️⃣ Talk early and often.
Don’t wait for December 10. Start the conversation now. Explain why this is happening: social-media companies have prioritised profit over kids’ wellbeing. This isn’t about control — it’s about care. As eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman-Grant said: “It’s not about banning childhood curiosity — it’s about curbing corporate exploitation.”

2️⃣ Expect pushback.
There will be outrage, sulking, maybe tears, a door slam or two. That’s normal. Stay calm and consistent. You wouldn't negotiate over seatbelts or cigarettes.

3️⃣ Fill the void.
Replace scrolling with something purposeful — sport, art, music, volunteering or part-time work. Without purpose, boredom becomes the enemy; and that's when kids find workarounds.

4️⃣ Lead by example.
If you’re glued to your own phone, your message won’t stick. Teenagers don’t learn from lectures; they watch lives...with a front row seat at yours.

5️⃣ Make a digital family plan.
Create shared rules: no devices in bedrooms, no screens at meals, regular screen-free time. Put it in writing and stick it on the fridge. Consistency creates calm.

A national reset moment
This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine childhood in the digital age. For too long, we’ve handed kids devices that deliver endless validation from strangers — and then wondered why they’re anxious, distracted and lonely. If we get this right, Australia could become a world leader in protecting young minds — and we might just rediscover the joy of being fully present.

Because sometimes, the most radical thing we can give each other is not more information…but our undivided attention.

Community Carols & Market

Join the Loyola Parents and Friends Association and the Loyola College community for a festive evening of fun, early Christmas shopping and celebration at our annual Community Christmas Market & Carols on Friday, 28 November, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. There will be something for everyone, with food trucks, children's entertainment, and a variety of market stalls to explore.

As the sun sets, gather in front of Old Loyola for a magical night of Christmas Carols presented by our students, capped off with a special visitor who’s sure to bring some holiday cheer! Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate the festive season with our community.

Community Christmas Market & Carols Night – Final Call for Market Stall Holders Expression of Interest

Loyola College, in conjunction with the Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA) will be hosting the annual Community Christmas Market & Carols Night on Friday, 28 November 5:00pm – 9:00pm.

We are seeking expressions of interest from small businesses wishing to holding a stall at the event. A $20 stall fee applies, and stallholders are requested to provide their own trestle table/s. Please note that all stall holders and their helpers must hold a current Working With Children Check.

Enquiries can be made at PaterraG@loyola.vic.edu.au

Loyola Parents and Friends Association – Final Meeting for 2025

The Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA) will hold its final Committee Meeting on Wednesday, 12 November, at 7:00pm. This is a great opportunity for parents and friends to learn more about the activities of the Association and become involved in supporting our school community in 2026 and beyond. If you are interested in attending or would like more information, please contact Monica Agius at lpfa@loyola.vic.edu.au or phone 9433 0228.

We look forward to welcoming new faces and sharing our achievements of 2025.

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 continue to welcome donations of freshly laundered uniforms in excellent condition. If you have items that are no longer needed, please leave them at Reception.

Your contributions directly support families in our community and are sincerely appreciated. All funds raised at these sales support the fundraising efforts of the Loyola Parents and Friends Association.

Please note that we are unable to accept items that are not in wearable condition (e.g. torn, heavily soiled, or missing buttons), as the College incurs costs to dispose of these items responsibly.

Important: The old style sports uniform is no longer part of the approved College uniform and must not be sent to Reception. We kindly ask for your co-operation with this matter.

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 Memberships

Entertainment Guide

Save up to 50% on dining, shopping and things to do

Unlock over $20,000 in value and savings with an Entertainment Membership. Redeem Members only offers at over 15,000 locations across Australia and New Zealand, with new offers added daily.

Please click HERE to purchase your Membership

Entertainment Memberships really do help us help each other – you save on the things you love, and we keep supporting our community with the funds raised.

For Your Calendar:

Major construction is continuing on the new Grimshaw Street Interchange in Greensborough, which will include express lanes to the North East Link and help reduce congestion.

As part of this upgrade, there will be road closures on Grimshaw Street between Macorna Street/ Watsonia Road and Greensborough Bypass from 9pm, Friday 7 November to 5am, Tuesday 16 December.

During this time Greensborough Road can be accessed via Plenty and Watsonia Roads. Please see alternative vehicle and pedestrian routes attached.

We thank you for your continued patience and understanding as we continue delivering this important upgrade.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the project team on 1800 105 105 or email us at M80RR.community@nelnorthalliance.com.auvisit.

Find out more - https://bigbuild.vic.gov.au/projects/roads/m80-ring-road-completion/project-sections/grimshaw-street-interchange

Banyule City Council is proud to be hosting the next free community event - 2025 Malahang Festival at Malahang Reserve in Heidelberg West on Sunday 16th November from 11am – 4pm.

Malahang Festival will bring our community together and will feature free activities such as:

• Stage entertainment
• Kids amusement rides
• Soccer clinics & learn to skate
• Circus & garden workshops
• Face painting and craft workshops
• Council departments and Neighbourhood Houses on display
• Market stalls and food trucks plus a whole lot more

Website: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/MalahangFestival
Facebook Event Page: Malahang Community Festival 2025 | Facebook