Stationery Recycling

The time has come for our end-of-year stationery recycling collection. From November the 28^th (Tuesday, Week 9) – December the 12^th (Tuesday, staff week) there will be 6 cages in each of the house areas in which you can put your stationery recycling.

Items that can be collected are:

• IT and Electrical
• Stationery
• Media
• Small Electronics
• Office Items
• Other various items

For more details on items that can be collected, see attached document.

Please note that textbooks are not able to be put in the cages as was possible last semester. These can be placed in the boxes at each HoH office from today, and will either be used in a ‘Book Swap’ by the Sustainability Club students next week or donated.

Clean out your offices, clean out your homes and get recycling!

Elise Mezner,
Sustainability Coordinator

High Performance Program

Applications for the Loyola High Performance Program are now open. This strength and conditioning program is suitable for students across all year levels who are looking to improve their overall health and wellbeing. As places are limited, the program is personalised to each individual.

The sessions are held in the school gym on Mondays and Wednesdays, starting at 7am. The program will aim to deliver 20 sessions each semester, which are run by an external provider, AV High Performance Academy.

There is a cost involved in the program which will be invoiced and added to school fees upon enrolment in the program.

Please complete the form if you would like express interest in the program and receive more information: High Performance Training 2024

Jacqueline Wade
Sports Coordinator

VCAA Exams & Results

VCAA Exams and results

Congratulations to all our Unit 3 and 4 students for completing the VCAA exams. The last exam was on Wednesday 15 November. The results will be available to students from 7:00am on Monday 11^th December via the following VCAA website: VCE Results and ATAR 2023. Students will need their VCAA student number and password to access their results. If students have not yet registered, you can still do so by completing the registration process at the following website: Pages - VCE results and ATAR service (vcaa.vic.edu.au).

Orientation for Current Year 10 and 11 students

The VCE and VCE-VM orientation program for current year 10s (year 11s in 2024) and year 11s (year 12s in 2024) runs from Thursday 23^rd November and concludes on Thursday 30^th November. These classes are compulsory for all students and the usual expectations around behaviour, attendance and uniform are expected. Students will have 4-5 classes in most subjects and will receive holiday homework that must be completed during the holidays. This program is vital in giving our VCE students a headstart for next year. Students currently in Year 9 who will be undertaking a VCE subject in 2024 will be attending some of the Orientation classes, as they fit around the students' commitments to their Year 9 classes.

VCAA Unit 3 and 4 Special Examination Arrangements (SEA) for 2024

The SEA applications may be approved for students with disabilities, illnesses or other circumstances that affect their ability to access a Unit 3 and 4 VCE external assessment. SEA applications are made to the VCAA through Loyola College. The Student Services Department is aware of some students who may be eligible to apply and I will work with them to start the application process which will be completed in Term One 2024. The SEA applications are only for students studying a Unit 3 and 4 VCE subject, so if you think that your son/daughter may be eligible please contact me to discuss. Further details about SEA is available at the following VCAA website: Pages - Special examination arrangements for VCE external assessments (vcaa.vic.edu.au).

Dominic Denton,
Year 10-12 Programs Coordinator

Local Community

Community

Morning Tours – 2024

Please see the College website for 2024 Morning Tour dates.

Parent Thank you Night

It was so nice to have a very good group of parent volunteers at our annual Parent Thank you night. Our school is blessed to have so many parents willing to give their time to support the school in running so many events and Committees. Once again, I truly could not do my job without the amazing LPFA, PWP and FOPA parents, then there are the mail out group, working bees, Presentation Ball, Homestays and we could not do without the canteen helpers. A fun night was had by those in attendance. Thank you to Alex for the amazing catering and to Joanne and Melissa helping with the serving of food.

It is my last one and I am proud to say that I have met the most wonderful parents over the last eight years; there are not many schools that have such a connection to the school community. For many of the parents, I have lifelong friendships.

Congratulations to Darren Skidmore who was awarded LPFA Lifelong Membership.

Donation of Loyola Uniform

If you have any Loyola uniform items that you no longer require, please leave them at Reception. They are great to have for families in need, student accidents and our overseas students. Donation of blazers and girls school dresses would be much appreciated.

Please feel most welcome to attend -

2024 LPFA Meeting                                                                                                                                              Wednesday, 7th February 2024 7.30 pm

2024 PWP Meeting                                                                                                                                                  Monday, 12th February, 2024 7.30 pm

Dianna Alonso,
Community Liaison Officer

Art & Design Show

The Art and Design show was a captivating event that seamlessly blended live music, a showcase of creativity, vibrant artwork, innovation, and beauty. It served as a culmination of countless hours of hard work and inspiration from talented artists and designers. The atmosphere was electric, with a diverse range of workshops catering to different artistic interests. The event was not only a celebration of individual creativity, but also a collective experience, making it a family-friendly gathering that promises to once again be unmissable next year. To add to the sensory delights, attendees were treated to the rich flavours of Mexican food, enhancing the overall cultural experience of the show.

Congratulations to the following students for winning the most outstanding artwork or design for their year level:

• Laily Aalders 7XEJS
• Aleah Smith 8FARV
• Maya Ellul 9AJWP
• Sierra Filippone 10KSSD
• Orlando Benzon Tuke 11KMLE
• Shireen Yelburga 11XDMA
• Kaelan Smith 11XBAM
• Eliza Lo Presti 11XJAG
• Raphael MacDonald 11CMST
• Charlie Cardamone 11MJLI
• Bella Zhang 12MGAO
• Charles Lane 12MJT
• Tristan Weiland 12FADB
• Ben Compton-Cook 8CVCA
• Vanessa D’Angelo 9MGAO
• Emily Brodelis 10ATMV
• Jacob Wiid 11CTJM
• Madelaine Dupes 11MMBM
• Jasper Kowalski 12XJGA
• Patrick Harrison 11ASRK
• VA principal’s award: Mackenzie Lavender 11FHPL
• DT principal’s award: Harvey Lee 12XTJP

For the first time in Loyola College history, we had the pleasure of announcing and congratulating the students whose work that had been selected to be included in the Inaugural Via Maxima – Magis Collection.  This collection of work has been carefully selected by the Visual Arts staff and our principal, Ms Leutchford.  The collection of outstanding student work will adorn the Via Maxima hallway in Old Loyola for a year.  The following students will have their artwork in the collection.

Recipients:

• Olivia Lawson 11XBAM
• Claire Lawson 11XYKS
• Laura Greig 7XJGA
• Laily Aalders 7XEJS
• Benjamin Stefanidis 10JCU
• Isabelle Fazzari 10XMCU
• Madelaine Dupes 11MMBM
• Maya Kowalski 10XEJS
• Alannah Tantiongco 10ASRK
• Allie Wardle 12FRLP
• Sierra Filippone 10KSSD
• Alessia Pipolo 11ASVS
• Mackenzie Lavender 11FHPL

Jacqueline Di Stefano,                                                                                                                                                    Head Of Visual Arts

Wellbeing

SPECIAL REPORT: Gambling & Young People

The digital era has made gambling more accessible, and certain factors are elevating the risk of problematic gambling among young people. A new grey area is emerging, with smartphones at their fingertips blurring the boundaries between gambling and entertainment, especially within the realms of video games and social media. The current generation of young people are growing up in an unprecedented time and research highlights that a significant percentage of adolescents are involved in gambling activities.

Reports of young people gambling are frequent, with many experiencing adverse consequences such as diminished academic performance and strained relationships. Today’s youth are growing up in a digital age characterised by constant connectivity, and the gambling industry has evolved significantly during their formative years. Simulated gambling, such as in video games, can further increase the likelihood of teenagers transitioning to real-money gambling and developing future gambling-related problems.

It's crucial to foster open discussions about positive media choices to help children navigate through responsible online gaming and gambling. By encouraging a balanced approach to screen time and promoting alternative activities, will help set some clear boundaries to avoid potential gambling-related issues.

This Special Report provides guidance on how to empower young people to make responsible choices in this digital age. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report https://loyola.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-gambling-young-people-au 

Movember: Our moustaches need your support!

With alarming statistics around men’s health, a dedicated number of Loyola staff have decided to join in the ‘Movember’ campaign and grow moustaches to raise awareness and much need funded.

The funds we raise will help fuel game-changing work in men’s mental health,  innovative medical research, groundbreaking tests and treatments for prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Donation Link: https://movember.com/m/13980400?mc=1

Stay tuned for further progress photos in the next Ignatian

Sal Valentino,
Wellbeing & Personal Development Coordinator

Ignatian Mission & Identity

This year, Advent begins on Sunday, 3 December in the Catholic Church. We find ourselves immersed in the quiet anticipation and reflective spirit that characterises this season. Advent, with its four weeks leading up to Christmas, serves as a poignant reminder to slow down, embrace the present moment, and cultivate a sense of hope.

In a world often marked by haste and noise, the Advent season provides a counterbalance. It encourages us to pause, take a step back, and reflect on the deeper meanings of life. This year, amidst the backdrop of a continually changing global landscape, the significance of Advent feels especially important. The world may be filled with uncertainties, but the candles flickering in the Advent wreath remind us to seek the light within ourselves and in the world around us.

As we light each candle – Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love – we are reminded of the profound themes that these words represent. Hope, the first candle, invites us to envision a brighter future and to believe in the possibility of positive change. Peace, the second candle, encourages us to find tranquillity amid the chaos and to contribute to the peace that the world so desperately needs.

Joy, the third candle, sparks a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures and moments of happiness in our lives. It serves as a reminder that joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a choice we make in how we perceive and engage with the world. Finally, Love, the fourth candle, calls us to cultivate compassion, understanding, and connection with others. It is a reminder that love is a force that binds us together, transcending boundaries and differences.

In the midst of the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, Advent beckons us to carve out moments of stillness and reflection. It prompts us to consider how we can contribute to the wellbeing of others, fostering a sense of community and shared humanity. The Advent season challenges us to be mindful of our actions, to spread kindness, and to be a beacon of hope in a world that sometimes feels dim.

We are reminded that this season is not just a countdown to Christmas but a profound opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. It invites us to embrace the beauty of the present, to cherish the relationships that enrich my life, and to contribute to the creation of a more compassionate and just world.

In these weeks leading up to Christmas, may we all find moments of peace, experience the joy that comes from genuine connections, and embody the spirit of love that transcends boundaries. Advent is a timeless reminder that, even in the face of challenges, the light within us has the power to illuminate the world around us.

Adam Calderone,
Deputy Principal, Ignatian Mission & Identity

ICT

Safe online shopping during festive season

The Australian Signals Directorate’s (ASD) Cyber Security Centre has published the following timely guidance to help you shop online securely this festive season:

• shop using secure devices
• protect your payment information and accounts
• use trusted sellers 
• use secure payment methods 
• be alert to fake delivery scams.

Follow their step-by-step advice on the 5 steps for secure online shopping on cyber.gov.au and share the advice with your family and friends.

Follow our advice on how to recognise a fake website or scammer while you are shopping online.

Victor Dalla-Vecchia,
ICT Manager

Principal's Report

The year is rapidly drawing to a close as we move from the completion of the VCAA, Year 10 and 11 examinations to the commencement of the Year 11 and 12 orientation programs.  

There are many opportunities in Term Four to affirm and celebrate students, staff, and the wider community.  The highlight of our school year is our forthcoming Annual Awards evening to be held on Wednesday 6 December.   We look forward to celebrating success, hard work, and commitment at this event.

Parent Thank You Evening

On Tuesday 14th November, the College hosted our annual Thank-you  evening for parents who have given over and above to our school community.  We are forever grateful to the many parents who sign up to support the College in so many ways.  At this evening, we farewelled Dianna Alonso, Loyola Community Liaison. Dianna is retiring after eight years of service to the Loyola community. Dianna’s warmth, energy, loyalty, and commitment to the College will be missed.  We wish her well with future endeavours.

Annual General Meetings

Over the past fortnight, I have attended three Annual General Meetings.  

On Wednesday 8 November, I attended the Loyola Parents and Friends Association Annual General Meeting.  The Loyola Parents and Friends Association (LPFA) volunteer their time to support school activities and programs, raising money through special events held across the year. Additionally, the LPFA sponsor several annual awards and scholarships including their LPFA Elite Performance Grant.  I thank the parents listed below for agreeing to take on an office within this very important community group.

• Mark Monteneri:            President
• Claire Baker:                 Vice President
• Des Mavridis:                Treasurer
• Liz Karanfilovski:           Assistant Treasurer
• Priscilla Carroll:             Secretary
• Andrea Ghastine:          Assistant Secretary
• Brendan Carroll:            Working Bee Coordinator

On Wednesday 22 November, we welcomed Matthew MacDonald and Tania Micomonaco to the School Advisory Council.  These new members will join a very committed and focussed group of parents who meet under the leadership of the Chair, Matilda Zupan and Deputy Chair, Elly Kalenjuk.

The School Advisory Council provides a forum for discussion and discernment, where the parent/guardian voice and perspective are available to inform and support the decisions made by the Principal and Parish Priest, Father Steve Rigo, for the good of the school and parish where the wellbeing and outcomes for students is paramount.

I thank the School Advisory Council for the work they have done this year for our school community.

In particular, I would like to thank Shaun Nolan for eight years of service to the School Advisory Council.  Shaun has been a regular member of both the council, the finance sub-committee and the executive.   His time and effort are most appreciated.

On Tuesday 21 November, I joined the Loyola College Alumni Association (LCAA) for their Annual General Meeting.   Congratulations to the following elected officer bearers:

• President:  Rebecca Andonovski
• Vice President:  Michael O’Keeffe

We were very happy to see some new past students attend the AGM.  This bodes well for 2024 as we plan for some new and exciting ways to connect with our alumni.

I wish all students and families well as we move to the end of the school year.

Stay safe.

Alison Leutchford,
Acting Principal

Giving thanks can be the greatest gift of all

There is currently a teacher shortage and it is important that we display gratitude and appreciation for the teachers in our community that give so much to our students.

Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) is excited to be launching a Christmas campaign in December. The focus of the campaign will be on giving the biggest thanks possible to our amazing teachers.

To make the campaign more special, students have the chance to be part of it. MACS has created an online form at www.macsbiggestthanks.com, where students can write a message of thanks to a teacher who has helped them to flourish, whether by igniting their passion in a certain subject or by inspiring them to believe in themselves.

Not only will the messages of thanks be shared with teachers, but some of the students’ messages will appear on billboards around Melbourne and in future communications. We need parent/carer/guardian consent in the online form to give students the chance of having their message used in this way.

The form will be open until Friday 1 December. We look forward to seeing the messages of joy and positivity from students as we celebrate our wonderful teachers this Christmas.

Community

Morning Tours – 2023

The final Morning Tour for Semester 2 will  take place on the following date from 9:00 am – 11:00 am:

Monday, 13th November

Expression of Interest – Stall Holders for Community Carols & Food Truck Event, Friday, 1^st December

Loyola College will be holding this annual Community Event on Friday, 1^st December.

We are requesting an expression of interest for businesses who may be interested in having a stall at the event.

The aim of stalls at this event is to sell products that are potential Christmas gifts.

We are expecting over 1000 people to attend this event.

Whilst there is no cost for having a stall, all stall holders would be asked to donate goods from their stall (or small financial contribution if preferred).

Set-up would commence at 4 pm and pack-up at around 8 pm.

As we would like to ensure that we have a good range of varied items, please email Dianna – alonsod@loyola.vic.edu.au.

You will then be notified if your stall has been approved.

All stall holders are required to have a current Working With Children Check.

Donation of Loyola Uniform

If you have any Loyola uniform items that you no longer require, please leave them at Reception. They are great to have for families in need, student accidents and our overseas students.  Donation of blazers and girls school dresses would be much appreciated.

Please feel most welcome to attend -

2024 PWP Meeting

Monday, 12^th February, 2024 7:30 pm

Dianna Alonso,
Community Liaison Officer

Student Services

Processes When Investigating Diagnoses

As the broader community becomes more familiar with neurodiversity and the notion that neurological differences between people should be recognised and respected, schools are seeing a rise in the number of students and families investigating diagnoses. At Loyola, the Student Services Department supports this growing number of students through case management, advocacy, academic adjustment, assessment provision, and counselling where appropriate. If you are investigating a diagnosis such as ADHD, ASD or a Generalised Anxiety Disorder for your child and require teacher input into this action, the College has some processes in place to ensure this is done uniformly and fairly. Accuracy of information gathering, and the time teachers must take to complete lengthy questionnaires and screeners needs to be co-ordinated. We request, therefore, any documentation shared by an external specialist for diagnostic purposes be sent to the Head of Student Services at husseyk@loyola.vic.edu.au This will be followed up with further contact and the screeners disseminated to the appropriate, agreeable staff members before being forwarded directly to the treating external professional.

Please do not directly approach subject teachers with questionnaires or screeners relating to your child’s presentation in class. It is very important for the department that oversees student support be aware of those undergoing a diagnostic process in order to initiate adjustments and supports efficiently and accurately.

Kelly Hussey,
Head of Student Services

Teaching & Learning

VCAA examinations

As parents of our Year 12 students are aware, the VCAA examinations are in full swing,

Our students have been exceptionally well-prepared. The College staff and entire community have been working tirelessly to provide students with the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to excel in their studies. It is evident that our collective efforts are paying off, as our students have demonstrated outstanding preparation and commitment for their exams. I wish to thank those parents who have supported and given up hours of their time for their children. We hope their results at the end of the year reflect their hard work, dedication, and commitment to academic excellence.

Good luck to all our Year 12 students for the remainder of your examinations.

End of Year Examinations (Year 8-11)

The dates for all examinations can be found below.

Further details have been issued to parents. A summary can be found below.

Absence

• Absent students are required to have a medical certificate and given to their Programs Coordinator.
• Students who fail to attend an exam and cannot show a medical certificate will receive 0% (NA).
• 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.

Uniform

• All students are expected to wear their full school uniform.
• 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%.

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.

Orientation

Orientation for 2024 Units 1 – 4 will run from 23 November 30 November. Further details will be issued in the next edition. 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 has moved from Campion to Box of Books for the provision of physical and digital resources. Parents will now be able to recycle physical books from siblings or purchase second hand physical books (as long as the book has not changed). Students can already access the Box of Books icon on their LMS. Further details will be sent to parents once subject preferences have been confirmed.

As part of the College’s eBook levy, Year 7-9 students will automatically receive digital resources for English, Maths, Science, Humanities and RE and will not be required to purchase them.

Awards Evening

Our annual Awards Evening will be held on Wednesday 6 December in the Loyola Companions Hall.

Kathryn Wilson, 
Deputy Principal, Teaching & Learning

Ignatian Mission & Identity

"In Flanders Fields" is a rondeau written by the Canadian poet, soldier, and physician John McCrae. McCrae wrote the poem in 1915 as a memorial to those who died in a World War I battle fought in a region of Belgium known as the Ypres Salient. McCrae himself treated many of the soldiers injured in that battle and was particularly moved by the death of a close friend, Alexis Helmer. The poem describes the tragedy of the soldiers' deaths, as well as the ongoing natural beauty that surrounds their graves. It also addresses the question of the next generation's responsibility to carry on the soldiers' battle.

DIAMOND VALLEY DEANERY

MASS TIMES

Our Lady of the Way Parish, Kingsbury

St Francis Xavier Parish, Montmorency and Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, Eltham

St Francis of Assisi Parish, Mill Park

St. Damian’s Parish, Bundoora

St Thomas the Apostle Parish, North Greensborough and Sacred Heart Parish, Diamond Creek

St Mary’s Parish, Greensborough

St Martin of Tours Parish, Rosanna/Macleod

ICT

Cybersafety Part 10: Protecting personal data in the digital age

We live in a ‘Brave new [digital] world.’ How can you be sure that news items, social media feeds and advertisements you receive on your phone and browser are not part of a highly orchestrated attempt by state or private actors to influence your political or social views, not just your purchase preferences?

Governments across the world are concerned about the unprecedented volume of user information companies like Facebook and Google collect and the risk that this data could be monetised and used by third parties for targeted advertising or scams (no doubt many of you have been getting scammed off the back of the Optus and Medibank Private data breaches), or by nefarious actors to influence the political or social decision making of unsuspecting people.

Australian and New Zealand governments would dearly like law enforcers to be able to police the algorithms companies like Facebook and Google use to determine what shows up in search results and newsfeeds, and be able to see the encrypted text messages exchanged between criminal organisations under investigation.

In this brave new digital age, our personal data is a commodity which we are increasingly forced to hand over to corporate interests in exchange for increasingly essential services. Our hapless selves at one end, the data behemoths at the other, and our elected leaders floundering the middle trying to stem the privacy degradation flow.

Add to this concern, your mobile phone is possibly listening to your every word and sending back data that is being mined for targeted advertising. Or consider the Orwellian prospect that your digital footprint could, as is being experimented with in China, be used along with facial recognition technology to build a social credit registry. The system rewards with social benefits those who act as good citizens and takes social benefits away from those who are not deemed to be acting in the best interests of society.

Then more recently, add AI: the era of ‘deep fake’ impersonation for political, commercial or social gain, and the increased risk of data breach from your personally identifiable information (PII) being triangulated from disparate data sets (including prompts you add into generative AI apps like ChatGPT) by cyber criminals/state actors.

What can we do to protect the privacy of our personal data, some of which we have control over, but also other data that is gathered without our knowledge or consent?  How can we protect ourselves against our personal data being harvested for social manipulation or commercial exploitation? Regulation and legislation are one part of the solution, but equally we need service providers to be good corporate citizens and enforce socially responsible rules.

Ultimately, it is up to us to think carefully before handing over our personal data when subscribing to online services, or when using generative AI apps to help us with our everyday domestic or professional tasks.

Victor Dalla-Vecchia,
ICT Manager

Principal's Report

We are travelling swiftly through Term Four.   The VCAA examinations are almost over, and our Year 10 and 11 students are starting to prepare for their examinations.

Prayer for peace

I was particularly moved by an email sent to me by a Year 11 student.   The student communicated that she thought it very important for our college to recognise the conflict between Israel and Palestine and the suffering that is taking place in these countries.   She stated that she thought it very important that our community understands how fortunate we are to live in a place like Australia while thousands of innocent civilians, children, babies, men and women die every day in the Middle East due to the ravages of war.

I spoke to this at our College Assembly.  Without taking a political side, I challenged our students to be advocates for peace.  While we at Loyola cannot impact the war in the Middle East, we can be beacons of hope in our own schools and communities.  Peace starts with individuals, respecting others.  

Some parents may remember that prior to the COVID-19 remote learning period, Loyola College hosted a number of teaching interns from Bethlehem University.  Brother Peter Bray from Bethlehem University sent an email to communities in Australia who have built a positive relationship with the university.  I share some thoughts below.

Since the escalation of violence in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, people in the Holy Land started to lose hope for peace and for a better future. The economic system is collapsing at an increasing rate. Bethlehem went from having fully booked hotels to a completely shut and empty town. You can imagine the impact of this war on Palestinian families who depend on tourism.  The least we can say is that it is catastrophic. Consequently, many of our students from families linked to the pilgrimage and tourism sector are unable to pay their tuition and we continue to support them with what we receive from friends and supporters like you.

Here at Bethlehem University, we stay focused on doing what we can, with what we have, here where we are! There is so much we have no control over, but we keep in mind what this university is all about, certainly not politics, but education.  We strive to educate the minds and the hearts of the students who are entrusted to our care and stay faithful to our vision, mission, and values.

At Loyola, we are also about education and understanding.  I share with our families the prayer of St Francis of Assisi, which will be familiar to many, particularly those students in McAuley House.   May we all be instruments of peace, in our own lives and in the relationships, we share with others on a daily basis.  Please keep those who are suffering in your prayers.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.

New Website

We are very excited to announce that a new and improved Loyola College website will be launched next week.  It is with great pride that we invite our families to explore the new aspects of the site.  The new design offers smooth transitions, easy navigation and updated content.   The website gives a comprehensive overview of our Mission and Values, access to policies and school portals and highlights significant aspects of our co-curriculum, wellbeing and learning programs. The website will be a great resource for our current and prospective families.

I thank Mr Matthew Luczek, Director of College and Community Engagement for leading this project along with all members of Staff for their contributions to this development. Their hard work, creativity and commitment to the College are appreciated.

Forthcoming Events

I remind parents of the following dates:

1. On Friday, 1^st December the College will host its annual Christmas market and Community Carols event. Two Wolves Hub will be set up to include market stalls, food vans, tables, and chairs.  There is ample free entertainment provided for families as they enjoy their dinner.   The carols are always a great show of community spirit, and the grand finale will be a wonderful light show.
2. The Loyola College Awards evening will take place on Wednesday, 6th December. This is a wonderful celebration of a wide range of achievements within our college community.

Alison Leutchford,
Acting Principal

Local Community

Community

Morning Tours – 2023

the final Morning Tour for Semester 2 will be take place on the following date from 9:00 am – 11:00 am:

Monday, 3^th November

Expression of Interest – Stall Holders for Community Carols & Food Truck Event, Friday, 1^st December

Loyola College will be holding this annual Community Event on Friday, 1^st December.

We are requesting an expression of interest for businesses who may be interested in having a stall at the event.

The aim of stalls at this event is to sell products that are potential Christmas gifts.

We are expecting over 1000 people to attend this event.

Whilst there is no cost for having a stall, all stall holders would be asked to donate goods from their stall (or small financial contribution if preferred).

Set-up would commence at 4 pm and pack-up at around 8 pm.

As we would like to ensure that we have a good range of varied items, please email Dianna – alonsod@loyola.vic.edu.au.

You will then be notified if your stall has been approved.

All stall holders are required to have a current Working With Children Check.

Donation of Loyola Uniform

If you have any Loyola uniform items that you no longer require, please leave them at Reception. They are great to have for families in need, student accidents and our overseas students.  Donation of blazers and girls school dresses would be much appreciated.

Please feel most welcome to attend -

2023 LPFA Meeting

Wednesday, 8^th November 2023 7:30 pm

2024 PWP Meeting

Monday, 12^th February, 2024 7:30 pm

Dianna Alonso,
Community Liaison Officer

Ehva Gutszmit,11FFCH, is the latest recipient of our Elite Performance Grant https://www.loyola.vic.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/LPFA-Elite-Performance-Grant_Digital-July2023.pdf

Between October 6 and October 13 2023, Ehva Gutszmit represented her state as part of the U16 State soccer team at the National Youth Championship  in Wollongong, New South Wales.

The National Youth Championships is the premier championship tournament for aspiring Matildas soccer players. It is a showcase for Rae Dower (Junior Matildas coach) and Liberty A league coaches to understand the depth of talent within Australia. Over 200 girls trialled for this young squad.

Ehva was one of only a squad of 16 and had the honour of co-captaining her team. They faced the best of the best the country has to offer, playing 6 games to make the Grand Final. They fought valiantly to become runners up. Ehva said it was one of the most amazing experiences of her life.

Wellbeing

SPECIAL REPORT: Discussing War & Conflict

Children are frequently exposed to distressing news through the 24-hour news cycle and social media. These experiences can provoke anxiety, especially in young minds still forming their worldviews. Parents and caregivers should be mindful of overexposure to such content, as it can lead to symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder. Children’s responses to trauma can vary, from being strong emotional reactions to being indifferent. It can leave an emotional imprint that can affect a child's behaviour and perception of danger.

Children need reassurance about their safety as they navigate uncertain times. Tailor conversations to your child's age and emotional maturity. Younger children benefit from simplified explanations focusing on peace, empathy, and cooperation, while older children can delve into historical events, root causes of conflict, and the complexities of international relations.

Before discussing these topics with your child, it is also important to assess your own emotions and comfort level. By staying calm and providing physical comfort, you will help your child regulate their own emotions. In challenging times, compassionate adults play a crucial role in helping children cope with anxiety and providing hope and understanding in our complex world.

This Special Report provides guidance on how to tackle this difficult topic and helping children understand there is still hope in our complex world. Please take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report https://loyola.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-discussing-war-conflict

Sal Valentino,
Wellbeing & Personal Development Coordinator

Teaching & Learning

VCAA examinations:

As parents of our Year 12 students are aware, the VCAA examinations are in full swing, with the marathon English exam taking place on Tuesday 24 October and Performing Arts exams last week.

Our students have been exceptionally well-prepared. The College staff and entire community have been working tirelessly to provide students with the resources, guidance, and opportunities they need to excel in their studies. It is evident that our collective efforts are paying off, as our students have demonstrated outstanding preparation and commitment for their exams. I wish to thank those parents who have supported and given up hours of their time for their children. We hope their results at the end of the year reflect their hard work, dedication, and commitment to academic excellence.

Good luck to all our Year 12 students for the remainder of your examinations – only 19 days to go until the last exam (Theatre Studies and Languages).

Subject Selection:

Students and parents will receive confirmation of their subject preferences for 2024 in the next couple of weeks. Preferences have been carefully considered and the College has worked diligently to assign students to the subjects they requested. However, it's inevitable that, 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.

Absence:

• Absent students are required to have a medical certificate, which is to be given to their Programs Coordinator.
• Students who fail to attend an exam and cannot show a medical certificate will receive 0% (NA).
• If a student misses an examination, they are welcome to collect the relevant examination from Ms Freeman (O127) after the examination window.
• Whilst staff are not required to mark the exam, they will provide feedback if requested by the student.

Uniform:

• All students are expected to wear their full school uniform.
• 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%.

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.

Orientation:

Orientation for 2024 Units 1 – 4 will run from 23 November 30 November. 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 edition of the Ignatian, the College has moved from Campion to Box of Books for the provision of physical and digital resources. Parents will now be able to recycle physical books from siblings or purchase second hand physical books (as long as the book has not changed). Students can already access the Box of Books icon on their LMS. Further details will be sent to parents once subject preferences have been confirmed.

As part of the College’s eBook levy, Year 7-9 students will automatically receive digital resources for English, Maths, Science, Humanities and RE and will not be required to purchase them. 

Awards Evening:

Our annual Awards Evening will be held on Wednesday 6 December in the Loyola Companions Hall.

Kathryn Wilson,
Deputy Principal, Teaching & Learning