1481 Ignatian Newsletter - Friday 19 May 2023
Principal's Report
As we move into Term 2, there has been much to celebrate through the generosity of staff and our active parent community.
Mothers’ Day Breakfast.
Our annual Mother’s Day breakfast was held on Tuesday, 9 May. The breakfast is always a favourite with the Loyola mums. This year, we were treated to an address by our very own Dianna Alonso (Community Liaison Officer) who shared her motherhood journey. All in the room shared Dianna’s joy and the stories of her challenges, a very moving, but humorous presentation. I thank Dianna, not only for sharing her story, but for all she does to build relationships in the Loyola community.
Thanks also to Mr Calderone (Deputy Principal Ignatian Mission and Identity) for preparing the beautiful Liturgy in the Chapel, which was celebrated by Father Gerry Healy and to Sister Nelia for preparing the gifts that were presented to mothers as they exited the Chapel.
Open Day
The annual Loyola Open Day took place on Sunday, 7 May. The event was well supported by interested parties. I thank Mr Matthew Luczek (Director of College and Community Engagement) for his coordination of this day. Registration data from the event indicates over 230 families in attendance. Enrolments at Loyola continue to be strong, but we must not rest on our laurels. All parents have a part to play in sharing the successes of the College.
Annual Report to the School Community.
The College has submitted its Annual Report to the School Community to Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools. The report is now also published on the College Website for parents to access. This report gives an excellent overview of Loyola College in 2022, including an analysis of VCE results and NAPLAN data.
New Website
Mr Matthew Luczek has been working with JWAM (John Wood Advertising and Marketing) to build a new Loyola College website. Our website is accessed by both Loyola parents and prospective parents daily and is a rich source of information. We are looking to build a website that is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and provides an up-to-date source of information (including links to our social media platforms and videos) which showcase our excellent students, facilities and programs.
College Play
Congratulations to the Year 12 Theatre Studies students for their performance of Sheila’s Island. By all accounts the performance was enjoyed enormously by audience members. I thank Mrs Boyle for her work in rehearsing and coordinating this production.
VCE Dance Showcase
On Wednesday, 10 May, Ms Louisa D’Ortenzio prepared a VCE Dance Showcase which was presented in the Inigo Theatre. Students from the Senior Dance class performed aspects of their VCE program for the audience. The performances were varied and expressive. I thank Ms D’Ortenzio for her positivity and encouragement.
Year 12 Drama Ensembles
A big thank you to Ms Tolli for her work with the Year 12 Drama class. Students showcased their talents on Tuesday, 2 May. The Year 12 students are developing their performance skills under her leadership, and it is inspirational to see them grow and develop in this area of study.
A Day in the Life of a Loyola Student
On Wednesday, 26 April and Wednesday, 3 May, an energetic and enthusiastic group of Year 4 students gathered at Loyola. Students from our feeder schools are invited to this day each year to experience a little of what Loyola has to offer. This is a wonderful promotional activity and I thank all those involved in its organisation. The College is constantly looking for new ways to promote and advertise all that we have to offer. It is not surprising for parents to hear that the staff involved were exhausted after each session. The overly excited Year 4 students were at times hard to calm down – and very different to the energy we experience with teenagers each day!
Xavier Maytime Fair
On Saturday, 6 May, Mrs Alonso, Mr Luczek and several very committed LPFA members set up and sold hot jam doughnuts at the Xavier Maytime Fair. This is a regular Loyola event and we are always grateful to the parents who volunteer to help on this day. 1600 jam doughnuts were sold with funds raised donated to Jesuit Mission. Jesuit Mission works with vulnerable individuals establishing income-generating projects in third world countries, providing disaster response and relief as well as social inclusion and advocacy.
STEM Building Update
The College has submitted a building application to DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) for our planned new STEM facility. Notification of our building intentions has gone out to our neighbours and the wider community. Once a permit has been granted and final MACS approval has been given, we are hoping to commence building later in the year.
Alison Leutchford,
Acting Principal
Ignatian Mission & Identity
LAUDATO SI’ WEEK 21 – 28 MAY
'Laudato Si’ Week began as a way to celebrate the first anniversary of Pope Francis’ papal encyclical letter, Laudato Si’: On 'Care For Our Common Home'. Since then, the annual celebration has become a way for all Catholics to unite and rejoice in the progress we’ve made in bringing Laudato Si’ to life and to commit ourselves to further prayer and action for our common home. We are called to be stewards of creation and to live sustainably whilst looking after the Earth and sharing our resources equitably.
Adam Calderone,
Ignatian Mission Identity
Teaching & Learning
Subject Specific Conversation Feedback
As mentioned in the previous edition, the College would welcome feedback on our recent Subject Specific Conversations. For those who haven’t yet done so, please use the following Subject Specific Conversations link to provide your thoughts. The survey will be open until the end of May.
Semester One Examinations
Following a review of the 2023 examination processes and procedures, it was agreed that Semester One examinations will only involve students in Years 9 and 10.
Year 8 & 11 students will only have end-of-year examinations. The reasons for this decision was to better prepare our Year 11 students for their VCE examinations. Year 11 examinations will now replicate the Year 12 examination structure. In terms of Year 8, we now have a smoother and more fluent transition from Year 7 (no examinations) to Year 9 (two examinations). As communicated to parents by email from Mr Calderone this week, there will be no exams for RE in Years 8 and 9.
Dates for Year 9 and 10 Examinations:
- Year 10 Exams: 14 - 22 June
- Year 9 Exams: 20 - 22 June
Kathryn Wilson,
Deputy Principal, Teaching & Learning
Student Voice
Co-Curriculum
Mid-Year Co-Curriculum Colours Applications
Loyola College has a proud and long-standing tradition of offering a large number of Co-curricular activities; this year over 50 activities are available to students. In addition, the College recognises significant achievement amongst its student body with the awarding of Co-curricular Colours (Colours) each year. Students who achieve Colours are recognised for their qualities of active participation, team spirit, positive conduct, goodwill and co-operation in a particular area of College Co-curricular life. Over the coming weeks, students are invited to nominate for Co-curriculum Full or Half Colours. Students, if you think that you are a suitable candidate for Colours, then please apply. Online applications can be made via the Co-curriculum Colours LMS page at the following link: 2023 Colours Nomination Form. These applications close at 5pm on Wednesday, 31 May and late applications can unfortunately not be considered.
Co-curriculum Colours can be awarded in the areas of:
- Christian Service
- Drama
- Music
- Public Speaking and Debating
- Sport
- House
Colours are awarded both mid-year and end-of-year with students receiving a certificate and the opportunity to have their blazer embroidered. As stated, mid-year applications are currently open for Senior students (Years 10–12) who meet the Colours minimum requirements and criteria as outlined the Co-curriculum Colours LMS page. Senior students who have made significant contribution over a number of years in any of the above areas may wish to apply. Students, best of luck with your Colours nominations.
Shannon Staub,
Head of Co-curriculum
Year 10-12 Programs
Students Undertaking a Unit 3-4 Subject
Please be advised that the General Achievement Test (GAT) will take place on Thursday, 15 June in two parts, at the times shown below:
• Section A assesses skills in literacy (reading and writing) and numeracy.
• Section B assesses general knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, technology, the arts and humanities.
The General Achievement Test (GAT) assesses student’s skills in mathematics, science, technology, the arts and humanities. The GAT also assesses student’s skills against new literacy and numeracy standards, which were introduced last year. Sitting the GAT is an opportunity to demonstrate your literacy and numeracy skills – essential skills that show you’re ready to move on to further study, training or employment.
If you’re enrolled in one or more VCE or scored VCE VET Unit 3–4 sequences, you are expected to complete Section A and B of the GAT. If you are enrolled in one or more VCE VM Unit 3–4 sequence or Senior VCAL Unit, you’re expected to complete Section A only.
GAT results are also important for checking that VCE external assessments and school-based assessments have been accurately and fairly assessed, and can be used if you have a Derived Examination Score (DES) approved in the event that you cannot sit an exam for some reason.
Students will receive more information in the coming weeks in the PD program.
Year 10 Students
All year 10 students will receive their immunisation for Meningococcal ACWY during school hours on July 18th. The immunisations will be administered by nurses from the Banyule City Council. Students will receive the consent cards from their mentor teachers and these need to be returned to the college reception as soon as possible.
Dominic Denton,
Year 10-12 Programs Coordinator
AFL Cultural Initiative Program
Our Language Assistant Teachers Pauline and Sabrina were guests of the AFL at the recent Hawthorn v Melbourne game at the MCG. As part of the AFL’s Cultural Initiative Program, the teachers were able to immersive themselves in a truly unique Melbourne event.
The Emergency Services were recognised on the day for their contribution to maintain the health and safety of the Victorina community and our language teachers were also able to acknowledge their importance.
The MCG is a significant cultural space in Melbourne and Pauline and Sabrina have now become honorary Hawthorn supporters as a result of their experience.
Mark Cuddon
Year 10 Media Experience
Students in Year 10 Media are currently developing stories as part of their Documentary Pre- Production and Production work. As part of the ABC Heywire Initiative, students have been invited to submit their final products to the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) with the aim of having their stories viewed across a range of ABC digital platforms. The students immersed themselves in a recent work shop run by ABC representative Krushnadevsinh (Kano) Ravalji.
Students were challenged to reflect and document their stories on their devices and think deeply about what their stories will truly say about themselves and their lived experiences as young people living in Melbourne.
The Fire Carriers Excursion
In Conversation with Thomas Mayo-Uluru Statement from the Heart
“On Thursday, 4 May, a number of our Fire Carriers team visited the Bellfield Community Hub for a truly inspirational event, hosted by the Banyule City Council. We had the privilege of hearing from Thomas Mayo, a renowned indigenous officer of the MUA and signatory of the Uluru statement in conversation with Shelley Ware. Thomas spoke about the need for a Voice to Parliament, addressing the various concerns raised in opposition. His words painted a vivid picture of the challenges and resilience of Indigenous Australians throughout our nation's history, as well as his own personal experiences.
The yarn served as a captivating platform for Shelley Ware and Thomas Mayo to engage in a ‘conversation’ to raise awareness about the upcoming referendum where Australians have the opportunity to involve First Nations people in parliament. This is a fundamental step in establishing a voice for the indigenous community. An outstanding moment that had a great impact on us was Mayo’s recitation of the entire Uluru statement from the Heart with unwavering passion and hope.
As proud members of our respected Loyola Community, we the Fire Carriers implore you to be on the right side of history and cast your vote in favour of unity, to create a stronger and more inclusive nation.
Jasmine Alcock & Emma Hutchinson,
Fire Carriers
ICT
Student Reference Forum reviews MACS ICT Acceptable Use Agreement
Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) is reviewing their ICT Acceptable Use policy and procedure documentation, to bring it in line with their MACS 2030 strategic goals.
As part of this review process, MACS reached out to schools asking for students to volunteer their time to collaborate with the MACS Learning Technologies team, to co-develop user agreements and guidelines that are reflective, relevant, and realistic of what students need to keep them inspired, engaged and safe.
Loyola College answered the call, along with several other secondary Catholic schools, collectively called the Student Reference Forum. The College was admirably represented by Jacinta Lotter (Year 11), Annie Clarke (Year 10), Will Paino (Year 9) and Samuel Hartigan (Year 8), whom I accompanied.
The first Student Reference Forum workshop took place on Tuesday, 2 May at the Catholic Leadership Centre. The workshop explored students’ preferences in the use of technology, considered how emerging technologies (such as AI) might impact on Teaching and Learning, examined the pros and cons of some existing ICT Acceptable Use Agreements, and finally proposed recommendations students would like to see in a future agreement, including the format, style of language and length of the document.
The MACS Learning Technologies staff were very appreciative of the contributions made and by all students. Such was the enthusiastic vibe, some students expressed interest in the potential to contribute more of their thinking and ideas to the review process. As a result, MACS will be presenting their drafts of Acceptable Use Agreements back to the Student Reference Forum for feedback. This second workshop will be online, and is scheduled for 28 July.
On behalf of Loyola College, I wish to thank and acknowledge Jacinta, Annie, Will and Samuel for their generous donation of time, and I also wish to thank their parents for supporting this worthwhile cause, which ultimately stands to benefit students across all MACS schools.
Victor Dalla-Vecchia,
ICT Manager
Community
Morning Tours 2023
Morning Tours for Semester 1 will be take place on the following dates from 9:00 am – 11:00 am:
- Monday, 5 June
- Monday, 19 June
To book for a Morning Tour, please visit website – www.loyola.vic.edu.au/bookatour
LPFA Working Bee – Saturday, 29th April
It was great to have over 30 people attend our recent LPFA Working Bee - many hands do make light work. Lots of mulching and planting of garden beds ensured that the school was at its peak for the upcoming Open Day. Thank you to David Kelly and Brendon Carroll for supervising on the day.
Xavier College Maytime Fair: Saturday, 6 May
Continuous rain during the night and early morning did not look promising. The decision was to make the call at 10 am to see if we could proceed with the donut stand. It was hard to believe, the clouds closed and the sun emerged. With some friendly competition with the popcorn stall next door, the big sell commenced. The cold weather was an advantage and by the end of the day, a new record of 1600 donuts were sold. All money raised will be going to the Jesuit Mission. Thank you so much to all those that assisted on the day.
A special thank you to Matthew Luczek, Mark Monteneri, Christie Tran, Pinella Lo Presti, Loretta Baker, Rodrigo & Claudia Coddou, Christine Wilson, Brendon Carrol, Jane Fox, Jasmine Fox, Cara Bell and our two Xavier Students Abbey Wilson and Ben Grasso.
2023 Open Day: Sunday, 7 May
Every year a special prayer is made to St Ignatius to pray for us to give us good weather and once again we were blessed. Despite the cold temperature, there was no rain. Two Wolves Hub was buzzing as the families began arriving. It was so wonderful to have nearly 100 School Leaders and Ambassadors assist with being Tour Guides for our prospective families. Over 250 families attended with over 1000 attendees in total. Our Ambassadors are our true representation of Loyola College and it was so nice to hear from the feedback received that families were so impressed with their tour guides.
Another big thank you to LPFA for giving out over 1200 sausages, all went home with the beautiful smell of sausages in their clothing.
Mother’s Day Breakfast
This very popular Loyola event had over 200 attendees book out this event in 20 minutes, another new record. The Canteen staff along with our Chef, Alex Marinelli, prepared a very delicious breakfast. With the assistance of Fiona Chapman and Liz Gartland, the Hospitality students did a wonderful job serving the food. Then came a speech from the Guest speaker, which for this year was myself. As a mum of very grown up twin daughters, I provided an insight into the highs and lows of bringing up daughters and how there is light at the end of the tunnel when they reach adulthood and find their own path. I did also remind families how life becomes easier when school fees are no longer payable.
LPFA Trivia Night: Saturday, 12 August
The LPFA are very excited to announce the opening of this fun night. The event will be held at the Olympic Hotel. Book in early.
SEE FLYER FOR MORE INFORMATION.
If you are a business owner or know someone who is and would be willing to donate goods or voucher that could be used on the night to raise funds, please contact me.
2023 Entertainment Books
The LPFA are very happy to continue the promotion of the 2023 Entertainment Book.
If you are interested in purchasing a digital copy (no hard copies) of the Entertainment book, please visit –
Homestays Needed – Italian Students
I am very pleased to confirm that we are expecting 15 students from Liceo Levi in the Veneto region in Italy. The students will be here for 12 nights from the 1st of August and departing from Melbourne on August 13. There will be both male and female students and all attempts will be made to match students regarding age and preferred gender. As this is a short-term visit, families are not paid to host.
All persons living in your household who are over 18 years old will require a Working With Children Card.
If you have any questions or if you are interested in being a Homestay family, please contact me via email – alonsod@loyola.vic.edu.au or call – 9433 0128.
LPFA Elite Performance Grant
The LPFA are very happy to offer a $500 grant for any Loyola Student who represents themselves at State or National level in a range of fields including sport, music, dance or other relevant field. Grant applications can be found on the Loyola website. All applications are taken to the LPFA for approval. A student can apply twice, once as a Junior student and as a Senior Student.
To apply – CLICK HERE
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 PWP Meeting
Monday evening – 17 July 2023 7.30 pm
2023 LPFA Meeting
Wednesday evening – 7 June 2023 7.30 pm
2023 Working Bee
Saturday, 22 July 9am – 12noon
Dianna Alonso,
Community Liaison Officer