1492 Ignatian Newsletter - Friday 24 November 2023

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Local Community