Dear Parents and Carers,
Today and tomorrow are two of the most significant days in the liturgical calendar of the Catholic Church. The commemoration of All Saints/All Souls herald in a month in which we remember those of our friends, families and those we have never met who have died. This communion of saints is very central to our Catholic identity.
" All our memories and all our prayers are only the echo of the words of love that the holy living, in the silence of their eternity, softly and gently speak to our hearts"
Karl Rahner
I hope that throughout November you can hear the echo of the words of love spoken by your family and friends who have joined the community of saints. As a College Community, we will remember in prayer our deceased students, staff members, parents and our founding Sisters.
This week we have welcomed a new colleague, Mrs Kelly Mancey, who is the newly appointed Director of Advancement and Development. This role will encompass marketing, enrolments, communications, publications, community engagement (P&F, Alumni) and with a strong focus on philanthropy. Kelly's role will also have important responsibilities as our building development moves through its various stages.
Many of our HSC students have throughout the week concluded their exams, while others still have several exams to complete. We continue to hold these students with the most elongated exam timetables in our prayers. It can be so hard to hold the necessary academic focus when peers are already transitioning into a celebratory phase.
The annual College production is sounding fantastic in rehearsal and it is obvious that our cast and crew are practising very hard. I strongly encourage you to book your tickets and come along to this feel-good musical. Next week we will also feature students from our Drama and Musical Co-curricular programs in a showcase concert on Monday 4th November.
Enjoy the weekend,
Yours sincerely,
Anne Fry
Our Year 9 students gather with St Vincent de Paul on All Saints Day. St Vincent de Paul, pray for us.
Speech Night
Date Saver:
We will formally celebrate the many successes of 2024 at our
Annual Speech Night
at the Sydney Town Hall.
The event will be held on Wednesday 27 November from 6.00pm to 8.00pm.
Attendance is compulsory for all students. All families are warmly invited to attend.
Uniform Shop Survey
Over the past two days I have had the privilege of participating in the Mary Aikenhead Ministries Pilgrimage in Hobart with colleagues from other Mary Aikenhead schools and health ministries. Such experiences offer new understandings and encounters which stir the heart and mind to deepen and revitalise one’s own ministry. Indeed this has been the case. I am very familiar with the story of Mary Aikenhead’s calling to start a religious order of uncloistered nuns in Ireland whose particular vow was to devote their lives to the service of the poor - becoming known as ‘the walking nuns’ - followed by her readiness to respond to the call to seek volunteers from her new religious order to travel to the penal colony of Sydney - in all instances serving the poor - visiting the poor and sick in their homes, on the streets and in gaols, as well as serving through education and health care. I am also very aware that those Sisters of Charity who sailed into Sydney Harbour in 1938 were the first female religious to arrive into the colony.
The Hobart story adds a new context to what the sisters represented in the history of our country. Three of the pioneering Sisters - Sr John Cahill, Sr Francis De Sales O’Brien and Sr Xavier Williams - had to negotiate their way around their obedience to the male bureaucracy of bishops and vicar generals of the time to enable their voyage to Hobart in 1947, nine years after the arrival of the sisters in Sydney. They were welcomed by a large crowd gathered around the harbour, eager to see the faces of these female religious. And no wonder. Van Diemen’s Land at the time was indeed a brutal penitential colony and the ratio of women to men was 1:8 - it was likely one of the most patriarchal communities existing at that time. The choice of women who were exiled from England and Ireland for transport to Hobart was deliberate - they were of child-bearing age. These women whose crimes were predominantly theft to provide for their families were sent to the Female Factory and separated from their children who were sent to the Queen’s Asylum. In deplorable, unhygienic and overcrowded conditions these women were set to work creating products for the growing colony, deprived of nutrition and riddled with anxiety about the welfare of their children. This is where Cahill, O’Brien and Williams first took themselves, offering listening ears and loving hearts. The sisters carried communication between the mothers and their children. There was a high mortality rate of children in the nursery of the Female Factory, often children born from forced pregnancies when the women were sent out as servants only to be returned again. Each day the sisters walked the 4km dirt track, often sodden with rain and snow, whilst also making time to visit male prisoners at the Hobart Convict Penitentiary awaiting execution and to set up St Joseph's orphanage school to care for the growing number of children who were never to be reconnected with their mothers who either died or whose new husband refused to accept the woman’s children. The community of Hobart indeed met with the face of hope, the face of love, the face of God in these ‘walking nuns’.
These sisters stood firm in their belief in the divine providence of God. Whilst attending to the needs of the immediate poor, they also pursued their vision for their ministry in health and education throughout Tasmania and beyond. As an educator of girls within the Mary Aikenhead Ministries, I am inspired by this particular story within our history, inspired by the resilient fortitude and deep compassion of these pioneering sisters and those who joined them. I am reminded of the continuing importance of ensuring that the voice and circumstance of women and all who are marginalised is listened to, heard and cared for, and that we develop our young women to be women for and with others, developing leaders who will follow in the footsteps of their forebears to shape a world of justice and love. Our last visit was to the graves of these early sisters. It was humbling to reflect upon all they inspired and to feel gratitude for being part of Mary Aikenhead Ministries. Not far from the three sisters ‘ grave is one more recent - Sr M Felicitas Griffiths who was buried in 1965. Felicitas plays a special role in the history of St Vincent’s College as the cook in the Boarding House, often providing a hiding spot for boarders sneaking back in after purchasing items from the shops across the road. Her story telling was often about her great love for the Hobart orphans with whom she had worked. She rallied our boarders to package up their ‘going out’ dresses to provide to the orphans so they too may navigate their way into their world with confidence and dignity. Such encounters of everyday kindness are the encounters we hope to offer through accompanying all people in relationships of love and service.
Mrs Elizabeth Brooks
Deputy Principal
This has been a week of intense learning across the College. Our Class of 2024 are now three quarters of the way through their HSC examinations. This week has included:
Our Year 10s have stepped into their assessment block. This is consciously designed to be a range of assessments, and not a full on examination block, as a way of slowly working towards more formal and sustained tasks. Their program has included submission tasks, some in class tasks and culminates with the high energy and high volume group dance performances devised as part of the PDHPE program. I love that assessment doesn’t always have to look like individual tests at a desk and can be a collaborative, innovating and creative performance completed in groups.
In light of all these experiences, it is worth reiterating the College’s approach to assessment. We see the purpose of assessment as being to:
Provide a snapshot that enables the student and teacher to know where the student is at with their learning so that both teacher and student might be informed as to next steps
Therefore all learning experiences are assessments as every time a student engages in class discussion, working with their peers on a task or completes a formal cohort task we are able to see exactly where that student is at and offer feedback about next steps.
When it comes to reports, we will use the full range of assessment data available- all the conversations, debates, observations, group collaboration, written responses help to determine the outcomes that appear on reports and the grade a student is awarded. We want to capture a student’s holistic learning and growth, not make judgements based on a couple of moments in the year.
Well done to all students for their engagement this week, whether it has been Year 7 working towards completing their first year of learning, or the tired Year 12s in the photo who are attending their final examinations at the College.
Ms Alison Boyd-Boland
Director of Teaching and Learning
The worst thing about this term is that it is so short. The second worst thing is that it is speeding by so quickly. I need a ‘time-turner’ like Hermione Grainger.
Good things are happening! I delivered a big car load of goods for Open Support this week - the Houses Making Homes project that your daughter is involved in through her house. I also delivered loads of food and lots of items for bathroom support. We could do with some more towels, but we certainly have the pasta needs of families covered. Go O’Brien House and Williams House! This week the trolley outside my office is full of bedding - I need to make more space. If your daughter hasn’t brought in an item as yet and she would like to, the weekend may be an opportunity to get to Target and make a purchase. Some super shoppers managed to get a Moana quilt set for $10, on special, of course. How good is that?
The Family Spirit Hampers are in full swing now. It’s a bit different this year as we are now wanting to provide support for parents who are really struggling with providing every day needs for their families. We are looking for essential pantry items - the kinds of things that we just always have in the cupboard - that get us through: long life milk, pasta, sauce, tea, coffee, tinned tomatoes, soup, cereal, flour, sugar, tuna, salmon, toiletries. We are also keen to provide Christmas gifts for the family. Your daughter will have information from her tutor group that will guide this. Simple is best. We need this collection all wrapped up by November 22.
It’s Sandwich Project next week and the cupboard is bare. If you’d like to support “Fund a Filling”, a Woolies voucher stretches a long way. I promise I will use the money wisely. Just email it to me. kenderesj@stvincents.nsw.edu.au
Of course it’s All Saints Day today. The feast of All Saints has been celebrated in the church since about 600 AD. All Saints Day sits between Halloween, the eve of the Day of Hallows (Saints), and All Souls Day where we remember all those who have died - canonised saints or not.
All Saints Day is a day to remember the lives and inspiration of the saints - those who particularly inspire us to live the best lives we can. The Saints point us to Jesus - to his way of living and loving. We’ve spent some time in the Chapel and lit candles in remembrance of someone we love who has died. All that love must surely return to God and be part of God’s loving creative spirit. So there are more Saints that we will ever know. Ms McCarthy and I were the first there this morning. We lit a couple of candles for our mums.
A Prayer for Today
Spirit of Life,
Inspire us today with memories of saints
whose goodness still lingers.
Every day you send people into our lives
who challenge and guide us.
May the stories of the saints of yesterday
and the saints of today
teach us about justice and help us bring healing and
forgiveness to our world.
On this day we call to mind those we love who have died,
who inspire us to goodness, to better ways of loving.
In thanks we pray, Lord,
that you hold them in the palm of your hand.
Amen.
Mrs Jo Kenderes
Director of Faith and Mission
Co-ordinator of Sport: Jacinta Jacobs: 0418 416 663 - jacobs@stvincents.nsw.edu.au
Head of Touch & Volleyball
Ms Elyse Harmanis
0434 610 870
elyse.harmanis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au
Head of Water Polo
Mr Jo Schuleer - 0450 886 973 -
jkgschuler@gmail.com
Head of Tennis
Ms Tonya Hetreles - 0411 984352 -
tennis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au
Website: www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au/learning/sport
For all draw and venue information go to: www.stvincents.nsw.edu.au/sport/weekly-sports-draw/
IGSA Spawtz: https://igsasport.spawtz.com/
We’ve had a great start to the final term of sport with lots of challenging games and lots of laughs on and off the field and pool! All teams are training well and coaches are happy that most students are doing the right thing and letting us know if they can't attend a training session or match. A reminder that as the weather is getting warmer you should be wearing your Vinnie’s hats and sunscreen to all sessions. If you are sick but still coming to school then you are expected to still attend your session and support your team and learn from your coach.
Good luck to all teams for round three this weekend, please send me any good photos that you or your families take at your games. GO VINNIES!
IGSA TENNIS
A tougher round across the board for all teams this past weekend. Congratulations to SVC 4 & SVC 5 who came away with some big and important wins, playing some strong tennis. A special shoutout to SVC 6 who played the best tennis I've seen from these particular girls. Their competitiveness showed against a very strong Meridan team, with shots surprising the spectators and the other girls. No matter the outcome, these girls should be immensely proud of themselves. Great effort from all teams over the weekend, but looking forward to this coming weekend with some more positive results.
For those interested in participating in the Tildesley 2025 competition, training is on every Monday morning from 7:15am to 8:15am This will be in addition to your current IGSA team training sessions. Training will initially focus on both singles and doubles players. If you know someone who is not currently involved in IGSA but would like to participate, please reach out to either myself or Ms Jacobs. The Tildesley Shield is not played until March 19-21, 2025 but we need to start training now so we are fully prepared for next year.
Ms Tonya Hetreles - Head Tennis Coach
IGSA WATER POLO
Congratulations to SVC 1 on their impressive victory over Ascham last weekend. They are preparing for a challenging match this weekend against MLC. The junior Firsts (SVC 4) have also been training diligently, securing two commendable wins thus far. SVC 2, 3, 5, and 6 are making significant progress, exemplifying Vinnie's spirit as they compete fiercely in the pool against strong opponents.
Please ensure that you arrive at the pool 30 minutes prior to the start time to allow sufficient time for sign-in and an adequate warm-up. Best of luck to all teams this weekend!
Mr Jo Schuler - Head Water Polo Coach
ESTA TOUCH FOOTBALL
In Week 2 of our Touch Football season, we were treated to fantastic sunshine and even better performances from our SVC teams! The beautiful weather seemed to fuel our players' energy and focus, shining through in their on field results. Every team demonstrated great improvement, building on last week’s foundation at training with sharper skills, tighter defensive plays and more strategic attaching plays.
With each game, our players are developing a stronger grasp of the game, fine tuning their defensive tactics, and making more accurate plays. Their determination and growing confidence are clear on the field, and it's inspiring to see each student bringing fresh energy and ideas to training and games.
Keep up the incredible effort, and let’s carry this momentum forward!
Good luck, and Go Vinnies!
SANTA SABINA VOLLEYBALL
In Week 2 of our Volleyball season, our SVC teams faced both highs and challenges, with some teams celebrating wins and others demonstrating impressive teamwork and skill. The players took to the court with focus and determination, and it’s inspiring to see their hard work already making an impact from training.
Not only are our teams advancing in technical skills, but they’re also building deeper connections on and off the court. Their communication and support for one another have been outstanding, with every rally showcasing their commitment to teamwork.
Fantastic effort from all players. Let's bring this same energy and dedication into this week’s games!
Ms Elyse Harmanis - Head Touch Football and Volleyball Coach
SPORTS STARS OF THE WEEK This section is to make the College community aware of some of the exceptional athletes we have in the College. If your daughter has represented her state or country recently in her chosen Sport, please send us any results, photos or blurbs on her performance to jacobs@stvincents.nsw.edu.au
Congratulations to Alice Laguna in year 8 for her recent equestrian results. During Term 3, Alice competed at CPEC in the Showjumping (45cm) and achieved 4th place ribbon out of 14 competitors on the field. This was Alice's first time competing in Show Jumping and she was excited with her results. During the Term 3 holidays, Alice successfully competed at the Berry Interschools Equestrian Championship over 4 days in the following categories:
Dressage
Show Jumping 60cm
Hacking/Showing
Games (Barrel Racing)
This was Alice's first time competing on the horse, Jack, at Interschools and she did very well to clear her rounds. With over 400 competitors from all over NSW and ACT, this was a great learning experience and sets her up for next year’s competition. Well done Alice!
Congratulations to Alice Bond in year 7 who competed at the IGSA Gymnastics Competition on Friday at the Rooty Hill Gymnastics and Aquatic Centre. Alice competed in the Level 4 WAG and did well on all 4 apparatus. Well done Alice!
Ms Jacinta Jacobs
Co-ordinator of Sport
Career News November 1
UTS Sydney
City Campus
Nursing Info Night
Wednesday 20 November
5.30-7.30pm
This event is for student’s who are keen to learn what a career in nursing is all about, UTS has extended an invitation to visit the campus to tour the UTS clinical labs for our Discover Nursing evening. This event is suitable for Years 10-12 students and their parents. Registrations for this event are essential using the link found here .
University of Sydney
STEM at University of Sydney
As new fields of STEM employment continue to emerge, it’s important for today’s graduates to be agile and able to adapt their skills to this fast-changing global economy. The range of STEM careers is broad and diverse, from biomedical engineering and software development to psychology and accounting. USYD’s STEM graduates are leading varied and fulfilling careers - including Australia’s first astronaut, an Antarctic explorer, a chief scientist and a Nobel laureate.
Find out more about studying STEM degrees here .
Bachelor of Wildlife Conservation (Taronga)
6 November
4pm
Designed for students who have a passion for animals and dream of making an impact in the wildlife conservation sector, this degree will provide highly sought-after skills and interactive, practical experiences in the field and onsite at Taronga Zoo. Registrations for this webinar are essential using the link found here . Parents and carers are also welcome to attend.
Why study civil engineering at the University of Sydney?
20 November
4pm
Learn how a Civil Engineering degree equips students for the challenges and opportunities in the evolving world of infrastructure and development. Learn how you will explore a variety of specialised fields such as water, structures, geotechnical, humanitarian and transport engineering. Gain insights into USYD's Professional Engagement Program, and discover the career options available to Civil Engineering students.Registrations for this webinar are essential using the link found here . Parents and carers are also welcome to attend.
Careers at Council Current Vacancies
Local Government is a great place for students and school leavers to start their career. A huge range of traineeships, apprenticeships and cadetships are available in councils across NSW. For more information check out the Careers at Council Jobs Board at the link found here .
Sydney Opera House - Architecture Club
7 December
10am-1pm
Students Inspired by the unique design genius of architect Jørn Utzon and the Sydney Opera House, may get creative through a series of fun and playful design exercises for beginners or design lovers, whilst learning about the architectural history of the Sydney Opera House. Parents and carers are also invited to attend. To find out more and to register your interest use the link found here .
Helen Marshall
Careers Adviser
Reunions
Class of 1984
40 Years Reunion
When : Saturday 5 October 2024
Where : The Winery – Private Dinning,
Time : 12:00pm – 5:00pm
RSVP
: 16 September 2024 using this link:
https://pp.events/avMdYqzE
The Class of 2004
When: 19 October 2024
Please contact Gemma McHugh (Madigan-Beach):
Class of 1989
35th reunion
When: Saturday 9th November
Where:
The Red Lion Hotel,
726 Darling Street Rozelle
Time:
3 pm
RSVP:
by 25 Oct - contact Jen K 0413546547 or Jen S 0410405445
Dear Students,
We kindly remind you of the importance of bringing your Student Card when visiting our canteen. It serves as an essential requirement for making purchases.
For your convenience, please remember to refill money on your card at least one hour before you plan to use it. This timeframe allows for the necessary processing to generate funds onto your card effectively.
For those with dietary restrictions, we are delighted to inform you that we offer gluten-free products. However, please note that these products are only available for purchase through our online ordering platform.
SELINA RICHARDSON
SITE MANAGER
Save the Date
Friday May 2nd to Sunday May 4th.
Tickets will go on sale early February when school returns
A good accommodation option is Ibis Styles Tamworth and they are doing a special Vinnies' mums' weekend special, just quote St Vincent's College when booking.
