Rockwall Crescent, Potts Point NSW 2011

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Issue 01

Issue 8 - 28 March 2025

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In this Issue

PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
  • From Our Principal
Reminders and Events
    DIRECTOR OF TEACHING AND LEARNING
      LEADER OF SOCIAL JUSTICE
      • Celebrating Acts of Service at St Vincent’s College
      TEACHING & LEARNING
      • Year 10 Music - It’s all about AUSTRALIA! 🇦🇺
      • FROM THE LRC
      CAREER NEWS
      • Career News
      SPORT REPORT
        IN SYMPATHY
          COMMUNITY
          • FROM THE ADVANCEMENT OFFICE
          • P&F
          • Mothers' Weekend 2025
          • Canteen

          PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

          From Our Principal

          From Our Principal

          Dear Parents and Carers,


          This week the College hosted a visit by Mary Aikenhead Education Limited. It was a pleasure to see Prof. Marie Emmitt (Chair of MAEL) and Mr Peter Kelly who is Executive Director of Mary Aikenhead Education. While they were here the College Board Chair, Mr John Finneran and new Directors Ms Rose Reid, Ms Shanthi Silva and Dr Craig Wattam were commissioned during a beautiful liturgical celebration in the Chapel. Our Student Leaders were also present to represent the students of the College who the Board always keep front and centre of their deliberations and discernment.

          This week, anticipation of the big week ahead has grown as every year level gets ready for their Outdoor Education Camp (Years 7-8), Endeavouring (Year 9), Way Finding (Year 10) and retreats for Years 11 and 12. The experience of school camps and student residential programs are often among the strongest and most positive memories of schooling. I am so very grateful for the trust of parents and the generosity of our staff. These dispositions are essential in planning ambitious programs that take our students into unfamiliar territory. Students grow immeasurably from these residential programs and I strongly encourage all parents to be firm and clear in their expectation of their daughters to participate with a growth mindset. I am part of the Year 9 Endeavouring Program, and I am delighted and excited to be heading into the Australian Outback. My camel riding days are behind me but there is still much to enjoy and learn in such a unique landscape.

          Enjoy the packing of the camp kits over the weekend. An audit of the packing lists will reveal there is no need for phones, hairdryers, eye lash extensions, nail polish, make up and other accessories. It is a week to live simply and joyfully.

          Yours sincerely,

          Anne Fry

          Show more

          Reminders and Events

          Monday 31 March – Tuesday 8 April 2025 - Year 9 Endeavouring Experience

          Wednesday 2 April – Friday 4 April - Camps & Retreats

          Easter Holidays - 12 - 28 April

          Monday 5 May - Year 11 Parent/Carer - Teacher Meetings, Google Meet

          Friday 9 May - Mother's Day Liturgy, College Chapel, 7:45 am – 8:30 am

          Friday 9 May - Mother-Daughter Dinner, 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm BUY TICKETS

          The St Vincent’s College Uniform Shop
          Holiday Trading Hours

          Friday 11 April  - CLOSED

          Saturday 26 April - 9.00 am - 2.00 pm

          Monday 28 April - 8.00 am - 4.00 pm

          Tuesday 29 April - 8.00 am - 4.00 pm (1st day of Term 2)

          Show more

          DIRECTOR OF TEACHING AND LEARNING

          Following on from my previous article about the nature and purpose of assessment, I wanted to address some frequently asked questions this week:

          What happens if a student is unwell?

          Health comes first and if a student is unwell on the day of an assessment task they should stay home. With the exception of the HSC examinations, there is always an opportunity to sit a catch up task. These are generally held about 3 days after the original task.

          What communication is required?

          Students in Years 7-9 need a note from their parent indicating that they have been unwell

          Students in Years 10-12 need an illness/  misadventure form and a medical certificate explaining that they have been unwell. The same applies if they are absent the school day immediately prior to an assessment.

          Communication in all instances needs to go to the Head of Department

          What if I am well enough to do the task but I lost some preparation days?

          Generally students need to factor this into their planning. Especially as we get closer to the winter terms, it is to be expected that students will pick up colds and viruses during the term.  If the illness has been long lasting or particularly acute then:

          Students in Years 7-9 may be granted a couple more days of preparation time and will sit the task a few days later with any other students who have also missed the task.

          Students in Years 10-12 need an illness/  misadventure form and a medical certificate and will have their task placed under ‘misadventure’. This means their result will be reviewed at the end of the course and will be adjusted if they are below their typical performance

          But I would much rather get an estimate and not do the task. Is this possible?

          Simply- no.  Assessments are not just about generating marks. They are evidence of learning. Estimating a mark provides no evidence of the learning that has occurred. Students regularly outperform estimated marks, so an estimate does not always do justice to a student’s capacity and potential.

          What about an extension. I would really like more time. Can I ask for this?

          If you are asking less than 2 days before a task is due, the answer is no. Especially if you are asking on a Sunday! This is not sufficient time to process such a request so expect to complete the task as normal.

          If you have only lost a few days preparation, please refer to the misadventure process above as this is the best option for you. Extensions are not granted in these instances.

          Extensions are only granted to Years 10-12  in the rarest of circumstances, need to be accompanied by medical evidence and only occur when the options above are inappropriate to a student’s health and wellbeing.



          Looking for more information?

          Please consult the College’s assessment policy which was emailed to all students and parents. While we all hope that a term runs smoothly, there are inevitable hiccups and understanding the processes and support we can offer can take some of the guesswork and panic out of an already stressful moment.

          Contact your Head of Department. They are always able to guide you through the processes.

          Best wishes to all our students as they complete their final assessments before heading off to camps and retreats next week.

          Alison Boyd-Boland

          Director of Teaching and Learning

          Show more

          LEADER OF SOCIAL JUSTICE

          Celebrating Acts of Service at St Vincent’s College

          Celebrating Acts of Service at St Vincent’s College

          "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously." - 2 Corinthians 9:6

          As we journey through Lent, it is truly inspiring to witness the generosity and compassion of our students in action. Across the College, they are embracing this season of giving, embodying our College’s value of Service of the Poor through a range of initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

          The Lenten Appeals are in full swing, with both Williams and Cater Houses leading outstanding efforts to support Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) and Project Compassion. Williams House has been particularly dedicated to JRS, with Tutor 46 going above and beyond to encourage donations and raise awareness. JRS plays a crucial role in providing food and essential support to refugees and asylum seekers, who are in desperate need of assistance to reopen vital services. Your generosity can help make this happen—please refer to the JRS poster for details on how to contribute.

          Meanwhile, Project Compassion is thriving, with donation boxes placed in classrooms across the College. Every contribution, no matter how small, supports life-changing initiatives for those in need. Your continued generosity is greatly appreciated.

          Beyond the Lenten Appeals, our students continue to make a difference through ongoing initiatives. Every Friday morning Coffee Queens has students breakfast covered with warm banana or raisin bread, hot drinks of your choice of Chocolate, Tea, Coffee the list goes on! With every coffee poured, students are learning valuable skills, fostering community spirit, and raising funds to support St Jude’s School in Tanzania.

          Additionally, donations of Woolworths gift vouchers are always welcome and can be sent to harveym@stvincents.nsw.edu.au. These vouchers play a vital role in sustaining our Sandwich Project and Night Patrol work. Thank you to those who have donated, it’s greatly appreciated.

          Equally heartwarming is the continued dedication of our students in baking cupcakes for St Canice’s Kitchen. Their creativity and generosity shine through in every batch, with beautifully decorated treats that bring joy to those experiencing tough times in our local community. The kindness of our students is truly remarkable, and their willingness to give their time and effort to support others is something to be celebrated.

          Through all these initiatives, our students are living out the spirit of Lent with compassion and selflessness, making a real impact in our local and global communities. Their generosity is a testament to the values we cherish at St Vincent’s, and we couldn’t be prouder of their efforts. Thank you to every student and family who continues to support these important causes together, we are making a difference!

          Michael Harvey
          Social Justice Leader

          Show more

          TEACHING & LEARNING

          Year 10 Music - It’s all about AUSTRALIA! 🇦🇺

          Year 10 Music - It’s all about AUSTRALIA! 🇦🇺

          This term in Year 10 Music, we have been learning about music composed and performed by Australian Artists across a wide variety of genres. From the Pop sounds of Missy Higgins, to the driving rock of Midnight Oil, students have engaged in a range of listening, performing and arranging activities. Some notable mentions were our whole class pracs of “Somebody that I Used to Know” by Gotye, “Scar” by Missy Higgins, and “The Brown Snake” by Thelma Plum.

          Australian Music is a Mandatory topic in the NSW Curriculum, and what has been wonderful to see is the wide range of interest from the students across genres such as Jazz, Pop, Alternative Rock and Themes from Australian Films. During Week 8, students presented their first “Formative Performance Task” for the year. It was a double period filled with talent and praise, and a delight to hear the students perform for each other. “Land Down Under”, “The Man from Snowy River”, “Sia” and “Daryl Braithwaite” to name but a few.

          A recent task for Yr 10 Music was the arranging of “Lanterns” by Perth rock band “Birds of Tokyo”. In this photo, our class can be seen creating multiple layers of the chorus progression using the music software “Soundtrap”. Our layers included a Piano, Bass Guitar, Programmed Drum beat and a vocal take using the “record audio” function.

          Our terms ahead in 2025 cover Film Music, Jazz and Popular Music in Term 4 with a variety of tasks including performances, compositions and listening analysis.

          Well done this term girls!  It has been a pleasure sharing the Australian Music topic with you.

          Mr Samyia

          Start writing your content here...

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          FROM THE LRC

          FROM THE LRC

          As part of our English curriculum, students take part in Wide Reading lessons in the Library every fortnight. These sessions are designed to inspire students to explore books that match their interests and are closely aligned with the new curriculum. With a wide range of novels covering various genres, cultures, and perspectives, students are encouraged to choose books that truly spark their interest. This sense of freedom plays a key role in helping them develop a lasting love for reading beyond the classroom.

          Why Reading for Pleasure Matters

          Reading for pleasure is about so much more than just entertainment—it’s packed with benefits that can make a big difference in both academic success and personal growth:

          • It helps build vocabulary and improves understanding.
          • It encourages empathy and emotional awareness by introducing readers to diverse characters and experiences.
          • It’s great for focus and stress relief, offering a break from screens and everyday pressures.
          • Most of all, it helps create a lifelong passion for learning and exploration.

          To support this program, we would love for you to talk to your child about what they’re reading and encourage them to find time for reading a few times a week. Talking about books and reading together can be a fantastic way to connect and get a glimpse into what excites or inspires them. A trip to your local bookshop or library can also make for a fun outing and could lead to discovering new interests together.

          Thank you for being part of this journey to promote the joy of reading. Together, we can help our students succeed in school while also finding meaning and happiness in the written word. If you’d like book recommendations or have any questions, please feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help.

          Yours in Reading,

          The Library Team

          Show more

          CAREER NEWS

          Career News

          Career News

          Upcoming Events & Opportunities

          📌 USYD – Year 10 Subject Selection (8 May on-campus | 15 May online)

          📌 UniMelb – Info Webinar for NSW & ACT students (2 April, 6pm)

          📌 UTS – Experience UTS Day (16 April)

          📌 ACU – Health Sciences Discovery Day (24 April, 9am-1pm)

          📌 Macquarie Future of Health Series (8-10 April) – Panels on health, public health, nursing & short courses

          📌 Whitehouse – Fashion Illustration Workshop (16 April)

          📌 Gap Year – International Volunteering Webinar (31 March)

          📌 Study in the UK – Info on fees, visas & Brexit changes

          Career News March 28

          Sophie Timbs (Year 11) - Ready to go in her Human Services: Nursing uniform

          The University of Sydney

          Your Path to Sydney: Year 10 Subject Selection Evening

          "Your Path to Sydney” is designed to help Year 10 students navigate the subject selection process for their senior years. This event offers a comprehensive overview on how these choices can impact future pathways, including university and career opportunities.

          Hosted by the University of Sydney Future Students Team with presentations by the UAC Admissions Manager and a current University of Sydney student, who will share information about:

          The ATAR and key university terminology

          The student experiences

          Tips for admission and scholarships

          An overview of the University of Sydney.

          Following the presentations, the on-campus event will feature an expo, where students can have their questions answered one to one by USYD staff and student ambassadors.

          To register for one of the sessions, please click on one of the event registration links below:

          -        On-campus session: Thursday evening, 8th of May 2025 | Register here .

          -        Online session: Thursday evening, 15th of May 2025 | Register here .

          The University of Melbourne

          UniMelb 101: A webinar for NSW and ACT students

          Wednesday 2 AprilTime: 6:00 - 6:45 pm
          Location: Online
          UniMelb 101 is a live Q&A webinar designed for NSW based students to ask your questions about study at Melbourne, entry requirements specific to their  high school curriculum and information about the student life and community that awaits you. To Register use the link found here.

          UTS, Sydney

          Experience UTS Day 2025

          16 April

          Experience UTS Day is hosted on campus, choose your workshops and

          experience UTS during Term break. Workshops are available in a variety of topic areas, see the link provided here for more detail. Registrations for this event are essential by using the provided link.

          Australian Catholic University

          Discover Health Sciences at ACU North Sydney

          24 April

          9am-1pm

          Interested students in Years 10,11 and 12 and their parents and carers are invited to discover what it’s like to study nursing,occupational therapy, physiotherapy or speech pathology at ACU North Sydney. Take part in hands-on workshops where you'll get a feel for the practical skills you’ll develop as a future healthcare professional.  Tour the campus and experience the state-of-the-art, fully functional simulation wards, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the innovative training that makes ACU health sciences graduates highly sought after by employers. Registrations are essential using the link found here .

          Macquarie University

          Macquarie Future of Health - Health Innovators: Shaping the Future through Research, Education and Practice

          8 April

          5:30– 6:15 pm
          Join MU for a dynamic panel discussion exploring the cutting-edge developments in the health sector. This event brings together leading researchers, dedicated coursework education students and experienced alumni practitioners to share their insights and visions for the future of health. The panellists will delve into the latest advancements in medical research, innovative educational approaches and practical applications in healthcare. Whether you’re a student, professional or simply passionate about the future of healthcare, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with thought leaders and be inspired by the possibilities ahead. Registrations are essential using the link provided here .

          Macquarie Future of Health - Public Health: Innovations, Challenges, and Opportunities

          8 April

          6:30 – 7:00 pm
          From the role of artificial intelligence and data-driven healthcare to the urgent need for pandemic preparedness and health equity, this session will delve into the critical issues that will define the next decade of public health. MU’s panel  will also explore the challenges of climate change, mental health integration, and the power of cross-sector collaboration in driving meaningful change. Whether you are a public health professional, policymaker, researcher, or student, this webinar will provide valuable insights into the innovations transforming healthcare delivery and strategies to address future challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and be part of the conversation on shaping a healthier future for all. Registrations are essential using the link provided here .

          Macquarie Future of Health - Cutting-edge Credentials: Short Courses Information Evening

          8 April 7:00 – 7:45pm

          Find out more about MU’s short courses, including Lymphoedema Management and Clinical Trials Operations. As part of its ongoing commitment to support the development of health practitioners, Macquarie now offers a suite of professional education courses for existing practitioners and those looking to develop a career in the healthcare sector. Registrations are essential using the link provided here .

          Macquarie Future of Health- Master of Chiropractic and Doctor of Physiotherapy Information Evening 10 April

          5 – 5.45pm

          The practice of chiropractic and physiotherapy – and the patient experience – is constantly evolving thanks to the advancement of technology, holistic approaches, personalised care and preventative care. Join Macquarie practitioners as they explore this ever-changing landscape and learn more about MU’s Master of Chiropractic and Doctor of Physiotherapy. Registrations are essential using the link provided here .

          Macquarie Future of Health- Nursing Beyond the Bedside: Expanding the Scope of Practice.

          10 April

          6 – 6.30pm

          Nursing is a rewarding career that serves on the frontline of health. Join this webinar to learn about the array of opportunities for nurses at Macquarie University Hospital. As the first fully functioning, university-based hospital in Australia, nurses who work here thrive in an innovative, research-focused setting.Registrations are essential using the link provided here .

          Whitehouse Institute of Design.

          Holiday Workshop

          16 April 2025

          10am-3pm

          Whitehouse Institute are hosting a 1-day Fashion Illustration Workshop on

          16 April 2025 from 10am-3pm for school students aged 15 years +

          This workshop is great for anyone interested in design, fashion, illustration, and creative industries. Students can also use work created in this workshop for their portfolio application to postgraduate studies. Use the code LOVEWH10 to receive a discount.

          New Ventures Worldwide : Gap Year Volunteering Information Webinar

          Monday, 31 March 2025

          6.00pm

          DIscover how overseas volunteering can build confidence, leadership skills, and global perspectives. The webinar will cover

          An insider’s view of our transformative gap year experiences
          · A breakdown of the diverse volunteer roles available across the UK, Canada, Spain,  Ghana, Poland, Argentina and New Zealand.
          · Practical tips on making the most of a gap year, with plenty of time for your questions during our live Q&A session. Register your interest here .

          Applying and studying in the UK

          The UK is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students.

          You have a choice of more than 140 universities and other higher education institutions. Each offers a range of qualifications recognised around the world. Tuition fees vary between institutions. Since Brexit, most EU and EEA nationals are no longer eligible for

          home fee status unless they are from Ireland or are already living in the UK and registered under the EU Settlement Scheme. You’ll need to be aware of visa conditions, English language requirements, and work permit restrictions.

          Find out more on the UK Government website found here .

          Helen Marshall
          Careers Adviser

          Show more

          SPORT REPORT

          TERM 1 SPORT

          We are celebrating a remarkable sporting achievement as St Vincent’s has won the Term 1 2025 Touch Football Champions Trophy! A huge congratulations to SVC 1, 4, 8, 14, 18, and 21, who were crowned champions of their divisions with an outstanding effort. A big well done to all our other teams who played with passion and determination, making the College incredibly proud.

          This weekend, we look forward to a thrilling Water Polo semi-final, with our Year 7 team set to compete against MLC. Best of luck to all players!

          Good luck also to our Volleyball students, who will be competing in their final matches of the season this week.

          Our Tennis teams have shown fantastic improvement throughout the term, demonstrating resilience, growth, and teamwork. Their season has now come to an end, and we are so proud of their progress and dedication over the past few months.

          A massive thank you to all our players and parents for the incredible Vinnies spirit displayed throughout the term. We can’t wait to see many of you back in action for winter sports next term!

          Important Reminders:

          • Training resumes on the first day back of Term 2
          • Games commence on Saturday, April 3rd
          • Teams and training schedules will be updated on the College website once finalised

          IGSA CROSS COUNTRY and FITNESS TRAINING

          Fitness Training with Tash continues every Monday and Wednesday for any students who would like to get fitter or get ready for the IGSA Cross Country Carnival next Term on May 16 at Frensham . This training will resume the first week back next term on Monday 28th.  Any girls wishing to compete at the Carnival at Frensham need to attend at least two of these sessions a week and be doing their own training outside of school. We are allowed 10 runners in each Age Group and the majority of age groups run 4km, with 12 and 13 years only running 3km and 18+ years running 6km. Please email Ms Harmanis  if you would like to be included in the College Team.

          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 elyse.harmanis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

          Co-ordinator of Sport: Elyse: 0434 610 870 - elyse.harmanis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

          Head of Touch: Ms Elyse Harmanis - 0434 610 870 - elyse.harmanis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

          Head of Water Polo: Mr Jo Schuler - 0450 886 973 - waterpolo@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

          Head of Tennis: Ms Tonya Hetreles - 0411 984352 - tennis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

          Head of Volleyball: Ms Bianca Wallace - 0452 525 441 - volleyball@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/

          Show more

          IN SYMPATHY

          The College community offers its condolences to the following families who have lost a loved one recently:

          Grandfather of Olivia Blakeney Year 8

          May he rest in peace.

          Show more

          COMMUNITY

          FROM THE ADVANCEMENT OFFICE

          FROM THE ADVANCEMENT OFFICE

          The Advancement Office

          P&F

          P&F

          Parents & Friends Association

          Cocktail Party

          Thank you for attending the Cocktail Party this year! It was wonderful to see so many parents enjoying the community atmosphere.

          We value your feedback and want to continually improve our events. Please take a moment to fill out this quick survey and share your thoughts (your responses will be anonymous). Thank you!

          FEEDBACK FORM

          Show more

          Mothers' Weekend 2025

          Mothers' Weekend 2025

          SVC Mothers Weekend

          The Boarder Parent Association are excited to invite you to Tamworth in 2025 for our annual

          Mothers Weekend.

          Friday 2nd May

          Welcome to Tamworth Cocktail Party

          Hopscotch Bar & Restaurant

          from 6pm

          Come dressed in your best country & western outfit and get ready to be entertained

          Tickets $100

          Saturday 3rd May

          Depart Tamworth at 4pm to experience the beautiful Dungowan Station. Great food wine and dancing.

          Return by bus at 10pm

          Tickets $225

          Sunday 4th May

          Finish off the weekend with brunch at

          The Pig & Tinder Box

          Enjoy a buffet breakfast, coffee & mimosa

          Tickets $35

          For more details of the weekend check out our guide

          There is a strict no refund policy on tickets

          Show more

          Canteen

          Canteen

          TOP UP & ORDER ONLINE
          SPECIALS
          ORDER ID CARD

          NB. Only students can log-in to order

          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 daughter's convenience, please add funds to her card at least one hour before they use it. This timeframe allows for the necessary processing to generate funds onto your card effectively.


          We are delighted to inform those with dietary restrictions that we offer gluten-free products. However, please note that these products are only available for purchase through our online ordering platform My Student Account.

          If ordering online, please do so before 8:30 am.


          Thank you for your support.

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          Announcements

          Introducing Xtend@VinniesBoarding an extended day program to expand the support we offer to our senior students. Click here to Register or here to READ MORE

          BUY TICKETS

          2023 St Vincent’s College, Potts Point under the stewardship of
          Mary Aikenhead Ministries.

          Contact Us

          College Office (8am-4:30pm)
          (02) 9368 1611

          Student Absences Line
          (02) 8324 6630

          Address

          Street Address
          Rockwall Crescent,
          Potts Point NSW 2011 Australia

          Postal Address
          Locked Bag 2700,
          Potts Point NSW 1335 Australia