IONA 7

May 26, 2026

< All Issues

IONA 7

Principal's Message

Prayer

Notices from the Deputy Principal

Five Things Parents Should Know About Girls’ Friendships

de Lacy House Rep Excursion: House Partner

Disney's Beauty and The Beast Comes to the Stage in July

Winter Woollies Drive

Sports News: Hockey

Sports News: Football

Student Voice: Finding Community Through SWAT

Languages Week: Italian Tarantella Dance Workshop

Languages Week: Japanese

Languages Week: Crêpe Van Visit

Languages Week: Yoga en français!

St Columba’s Discovers Its Future Leaders

Time For Bed with our Year 11 VCE VM Students

Term 2: Career News

Meet our Music Team!

Academic Excellence Scholarships

Year 9 Mock Interviews

Astwood Netball Coaching and Development Program

The Latest Insights from Dr Justin Coulson

Catholic School Parents Victoria Relaunch

Important Dates

Principal's Message

Pentecost Sunday

I wonder how often we notice the flame within the Mary Aikenhead Ministries (MAM) Crest. From the MAM website, the flame in the crest is described as follows:

“The flame is not contained, it is reaching out, embracing, guiding and directing all who are touched by the diverse works of Mary Aikenhead Ministries. The flame gives light and direction, warmth and comfort. It overcomes the darkness. The flame is the burning commitment to service the poor”. 

As a MAM school, this flame also inspires and challenges our work.

This past Sunday was the Solemnity of Pentecost, marking the 50th and final day of the Easter season. Pentecost marks the moment when the Holy Spirit descended, symbolised as tongues of fire, transforming fearful disciples into courageous witnesses. The flame in the Mary Aikenhead Ministries crest represents the same Spirit of Pentecost—alive, dynamic, and disruptive—calling the Ministries to ongoing renewal rather than passive maintenance of the tradition we have inherited from the Sisters of Charity.

For Mary Aikenhead and the Sisters of Charity, love was/is never abstract. The flame symbolises love that acts, particularly where need is greatest, recognising human vulnerability and need in all its forms.

Last week, the four Mary Aikenhead Education Principals spent two days in retreat, connecting with the purpose that drives and inspires our work. A special component of our retreat was a visit to the St Vincent’s Hospitals precinct – the tangible presence of the Sisters responding to the vulnerable in the heart of Melbourne. Since 2009, the hospitals are also Mary Aikenhead Ministries works. 

Purely by coincidence I ran into a College Alumna (1987), Jenny Gozdzik, General Manager – Director of Clinical Services Fitzroy for St Vincent’s Private Hospital. Jenny is currently the Acting CEO. Jenny’s career began as a nurse with St Vincent’s Public Hospital. It was a pleasure to hear about Jenny’s connection to St Columba’s.

When we reflect on our impact as a College, it is through the pathways chosen by our Alumnae that we see the true measure of our success—lives shaped by the enduring spirit of the Sisters of Charity, carrying forward their tradition of service to those most in need.

L: Rita Grima and Jenny Gozdzik. R: Sharon Volp, Anne Fry, Rita Grima, and Stephanie Evans, Mary Aikenhead Education Principals, following Friday afternoon mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral.

 

Prayer

Lord God,

You call us to be people of justice, compassion, and hope.
During this Reconciliation Week, we pause to listen deeply to the stories, wisdom, and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Help us to walk gently on this land,
with gratitude for the world’s oldest continuing cultures,
and with honesty about the hurts and injustices of the past and present.

Teach us to seek reconciliation not only in words,
but in the way we live, learn, and relate to one another each day.

May we be people who build bridges,
who honour the dignity of every person,
and who have the courage to stand alongside those whose voices are too often unheard.

In the spirit of Mary Aikenhead,
may we become contemplatives in action,
committed to healing, understanding, and the common good.

May your Spirit guide our school community
to grow in truth, justice, love, and respect,
so that together we may help create a future marked by peace and hope for all.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Notices from the Deputy Principal

TRANSITION SURVEY FOR YEAR 7 STUDENTS & PARENTS/CARERS

As part of our ongoing commitment to continuously improving the school, we believe it is critical to seek each parent and student’s opinion on a range of issues relating to St. Columba’s College. This feedback is very important to us as we continue to build a successful school and strengthen our reputation as an ‘educator of choice’.

Over the last 5 years, we have engaged the professional services of MYP Corporation (MYPCorp) to undertake a strictly private and confidential School Results Survey on our behalf. Parents or carers and students will have the opportunity to complete this online survey between 8 – 19 June.

Thank you, in advance, to all the Year 7 students and their parents or carers who take the time to participate in the survey.

LEARNING TO LEAD – Student Leadership Program for Years 9 and 10

This term, a number of students have commenced the Learning to Lead Program, with students recently completing the first two of five workshops designed to develop leadership skills and personal growth.

So far, students have explored what makes an effective leader, examined different leadership styles and reflected on their own strengths, values and approaches to working with others. Through discussion, collaboration and interactive activities, students have been encouraged to recognise that leadership can be demonstrated in many different ways and contexts. Students were excited to work with three of our alumnae and former student leaders – we sincerely thank Zara Cammerino, Martine Eid and Annalise Ferbrache for giving of their time to mentor these students.

The program is already providing valuable opportunities for students to build confidence, strengthen communication and teamwork skills, and challenge themselves to step outside their comfort zones. Students have also reflected on the importance of empathy, service and positive influence within our school community.

Involvement in this program will positively support students who wish to apply for leadership positions in their senior years at the College.

We look forward to seeing students continue to grow throughout the remaining workshops and congratulate them on the thoughtful and enthusiastic way they have engaged in the program so far.

 

CHILD SAFE COMMITTEE UPDATE

Members of the committee present for the Term 2 meeting include:

Rita Grima (Principal)

Brigitte McDonald (Deputy Principal)

Sophia M (SWAT Captain)

Janelle Hurley (Parent)

Nakkita Egan (Head of Students)

Karen Fitzpatrick (Social Worker)

 

The Child Safe Committee met to review and strengthen the College’s ongoing commitment to student wellbeing, safeguarding, and a culture of safety and respect.

 

A key focus of the meeting was staff professional learning aligned to the 11 Months, 11 Standards framework, with current emphasis on Standards 3, 4 and 5. Staff professional learning has included Indigenous perspectives with Scott Darlow, AI and digital safety (including deepfake awareness and ethical AI use), trauma-informed practice, family engagement, behaviour consistency, and managing difficult conversations. A second round of workshops will be offered on 26 May to further build staff capability in these areas.

The Committee also discussed policy reviews scheduled for Term 2, including Asthma and Anaphylaxis Management, Bullying Prevention and Intervention, and Inclusive Education. 

Digital safety and emerging risks were highlighted, particularly around AI-generated content and online bullying. These insights will inform updates to policies and pastoral programs to ensure students are supported to navigate technology safely and responsibly.

Updates were provided on wellbeing and pastoral initiatives, including the SWAT program, parent resources, and student support materials being made available through SEQTA. The Term 2 pastoral care focus on Healthy Lifestyles continues to embed child safety, resilience, empathy, and wellbeing themes across all year levels.

Planning also commenced for National Child Protection Week (6–12 September), with the theme “Every Conversation Matters: Shifting Conversation to Action.” The College will explore student-led initiatives, awareness campaigns, House Group activities, staff and parent resources to promote meaningful engagement with child safety messages.

Updates to the PROTECT protocols are also underway, with revised resources and signage to be implemented later in the year.

The Committee continues to ensure that child safety remains embedded in all aspects of College culture, policy, and practice.

 

PARENT ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE (PEC)           

Every parent in our community is a member of the PEC and we welcome your involvement. If anyone is interested in joining the PEC or learning more about what we do you can join us in person or online – 7.30pm – meet.google.com/fij-hziu-ymk). 

Our meeting dates are as follows:

Tuesday 9 June

Tuesday 28 July

Tuesday 18 August

Tuesday 15 September

Tuesday 20 October

Tuesday 17 November          

College Raffle

As you know the Parent Engagement Committee is in the process of planning for our College raffle for term 3.

In consultation with the Student Engagement Team, funds raised through the raffle and other PEC initiatives this year will go towards the purchase of an outdoor, weather proof table tennis table for students to enjoy during breaks and lunchtime. This exciting addition will provide another active and inclusive recreational option, encouraging students to enjoy healthy physical activity in a fun and social environment.               

              

If you’re able to donate any goods or services, or would like more information, please contact the Parent Engagement Committee at parents@columba.vic.edu.au  

Father/Male Mentor & Child Night

Congratulations to Joel Salmond and his VETSport & Recreation students on their wonderful organisation of this event on Tuesday 19 May.

PEC representatives, James, Anna, Rebecca and Day were on hand to support the evening cooking the BBQ and providing drinks. Thanks also to Frank Bonavia for helping out with the BBQ.

The dads were generous in sponsoring our fundraising efforts by donating $153.00.

   

ALUMNAE COMMITTEE

Our Alumnae Committee meets once each term on a Wednesday evening from 7:00–8:30pm, working to strengthen and celebrate the lifelong connection between the College and our former students. Through their dedication, the Committee supports opportunities for alumnae to stay connected with one another and with the College community, fostering meaningful engagement with current staff and students and nurturing a lasting sense of belonging.

If you are an alumna and would like to become a member of the Alumnae Committee, please contact alumnae@columba.vic.edu.au. Our next meeting for the 2026 is scheduled for Wednesday 12 August.

Five Things Parents Should Know About Girls’ Friendships

Friendships play a major role in a young person’s wellbeing, confidence, and sense of belonging at school. A recent article from the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools highlights that girls’ friendships can often be intense and emotionally significant, particularly during the secondary school years.

The article encourages parents to understand that friendship challenges are a normal part of adolescent development. Girls may experience changing friendship groups, conflict, or feelings of exclusion as they develop their identity and social skills. Parents can best support their daughters by listening calmly, avoiding rushing to “fix” problems immediately, and helping them build resilience and healthy communication skills.

de Lacy House Rep Excursion: House Partner

On Friday the 8th of May, the House Representatives of de Lacy and I, as the De Lacy House Captain, had the amazing opportunity to attend an excursion to visit  our House Partner the St Vincent’s Emergency Alcohol and Drug HUB. It was so interesting to see the HUB space, which was new, clean, and such a welcoming place for patients and people in need to go.

During our visit, we explored one of the rooms and learned about the different resources they provide to support disadvantaged people, including those experiencing homelessness that present to the emergency department. The HUB offers essential items such as toiletries and warm clothing, shoes, as well as books, fidgets, and other activities to provide comfort and support  in times of crisis. It was inspiring to see the care and compassion shown to people who may be going through difficult times by the amazing nurses team we met. As a de Lacy community, it was wonderful to see how our donations can make a real difference in helping create a safe and supportive environment for those in need.

If you would like to help our donation drive to support this worthy cause please provide donations to the school college before the 16th of June and a donation can be made via our QR code. Thank you for your support of this worthy cause.

 

Disney's Beauty and The Beast Comes to the Stage in July

There’s a certain kind of energy that begins to ripple through the College in the lead-up to musical season; late rehearsals, dance calls echoing through corridors, orchestra run-throughs, costume fittings, set pieces taking shape backstage, and students pouring their hearts into every moment. This July, that excitement reaches centre stage as we continue their proud decades-long performing arts tradition with St Bernard’s College for our production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast.

Behind the scenes, the commitment from our cast, crew, orchestra and production teams has been extraordinary. From backstage quick changes to technical rehearsals, choreography sessions, vocal harmonies and set construction, students have been working tirelessly to bring this beloved story to life with remarkable professionalism, creativity and spirit.

Here’s what some of our students had to say…

“The most enjoyable and memorable part of the experience is enjoying the crispy harmonies and being able to sing Beauty and the Beast songs! The songs sound so amazing and being able to support the ensemble with singing makes me glad.” – Mimi, Year 9

 

“The best part of being apart of the backstage team so far has been reconnecting with the people who are in a different year level but are also apart of backstage, other the years I have developed long standing friendships with these people and the demand of school coupled with being in different year levels often means we don’t have time to see each other but because we all are in the backstage team for the musical, we become reunited again. ” – Liliana, Year 12

 

“The atmosphere within the cast and crew feels very professional, welcoming, and supportive. It’s a really enjoyable experience, especially if you want to take a small break from school, reset your mindset, and have fun dancing or singing.” – Eleonora, Year 7

 

Further details, including performance dates and ticket release information, will be shared soon.

Winter Woollies Drive

This term, our Vocational Major class is proud to be running a Winter Woollies Drive to support people in need across Melbourne during the cold winter months. All donations collected will be given to the St Vincent de Paul Society, an organisation that works hard to support individuals and families experiencing homelessness and financial hardship.

Winter can be an especially difficult time for many people, particularly those without access to warm clothing and essential items. We are encouraging students, staff and families to donate winter items that are still in good condition and ready to be reused.

Some examples of helpful donations include:

  • scarves
  • socks (new only)
  • beanies
  • jumpers and hoodies
  • jackets and coats
  • gloves
  • blankets

Before donating, please ensure all items are clean, wearable and in good condition. We want every person receiving these donations to feel cared for and respected.

We sincerely thank everyone who chooses to support the Winter Woollies Drive. Your generosity and kindness will help bring warmth and comfort to members of our community in need.

Donation baskets will be located at both Front Reception and Student Reception.

All donations will be accepted until Wednesday, 17 June.

Thank you for your support and for  making a difference!

Sports News: Hockey

Hockey Competition

On the 7th of May a group of students went out to the State Hockey and Netball Centre in Parkville to compete in the inter school hockey competition. The team consisted of 12 students from years 7-9 who were coached this year by our very own Learning Support Officer, Ed de Salis. It was a really fun competition with 5 games played in total, including a grand final where St Columba’s came out winners, with Tess B Player of the Match!
We learnt a lot about teamwork and it was a great opportunity to have fun with friends, gain some new hockey skills and play against other girls’ schools in a friendly round robin. It was an amazing day overall, and even though the rain was persistent in some of the earlier games, we definitely made it worth it with the championship title! I am looking forward to the opportunity to participate again next year, and strongly encourage anyone who wants to try something new to give it a try!

Sports News: Football

We were invited to Bundoora last week to play a friendly football game against the Parade College senior girls team consisting of their Sports & Recreation VET students from their Preston Campus.  It was a great opportunity for our senior players to get together and play a game before heading to the CGSAV competition in June.  Although our students who are Calder Cannons players were unable to participate, we were lucky enough to have two of them, Chloe C and Alyssia R, co-coach the team.  It was a well matched game but Parade did have quite a few Northern Knights players competing which helped them take out the win.  We were then invited to their club rooms for a presentation, where Charlotte L received a medal for the Player of the Match for STC as the full back who managed to stop many of the goals to allow for only a small difference between scores for the day. Congratulations to all involved.

Student Voice: Finding Community Through SWAT

Being part of the Student Wellbeing Action Team (SWAT) has helped me learn more about supporting others and making students feel included at school. I enjoy being involved in activities and ideas that help improve student wellbeing and create a positive environment around the College.

This year, I have enjoyed working with other students and staff to think of ways to support the school community. It has also helped me grow in confidence, communication, and teamwork skills.

I think it is important for students to feel safe, supported, and connected at school. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s day. I am grateful for the opportunities at St Columba’s College that allow students to share ideas and contribute to the community.

I would also like to say a special thank you to all of the counsellors, wellbeing staff, and house leaders who make such a positive impact on the College community every day, including Mr Arthurson, Ms Hassan, Ms Barrett, Mr Salmond, Ms Galea, Ms Lang, Mr Pino, Marissa, Karen, Rebecca, Charlotte, and Oliviah. Their support, care, guidance, and encouragement help many students feel welcome, heard, and supported throughout their school journey.

Languages Week: Italian Tarantella Dance Workshop

Last Thursday, on the 14th of May, the Year 9 Italian cohort participated in a tarantella workshop run by Rosa, an experienced Italian instructor from the Melbourne School of Tarantella. She taught the classes various steps from her native dance, while also giving a summary of the origin of the dance, creating not only a fun but educational lesson before the dancing even began. Rosa’s goal was to have everyone smiling by the end of her lesson, and she achieved that fairly well. Every student was engaged, and Rosa did an amazing job of encouraging everybody to get involved. Although some students were pulled into the centre of the Tarantella, everyone supported and cheered each other on, making the experience even more enjoyable. By the end of the lesson, the year nines had split off into groups with their friends, continuing the dancing by teaching one another the steps and fully embracing the culture and spirit of the dance.

Languages Week: Japanese

From the 11th to the 15th of May, STC celebrated the cultural diversity of the world as part of Language Week. On the 13th of May, at lunch, students were invited to experience parts of Japanese culture. The four main activities available to try were origami, the ohashi challenge, kendama and yukata (Japanese summer kimono), alongside taste-testing various Japanese snacks and lollies.

Students were able to try on a Yukata, try to beat other students with their chopstick skills, fold origami and (attempt to) do tricks with the traditional Japanese toy, the kendama. The activities were very fun, and we hope that next year, more people will come to have fun as well!

Languages Week: Crêpe Van Visit

Shortly after the morning bell rang, my Year 9 French class headed down to the front of the school, where a French crêpe van was waiting for us as part of Languages Week.

It was a lovely way to start the morning, and the smell of the warm crêpes made everyone excited. Students studying French were encouraged to order their crêpes in French, which gave us a fun opportunity to practice our speaking skills in a real-life conversation. The crêpes were delicious, and many students enjoyed the experience.

All in all, the French crêpe van was a fun and memorable part of Languages Week for students to experience a little bit of French culture and utilise their language skills.

Languages Week: Yoga en français!

For cultural week, my year seven French class was given the amazing opportunity to take part in a French yoga session which was guided by our friendly instructor, Alex. We started our morning session by participating in some light stretches in the room where she introduced herself. Then we moved on to some difficult poses such as the warrior and the downward dog. Alex guided us through these poses in French then translated into English which helped anyone who got lost. She also spoke about our body parts in French which was helpful as we had just learnt about this in class. Instead of only reading or writing French, you were able to hear and understand the language while actively participating in yoga poses and mindfulness exercises. By the end of the 75 minute session we were all feeling relaxed and ready for the day ahead. The opportunity to participate in this was so special as it was extremely fun and engaging as we got to see how French can be spoken outside the classroom. Merci!

 

St Columba’s Discovers Its Future Leaders

Last week, our campus transformed into a high-stakes strategy hub as we hosted the Sustainability Archetype Discovery Event. Forget the old stereotypes of “green teams”, this was about identifying the next generation of industry disruptors, technical architects, and cultural influencers. The energy in the room was electric as students moved through a series of “Identity Labs,” designed to help them uncover which of the 15 Elite Eco Archetypes match their unique personality. We weren’t just looking for volunteers; we were looking for the specific brilliance that each student brings to the table.

The Reveal

The results are in, and the diversity of talent within our community is staggering. We didn’t just find “nature lovers”, we found:

  • Environmental Cultural Liaison Officers,
  • Energy Information Engineers,
  • Futurists,
  • Resource Diplomacy Leads and so much more.

Stay tuned as our newly minted specialists begin to roll out passion projects across the school. The Green Revolution just got a massive upgrade in intelligence, style, and strategic power.

Which archetype is your child? Ask them today, the answer might just surprise you.

Chloe C discovering her eco-archetype

Time For Bed with our Year 11 VCE VM Students

Throughout Term 2, our Year 11 VCE VM students proudly supported the Caroline Chisholm Society Time for Bed Campaign, working together to collect and purchase essential items for vulnerable families in our community.
From bedding and sleepwear to comforting bedtime necessities, these contributions will help create safe, calm and nurturing bedtime routines for children experiencing hardship.
This initiative reflects compassion, social awareness and commitment to justice; encouraging our students to not only recognise the needs of others, but to take meaningful action in response.
We thank our Year 11 students for their generosity and care throughout this important campaign.

Term 2: Career News

Term 2: CAREER NEWS – Newsletter 10  | Monday 24 May – 7 June

Please find below the link and summary of all the information in the Career Newsletter:

Careers Newsletter

Career Newsletter summary:

  • Trade and Tech Fit Career Expo 2026
  • Melbourne Career Expo: 17 – 19 July
  • Geelong Careers Expo 2026
  • Monash UniversityDiscover sessions about a variety of courses, Bachelor of Radiation Therapy, Bachelor of Engineering
  • Kangan InstituteOpen Days & Course Guide
  • Australian Catholic UniversitySessions about a variety of courses, School Holidays Programs & Studying Law 
  • SAE: Create for a Day
  • SwinburneEarly Entry Program & Open Day
  • William AnglissDiscovery Day & Course Guides
  • VUEarly Entry Program
  • RMITHoliday Program, Early Entry Program & Course Guides
  • Bond University2027 Early Entry, Studying Law, Parent Information Webinar & Bachelor of Enterprise Artificial Intelligence
  • Federation University: Course Guide & 2027 Early Entry
  • University Of Melbourne: School Holidays Program   
  • Torrens UniversityFree Interior Design Course  
  • GuidesEntry to Medicine & Subject Selections 
  • Charles Sturt University: Advantage Early Offer Program, Careers in Agriculture and Environment Online Information Night, and Careers in Animal, Equine and Veterinary Sciences Online Information Night & Bachelor Of Engineering                                      
  • Screen CareersEntry Level Roles
  • Claire Pech Careers: Year 12 & Early Entry with ADHD: Online Webinar
  • National Institute of EducationUCAT information
  • Australian Federal Police: Becoming a Protective Service Officer
  • HolmesglenStudying Sports Media at Holmesglen Institute
  • La Trobe UniversityAspire Early Offer Program, Holiday Programs & Nutrition & Dietetics
  • Whitehouse Institute of DesignSchool Holidays Workshop
  • AIEOnline Open Day
  • The Hotel School AustraliaThe Hotel School Tourism Insights
  • CDW StudiosOpen Day
  • UNSW Co-op Program 2027
  • Radiography Career
  • Difference between a Bachelor of Laws and the Juris Doctor
  • Early Entry Guide
  • Open Days 2026
  • Career in Health Information Management
  • Careers in Physical Education
  • Elevate Education Webinar

If you require any further assistance, please DM a member of the Pathways team at  pathways@columba.vic.edu.au

Meet our Music Team!

Jill Thomas – Flute Teacher

Ms Thomas graduated from the University of Melbourne in 2003, having studied flute under the now Head of Woodwind, Derek Jones. She has a varied performance and teaching career in Australia and the UK, including playing in the Melbourne short film Johnny Ghost. Ms Thomas has also performed in a number of school and community musical theatre productions such as Oklahoma, The Wizard of Oz, Man of La Mancha, and Aida. She was also part of the marching band at the Sydney 2000 Olympics Opening Ceremony.

In addition to being a flute specialist, Ms Thomas is an avid chorister. She has sung in the Melbourne Chorale (2006-2011), Choristry Vocal Ensemble (2012-2013) and is a current member of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra Chorus. She has also lived in Spain and is a qualified Spanish teacher. Ms Thomas has an open and enthusiastic approach to teaching the flute and really enjoys helping students achieve their goals.

Gabi Basman – Clarinet Teacher

Gabi is a coveted clarinettist and saxophonist with a Bachelor of Music (Jazz Performance) from the Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music at Monash University. Gabi studied under some of Australia’s best jazz musicians such as Julien Wilson, Angela Davis, Carl Mackey and Robert Burke. Throughout his studies, he collaborated on projects with local and international artists, appearing on two ‘Monash Sessions’ albums with world-renowned percussionist John Hollenbeck, and local piano hero Paul Grabowsky AO. Gabi regularly plays gigs within the Melbourne jazz scenes in venues such as the Paris Cat and the Jazzlab (formerly Bennetts Lane).

Gabi has been teaching woodwind instruments in private and public school settings since 2021, developing a unique approach to music learning where students feel empowered and inspired to create music. He focuses on creating an inviting environment for students to explore the music they love, and encourages exploring new music to develop and grow. Gabi’s background in jazz improvisation and classical music allows his students to explore various genres in their musical journeys, weaving in important theory and musical history studies to contextualise learning.  He is also experienced in conducting small and large ensembles, ranging from clarinet quartets to big bands and more. Gabi believes in creating consistent and approachable practice habits to allow students to continue improving sustainably and enjoy their musical journey.

Academic Excellence Scholarships

St Columba’s College is pleased to offer Academic Excellence Scholarships for students entering Year 7 in 2028, as well as Year 9 and Year 11 in 2027.

If you believe your child may be interested in this opportunity, we encourage you to visit the College website for more details and to complete the registration process.

All applicants will receive a report outlining their achievement levels in each area assessed.

Scholarship Testing Date: Saturday, 25 July 2026
Registration Closing Date: Friday, 17 July 2026

Please note that practice papers are not available, as testing is conducted by an external provider, Academic Assessment Services.

For further details and to apply, visit: columba.vic.edu.au/scholarships/

Year 9 Mock Interviews

St Columba’s College is seeking parents, friends of the College, and alumnae professionals to support our Year 9 students by volunteering as interviewers for our annual Mock Interviews, held as part of the College Pathways Program.

Across three evenings in September, students will take part in face-to-face mock interviews designed to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and prepare them for future employment and pathway opportunities.

Volunteer interviewers will conduct interviews on-site and provide valuable feedback and encouragement to our students as they begin developing these important life skills.

📍 St Columba’s College, Essendon
📅 Monday 14 September, Tuesday 15 September & Wednesday 16 September
⏰ 5.30pm – 8.30pm

This is always a meaningful opportunity to give back to the next generation while sharing your professional insight and experience. If you are interested in being involved, we kindly invite you to complete the following form by Monday 20 July: https://forms.gle/K7tw5Qjuun3YQgn6A

Please note, a current Working with Children Check is compulsory for all participants. Those without a Volunteer WWCC can apply free of charge via the link: service.vic.gov.au/services/working-with-children

Should you have any questions, please contact Ms Rosalba D’Astoli, Pathways Leader on 9337 5311 or email dastoliiannuzzir@columba.vic.edu.au

Astwood Netball Coaching and Development Program

At St Columba’s College, we are proud to be the home of the official Astwood Netball Coaching and Development Program; an established high-performance pathway delivering elite coaching, skill development and meaningful opportunities for aspiring netballers across all levels of the game.

Since launching at the College in 2025, the program has continued to grow in both reach and reputation under the leadership of renowned coach and former England representative Jenna Astwood. Bringing more than 15 years of international and Australian coaching experience directly to our courts, Jenna’s background spans Super League competition with Northern Thunder, alongside coaching leadership roles across Melbourne University, PEGS, Overnewton, Essendon Netball Club and JIKA State Titles programs.

What sets Astwood Netball apart is its philosophy; developing the next generation of confident, intelligent and resilient athletes within a strong and connected community, offering:

🏐 Weekly High Performance Academy sessions
🏐 School holiday development camps
🏐 Intensive specialist clinics: attack, defence and goals
🏐 One-on-one and semi-private coaching
🏐 Club specialist training
🏐 Coach-to-coaches mentoring & development

With the next School Holiday Camp taking place on 1–2 July, and academy sessions continuing throughout the term, Astwood Netball is continuing to establish itself as a destination for netball development in Melbourne’s north-west.

 

For more information, please contact astwoodnetball@gmail.com.

The Latest Insights from Dr Justin Coulson

What 40 Years of Research Says Kids Actually Need

We all have those nights… We’re running late, dinner is burning, the phone is ringing, and at least one child is dramatically upset. As we push through the frantic chaotic stressful moments, we become aware of our youngest child, vying for some attention amid the stress. “I know you want me. I’ll be right there”, we say as we race past our little one time and again. “Just let me take care of this and I’ll be with you.” “I hear you… I’m coming in just a minute.” Finally, in a burst of exasperation these words cut through the noise and endless to-do list; “Mummy (or Daddy)… I NEED you!”

The Job That Never Clocks Off

Sometimes it would be nice to not be so needed. If only we could stop being a parent at 8pm (or 6pm!). Life would be so much simpler if we could clock off for the day, like an employee. But parenting doesn’t work like that. It’s an on-call 24-hour a day, non-stop role. The ongoing, always-at-the-ready, nature of being a parent makes it extremely challenging to always be there for our children – to always be emotionally available. But that is precisely what they need – a parent who is emotionally available. And it is the single most important thing we can be to create a happy, peaceful home, and a happy, secure child.

Read the full article here via the link.

 

Don’t Burn The Chicken

Hands up who wants their kids to fulfil their potential? If you’re not putting up your hand, there’s a good chance someone might call Social Services or Child Protection. We’re all supposed to want to see our kids succeed, do their best, and fulfil their potential, right? I have a provocation: research shows that the parents who get the best long-term outcomes from their kids are often the ones who learn to push a little less. This doesn’t mean they don’t care. Nor does it mean they have zero expectations. There’s a central element that makes this work – and that variable is trust. This is counterintuitive. But stay with me for a moment. A friend recently shared an image of two roast chickens. One cooked at 900°F (480°C) for an hour – black, shrivelled, ruined. The other cooked at 300°F (150°C) for three hours – golden, perfect, exactly what a good meal should look like. (Although I’d think two hours would probably be enough.) Same bird. Entirely different outcome. The only thing different was the temperature. It’s a confronting metaphor for parenting because, if we’re honest, many of us are running our households – and our children – pretty hot.

Read the full article here via the link.

Catholic School Parents Victoria Relaunch

Catholic School Parents Victoria (CSPV) has been re-established to strengthen the voice of parents and carers in Catholic education across Victoria, recognising parents as the first educators and key partners in their child’s learning, wellbeing and faith journey.

CSPV is guided by a Council of parent representatives from across the state, ensuring that the diverse perspectives of families in Catholic schools are reflected in its work and advocacy.

We invite you to explore the CSPV website at Catholic School Parents Victoria, where you will find a wealth of information and resources to support your parenting journey within Catholic education, including guidance on wellbeing, faith, learning and key issues impacting families. You can also subscribe via the website to join the CSPV community, receive the quarterly newsletter and be invited to upcoming events. You can also connect with CSPV on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook to access valuable insights, updates and practical resources.

You may even spot St Columba’s College featured throughout the website; we were delighted to be involved in the recent photo shoot supporting the relaunch of CSPV.

Together, we can continue to strengthen the partnership between families, schools and the wider Catholic community.

Visit: https://cspv.catholic.edu.au/

 

 

Important Dates

2 June – PEC Mother/Daughter Movie Night

8 June – King’s Birthday Public Holiday

18 June – St Columba’s Day Celebration

19 June – Assessment and Reporting Day

23 June – Year 11 Reflection Day

25 June – Combined Music with St Bernard’s

26 June – End of Term 2