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and of the Holy Spirit.
Let us rejoice in Jesus the teacher.
His words have opened up worlds of discovery
and learning for all who will listen.
Let us rejoice in the Spirit
who helps us grow in faith
as we search for truth our whole life long.
Let us rejoice in God the Father and Creator
whose love for us was so great he sent
his only Son that we may have a new life.
We pray for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,
the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit
is with us always.
Amen.
I have a very clear memory of a lesson in primary school where our teacher tried to explain the Trinity to us. She drew a triangle, spoke of the three leaved clover and then tried the three states of matter: water, ice and mist. None of it made much sense and left us more than a little confused.
You can go around in circles trying to explain the mystery of the Trinity; that we believe in one God who is three persons. It can really do your head in. ‘It took the Church centuries to find a satisfactory form of words to describe a reality which is beyond words. It is better not to think of the Trinity as an exercise in logic. It is better to think of the Trinity as the way we experience God. God is a community of love’. (Michael McGirr) A community of love that draws us in; a community that is welcoming and inclusive; a community where love is given and received, shared and accepted.
Our school motto invites us to love others as Jesus loved us. It is about relationships and invites us into a deep relationship with God and others; family, school, parish, local and broader community. God is continually inviting us into this dynamic relationship of love. His invitation is unconditional. It is for everyone.
Feast Day
Last Friday we enjoyed a terrific Feast Day. The day began with mass which was followed by pastoral care activities and then the highly anticipated Feast Day carnival. Everyone was in fine spirits and it was a perfect day in all ways.
Thank you to Fr. Vincent from Holy Eucharist parish who led the celebration of mass and to the students and staff who prepared our liturgy: the choir, the liturgy team, readers, servers and those who led the gathering rite and prayers.
Thank you also to the staff and students who organized the pastoral care activities, helped with setting up the carnival and assisted in cleaning up at the end of the day.
As always, Feast Day is the work of many hands. We’re very appreciative of the assistance of friends and family on days such as this.
The Feast Day carnival was once again a winner. Thank you to Mr. Kevin Quinn, Mr Hayden O’Doherty and the Student Leaders on an outstanding job in organizing the carnival.
Building Update
With the installation of windows and work on the external cladding beginning tomorrow, the new Design and Technology Centre continues to take shape. It is expected that the building will be completed in mid-July, Weeks 2-3 of Term 3. The project is currently 88% completed.
During the upcoming holidays, the current Technology room and canteen will be demolished in preparation for the opening of the new centre. It is the only building that remains from the days when the College site was used by Sacred Heart parish and primary school. The building started life as the YCW hall. It was the venue for First Communion breakfasts, film nights and parish dances. In later years, the children’s TV show, Shirl’s Neighbourhood filmed an episode there. Like all old school buildings, it holds many wonderful stories, has been the site of much learning and creativity and has served us well.
Key Dates Term 2 2023
| Monday 12 June | King's Birthday (holiday) |
| Tuesday 13 June - Monday 19 June | Years 9 & 10 Exams |
| Thursday 22 June |
Final day Term 2 – students Year 8 Reflection Day Year 10 University / TAFE Taster Day |
| Friday 23 June | Report Preparation Day – Final day Term 2 - staff |
Feast Day and Reconciliation Week
Our Feast Day Mass marked the beginning of Reconciliation Week this year (26th May). To celebrate this day we have decided to explore this year's theme "to be known and loved.". The theme sounds straight-forward, but history tells us that, at times, some people within society are neither known nor loved. Often our First Nations people have been unknown, unnamed and uncounted.
The Gospel included in our feast day Mass tells of a time when Jesus gathered with a crowd and blessed and broke 5 loaves and 2 fish to feed 4000 people. But some among the crowd were not counted: unnamed and unknown
While Matthew notes that those literally ‘counted’ in the miracle of the loaves and fishes were only the men, it reflects a bigger question - who ‘counts’ in society; who matters?
In our Religious education classes we explored how people being uncounted was also a part of Australia’s history when our indigenous peoples were not counted?
At the time of Federation in 1901, our indigenous people were not considered citizens of the country they had been born in. They could not vote and were not counted in any census. It is only in recent years that we have come to learn about the history and culture of our first nations people.
As this year's school theme is to be `Known and Loved’, each Religion class researched key parts of our local Wurundjeri community, such as language, sacred places and significant people. The Social Justice Team on Feast Day prepared a Wurrunderji Kahoot which each homeroom played to cement their knowledge.
The following is a prayer for Reconciliation Week from the Melbourne Archdiocese.
Lord, open up our hearts so that we may hear the message you teach of a world in which the wrongs of the past are recognised - a world in which a reconciled people walk and talk together sharing stories; a world in which all burn with the desire to have your peace and justice reign. We ask this in Jesus’ name.
No Words
Yr 9 Humanities
Wellbeing For Learning
Joyful June
In this bustling month of June, as we navigate through various challenges, let us remember that it's the little things that truly make life extraordinary. Even on the most difficult days, we have the power to create small moments of everyday joy.
Please see the Joyful June calendar with delightful activities designed to foster positive emotions. By sharing this calendar with others, we can spread the joy and uplift those around us.
Let us embark on a mission to seek out and share more of these precious moments throughout the month. By appreciating the simple pleasures in life, we not only strengthen our own resilience but also bring happiness to others.
Together, let's make June a month filled with boundless joy and shared experiences that will leave a lasting impact on our school community.
Prioritising Health and Wellbeing During Exam and Assessment Season
As we approach the end of the semester, we understand that examination and assessment tasks may be a source of stress and anxiety for our students. In these challenging times, it becomes even more important to take care of our health and wellbeing.
We want to remind our school community that our students physical and mental health should always come first. Success is not solely defined by academic achievements but also by the overall wellbeing of each individual.
Here are some key points to keep in mind during this crucial period:
- Maintain a Balanced Routine: Establish a study schedule that allows for breaks, exercise, and adequate sleep. A well-rested mind performs better, and regular physical activity can reduce stress and increase focus.
- Nourish Your Body: Fuel yourself with nutritious meals and snacks that provide energy and support brain function. Avoid excessive caffeine and opt for healthier alternatives, such as herbal tea or fruit-infused water.
- Seek Support: Reach out to your teachers, mentors, or support staff if you're feeling overwhelmed. They are here to guide and assist you during this time. Additionally, don't hesitate to talk to family and friends about your concerns. Sharing your feelings can provide relief and a fresh perspective.
- Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it's reading a book, listening to music, taking a walk-in nature, or spending quality time with loved ones, make time for yourself and prioritise self-care.
- Stay Positive and Manage Stress: Maintain a positive mindset and believe in your abilities. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, to manage stress and stay focused.
Remember, your health and wellbeing are of utmost importance. By taking care of yourselves during this demanding period, you'll be better equipped to handle the challenges and perform at your best.
We, as a school community, are here to support you every step of the way. Together, let's prioritise our health, find balance, and celebrate our achievements while fostering a positive and nurturing environment.
Our school will once again be taking part in The Push-Up Challenge this June and would love you to get involved and encourage your family members too.
This year, participants in The Push-Up Challenge will complete 3,144 push-ups over 23 days to raise awareness and funds for mental health.
Sounds like too many push-ups? No probs, alternatives to push-ups are allowed - think squats, lunges or sit-ups - and many people opt to take on half the target instead (that's 1,572 over 23 days).
It all kicks off on 1 June and is free to take part. We'll log our push-ups via the app, where you can check on how others in our team are going too.
Keen to get involved, or just check out our team:
https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/fundraisers/crcstalbans/the-push-up-challenge
It would be great to have you join us in the push for better mental health.
CRC St Albans - Collaborating School
This year Catholic Regional College is proudly collaborating with the Cyber Safety Project to facilitate cyber safety education with parents and guardians. By uncovering the risks of learning, connecting and playing online, parents and guardians will be empowered to support their child(ren) with important conversations to navigate the online world safely.
Our Year 7 and 8 educators are equipped with a sequenced cyber safety curriculum mapped to the Victorian framework, which underpins key values for a strong foundation for online safety and digital wellbeing.
The Cyber Safety Project is endorsed by the eSafety Commissioner as a Trusted eSafety Provider. To further support cyber safety education at home, you can find helpful online home safety guides, conversation checklists and resources for creating a safe digital environment at home via cybersafetyproject.com.au
Additional online safety support resources:
- Report online harms including cyber bullying, image-based abuse or illegal and harmful content - eSafety.gov.au
- Report child exploitation material to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation - accce.gov.au
- If your child is immediate danger call 000.
Parent Seminar - Raising Resilient Teens
Members of our school community are invited to a free parent workshop (in-person) Navigating Adolescence, led by highly respected psychologist Maria Ruberto.
This 1.5-hour workshop will focus on the signs, steps and strategies to help teens navigate the challenges they face in our changing world. Parents/Carers will walk away with knowledge but also a range of tools to set their child up for success. This really is a must-attend event!
- Current Australian Data on Health and Resilience
- Outcomes of the Australian Childhood Foundation Study
- The Impact of Lockdown on Mental Fitness
- Understanding Basic Brain Function in Your Child
- The Role of Emotional Literacy
- Mental Fitness + Think Up
- Moments of Connections and Positive Communication
When: Thursday 8 June, 7:00pm – 8:30 pm
Where: Collaborative Space, CRC North Keilor, 1c Santa Monica Drive, Keilor Lodge
PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A PARENT-ONLY EVENT (i.e., no children)
How to Register: If parents/guardians/ carers/staff could please confirm your attendance by filling in the RSVP Google Form by no later than 5th of June:
QUATREFOILS Restaurant - CRC Sydenham
We are excited to introduce you all to our new front of house trainer in Quatrefoils. Bradley Lark will be working closely with our students to ensure they build fantastic service skills.
Current dates, Winter Warmers Menu ($35pp):
Coming up we have a menu of winter warmers to keep the winter chill at bay. The menu will feature hot soup, gnocchi and delicious desserts for those with a sweet tooth. At only $35pp for a 3-course dinner come in and support our students as they learn new skills and techniques.
Bookings for our Winter Warmers menu are currently available for 6.30pm on the following dates:
June
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- Thursday 8th of June
- Tuesday 13th of June
- Wednesday 14th of June
Midwinter Christmas Menu ($45pp):
We will also be accepting bookings for our exciting midwinter Christmas dinners for the following dates:
July
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- Tuesday 18th of July
- Wednesday 19th of July
- Thursday 20th of July
- Tuesday 25th of July
August
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- Tuesday 1st of August
- Wednesday 2nd of August
- Thursday 3rd of August
Beverages are available for purchase through our fully licensed bar, with mocktail and cocktail specials. We also have a children's (under 12's) menu available which includes unlimited soft drinks for only $15 each.
Bookings for all dinners and events are available for 6.30pm and can be made by emailing quatrefoils@crcs.vic.edu.au
Please include:
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- the date you would like to book
- a contact name
- a contact number or email
- the number of guests
- any dietary requirements
We will have more dates released soon. Thank you for supporting our students and the Hospitality programs at Catholic Regional College, Sydenham.
Quatrefoils parking and entry via Gate 10 Pecks Road.
Level 2 of the Trade Training Centre, Catholic Regional College, Sydenham.
School Holiday Programs
The Huddle
Huddle Holidays is a FREE school holiday program that services 8-18 year olds with a particular focus on ensuring young people learn, grow and belong. The Winter Huddle Holiday Program is packed with SIX unique activities.
- 8-12 year olds (juniors) can sign up to Bounce; our premier Multi-Art Superclinic where participants try screen printing, acting, drumming and more all in one place; and celebrating Winter on the ice by skating at ICEHQ.
- Seniors (13-18 years) can join an existing team or start their own for our 'social' and 'competitive' volleyball tournament at Eagle Stadium, Werribee; jump on the ice rink like the juniors at ICEHQ; and lastly, young women can learn self-defence in a private space - Mum’s and guardians welcome!
Catering and transport (for some activities) is provided. Registrations are currently CLOSED; we encourage those interested to sign up to our waitlist using the links below
Sign up for junior activities here (8-12 year olds) https://thehuddle.secure.force.com/r/huddleholidaysjunior
Sign up for senior activities here (13-18 year olds) https://thehuddle.secure.force.com/r/huddleholidayssenior
MELBOURNE VICTORY FOOTBALL CLUB SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM
Melbourne Victory’s free Holiday Program for secondary students is back!
Two programs will run in the Winter School Holidays:
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- 26 – 29 June for the South and East Schools
- 3 – 6 July for the North and West Schools
The Melbourne Victory Autumn Holiday Program will provide secondary school students with the opportunity to engage with Melbourne Victory staff, coaches and players, as well as participate in excursions, education, and employment sessions. Participants will have the opportunity to develop leadership and teamwork skills, while also learning and improving their football skills and knowledge through daily training sessions and games.
For more information contact:community@mvfc.com.au
To registration visit: Melbourne Victory Autumn School Holiday Program Registration
ON TRACK 21
Mushroom Group are super excited to open registrations for the ON TRACK 21 school holiday immersive music experience. ON TRACK is an exciting and energetic holiday music experience giving high school students a unique opportunity to get up close with some of Melbourne’s finest talent!
ON TRACK is FREE and open to high school students aged 12-18 years
GET CREATIVE, GET ON TRACK!
ON TRACK is coming to Wellington Secondary College, Mulgrave, Monday June 26 – Friday June 30.
Across 5 days participant’s will:
- Channel their experiences and write a collaborative track
- Lay down demos with ON TRACK’s “Studio In A Box”
- Find their voice and take the stage and perform their tracks on Music Celebration Day
ON TRACK is completely FREE for students, with travel vouchers provided in advance.
PLUS, lunch, refreshments and PRIZES up for grabs every day.
Check out www.ontrackmusic.com.au for information and to place expressions of interest and confirm registrations. Please email ontrack@mushroomgroup.com for further information