St Aloysius College Old Scholar, teacher, Sister of Mercy and social justice advocate Sr Janet Mead left an extraordinary legacy in Adelaide and beyond. Best known internationally for her groundbreaking recording of The Lord’s Prayer, Sr Janet also devoted her life to education, compassion and service, founding the Adelaide Day Centre for Homeless Persons — a place where SAC students continue her mission today through weekly volunteering and outreach.
A proposal is currently being considered to rename the section of Queen Street between Angas Street and Carrington Street to “Sister Janet Mead Street” in honour of her enduring contribution to music, education, social justice and the Adelaide community.We warmly encourage our SAC community to support this meaningful recognition of a woman whose Mercy spirit continues to inspire generations.
Acknowledgement of Country
From the Principal - Issue #8, 2026
Principal
The cooler autumn weather has kicked in, and we appreciate the support of students in wearing their blazers to and from school. The extra layer, whether in the new or old model, gives the uniform an element of formality as well as keeping us warm on those chilly mornings. Thanks to everyone who has supported the transition in this very busy start to our term.
The Year 12 Drama Production, Shape of Mind, was a thoughtful reflection on how childhood experiences shape the person we become. The play allowed for a wide range of performances, from tears to laughter, with some musical interludes. There was a strong rapport amongst the cast, who were skilfully directed by Lucy Dilger. Thanks to the many families who came along – your support and encouragement mean the world to the students.
The Colour Run last Friday was a great success, raising over $10000 in total for the charities we support: the Adelaide Day Centre, Catherine House, Carrington Cottages and Mercy Works. Seeing those beaming faces running towards us as we let loose with the paint was so much fun. Thanks to the many parents who volunteered on the day and, of course, our incredible staff whose positive outlook is the key to every event’s success. Deputy Principal Jacqui Mcilroy works hard for months to bring this event together, and the Physical Education and Maintenance teams were out early setting up the course last Friday. The rain didn’t dampen our spirits and we thank everyone for their goodwill and generosity.
It has been the biggest fortnight of the year for our Careers Counsellor, Julie Stephenson. In Week 3, Julie provided students of all ages a chance to explore career pathways, from dressing up in the early years through to a Careers Expo for our senior students and much more. It was a week full of fun and possibility. Then in Week 4, all our Year 10 students headed off on their Work Experience placement, a central part of their Stage 1 subject, Exploring Identities and Futures. Having the chance to work alongside someone in a field of interest is a rare opportunity, and we know it will support students to make more informed choices around subjects and pathways.
The funeral for Sr Bernadette Marks RSM will be held next Friday, 29/5 at 10:30am at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church at Henley Beach. Sr Bernadette was the Dux of the College in 1955 and taught at SAC from 1980 to 1989. I was lucky enough to have Sr Bernadette as my Year 12 Maths teacher. She brought her incredible intellect to the Maths classroom, along with her joyful disposition. Her genuine love for the beauty of mathematics was a gift, and she devoted her life to sharing that love of learning with her students. May she Rest in Peace.
Year 8 and 9 students are very excited about the Social that will take place tonight at the Italian Club on Carrington St. 200 guests from CBC, Rostrevor and Blackfriars will come along to dance the night away with 200 SAC students. Forming friendships with students from our partner schools that often travel well beyond their high school years is a highlight for many middle years students. We hope that it will be a fun and memorable occasion for all who attend.
Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal
Young Voices, Big Impact
The Year 5 students have been exploring Laudato Si’ and what it means to care for our “Common Home.” As part of their Religious Education assessment, they researched environmental issues, examined their impact on vulnerable people, and were challenged to take action. Inspired by their learning, Poppy, Ava and Yasmin took this challenge a step further. While investigating the issue of fast fashion, they were so engaged that they chose to write a letter to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, sharing their concerns and ideas for change.
Over the holiday break, an exciting surprise arrived…a reply from the Prime Minister himself. In his letter, he thanked the girls for sharing their ideas, acknowledged the importance of young voices, and described them as “the thinkers and innovators of the future,” encouraging them to keep making a positive difference. This special moment captures the true spirit of the task and Pope Francis’ message in Laudato Si’, not just learning about change, but actively being part of it for the good of all. We are incredibly proud of their compassion, initiative and willingness to make a difference.
Mr Aaron Casey
Year 5 Teacher
Walking the Yorke - An Outdoor Adventure to Remember
The Stage 1 Outdoor Education classes ventured to Dhilba Guuranda - Innes National Park for their Semester 1 Bushwalking Camp.
The groups were blessed with ideal conditions, comfortable for walking and favourable for spotting wildlife along the way. Stenhouse Bay was the site of our first campsite and we were treated to a stunning sunset before preparing the site and cooking nourishing meals. A crisp morning greeted the groups as the staff and students readied themselves to head off toward Pondalowie Bay via the historic township of Inneston. Both the Year 10 and Year 11 classes were in good spirits as they navigated ~15km of the Walk The Yorke trail, encompassing the Thomson-Pfitzner Plaster Trail Hike, stopping for a well-earned lunch break at the salt lake shared with some inquisitive Emus.
Once set up at our second campsite, students again prepared meals and enjoyed marshmallows around the campfire before resting weary bodies with an early night.
The final morning allowed for a visit to Cape Spencer Lighthouse, with clear visibility across the Southern Spencer Gulf to Kangaroo Island and breathtaking views of the rugged coastline on offer.
Mr Michael Heath
Outdoor Ed Coordinator
Confidence, Collaboration & Success in Debating
What a wonderful start to our 2026 debating season for our Year 6 to Year 11 students and their coaches. For our middle school students in Week 2, six out of our 7 debating teams won their debates. And for our Year 6s, 10s and Seniors in Week 3, 3 out of 4 teams won! Additionally, all teams were awarded Best Speaker of the Night, an incredible achievement that reflects the preparation, confidence, and teamwork demonstrated by our students.
Debating continues to provide students with invaluable opportunities to develop a wide range of lifelong skills. Through preparing arguments, responding to opposing viewpoints, and presenting under pressure, students strengthen their critical thinking, public speaking, collaboration, and persuasive communication abilities. Debating also encourages students to become informed and engaged learners who can thoughtfully analyse complex issues and articulate their ideas with confidence and respect.
Beyond competition results, the debating program fosters resilience, leadership, and strong peer connections, while giving students the chance to challenge themselves in a supportive and encouraging environment. We congratulate all students and coaches on such a positive beginning to the season and look forward to seeing our debaters continue to grow throughout the year.
Year 7 Science Forces in Action!
This term, the Year 7 Science students have been exploring the topic of Forces through a range of engaging hands-on practical activities. Students investigated balanced and unbalanced forces by observing how different forces affect the movement of a ball. They also explored air pressure and motion by blowing through straws to move table tennis balls, and examined buoyancy and water resistance by pushing balloons underwater. In addition, students investigated magnetic forces and how magnets attract and repel different materials. Through these experiments, students developed their scientific inquiry skills, made observations, recorded results, and improved their understanding of how forces act in everyday situations.
Ms Philippa Smitheram
Year 7 Science Teacher
Youth Ambassadors Take on Teambuilding, Dancing, and Storytelling
Nine excellent students from SAC embarked on a life-changing adventure as Youth Ambassadors at a camp hosted by the Australian Refugee Association (ARA) which was held at Woodhouse from Monday 11 to Wednesday 13 May. The two-night, three-day experience was packed with excitement, learning and inspiration. Throughout the camp, the students took part in a variety of engaging workshops and activities including Challenge Hill, team-building games, drumming, dancing, singing, creative arts, storytelling, and public speaking. They explored refugee and migrant experiences, discovered Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures through stories and dance, and deepened their understanding of identity, resilience, personal growth, and wellbeing.
Ms Suzy Penberthy
EAL/D Coordinator
Off to Parliament House!
During Week 3 of Term 2, our Year 6 cohort visited Parliament House, taking part in a rich, hands‑on learning experience. This excursion complemented our HASS unit on Federation in Australia, as well as our English focus on persuasive writing. Students were selected to roleplay the parliamentary process by debating and passing a bill to ban homework for students, a motion they argued persuasively and successfully won! The experience provided an engaging insight into Australia’s democratic system while strengthening students’ confidence, teamwork, and communication skills.
Year 6 Teachers
Where Science Collides with Art
Year 11 Art students recently visited the Waterhouse Natural Science Art Prize exhibition, a celebrated biennial event that highlights the enduring relationship between scientific research and the creative arts. The exhibition explores themes connected to the environment and humanity’s impact on the natural world, providing students with both inspiration and insight for their current studies.
This experience closely connected with the students’ current Art unit, which focuses on The Natural World alongside the broader theme of Keep Rising. Drawing on ideas and inspiration from the exhibition, students will create artworks that reflect on how the natural world inspires, sustains, and helps them to “Keep Rising”.
These works will later be showcased as part of our SALA Festival exhibition later this year.
From the Languages Coordinator
Languages Coordinator
La Dolce Vita Recap in Italia!
Over the April school holidays, 26 SAC students had the amazing opportunity to travel to Italy as part of a study tour. During our time there, we visited Rome, Sorrento, Florence, Venice, and Milan, as well as relaxing during a farm stay in Gubbio. In each city, we saw and experienced so many things that it is difficult to summarise them all!
We began in Rome, where we marvelled at the ancient sights such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican, where we were lucky enough to see Pope Leo at Easter Mass.
Next was Sorrento, where we were amazed by the picturesque views of the Amalfi Coast and the sheer amount of lemon-themed souvenirs. Then came the farm stay in Gubbio, where, after a quick trip to the Baci factory for a chocolate-making class, we were met with a range of cute animals and delicious tiramisu. From Gubbio, we also took a quick day trip to Assisi and saw the beautiful St. Francis of Assisi Church.
In Florence, our suitcases gained a few kilos (courtesy of Subdued and Brandy Melville), and we were immersed in language and culture through visits to the Uffizi Gallery and the Statue of David, alongside Italian language lessons. We also spent a few hours in Pisa, where we climbed to the top of the Leaning Tower and took the obligatory tourist photos.
Then it was off to Venice for mask-making, gondola rides, and tours of St Mark’s Basilica, the Belltower, and the Doge’s Palace. Finally, after a quick pit stop in Verona to see Juliet’s balcony, we came to the final city, Milan. Here, we saw the beautiful and luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and, of course, the famous Milan Duomo.
This experience was absolutely incredible and taught us so much about Italian culture and language, and definitely inspired us to continue learning the language. We can’t wait to go back one day!
Edie Starick (Year 12 student)
Languages Leader 2026
From the Careers Department
Careers & VET Coordinator
Shaping Our Future at SAC - Careers Week 2026
National Careers Week was a vibrant celebration across the school, with students from Reception to Year 12 engaging in a wide range of activities designed to inspire curiosity, exploration, and future pathways. Throughout the week, students were encouraged to think about their strengths, interests, and the many opportunities that await them in the world of work.
Our youngest learners in Reception and Year 1 enjoyed story time sessions and participated in a fun “What’s in the Bag?” activity, where they explored different professions and began imagining what careers they may pursue in the future.
Students in Years 2 and 4 embraced STEM learning through an exciting coding experience facilitated by Robogals, a student-led group from Adelaide University. The sessions encouraged creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving, culminating in an entertaining and competitive robot battle.
Year 3 students took a more personal approach to career exploration as Tracker the dog investigated a variety of workplaces to learn about the jobs of family members and friends. This helped students recognise the many important roles within our community and strengthened connections between school and home.
Year 5 students participated in Primary First Aid training with St John Ambulance Australia, gaining valuable practical skills and confidence in responding to emergency situations.
Meanwhile, students in Years 6–8 enjoyed an interactive old scholar scavenger hunt and career emoji quiz, encouraging them to think creatively about future careers and pathways while learning from the experiences of former students.
All primary students had the opportunity to participate in a career themed dress up day and the range of outfits of our aspiring students were impressive!
The McAuley Auditorium was abuzz with energy as employers and education providers gathered for the SAC Careers Expo. Students in Years 9–12 had the opportunity to engage with industry representatives, tertiary institutions, and training organisations, gaining valuable insight into post-school opportunities and career possibilities.
We are incredibly grateful to all external organisations, presenters, and community members who generously supported National Careers Week. Their involvement helped create meaningful and memorable experiences for our students, and we thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation in making the week such a success.
Ms Julie Stephenson
Careers & VET Coordinator
From the Study Tours Coordinator
Study Tours Coordinator
Cultural Connections with Thailand
In Weeks 1 and 2 of Term 2, we had the pleasure of hosting seven students from Thailand as part of a study tour with ECE (Educational Cultural Exchange). The students, aged 12 to 17, spent time with classes in 7AC, 8AM, 9AK, 10LZ, 11TC and 11MV.
This was a wonderful opportunity for students to build friendships, share experiences, and develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of different cultures.
The success of the tour was made possible by the warm welcome and kindness shown by our students and staff. A special thank you goes to our student buddies, whose enthusiasm, care and willingness to connect helped make the experience so positive and memorable for our guests.
One of the highlights of the visit was the Thai Exhibition presented for the eight SAC buddies and students of 10LZ. Students enjoyed learning more about Thai culture through displays about Thailand and Thai boxing, as well as sharing a delicious feast of Thai food.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this study tour such a valuable and enjoyable experience. The friendships formed and cultural connections made will be remembered for years to come.
Ms Michelle Barratt
Study Tours Coordinator
From the Primary Sport Coordinator
Ms Zoe Duffy
Primary Sport Coordinator
A Big Term of Primary Sport So Far!
Year 6 students Shine at the SACPSSA Lacrosse Carnival!
Our Year 6 students proudly represented the school at the recent SACPSSA Lacrosse Carnival on Tuesday 19 May, showcasing fantastic skill, sportsmanship, and team spirit throughout the day.
The carnival provided a valuable opportunity for students to develop their lacrosse skills, build confidence, and enjoy the experience of representing their school at a competitive level.
KnockOut Sport Kicks Off!
Good luck to our Knockout Soccer & Knock Out AFL teams as they compete in their respective Round 1 matches in the coming weeks.
Year 3 vs Year 4 Soccer Showdown!
Our Year 3 and Year 4 soccer teams recently took to the field in a friendly but competitive match against each other. It was fantastic to see students enjoying the game and demonstrating their developing skills despite the early morning start!
The match was closely contested, with both teams showing great determination and teamwork. The Year 3 team managed to edge ahead with a 2–0 victory. Well done to all players for their effort, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm - it was a great display of teamwork and school spirit!
Netball Teams Ready to Bounce Back!
Our Term 2 Year 5/6 Netball Teams and Year 5/6 KO Netball Team had their carnival cancelled due to inclement weather earlier this term. Despite the disappointment we are looking forward to them competing at the upcoming SACPSSA Catholic Carnival and North East Region Participation Carnival at the end of the term.
Cross Country Stars Go the Distance!
Congratulations to our Cross Country Team who competed at the East Adelaide Trials on Friday 8 May. Students represented the school with determination, showing resilience and giving their very best effort across all races. Well done to Keira who was selected in the SAPSASA Team to compete at the State Championships in June. We wish her the best of luck!
From the Secondary Sport Coordinator
Secondary Sport Coordinator
Winter Sport Well Underway
Winter sport is well and truly underway, with Round 4 competitions to take place this week across Australian Football, Badminton, Soccer and Netball.
A reminder to please log any known absences through clipboard so that fill-ins can be sourced before gameday.
Goals, Grit & Great Teamwork in Soccer!
Netball in Action!
Girls AFL Returns to the Field!
It’s been a couple of years since SAC has entered an Australian Rules Football team in the SACSSGSA competition, so we are thrilled to have enough numbers for an open AFL team this winter! Our Year 9-12 girls have had some really competitive matches over the first few 4 rounds of their 12-a-side home and away season, with a win against Mercedes and Loreto, as well as a very close loss against St Ignatius. With only 1 more game to go before finals, we are excited to see how they progress in the coming weeks.
Re-grading: You will notice that there are only 4 games in the clipboard calendar for badminton and soccer, and only 5 games for netball. This is because each team is placed in a division at the beginning of the season and after Round 4 or 5, the association will look over results and rearrange fixtures / move teams if they believe they are more suited to a higher or lower division.
Round 5 fixtures for soccer and badminton should be released by Thursday 28 May. Round 6 fixtures for netball will be released after the long weekend.
Long weekend – No games: Please note that there are no games on Wednesday 3 June (AFL) and Saturday 6th June due to the long weekend.
Interschool & Knockout Sport
SACSSGSA Swimming Carnival
In Week 2, the SAC swim team competed at the annual SACSSGSA Swimming Carnival. The girls had some strong individual performances across all age groups, and as a team were able to take out both the U13 & U15 age groups, finishing 3rd overall.
7/8 Knockout Basketball
Our 7/8 knockout basketball team had an excellent start to their Division 2 statewide pursuit, kicking things off for Round 1 against Pulteney Grammar and Woodcroft College. The team dominated both matches, winning by more than 20 points in each game. Their exceptional defensive pressure, fast-paced transition play and outstanding teamwork were on full display throughout the day. Every player contributed to the success, demonstrating determination, sportsmanship and a strong team-first attitude.
A huge thank you goes to Mr Dickson for his excellent coaching and guidance, and to Ms Casserly-Lund for managing the team on the day. We also extend our appreciation to parent scorers Daniel Franco and Lora Papa, along with all the parents and supporters who came along to cheer on the team.
Congratulations to all involved on a fantastic start to the knockout competition!
9-10 Knockout Touch Football
Our Year 9-12 knockout touch football team have participated in trainings every Tuesday morning in lead up to the Division 2 Statewide Carnival, led by long-standing School Sport SA touch football coach Mick Gray. These preparations set the team up for a very successful day at the carnival last week, going undefeated throughout the entire day! They were the only team to win or draw every single game. Whilst the School Sport SA scoring system (awarding points for losses) meant the girls ended up finishing 2nd place overall, they are the true winners in our eyes and we are so proud of their efforts and determination on the day. We also would like to thank old scholars and long-time touch coaches at SAC, Elli Pusonjic and Hannah Kearins, who have supported this group through Saturday morning touch and came along to support the girls on gameday.
Upcoming Knockout & Interschool Events!
Our Year 11/12 Knockout soccer team was announced this week, who will now set their sights on round 1 on the 1st of June. The team will travel out to Tatachilla to play 3 matches. It is set to be a competitive first round and we look forward to sharing some highlights!
Round 1 has also been locked in for all knockout netball teams on various dates in Week 7, Term 2. The teams will begin training with their coaches, including old scholar Maeve Garnett (current premier-league defender for South Adelaide). We will also share results following their first round, and wish all 3 teams the best of luck.
Cross Country
The statewide cross country championships is an opportunity for trained runners to compete against other athletes across SA schools. This is not a come n try event. Experience with the following distances is mandatory.
When and Where:
Oakbank Racecourse, Shillabeer Road off Onkaparinga Valley Road, Oakbank.
Thursday 4 June, 2026
The first event is at 10:00am. The last event is scheduled at 2:10pm. See distances for your age group below.
Parent supervision / duty of care:
A parent or caregiver must accompany you on the day and take on duty of care as the school will not be providing transport or supervision.
To nominate:
Please provide the following information to me in an email and CC in a parent/caregiver by 20th May - mhenderson@sac.sa.edu.au
- Name & Date of Birth
- Supervising parent's name / phone number / email
- Whether your parent gives media consent on the day
See more info and the course map here: Cross country state championship
Sporting Spotlight
Year 7 student, Zara, recently competed at the Coles Little Athletics Australian Competition which was held during the school holidays in Brisbane from 13-14 April. Zara was selected for the South Australian Team for U/12 High Jump & Triple Jump, and placed in the Top 10 for High Jump and in Triple Jump got a new Personal Best. It is huge honour and achievement to be selected to represent the state, and we are so very proud of her!
We are also delighted to highlight Year 10 student, Lottie, who recently made her debut to the WNBL1 with Forestville Eagles. Despite being one of the youngest players on the team, Lottie has already earnt great minutes across multiple games this season. Lottie plays with grit and determination, and continues to go from strength to strength in her basketball. It’s clear that Lottie’s hard work over the years is paying off, which we have also seen through her participation in our Knockout Basketball Program. We look forward to watching Lottie dominate for the remainder of the season and beyond!
Upcoming Events!
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