To all responsible users of social media: If you are on Instagram and would like to see more snapshots of SAC in action, feel free to follow our new official SAC Instagram page!
Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,
As we pass the halfway mark of the term, many students have been busy applying what they have learnt to assessment tasks, designed to enable them to show what they know and can do across a range of subjects. The NAPLAN Tests are one form of assessment which attract broad public attention due to their standardised nature. We are pleased that almost 100% of SAC students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 complete these tests without too much worry, knowing that it is just one piece of a much richer picture that teachers and support staff will create throughout the year. The online Term 1 testing will hopefully allow for a quicker turnaround in results, helping staff to target their teaching more effectively in meeting students where they are at. The results should always be interpreted in context, and tables that compare schools do not give a full picture of the diversity of student backgrounds within any school.
The Adelaide Fringe and Festival are coming to a close and it was wonderful to see some SAC old scholars and staff participating in these events. Nia Phillips and Sara Boksmati (Class of 2024), Kate Lewis (Class of 2014 and staff member), Carly Adams (Class of 2007) and Jo Tropeano (staff member) all performed in this year’s Fringe. As I watched our current students on stage at the Sounds of City Schools showcase at St Mary’s College last week, I realised that the seeds of future performance careers are often planted and nurtured at school. Being part of these performances clearly brings great joy to students and their families and is often just the beginning of a lifetime commitment to music! Thanks to all the families who came along to watch and to the Music staff, past and present, who create such passion for performance in our students.
Seeds of Future Performers – A Night of Music & Joy at the Sounds of City Schools concert
This week SAC hosted an event in partnership with the Rotary Club of Eastwood, profiling the work of Gemma Sisia at the School of St Jude in Tanzania. SAC has a special connection with St Jude’s, thanks to Old Scholars Maddie Kelly (Class of 2011) and Eithne Johnston (Class of 2009), who lived and worked there. Maddie also wrote the book, ‘The School that Hope Built’, a powerful story of this transformative school and its founder, Gemma. Students and staff who work in the SAC Op Shop were able to present a donation to Gemma from funds raised last year through Op Shop sales, supporting her incredible work fighting poverty through education. It’s great to see the actions that students take here in Adelaide making a difference in the lives of children in Tanzania.
supporting St Jude’s School in Tanzania
It has been a busy fortnight for students across the school. Year 8 students held their Retreat in Week 7, and the Year 1 Pyjama Party was the source of great excitement last Friday. Year 4 and Year 6 students had their camps this week, and Year 12 students were on Retreat in Mylor. All of these events are made possible through the creativity and commitment of the staff of the College, and I am so grateful to them in supporting our students to experience such a huge range of activities.
A Fortnight of Growth - Retreats, Camps, and Memorable Experiences for Our Students
Works are now well underway on the new Dunlevie Building. Families received an email from Deputy Principal, Nick Tattoli, outlining current works and their impact on the school environment. We are conscious that the disruption will be completely worthwhile as we see the brilliant facilities emerging over the next 18 months. Thank you for your patience, and we look forward to sharing regular updates with you via our website.
During Lent, students, staff and families are invited to come together in the Chapel on Friday mornings before school at 8:20am to pray together. We reflect on the Stations of the Cross and how Jesus’ life, death and resurrection can strengthen us in living mercy each day. We hope that over the next few weeks more people will join us in this sacred space for a moment of peaceful prayer before we begin our day.
Ms Paddy Mc Evoy Principal
Join Us in Prayer
18.03.25
Peer Support Program Nurtures Strong Connections
Mercy Light: Connecting
When Angelique and Sienna, two Year 10 Peer Support Leaders, greet a room of their younger peers before commencing their second Peer Support session, they do so with a presence of ease and warmth that would convince any observer they’ve been doing this for years.
What makes for an excellent Peer Support Leader? According to Angelique, it’s all about, “empathy, trust-building, resilience, kindness and being a good listener.”
It is also clear that she and Sienna are highly organised; a three-page document clearly details what’s instore for the 12 eager Year 7s under their instruction during this session. Confident with their materials, Angelique and Sienna are able to deftly weave communication, learning, activity and lots of fun into their 45 minute Peer Support block, which, this particular week, has a focus on ‘Overcoming Challenges and Change’.
For more than 20 years, the Peer Support Program at SAC has provided students in junior and senior secondary years with avenues to establish connections and learn from one another. Year 7 students are guided by Year 10 students – most of whom were themselves Year 7 participants – through this 10-week program.
“Peer Support fosters the mental, social and physical wellbeing of young people,” explains Year 10 Coordinator, Ms Julie Barletta.
“Having applied for and been selected in their role as a Peer Support Leader, and then participated in a training workshop, Year 10s, with support from a teacher, prepare each of the weekly Peer Support sessions. These cover topics such as cooperation, emotions and feelings, relationships and friendships, group dynamics, problem solving and self-esteem," Ms Barletta adds.
For Angelique, applying to be a leader in the program when she reached Year 10 was an anticipated milestone. “In Year 7, I thought that the program was really cool, and that I wanted to lead one day – so I’ve been excited for this ever since then. I really enjoy working with people and was happy to share some of the things I’ve learned since Year 7 with students who are currently going through it. Everyone has slightly different experiences, so it helps me to develop empathy, too,” Angelique shares.
A key benefit of the program for both Year 7s and Year 10s is engaging in meaningful conversations and having fun with students they may not necessarily interact with in class.
“The 12 Year 7 students are from different classes, and I can remember when I was in Year 7, some new friendships began and I was able to reconnect with old friends too. I can remember saying ‘hi’ to my Year 10 Peer Support Leaders in the school yard outside of the sessions, and that continued even after the program. It was nice knowing there were older students around who cared about you,” she explains.
Research into peer-led programs of this kind suggests favourable outcomes for all, with, “more than two-thirds of program participants reporting greater feelings of acceptance and inclusion", while, "89% of leaders reporting greater confidence and personal growth." (Peer Support - Build student wellbeing at your school)
Gianna, a Year 7 participant in Angelique and Sienna’s group, agrees, and says that, “I like how supportive and kind the leaders are, and how open they are to just listening to what you say. They are there for you, which is really nice. They’ve gone through a lot of this stuff that we are experiencing too, the big changes in high school, and it just makes it easier to connect with them. The program lifts our confidence, the leaders reassure us to be ourselves.”
With a number of sessions still to look forward to before the program concludes its 2025 run, one thing is certain: that, be it through ongoing interactions across one of the College’s many co-curricular activities, or through incidental passings around campus, a basis of genuine care and kind familiarity has developed between Year 10s and Year 7s. This experience secures foundations for a strong community, where students are mutually empowered by lifting each other.
Ms Maddie Kelly Marketing & Communications Team
17.03.25
From the Science Coordinator
Ms Linda Kitto Science Coordinator
Creating a Terrarium: A Hands-On Model of an Ecosystem
In a recent science practical, students constructed their own terrariums to explore and understand the components of an ecosystem. By building these miniature ecosystems, they will gain valuable insights into the delicate balance between living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) factors that work together to sustain life.
This hands-on approach allows them to see firsthand how biotic factors interact with abiotic factors such as water, soil, and light, to create a thriving ecosystem.
By the end of the project, students will be able to reflect on the importance of each factor and how they all contribute to the survival and health of an ecosystem.
Whilst making their terrariums students had a fun and educational experience that brought classroom learning to life.
Ms Philippa Smitheram Science Teacher
Exploring the Wonders of Oobleck in Year 11 Chemistry
Our Year 11 students delved into the fascinating world of materials, experimenting with Oobleck—a unique non-Newtonian fluid that defies expectations! Is it a solid? Is it a liquid? It’s actually a suspension that changes its properties under pressure. This hands-on learning experience allowed students to explore mixtures, suspensions and the science behind their behaviors.
18.03.25
From the Drama Department
Mr Tom Coultas Drama Coordinator
THE FRINGE COMES TO SAC!
Celebrating 70 years of its publication and 30 since its first performance, Guy Masterson's globally renowned solo adaptation of Orwell's barnyard masterpiece, Animal Farm, was performed by the brilliant Sam Blythe in the SAC Drama Theatre. The set couldn’t have been more simple - a bale of hay centre stage. The actor’s costume is just as simple - a pair of blue overalls (soaked in sweat by the end of the performance). Bringing all of Orwell's multiple characters to vivid life, Blythe gave the SAC students: Snowball, Napoleon, Squealer, Boxer, Clover, Mollie, Benjamin, Muriel, the Sheep, Dogs, Cows, Hens - and, of course, the cat - in a spellbinding performance that shocked, enchanted, bewitched and bewildered. This show will linger long in the memory, ringing out Orwell's prescient warning that politicians through the ages, and of all creeds and colours will often let power corrupt them... and sometimes corrupt them absolutely.
The students really enjoyed this powerhouse performance, and their comments are below:
“It shows insight into the corruption of politicians and how it can effect people around us, particularly through twisting words and bending rules to how they see fit.” Olivia, 10LS
“As a solo adaption, it was impressive that each character had an opportunity to express their point of view to the audience.” Annabel, 10NR
“Sam Blythe was a highly skilled actor, changing from character to character in an instant for 90 minutes. He had incredible focus and dedication to his craft, and this was very impressive to see.” Alexa 12LK
“I was impressed by how the performer and company were able to create the atmosphere of Animal Farm using a blend of lighting, sound and a simple bale of hay. The performer Sam Blythe, then let us in a workshop that explored physical theatre, character walks and levels of tension so that we could use this to create our own characters.“ Isabella 12SC
20.03.25
From the Secondary Sport Coordinator
Ms Meg Henderson Secondary Sport Coordinator
Sporting Update – Term 2 & 3
Term 1 sport is approaching its final weeks, with 3 more rounds to be played for basketball, touch football, tennis and volleyball. Water polo will go through until Week 11. A reminder that all sport absences (including trainings) are to be communicated via text message or email this term – 0447 937 709 or [email protected].
Clipboard Overview
We have officially transitioned to Clipboard, our new sports management platform! From Term 2, all school sport—including weekday/weekend sport, knockout sport, and interschool competitions—will be managed through this system. Parents and students can access team lists, fixtures, and important updates through the platform. More information around fixture viewing, absentee communication etc. will be sent closer to the winter competition.
A reminder that nominations for Term 2 & 3 sports closed today. Team lists will be released in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for updates.
Next Monday, a group of approximately 30 students will represent St Aloysius College at the SACSSGSA Athletics Carnival, competing against other Catholic girls' schools. An email & Consent2Go has been sent to participating students with event lists and information. We wish our athletes the best of luck—stay tuned for results and highlights!
Statewide Individual Tennis Championships
Last week, several students competed in the Statewide Individual Tennis Championships.
“The School Sport SA Tennis Championships provide students with an opportunity to test themselves against students from across the state in a unique context, enhancing their movement skills, promoting critical and creative thinking in movement, and encouraging ethical behaviour in movement settings.” (School Sport SA)
Here were some notable results
Sarah (Year 7) finished runner-up in the Year 7/8 Division 1 Consolation Round.
Year 9 students, Madisonand Lucy,reached the grand final of the Division 2 Consolation Round (playing against one another!).
It’s fantastic to see our young athletes representing the College at such a high level. Statewide Tennis team events will return in Term 4, providing another opportunity for club players to compete.
Madison reflected on her experience: "The state tennis competition was a great experience. We got to see and verse different schools from around SA. During my experience, I had to play a hard player at the start. I was then put into a consolation round in which I came second, playing against another SAC player. This year, we were put into two different groups because of the number of girls that arrived. It was not only fun to play against others but also to watch the higher-level players. Overall, it was a fun experience."
State Swimming Championships
One of our Senior House Leaders, Claire, had an outstanding performance at the SA State Swimming Championships (March 6-10, 2025), achieving the following results:
🏅 Gold: 16-18yo 200m Breaststroke
🏅 Gold: 16yo 100m Breaststroke
🏅 Gold: 16yo 50m Breaststroke
🏅 Gold: 16yo 200m Individual Medley
🥈 Silver: 16yo 50m Freestyle
Claire also achieved four new National Qualifying Times, taking her total events for the National Age Swimming Championships to seven. An incredible achievement. Congratulations, Claire!
Statewide Touch Football
A talented group of Year 10-12 students competed in the Division 2 Statewide Touch Football Carnival, coached by Ms Melissa Potter & Mr Nick O'Halloran.
Despite challenging conditions on a scorching day, the team played exceptionally well, winning all but one match and finishing as runners-up. A fantastic effort!
Statewide Basketball Teams & Open Night Exhibition
We've had overwhelming interest in our Statewide Basketball teams, with students trialing across multiple year levels on three occasions. A squad has been selected and released on Clipboard, comprising three teams: Years 7/8, Years 9/10, and Years 11/12 who will be coached by a team of experienced staff members at SAC, Mr Jacob Dickson, Mr Aaron Casey & Ms Vashti Casserly-Lund.
We are thrilled with the level of talent this year and can't wait to see what’s in store for our teams. The first opportunity to compete and showcase our squad will be at our School Open Night (Thursday 3 April), where the teams will play an exhibition match. More details, including permission via Clipboard & Consent2Go, will be shared soon.
Statewide Netball Trials (Years 7-12)
SAC will enter 3 teams into the statewide competition this year (Year 7/8, Year 9/10 & Year 11/12).
Students interested in trialling for knockout netball in 2025 will need to attend a trial in Week 10. See details below.
Ms Genevieve Pelekani English & Literacy Coordinator
Luka Lesson Inspires Year 12s: A Masterclass in Spoken Word Poetry
Spoken word poet, Luka Lesson, visited SAC as part of his season in Adelaide. The Year 12s enjoyed Luka’s work, which was at times humorous, at times reflective, and always engaging. While the benefits for students of English were clear, Luka also had some great insights to share for all students involved in creating and composing.
"Luka is an extremely engaging performer, and had the entire cohort enthralled. He delivered his poetry with immense passion and clarity and provided us all with further context which was both inspiring and profound. The advice Luka provided for the cohort will be of great help as the English students hone their own poetry skills throughout the course of the year. Overall an incredibly memorable incursion!"Revathi 12TC
"I really enjoyed having the opportunity to gain valuable insight into slam poetry through Luka’s performance. His use of various tones, facial expressions and rhythm gave his poetry a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Due to this experience, I was able to understand the valuable role emotions and personal experiences play, not only in the creation of poetry but also the delivery. Luka’s performance and willingness to answer our questions provided me with important information about the literary techniques at play and the process behind creating a work of literature." Jasmeen 12SC
SAC attends Writers’ Week 2025
The Writers’ Week program contained a new event this year and St Aloysius College students were amongst the attendees at the inaugural Schools Day. Accompanied by Ms Courtney Kerr and Ms Elena Koulianos, our squad of 15 students from Years 7, 8 and 9 attended workshops, heard valuable advice and met the authors in person. A few students have shared their reflections on the day:
"The Writer's Week Schools Day was very entertaining, and I got a lot out of it, whether it was the stories or personal experiences from the speakers. It was great to be around other students who loved to read and write as well, and we shared what we found enjoyable about the day with each other."Nekeesha 8NW
"I learned some valuable lessons about writing, such as always have a supportive squad behind you, it may take some time to actually write a book and get that book published and to write about something important to you."Charlotte 8JT
"One of the highlights of the event was when they told us about how their characters are made and how world-building works, as it gave me some ideas about making my own characters. Many authors also mentioned that they read many genres for ideas and that they practised writing every day and to not being afraid of failing." Vivian 7CK
"My favourite tip that I got was from Lili Wilkinson. It was to write down 15 things, it doesn’t matter if they are crazy or you know you aren’t going to use them, because it will get the ideas flowing. I look forward to using the tips I’ve learnt in my writing." Clelia 8LU
"I learnt that you should never give up on something that you are passionate about. I also learnt that even if people push you down, you should always get back up and not let other people’s thoughts get to you. I also learnt that every good book is somehow related to your own life, even if its just the little things." Georgina 8LU
Ms Genevieve Pelekani English & Literacy Coordinator
18.03.25
Outstanding Achievements
Congratulations to Year 10 students Gianna and Saachi, who featured in The Advertiser article, ‘Meet 20 of South Australia’s top debaters and find out how the school hobby is setting them up for life.’
Both Gianna and Saachi have experienced great success in debating for SAC by coming Runner Up in the 2024 Grand Final, with team-mates Evie, Leila and Kira. During the Grand Final, they debated in The House of Assembly Chamber in Parliament House in front of five adjudicators. “I started debating because I have always had an interest in discussing important topics and sharing my opinions.”
Saachi took up debating to improve her public speaking. “I believed it would challenge me and help me grow,” she said. She enjoys meeting new people and building strong arguments.
We are incredibly proud of Gianna, Saachi, and all our debating students, and we can’t wait to see where their debating journeys take them!
CLICK HEREto read the full article and learn how these students are paving the way for their future.
We are thrilled to announce that Year 7 student Eliza has been accepted into the Youth Environment Council (YEC) program for this year. This incredible opportunity will allow Eliza to plan and complete an environmental project, which can be carried out at school, at home, or within the community over the course of the year.
As part of the program, Eliza will participate in a one-day event in March and a presentation day in November. In addition, there is a camp scheduled during the school holidays, along with several catch-ups with other students involved in the program.
We are very proud of Eliza’s enthusiasm to learn more about environmental issues and contributing to positive change. We look forward to watching her grow and thrive as she participates in the Youth Environment Council, and we are excited to see the difference she will make in the world around her.
20.03.25
From the Music Department
Ms Fiona Turner Music Coordinator
On Wednesday 12 March, the evening air was filled with the enchanting sounds of music as the Sounds of City Schools outdoor event took centre stage. Held at St Mary’s College, the event showcased the exceptional talent of music performers from SAC, St Mary's, and CBC.
Attendees were treated to fabulous performances from a range of ensembles, including choirs, jazz ensembles and rock bands. Each act brought its own unique flair, captivating the audience and creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.
The evening was not just about the music; it was a celebration of community and togetherness, which was highlighted in the final item, when the three schools came together for a combined performance. The event was a perfect blend of talent, energy, and camaraderie, making it an ideal way to spend a night in great company.
Thank you to all who attended and supported this wonderful event, and to those who contributed to the food stalls and SAC Op Shop stall. Your presence and efforts made it even more special, and we look forward to many more nights filled with music and community spirit!
Ms Fiona Turner Music Coordinator
20.03.25
National Playgroup Week!
This week is National Playgroup Week! To celebrate, the SAC Playgroup, led by our Early Years Educator Olivia Spadavecchia, held a party🎉 The activities, dance session, singing and treats were enjoyed by all. We thank our playgroup families who join us each Thursday morning, and our wonderful Facilitator Olivia for making the experience so memorable for the families!
Join the excitement and fundraising for the 2025 SAC Colour Fun Run! Every dollar raised will support Mercy projects, including Catherine House, the Adelaide Day Centre, and the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre. Together, we can make a real difference!
