St Aloysius Newsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal - Issue #9, 2025

Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,

The Australasian Mercy Secondary Schools Association Conference was held in Perth last week, hosted by Santa Maria College. Every second year, we gather to connect with our colleagues from Mercy schools around Australia and New Zealand. The theme this year was Community, Connection and Celebration, and we honoured the story of Sr Ursula Frayne, who journeyed from Ireland to Australia to open the first Mercy school in Perth at Mercedes College in 1846. Since then, Mercy education has spread across Australia and NZ, and the AMSSA membership now numbers over 65 schools.

Keynote presentations on the leadership required in Mercy schools today, the Neuroscience of Learning and Contextual Wellbeing prompted great discussion and sharing of ideas across the two days. The Opening Mass and closing liturgy were powerful reminders of the rich tradition we have inherited from the Sisters of Mercy and the privilege we have in carrying it forward in today’s world. We are grateful for the hospitality and service of our Perth Mercy schools.

Hospitality was also a key ingredient in the success of the Reception students’ afternoon with their Grandparents and Grand friends on Wednesday. Thank you to the many people who made time to come along, and to the SIA sisters, who played the role of backup grandparent for those students whose families are in other parts of the world. They say, “it takes a village to raise a child”, and we see so many family members helping with drop-offs and pick-ups at school. The later start time for the event this year meant lots of excitement throughout the day, but thankfully there weren’t quite so many tears to mop up when saying goodbye!

Rehearsals for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are well underway, and Director Lucy Dilger says it is coming together beautifully. Events like these rely on a cast of thousands, from props and set design to costumes, make-up and most importantly, performances. I am grateful to all the staff who are working tirelessly to make this happen, and I know we will all be in for a sweet treat in Term 3!

The Art team in action bringing the 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' set to life!

Last night, 16 students from Years 3 to 6 celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation at the Cathedral. It seems fitting that this event fell just after Reconciliation Week, where we came to understand more deeply what it means to be reconciled in all of our relationships. It was a pleasure to be part of the sacramental journey with these students and their families, who were so beautifully prepared and guided by Ms Isabella Formichella and Father James McEvoy.

You might have noticed the hive of activity on the building site this week, as the level 1 concrete pour took place on Wednesday. Progress has been excellent so far, and the building is taking shape before our very eyes. Thank you for your patience in navigating the disruption as we create the new Dunlevie building. We know it will be worth the wait!

Wishing everyone a relaxing long weekend,

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

From the Careers Department

Work Experience 

Year 10 students recently stepped out of the classroom and into real-world workplaces, engaging in one week work experience placements. The Work Experience Program offers students a firsthand glimpse into various industries, helping them make informed decisions about their future career paths. 

The experiences gained often serve as a foundation for future career choices. Whether students discover a passion for a particular field or realise that a certain path isn't for them, the insights gained are invaluable. As students continue their educational journeys, the skills and knowledge acquired during these placements will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping their professional futures. Visiting staff were impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by our students and we congratulate all who participated. 

“During my placement at Future Footprints, I learned a lot about the various approaches used in conductive education. I met many clients with special needs and helped them. Working in a real environment gave me a better understanding of the job. Overall, I learned more about what I want to do in the future, and I discovered that I really hope to work towards becoming an occupational therapist!” Clementina, Year 10 Student

"I completed my work experience with a spinal surgeon, an opportunity that was both unique and unforgettable. During my time there, I observed a range of complex procedures and gained valuable insight into the skill, dedication and compassion required in this specialty. One of the most inspiring aspects of the experience was seeing the relief and joy on the faces of patients and their families after successful treatments. It highlighted the profound impact that medical professionals have on people's lives and reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in medicine." Saachi, Year 10 Student

Alumni Breakfast 

Our recent Alumni Breakfast Panel provided senior students with a unique opportunity to engage with former graduates and gain valuable insights into life beyond school. 

It was a morning of inspiration and connection as the event featured a diverse panel of alumni who shared their personal journeys, career paths, and the lessons they've learned since graduating. Students had the chance to ask questions, seek advice, and learn from the experiences of those who were once in their shoes. 

Key Takeaways for Students 

• Navigating Post-School Life: Panellists discussed the challenges and rewards of transitioning from school to further education or the workforce, offering practical tips for success. 

• Career Insights: Alumni shared their career trajectories, highlighting the importance of passion, perseverance, and adaptability in achieving professional goals. 

• The Value of Networking: Emphasis was placed on the power of building and maintaining professional relationships, both during and after school years. 

We are immensely grateful to our panel members Lidia Conci, Rose Maiolo, Gabriela Coelho, Vanessa Pearce, Ellie Stephenson and Lisa Johnson for sharing their wisdom. 

Ms Julie Stephenson
Careers & VET Coordinator

From the Catherine McAuley Library

The Catherine McAuley Library was excited and privileged to host Lili Wilkinson, renowned Melbourne author, to share across our year levels. Our Year 3 and Year 4 students enjoyed listening to Lili’s stories about Titch from the Bravepaw series; an adventurous and loyal mouse who craves adventure. Lili also talked about different ways to end a story, using Cinderella as an entertaining example. She also shared how she works with the illustrator and cover designer to convey the main character in the way she imagined.

Our Year 8 and Year 9 students were treated to a close look at Lili’s latest three fantasy novels: A Hunger of Thorns, Deep is the Fen and her most recent release, Unhallowed Halls. She gave practical advice to writers on how to create engaging plots and keeping the suspense tight in a story. Lili also shared her personal experiences as an author navigating the writing and publishing process. Many students were inspired to read her books and to apply her strategies in their own writing. Students had the opportunity to pre-purchase their own copies of Lili’s books, and these were generously signed by Lili on the day.

Overall, it was an incredibly valuable experience to have an author of such calibre sharing with students in our school and inspiring them in their reading and writing. 

Ms Ali Ripberger
Teacher‑Librarian & Information Services Coordinator

From the English Faculty

David Chapple Poetry Workshops

Writing the first thing that comes to your mind may not seem like the path to poetry, but it was the advice given to our Year 9s at their workshops with poet David Chapple. Through a range of activities, students were directed to write and invited to share. Though initially reticent, staff and students grew in courage, culminating in an encouraging and supportive celebration of poetry.

"I really enjoyed the way David made it easy to write the poetry and didn't judge any ideas we had. It was interesting to see how different people write different styles of poetry, even with the same instructions." Aamina, Year 9 Student

"The poetry workshop was unexpectedly fun, especially coming from someone who doesn’t typically enjoy poetry. I appreciated how engaging and open the environment was, which made it easier to participate and express myself. It was really nice to learn different ways to write poetry and how it’s not always about strict structure, rhyme scheme, or advanced techniques, but can actually be a free space to simply write what’s on your mind and explore your thoughts creatively." Alyssa, Year 9 Student

"The poetry workshop was a great experience that gave us an opportunity to share and reflect on our writing with our peers. One of the main things I enjoyed about the workshop was the variety of poems we could experiment with. This was fun because it allowed us to explore different methods and find what worked for us. Hearing classmates read what they had written was definitely a highlight and it was fun to share our different styles and ideas with each other.  I also learned that poetry can be about anything, not just the big ideas, which was helpful in a lot of the writing I did." Eva, Year 9 Student

From the Drama Department

Looking For Alibrandi - A Timely Play for Today’s Conversation on Immigration and Culture

In a moment when Australia and many countries are reflecting deeply on immigration and its many challenges, it feels especially meaningful that this play is taking the stage in Adelaide. Through the eyes of 17-year-old Josie Alibrandi, it gently yet powerfully explores the tensions and beauty of culture clashes, racism, and the blending of traditions and values—with humour, empathy, and insight.

Looking for Alibrandi is thoughtful and moving production feels incredibly timely. It offers unforgettable moments, like the hauntingly beautiful lament sung by Josie’s nonna after John’s funeral, and a quiet, intimate scene where she stirs a large pot of tomatoes, immersed in her memories. At its heart, the play is about discovery, respect, and acceptance—universal themes that resonate deeply in our multicultural society and with our SAC Mercy values.

Mr Tom Coultas
Drama Coordinator

Students commented:

"I really liked that they got into their characters so much, really played them well. The people that had to multiple roles throughout were really talented and it remidded me of the film version very much."  Alyssa, Year 10 Student

"I thought the play was very polished and everyone really enjoyed the production. Having read the biook and seen the film many times, I thought it told the story really well and the acting was very entertaining!" Grace, Year 10 Student

"I really loved play looking For Alibrandi, especially all of the actors they did an amazing job playing multiple characters which can be very hard sometimes but I thought that a lot of them were very inspirational particularly ‘Ash’ who played John and Ivy.  Both those characters were polar opposite genders but the way that she acted as those characters just inspirational." Sophie, Year 10 Student

"I really liked how it was kind of different to the book in the movie how they like changed it up a bit to match the cast. I especially liked that they spoke in Italian some of the time as I haven’t seen that much in plays: speaking in Italian then immediately going back to  English.  I thought it was kind of like a ‘real’ bi-lingual family on-stage." Amy, Year 10 Student

From the Primary Sport Coordinator

Term 1 Highlights

Students from Years 4 to 6 proudly represented our school in the SAPSASA East Adelaide District swimming trials held in Week 6. All swimmers gave commendable performances, with Elizabeth Ho achieving a fantastic 3rd place finish in the 50m Butterfly.

Meanwhile, students in Years 3 to 5 showcased their talents at the Catholic Schools Swimming Carnival, while our Year 6 cohort took part in the SAC Swimming carnival. The day was a tremendous success, filled with excitement and numerous ribbons earned across the events.

Additionally, students participated in competitive basketball and, for the first time, indoor volleyball. Our younger learners from Reception to Year 3 enjoyed engaging 'Come 'n' Try' sessions in dance, multi-sports, and basketball, encouraging active participation and skill development.

Term 2 in Action

Our knockout netball team recently competed in their first round carnival. Although they secured one win from three matches and didn’t move on to the next round, the experience was rich in fun and learning.

Year 6 House Captains took part in the SACPSSA Leadership Day, engaging in a variety of activities designed to strengthen their leadership abilities.

Students in Years 4 to 6 also raced in the SAPSASA East Adelaide Cross Country event at Foxfield Oval. Their determination was inspiring, with every participant finishing the course with great effort. A special mention goes to Chelsea Ashfield-Smith, who placed 10th overall in her age group – an excellent achievement!

Our Year 3-6 lacrosse team competed in the SACPSSA Catholic Schools Carnival, recording two wins, one draw, and two losses. Considering they faced older opponents in a 5/6 division, this was an excellent result and valuable game experience. The team continues to play each Saturday morning.

Currently, our Year 5/6 students are participating in netball and enjoying fitness activities. Reception to Year 3 students are also enthusiastically involved in gymnastics, soccer, and lacrosse as part of their ongoing 'Come 'n' Try' experiences.

What’s Coming Up?

• Round 1 of the 12-a-side Knockout AFL and Soccer competitions
• SACPSSA Basketball Carnival for the knockout team
• SACPSSA Netball Carnival for teams in the Thundercup series
• Term 3 sports nominations opening in Week 7 via Clipboard

Ms Sarah Anderson
Primary Sport Coordinator

From the Secondary Sport Coordinator

Playing for Unity - Reconciliation Round 2025

The SA Catholic Secondary School Girls Sports Association hosted Reconciliation Round on Saturday 24^th May, in lead up to National Reconciliation Week. This annual round is an opportunity for players, officials and spectators actively contribute to the national recognition of building a more united and respectful nation. It is also an opportunity for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to see their cultures celebrated within their schools during this time.

To acknowledge this round, St Aloysius College First Nations students and participants of our secondary sport program, Elke Weetra and Harper McLean, designed hair ribbons for all teams to wear for their games. They wanted to ensure the ribbon’s design reflected this year’s Reconciliation Week theme of ‘Bridging Now to Next’ as well as our school context - depicting women travelling into the sun. With use of our vibrant college colours, they combined the travelling sign, the sun and women to encompass this, whilst also incorporating other important messages of ‘empowerment for women’ and ‘the bright side of everything’.

Our teams wore these ribbons proudly at their respective games, and last year’s reconciliation round bibs were also donned by our netball teams! Schools gathered to commemorate the round for pre-game formalities across all fixtures, highlighting the powerful role that sport plays in bringing people together, strengthening relationships, and fostering a spirit of inclusivity.

Regrading / No Games Long Weekend

Netball, badminton and soccer teams are not required to play this Saturday due to the long weekend. Re-grading will also take place during this time – new draws will be distributed in the next week, ready for Round 6 on Saturday 14 June.

Please note, game times and venues are subject to change if your team is regraded. We cannot make requests for specific game times or venues.

Also a reminder that there is a large mid-season break from Week 9, Term 2 until the end of the school holidays. The last game of Term 2 is Saturday 21 June. Trainings and games will recommence Week 1. This will be reflected in your clipboard calendars.

This is due to the longer school holiday break for competing schools.

Knockout Sport

There have been a lot of exciting first round matches and carnivals taking place last week across knockout basketball, netball and volleyball!

An eager group of Year 9/10 volleyballers travelled out to The Lights Community and Sports Centre recently to compete in the Division 2 statewide competition.  They were able to snag one win on the day against some very tough opponents, playing off for 5^th place to finish! Always in great spirits, we’re super proud of the resilience and effort these girls showed on the day and thank their coach and old scholar, Rachael Homes-Vickers for her support in lead up.

On the same day, we had our Year 7/8 knockout basketball team competing in their round 1 competitions. The girls put on a strong performance, defeating Marryatville, Golden Grove High and Modbury High to progress through to the Division 2 Statewide final. Finals will be held in Week 9, Term 2 – keep an eye on the newsletter for results!

Finally, on Thursday our year 11/12 knockout netball team competed in their first round of the Division 2 Statewide Competition against Loreto & Mary Mackillop. They had a strong performance against Mary Mackillop, but unfortunately fell short to Loreto who were a tough opponent! Our team will not be progressing through to round 2, but we are very proud of their efforts. We congratulate our senior students Niamh Keane, Veronica Keane, Chinonye Ojimba, Sienna Bruno, Cheyarn Bruno and Olivia Bourne for their final year representing the college in knockout sport, and for their contribution in past years.

Sport Spotlight

Aria De Pasquale – State Team Selection Double Whammy!

Year 9 student, Aria De Pasquale, has not only been selected for the School Sport SA 15 Years and Under Hockey State Team, but also for the girls State Touch Football squad!

Aria will train with the State Touch Football squad in lead up to the competition in October this year, in hopes she will be selected for the final competition team.

The Hockey team will compete in the School Sport Australia Hockey Championships in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory from 2 to 9 August 2025.

We congratulate Aria on gaining selection and mirror School Sport SA’s sentiments:

“It is indeed an honour to have done so and to have the opportunity to play at these championships. The opportunity you have is unique and is available to very few school students in this country. Your selection is a reflection on your dedication, the guidance provided by teachers and coaches and the support of your family.”

Old Scholar, Maeve Garnett, debuting for Netball SA Premier League

Old scholar and current SAC Netball coach, Maeve Garnett, recently debuted for Adelaide Metro Jets in the Netball SA Premier League.  Her club describes her as, “A great teammate on and off the court, always looking out for others and providing great laughs”.  As she was in her school teams, Maeve is an integral defender in her Jets squad. She has been playing with the club for 3 years, and has worked hard to get back on the court after a Archilles tear back in 2023. 

We are so very proud of Maeve, and also excited to have her as part of our coaching team at SAC both in Saturday sport and knockout sport. See a snap of Maeve back when she represented SAC in Year 11/12 knockout netball!

Ms Meg Henderson
Secondary Sport Coordinator

2025 National Reconciliation Week "Bridging Now to Next."

This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week was "Bridging Now to Next." SAC has a proud reputation for supporting First Nations events and building understanding about First Nations culture. As part of this commitment, a group of First Nations students, along with the JAM leaders, were accompanied by Ms. McEvoy and Ms Graney to attend the National Reconciliation Breakfast.

This year’s breakfast was particularly momentous, with over 3,000 people in attendance—the largest Reconciliation Breakfast ever held in South Australia. This powerful turnout is a clear sign of how deeply reconciliation is valued in our state and highlights the growing momentum behind efforts to acknowledge, respect, and celebrate First Nations peoples and cultures.

Later that same day, the Year 9 students welcomed AFLW Port Adelaide Power player Jasmin Stewart. Jasmin shared her story of reconnecting with her culture and how that connection has become a source of strength and identity. She spoke candidly about the challenges and doubts she faced in her football career, and how perseverance and self-belief helped her overcome them.

One of the most powerful moments she shared was about designing the 2024 Indigenous guernsey for her club. The guernsey is deeply personal, incorporating artwork by her late grandfather and paying tribute to the story of her Nan, who was forcibly taken from her family as a child as part of the Stolen Generations.

Her story was a moving reminder of the strength found in embracing one’s heritage and the impact of representation in sport and beyond. A highlight of the visit was the opportunity for Elke Weetra and Harper McLean to present Jasmin with a ribbon they designed, with the support of India Bament Sitkowski, to celebrate the Indigenous Round.

The week ended in a splash of colour and community spirit with students across the school wearing yellow in support of First Nations organisation Children’s Ground, and with the smell of sausages as the Dukes Tiwi Island students raised money for projects on the island. It was a vibrant and heartfelt close to a week that not only celebrated culture and connection but also inspired action and solidarity across our school community.

Ms Viviana Graney
Primary Coordinator (Teaching & Learning) | First Nations Focus Teacher

Watch the highlights video here and celebrate the spirit of unity, respect, and reconciliation in action!

Lighting the Way: Year 6 Takes Action with Solar Buddies

The Year 6 cohort had an exciting invitation from SA Power Networks to connect their Science learning this term, with real world knowledge of renewable energy and world poverty. Students were inspired by an all-female presentation of Electrical Engineers and Powerline workers, including old scholar, Kate Poole (graduate of 2011). Students constructed Solar Buddy’s (portable solar lights), to be sent to disadvantaged countries in our world. These lights will help improve education, environment, and overall health of underprivileged communities. Year 6 student Ruby reflected: “I enjoyed making the Solar Buddy’s for people who live in poverty and don’t have access to electricity, they can have light now when they need to do their schoolwork.”

Year 6 Science Teachers

Dyes in Nature

Exploring Colour and Culture: Natural Dyes in Science and Art

This term, students embarked on an enriching learning journey exploring Dyes in Nature, with a special focus on the knowledge and practices of First Nations Peoples. Central to the unit was the understanding of how natural resources have long been used by Indigenous communities to create dyes and paints - an enduring practice rooted in cultural expression, sustainability, and deep environmental knowledge.

Students explored the process of extracting dyes from a wide range of natural materials including berries, red cabbage, spinach, eucalyptus leaves, ochre, charcoal, coffee, tea leaves, and various spices such as turmeric, paprika, and saffron. With their homemade dyes, the students created artwork inspired by First Nations themes, applying what they had learned in both science and cultural understanding.

As part of their investigations, students also researched traditional uses for these natural dyes—such as in clothing, ceremonial objects, and artwork. Additionally, they explored the concepts of sustainability and renewability, considering how these natural dye sources can be used responsibly in the modern world. This hands-on unit was a wonderful opportunity for students to connect science with culture and creativity, and to appreciate the rich knowledge systems of First Nations Peoples".

From the OSHC Director

 Dear SAC Families,

We’re thrilled to share all the fun and learning that has taken place during the start of Term 2 at our OSHC program! From the very first day back, our students have been engaged in a variety of creative, exploratory, and hands-on activities across four exciting themes:

1. All About Me building confidence, empathy, and friendship in our community.

2. Nature Explorers making miniature “bug hotels” from recycled materials.

3. Under the Sea where students learned about marine life, coral reefs, and the importance of protecting our waterways.

4. STEM Adventures (Last 3 Weeks) For the past three weeks, we have been fully immersed in “All Things STEM” (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Highlights include making Slime, balloon rockets, catapults and mazes.

Our STEM focus has been a wonderful blend of experimentation, collaboration, and STEAM-inspired creativity. The smiles and “aha!” moments we’ve witnessed are a testament to how engaging and empowering STEM can be for young learners.

Introducing Xplor: Easier Enrolments and Booking Management

We’re excited to announce that OSHC has now transitioned to Xplor, a new software system designed to simplify enrolments and enhance parent access to all service information. What does this mean for you?

• Streamlined Enrolments: All parent/carer enrolment forms and medical details are now completed online through the enrolment link on the SAC OSHC website—no more paper forms!
• Xplor Home App: Download the Xplor Home app to make and cancel bookings on the go. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices—just follow the invitation email once you have created a new OSHC enrolment.
• Centralised Service Information: In Xplor Home you can view your child’s attendance records, learning stories, and live account information in one place, at any time.

Booking & Cancellation Reminders

• Making a Booking: You can now request Before School Care (BSC), After School Care (ASC), and Pupil Free Day sessions directly through the Xplor Home app.
• Cancelling a Booking: If you need to cancel a BSC or ASC session, simply do so through the Xplor Home app. While you will not be charged for cancellations (during Before and After School Care sessions), the session will be recorded in the system as an absence. This notation is for reporting purposes only and does not incur any fee.

What’s Coming Up?

• PUPIL FREE DAY: We are open from 7am to 6pm for the up coming Pupil Free Day on Friday 20 June. Make your bookings through the Xplor Home app NOW!
• Service Feedback: Keep an eye out in the service for opportunities to provide feedback on all areas of our service. Your insights are invaluable and help us continually improve our program!
• Environment Changes: Starting in Week 7, we’re launching new displays and play spaces for all children including Our Wellbeing Wall, The Zen Zone, Imaginarium, Makers Space and The Mindful Meadow. Each new display supports the themes of Being, Becoming and Belonging.
• Remaining Themes: We have more exciting themes to come that encourage deep learning and critical thinking through play such as:
  1. Fairytales and Fantasy
  2. Sports and Wellbeing
  3. End of Term Celebrations

Ms Tegan Neville
OSHC Director

Rockin' the Cloisters: Year 9 Bands Take the Stage

The Year 9 Rock Bands are made up of enthusiastic and dedicated music students who meet bright and early every Friday morning at 8am to rehearse.

Under the guidance of Ms Gibson and Mr Berard, these two non-auditioned groups take ownership of their musical journey—selecting, arranging, and performing their own repertoire.

On Friday of Week 5, the bands came together for a special lunchtime performance in the Cloister area to showcase their progress.

It was fantastic to see so many students and teachers gathered to support them. Highlights of the performance included energetic renditions of "She's So Gone" by Lemonade Mouth and "Good Luck, Babe!" by Chappell Roan. The Middle School Drum Corps also made a surprise guest appearance, performing in formation from the first-floor balcony—an exciting moment that added to the vibrant atmosphere.

Year 8/9 SAC Social Brings the Dance Floor to Life!

On Friday 23 May, the Italian Centre came alive with music, laughter, and dancing as students from SAC, CBC, Rostrevor, and Blackfriars gathered for the highly anticipated Year 8/9 SAC Social. The event was a fantastic opportunity for students to connect, celebrate, and enjoy a night of fun in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

From the moment the music started, the dance floor was packed with energy and excitement. Students danced the night away, showcasing their best moves and creating memories that will last well beyond the school year.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated staff who volunteered their time to supervise and support the event. Your presence helped ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for all.

Economics in Action - Exploring the Reserve Bank of Australia's Role

Recently, Year 12 Economics students Aaliyah, Sophia, and Julia had the exciting opportunity to attend a special event focused on the role of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and its influence on monetary policy.

Held in South Australia, the event offered an engaging look into how the RBA makes critical decisions, such as adjusting the cash rate to support the nation’s economic prosperity and stability. Through insightful presentations and real-world examples, the students deepened their understanding of key economic principles and the real impact of policy decisions on the broader Australian economy.

Beyond the educational experience, the evening also provided valuable networking opportunities. Aaliyah, Sophia, and Julia were able to meet and speak with professional economists, gaining insight into possible career paths in the field. They also connected with other Economics students from schools across South Australia, sparking meaningful conversations and a sense of shared passion for economic thinking.

This memorable evening brought classroom theory to life and offered an inspiring glimpse into the world of economic policy and its importance in shaping our future.

Voices of All Ages - Year 8s and 2s Collaborate

Our Year 8 Digital Tech students have been busy becoming podcasters! As part of their current unit, students are planning, scripting, and recording their very own podcast episodes, and the ideas have been fantastic. One creative group even decided to interview younger students, and with the help of Ms O’Halloran’s Year 2 class, they recorded a series of fun and thoughtful responses to questions they had prepared. Other groups are exploring a wide range of exciting topics, from sports and pop culture to books and storytelling.

Year 5 Camp at Woodhouse Adventure Park

What an unforgettable adventure! Our Year 5 students recently returned from an action-packed camp at Woodhouse Adventure Park, just a short 30-minute drive from the city — but a world away in terms of excitement and challenge.

Over the course of the camp, students pushed themselves out of their comfort zones and embraced a wide range of activities. The tube slide was a clear favourite, with lots of laughter and cheers as students zoomed down the hillside. The Labyrinth Maze tested everyone's patience and problem-solving skills, while Challenge Hill encouraged teamwork, perseverance, and a bit of muddy fun!

A major highlight was Survivor, where students learned how to build and safely light fires — a true back-to-nature experience that sparked curiosity and teamwork. The adventure wrapped up with a thrilling round of laser skirmish, where strategy, collaboration and a few sneaky tactics were on full display.

Throughout the camp, students demonstrated resilience, cooperation, and a willingness to try new things. We were incredibly proud of how they supported one another, challenged themselves, and represented our school with enthusiasm and respect.

A big thank you to the staff and volunteers who helped make this camp such a memorable experience. We’re sure the memories made at Woodhouse will stay with our Year 5s for many years to come!

The Year 5 Team

From the Duke of Edinburgh Award & Outdoor Education Coordinators

Mr Michael Heath
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award & Outdoor Education Coordinator

Ms Rachel Grawich
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award & Outdoor Education Coordinator

Recently the Year 11 and 12 Outdoor Education classes participated in their Semester 1 camp, travelling to Dhilba Guuranda-Innes National Park, the traditional lands of the Narung­ga people. Whilst quite cold after sunset, and even surprisingly wet toward the end of the journey, there was an abundance of natural beauty to admire as the group hiked around parts of the rugged coastline and inland through the ruins of Inneston vil­lage, an aban­doned gyp­sum town. There were plenty of learnings for both classes to reflect on in their coinciding assignments, with the Year 12 students now turning their attention to planning to lead the Semester 2 camp in-full; their final Outdoor Education activity.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award & Outdoor Education Coordinators

Magic Moments and New Friendships at SAC Playgroup

The first half of Term 2 has flown by in a flurry of fun and new friendships at SAC Playgroup! Our little explorers have been busy playing and discovering - especially with the magical moment of our golden speckled egg hatching and Piper the Magpie becoming part of our playgroup community!

More highlights have been the wonderful performances shared in our community, from the Primary Choir’s beautiful Mother’s Day tribute to the Reception students’ lively retelling of The Dreaming story Tiddalick  through a short play and song.

Ms Olivia Spadavecchia
Playgroup Coordinator

Help us spread the joy – share the word and invite others to join the fun at SAC Playgroup!🌈🌟
Know someone who might love it? Invite them to register here: https://www.sac.sa.edu.au/playgroup/

Join us in the the Cunningham Chapel

Pilgrims of Hope - Walking Together