St Aloysius Newsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal - Issue #12, 2025

Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,

Welcome to Term 3, with a special welcome to our midyear Reception starters and their families. The girls are settling into school life well with the help of their teacher, Sasha Champion, and a host of support staff. Seeing them find their way around the campus in this fortnight is a great reminder of how capable children are before they join us, and how important relationships are in building a sense of belonging. We look forward to seeing them grow and flourish here at SAC.

Speaking of growth, the cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory have grown enormously in their roles across the course of this year, under the steady guidance and encouragement of Lucy Dilger, Fiona Turner and the many staff who have worked alongside them to bring the story to life. The College Musical every second year is one of the most memorable experiences for many students, where the culmination of months of rehearsals is so impressive. What the girls learn through collaboration and teamwork on this production are invaluable life lessons that will serve them well in their future endeavours. My thanks to everyone who came along to see the show, including the Chair of Mercy Education, Georgina Smith, who will attend tonight’s performance. Georgina’s lifelong love and support for the performing arts is greatly appreciated, especially at SAC.

The old scholars’ choir, led by Kate Lewis, was in full voice in the Heritage Room last Friday night at our annual SACOSA Cocktail Party. Past students from many decades came together to share memories and build new connections. Many thanks to those who braved the cold on a wintery night to be present, and thanks to old scholars and current staff members Gaby Kinsman, Maddie Kelly and Meg McDonald for organising the party, and to the SACOSA Committee members for their unwavering support at these events.

We are preparing to launch the new uniform in November this year. The selection of styles and fabrics has been highly consultative, and I am sure that students and families will appreciate the new designs. I would like to acknowledge the work of Deputy Principal, Jacqui Mcilroy, who has led this significant project and ensured that we will have a fantastic suite of uniform items to serve this community for decades to come. Thanks also to the many students, staff and parents who have participated in the consultation. We hope everyone enjoys the return to purple, which has been one of the signature colours at SAC for many generations.

Senior students will be making important decisions this term as part of the Subject Selection Process. The development of student agency, which begins in Reception, is very evident when you see students approaching these decisions with confidence and clarity. Students explore the possibilities, both at school and at home, in an environment of support and encouragement. Thanks to Deputy Principal, Jacqui Jury, and the curriculum leaders for their work on last week’s Subject Expo, where staff and students were able to answer questions and share resources to further enhance decision-making for 2026 and beyond. We know that conversations with families are critical in supporting good decisions, and the Curriculum Handbook, which is now available online on the College website, is a great source of information.

I hope that the warmth of community and connection helps to stave off the chilly winter weather!

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

From the Music Department

In Week 8 last term, the Year 5/6 Rock Band took part in Nazareth College’s annual Battle of the Bands, participating for the very first time.  It was a new experience for the group, and one they’d been preparing for with plenty of practice and teamwork under the guidance of their director, Ms Madeleine Binney – and they sounded great! Taking part in the event gave them a chance to share what they’ve been working on and enjoy making music together in front of a live audience.

Our Primary Music Leaders, Clarisse and Frieda, reflected on their performance:

"This experience will stay with me forever and I loved being able to watch the other bands. I was inspired by all the other schools who, after I watched and listened to them, I realised also worked as hard as our band did. That night was lots of fun, singing along to songs I knew, and also listening to new tunes that were unknown to my ears. I look forward to more experiences like this later in my school years." Clarisse

"Battle of the Bands was such a fun experience for our band. It helped us feel braver on stage and brought us closer as a team. We worked hard, had lots of fun, and loved seeing all the other bands! It made me feel very proud of our band of how courageous we were. I loved seeing everyone up on stage holding the instruments and getting ready for the big show. I had the best feeling at the end of the performance. We performed the song Twist and Shout by the Beatles, and I thought that was a very good song for us. Shout out to Miss Binney for teaching us the song and being there. And shout out to Mrs Turner for being there to support us." Frieda

The Year 5/6 students in the Catholic Schools Music Festival Choir were also busy in the last few weeks of Term 2, as they prepared for their CSMF Hub Assessment with their teachers, Ms Tennille Gibson and Ms Madeleine Binney. Students from nearby Catholic schools joined us at SAC for this important step in preparing for the upcoming event later this year. Congratulations to all the students involved in each of these events!

members of the CSMF Choir shared some insights:

"The Hub Assessment was a great opportunity for the SAC CSMF Choir to get together with other schools. The talent was remarkable, and everyone was so kind and supportive, always ready to lend a hand. This was a great learning opportunity to perfect our songs and choreography for our final performance. Overall, the Hub Assessment was a great experience." Erin

"It was amazing to see how talented everyone was!" Edytka

"As we continue to learn and rehearse songs that are exciting and lively, stretching from forgotten songs of Australia to Elvis Presley, coming together as a choir of over 200 students and singing together makes memories that I will cherish when looking back in the future. A special thanks and gratitude go out to Ms Rothall and Meredith for coming and helping us along with other staff who came along as well. Thanks to the schools and their teachers for bringing their students all the way here. 

In general, the Hub Assessment was enjoyable but hard work as we focused on our higher notes, stretching our vocal chords, and working on our choreography, practising timing and making sure the actions could be visible to the far away audience." Clarisse

Broadening Horizons and Exploring Potential: SAC’s 2026 Subject Expo

Mercy Light: Learning

Selecting subjects for the senior years of school may feel like a daunting prospect, but at St Aloysius College, students are supported every step of the way. The 2026 Subject Expo, held in Week 2 of Term 3, provided an interactive opportunity for students in Years 9 to 11 to explore their interests, ask questions, and strengthen their confidence in making informed decisions about their learning pathways.

The event transformed the McAuley Auditorium into a vibrant hub, with each faculty setting up displays to showcase the broad range of subjects on offer for students in Years 10-12 during 2026. From Physical Education and Drama to Visual Arts, Languages, and Digital Technologies, the diverse offerings highlighted the many opportunities for students at SAC to pursue their interests and discover new passions. Each display was supported by enthusiastic teachers and current students, eager to share their knowledge and experiences.

Deputy Principal (Teaching & Learning), Ms Jacqui Jury, said the Subject Expo format empowers students to actively engage in their decision-making.

“The Expo enables students to see the full scope of the range of subjects available,” Ms Jury explained. “Peer-to-peer advice is a really authentic way for students to learn about what’s on offer. Hearing directly from those who are already studying the subject gives a perspective that can’t be replicated in a presentation. The Expo allows for those longer conversations that help students make choices to suit their strengths and interests.”

Ms Jury also encouraged students to make choices based on interest and self-awareness.

“To students making these decisions, I’d advise against worrying only about which subjects they might think will help them to get the greatest ATAR – choose what you like and choose based on your strengths. Know yourself as a learner, whether you perform better in tests or through research tasks. The ATAR will take care of itself if you’re doing what suits your learning style and interests. Keep your options open, have a Plan A, B, C and D, and most importantly, seek advice if you are unsure.”

For many students, the chance to hear from peers is what makes the Subject Expo so valuable. Year 10 student, Lili M, reflected on her own experience:

“The Subject Expo helped us to navigate some difficult decisions we have to make about our learning next year. Something I found surprising was the variety of subjects available, and the mix of students and teachers there to offer support and answer any questions we had.”

Career Education & VET Coordinator, Ms Julie Stephenson, explained, “at the Subject Expo, students can not only talk to staff and students, but see examples of work and imagine themselves in the position of doing similar tasks next year – or not – which can be really helpful.” 

The Expo also showcased pathways beyond traditional classroom learning, including Vocational Education and Training (VET). Ms Stephenson emphasised the value of VET opportunities for students with diverse interests and career goals.

“VET allows them to integrate a different form of study into their timetable that still counts towards their SACE, while giving them a great insight into an occupational area,” she said.

“It’s important to recognise students’ individual strengths and goals, and look at different ways of incorporating these into subject and pathway choices. If a student loves science but is struggling with certain grades, we can explore alternative pathways to keep their passion alive.”

Support is available every step of the way, with teachers, Year Level Coordinators, and the Careers Office all ready to guide students in making informed decisions.

The Subject Expo is just one of the many ways SAC ensures that students are well-equipped to co-design a learning program that is both challenges and inspires them. By creating a space where curiosity is encouraged and questions are welcomed, the Expo celebrates the individuality of every learner and reminds students that their future is full of possibilities.

As the 2026 subject selection process continues, students are encouraged to reflect on their strengths, passions, and goals – knowing that the school community is behind them to offer support.  

Ms Maddie Kelly
Marketing and Communications Officer

Key dates for the 2026 subject selection process: 

• Week 1: Year 9-11 Subject Selection Information Sessions & Subject Expo
• Week 2: Year 10 Parent SACE Information Evening (McAuley Auditorium)
• Week 3: Year 9-11 Procedures for Selecting Subjects Sessions & Year 8 Subject Selection Information Session
• Thursday 14 August: Year 9-11 Online Subject Selections Due
• Friday 15 August: Year 9-11 Hard copy Subject Selections Due (signed by parents/caregivers)
• Thursday 21 August: Year 8 Online Subject Selections Due
• Friday 22 August: Year 8 Hard copy Subject Selections Due (signed by parents/caregivers) 
• Monday 25 August 2024 3-6pm: Year 10 and Year 11 Subject Selection Interviews
  

Students have been given hardcopy documents to begin this process, as well as online resources. Please note that all documents and information regarding subject selection will be made available on SEQTA Learn (for students) and SEQTA Engage (for parents) in the ‘Documents’ menu tab. 

Celebrating Diversity: Student Posters Shine in Statewide Exhibition

On Wednesday 23 July, the Year 10 Design class, accompanied by Ms Gibson and Ms Penberthy, were excited to visit the annual SA Refugee Week Youth Poster Awards Exhibition held in the Festival Theatre foyer.

Students were moved and inspired by the variety of posters on display. St Aloysius was privileged to have four of our 2024 student posters selected for the exhibition which will travel around the state. St Aloysius has been involved in the awards for 13 years and has picked up 6 awards over that time. This year Amalia Kostarellos was awarded second place in the secondary section. The exhibition highlights the important role that migrants have in our community and is a celebration of our cultural diversity . The Design class are looking forward to investigating this topic further and starting to design their own Refugee Week Poster. 

Ms Gibson and Ms Penberthy
Teachers

The students were warmly greeted and welcomed by Renee Gibson the Education Manager at the Festival Centre and Keith Preston from the Australian Migrant Resource Centre

From the International Students Coordinator

Short-Term International Students Excursion to Gorge Wildlife Park

On Week 2 Thursday, our short-term international students enjoyed a fun and educational excursion to Gorge Wildlife Park. The students, visiting from China and Japan, had the opportunity to get up close with Australia’s unique wildlife. From feeding kangaroos to spotting koalas, the day was filled with excitement, learning, and memorable experiences in nature.

Ms Shuhong Li
International Students Coordinator

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

“What are you mob doing?”

A simple question, posed to us with enthusiasm and an air of hope from a young local, football in-hand; eager for us to join in for some play on the oval. It was an excellent example of the warmth and welcome extended to our Year 11 students taking part in their Gold Dukes Residential Project at Wurrumiyanga, Tiwi Islands.

Now into the College’s second decade of visits, our students attended the island to volunteer within the Murrupurtiyanuwu Catholic Primary School and visit some key cultural and spiritual destinations within the truly unique community; one which has almost seamlessly melded Catholic faith into their own rich culture. It is indeed a dramatic change of pace from the lives our students lead, in the hustle and bustle of the Adelaide city centre.

Sr Anne Gardiner, now 94 years young, has called the Island home for more than 60 years. For Sr Anne, our annual visits herald both new personal connections and the opportunity to share stories and convey deep appreciation for our school’s Mercy contributions that are present around the community, from the impressive Patakijiyali Museum to the Frangipani Café. During our trip this year, Sr Anne extended a very generous invitation to attend a dinner party at her house, with other visitors, locals, school leadership, Church priests and parishioners in attendance. The occasion celebrated a milestone for her current labour of love; restoring the island’s historic ‘Old’ church. It was truly touching to listen to the speeches given on the night, and our quiet visit to the Church on the final morning was a nice way to bookend our journey.

We visited both Catholic churches in the community but also got an appreciation of the unofficial Tiwi religion; footy. Unfortunately, we flew in just a day after the island’s Grand Final, but it was clear to see the devotion to the game – in the skill displayed in the yard at Recess/Lunch breaks, the colours proudly worn by young and old in the streets, and even on Sr Anne’s decked-out Sydney Swans mobility scooter! The game is a way of life in these parts. When we told people we were from Adelaide, we were invariably quizzed about Crows/Power and given a cheeky smile or an anecdote about relatives and their prowess.

There were many unforgettable experiences enjoyed throughout the week. These ranged from viewing the awe-inspiring local artwork and yarns with the artists, to admiring the natural beauty of the landscapes and sweating through the heat of the afternoons. In stark contrast, there were ever present and eye-opening insights to the struggles of the Tiwi people. ‘Cost of living’ pressures are compounded on the island and a trip to one of the two small supermarkets/grocery shops demonstrates this; preparing nutritious and filling meals for a family is both difficult in terms of ingredients and extremely expensive at the checkout. Further to this, the young people on the island are likely to experience traumatic behaviour in their formative years, so it is amazing to witness the commitment of the staff and teachers at school, doing amazing work to create safe and enjoyable learning environments.

Amid the quieter moments at our accommodation, we shared conversations about the Tiwi people and reflected upon our similarities and differences. We also bonded over the highlights of each day and enjoyed many laughs. Some written reflections are included below.

I would like to sincerely thank the many people who made this trip possible. I am confident that all students will return to SAC with lasting memories and sense pride that our relationship with the Tiwi community will continue into the future.

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

Students refelcted:

“Throughout this experience I was often prompted to reflect. When seeing the living conditions of this community I came to understand how privileged and lucky I am.” Elle

“I observed that the Tiwi people are very welcoming and genuine. We were welcomed with a song and performed a dance at church, and at Sr Anne’s gathering, and were treated with nothing but respect. We were told several stories by the locals which made me feel very included.” Rosie

“One afternoon when we were at the Oval, a couple of children came up to us and asked if we want to play with them. We immediately said yes that was one of the best decisions we had made. It was so fun!” Alessia

 “Admiring the art and culture of the Tiwi people was a highlight of mine. I enjoyed being able to go to different art locations and learn about the art and how it is made.” Willow

“The flight from Darwin to Tiwi was incredible but a bit daunting at first. Flying over the water with that many windows, getting to see the water and island as you flew in was very cool and beautiful.” Anabelle

“The interactions within our group and with the staff and peers we met in Tiwi were positive. Our group worked well together, supporting each other throughout the trip. The Tiwi people were incredibly welcoming, making us feel like we were at home, and the children at the primary school were always curious, asking us lots of questions which helped us build connections quickly.” Silviya

Year 9 Artists Find Creative Focus in Himeji Gardens

Year 9 Art students walked to the tranquil Himeji Gardens on South Terrace Adelaide to take photographs of the Japanese inspired gardens. Students carefully considered photographic compositions, as one of their photographs will be used as reference for a painting they will create later in the term. We look forward to seeing what students create! 

Science Alive! | Adelaide Showground | 2 & 3 Aug 2025

Don’t miss it - it’s this weekend!

The Oliphant Science Awards is excited to be hosting their Open Day at Science Alive! again in 2025! On display will be all the Models & Inventions projects plus the winning entries from all the other categories including Citizen Science, Crystal Investigations, Games, Multimedia, Photography, Posters, Programming Apps & Robotics, Science Writing & Scientific Inquiry.

Come along to find out if your entry won a prize, find out about the competition or get some inspiration for next year!

All students who enter the Oliphant Science Awards will be eligible to apply for discounted entry tickets. Click here to apply.

Legacy Public Speaking Round

AAmina Speaks Up and Stands Out!

Congratulations to Year 9 student Aamina who won her round in the Legacy Junior Public Speaking competition. This competition is open to all 12–14-year-olds in South Australia and Broken Hill. It is aimed to build appreciation for the legacy ideals of voluntary service, social justice, caring, personal sacrifice and/or mateship.

It was held at Scotch college and her topic was 'How the worlds hardest battles go unseen'. She talked about the importance of standing up to racism, the little things that keep adding to racism and how racism gets overlooked and dismissed quite often. Aamina will go on to compete at the state level. We wish her luck in this next stage.

Ms Wendy Lacoon
Teacher

GLOW AND TELL - An Interactive Light-filled Storytelling Adventure

Blending the magic of light and simplicity of storytelling, our Year 1 students were placed at the centre of this engaging interactive experience right here at SAC. Using UV light in a custom-built tent, the classroom was transformed into an intimate performance space where stories and imagined worlds came alive as glowing drawings appeared on the walls and floor. Following the performance, students created and illustrated their own stories in glowing UV light on the walls and floor of the tent.

Our Performer, Ayden, a Narungga man, shared a unique story exploring themes of family and culture and it was loved by all our students.

Mr Tom Coultas
Drama Coordinator

Students commented:

"My spirit animals was a fish because I like the look of water and seaweed and I really like swimming." Yasvi

"I like bunnies because I like jumping and eating carrots." Nehal

"You could make drawings with the lights, so it was like magic!" Shanaya

"I learnt the story about the fisherman. It said there was a great white shark who took all the spears!" Onara

"I really liked it because was got to try it too and it was different to normal drawing on paper. It was cool how your drawing disappeared." Nina

"Aden's spiritual totem was a butterfish, he drew a butterfish and then told us a story of the Butterfish. Aden is a great drawer." Ayana 

"We were able to use a stencil to trace or we could draw our own things with our glow pen. I loved it so much!" Isla

From the Secondary Sport Coordinator

Winter Sport

As we approach Round 9, here are a few reminders for winter sport:

• Pink Round: Saturday 2 August. Players, coaches & spectators wear a pink accessory 🎀 to raise awareness for Breast Cancer. Please see my email for more information.
• Semi-finals: Saturday 9 August (to be uploaded once minor rounds have been played)
• Play-off Finals: Saturday 16 August (all teams usually play in this round – please see clipboard for match details after semi-finals are played)

Sport Photos – Week 4

A reminder that School Sport & Extra-Curricular photos will be held Thursday of Week 4. This will include all Term 1, 2 & 3 sport teams and interschool/knockout teams. A schedule will be sent out closer to this time, so please make sure you familiarise yourself with your photo times and which uniform is required for your specific photo. Specifically, previously students have been caught out because they have not brought their PE shorts (only long pants) for some group photos that require PE uniform. Please ensure you have everything with you for the day.

Knockout Sport

Our knockout netball and basketball teams worked hard through Term 2 to prepare for their respective statewide competitions. Here are some of the recent results:

7/8 Netball

Our 7/8s started their knockout season late in Term 2, defeating Modbury High School, Unley High School and Adelaide Botanic in their Round 1 competition. This team were hungry to progress through to finals, so in Week 1 of Term 3 they left nothing on the table when they faced Seaview High & Unity. Whilst they were able to pull off an exciting 1 point win against Seaview in their first game, they unfortunately went down to Unity by 1 point in the last 10 seconds of their second match. We are so proud of the girls and the resilience they showed throughout both of their final matches. It’s a huge accomplishment to come that close to a statewide final, and for that they should be very proud! Thank you to old scholar coaches, Maeve Garnett & Jessica Dalwood for their support.

9/10 Netball

Our Year 9/10 netballers also made it through to Round 2, playing Cedar and Unley on Tuesday of this week to make it through to finals. They were both close games and very much within reach, however, things didn’t fall our way. Whilst they won’t be making it through to the final, we are very proud of their commitment over the winter months, coming out to all trainings and working towards their goals. Ms Grawich & I are very proud of their efforts, and it was an honour to coach such a skilled group of netballers.

7/8 & 11/12 Basketball

Our open girls (11/12) team hosted the first round here at SAC, against two tough opponents in Nazareth and St Franis De Sales. It was a milestone for this group being placed into Division 1 for the statewide competition, after being very successful in lower divisions in past years. The girls put forth a strong effort, with losses by 10 and 12 points in both games. We’re particularly proud of the younger / developing players that came up against Year 11/12s in a quality competition.

Our 7/8 squard were undefeated in the first round, and after injuries and illness came 5th out of 8 in the finals.

Our 9/10 basketball team are set to play later in Term 3 – keep your eyes peeled for results!

Ms Meg Henderson
Secondary Sport Coordinator

From the Primary Sport Coordinator

Team Spirit Shines at SACPSSA Netball Carnival

On Tuesday 1 July, four teams proudly represented our school at the SACPSSA Netball Carnival. We had a Year 5/6 team, a Year 5 team, and two enthusiastic Year 3/4 teams take to the courts.

For the Year 5/6 and Year 5 teams, the carnival marked the end of a successful season, showcasing the skills and teamwork they had built throughout the term. In contrast, the carnival served as an exciting beginning for our Year 3/4 teams, who will commence their season next term. For these younger students, the day was filled with valuable learning experiences as they explored game play and built their confidence.

Across all teams, the focus remained on development, teamwork, and, most importantly, having fun! It was wonderful to see the students play with great energy and spirit, supporting each other and embracing the opportunities to grow both on and off the court.

A heartfelt thank you to the staff members who generously gave their time to help make the day a success. I also extend my appreciation to the secondary students who supported the teams through coaching and umpiring. Their involvement not only contributed to the smooth running of the carnival but also provided them with a valuable opportunity to develop and demonstrate their leadership skills.

Ms Sarah Anderson
Primary Sport Coordinator

Tottenham Hotspur Soccer Clinics

Students from Year 3 and 4, along with our secondary soccer teams, were given a fantastic opportunity to take part in an engaging soccer clinic led by a coach from the renowned Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, supported by dedicated CBC staff members.

Through CBC's partnership with Tottenham, this exciting experience was made possible, and we are sincerely thankful for the opportunity extended to our students.

Throughout the day, the girls enthusiastically developed their soccer techniques and game awareness. To maximise learning, participants were divided into small groups. This structure allowed each student to receive more individual attention and hands-on coaching.

The sessions were dynamic, inclusive, and thoroughly enjoyed by all, leaving the girls inspired and more confident in their soccer abilities.

Thank you CBC and Tottenham Hotspur!

A Call to Action for SAC during National Homelessness Week

Next week marks National Homelessness Week, which is a time for Australians to reflect on the harsh realities of homelessness that many members of our communities face. While we at SAC maintain consistent efforts to support people doing it tough, during National Homelessness Week, we have the opportunity to participate in locally-driven initiatives that raise additional awareness and support. Last week during JAM, we welcomed Annette Slater, a former teacher who has volunteered at Hutt St Centre for over 5 years. Annette shared that, while the 2021 census suggested that over 7,000 South Australians experience homelessness on any given night, this figure is expected to climb to over 9,000 in the next census. 

Next Friday 8 August, students and members of the SAC community are welcome to participate in these community initiatives: 

1. Walk A Mile In My Boots - Hutt St Centre - If you'd like to join us, please register via this link. You may also donate to our team. Please meet at 6:45am near the St John's Ambulance station at Victoria Park. Walk a Mile - St Aloysius College
2. National Homelessness Week Memorial in honour of those who've passed away while experiencing homelessness - Tarntanyangga/Victoria Square - 1pm.

Overnight on Friday 8 August, a group of Year 12 students will participate in the annual Winter Sleepout, an immersive experience that helps students develop empathy for those sleeping outdoors. Students will cook soup for Sister Janet Mead's Adelaide Day Centre, and participate in a program of activities that promote awareness and understanding of the issues that may lead people to a situation of homelessness or inconsistent living situations. 

Ms Maddie Kelly
JAM Coordinator

JAM students heard from Annette Slater, a Hutt St Centre volunteer, about SA’s rising homelessness

All Welcome

Pilgrims of Hope - Walking Together