Annual Report to the College Community

At this time of year, schools are required by the Australian Government to report on activities and performance in 2024. Thank you to all of those who contributed to the most recent edition. Our Annual Report to the College Community is available for viewing on the College website in the Policies section under School Governance.

Annual Action Plan

Over recent weeks we have been updating our Annual Action Plan and in upcoming editions of Lumina we will provide a snapshot of each priority area.

Priority 1 – Pride in our Identity

Goal: We celebrate our Catholic identity as a school in the Edmund Rice tradition.
Intended Outcome 1: Our community has pride in the long traditions that have established St Mary’s.
Targets & Annual Targets: Clear articulation of our founding story, visible co-educational identity, full uniform by 2025.
Intended Outcome 2: There is a masterplan for St Mary’s learning precinct that helps link our parish and primary schools in a shared vision for Catholic education.
Targets & Annual Targets: We have a detailed masterplan that provides guidance for capital improvements for the next 10 years. Coordinated approach to sharing spaces, facilities, events, resources, and expertise, such as: library, hall, pool, science labs, music program and equipment, feast day activities, professional learning etc.

Music Camp

Music students had the opportunity to gather last week, work on their ensemble skills and develop their music craft during an intensive program at Amberley Retreat Centre. Thank you to Music Leader, Ms Katie Thomas, and the talented team of instrumental music teachers who facilitated this great opportunity. Thank you also to our P&F for offering sponsorship to assist with transport costs. I trust that the students have enjoyed a rich learning experience.

Exams

Exams commence for Year 10 and Year 11 students in coming weeks, and we encourage our students to use the experience of these assessments to help develop the good habits that will enable each to perform at their best in exam conditions. Exams require another skill set that distinguishes them from shorter assessments and practice helps to hone these techniques. Some of the skills required are simple – be early so that you are not rushed and have time to settle. Please share with your young person the strategies that have worked for you as many of you will have great expertise in these and other forms of assessment / test. Information about the upcoming exam period has been distributed by Mr Daniel Di Lisio, Director of Learning and Teaching.

SIMON Everywhere

A reminder of the availability of a companion app for your phone to help you to access SIMON / PAM. Hopefully SIMON Everywhere will make it easier for you to monitor the progress of your young person and notify the College of absence. It is available for download from the app store and login is with your PAM details. More information will be coming including where to seek technical support if required.

Darren Atkinson
Principal

Music to My Ears

Much will have been said in the community and indeed in this newsletter about the St Mary’s College Music Camp, held in recent weeks. I had the great privilege of attending the camp on the first afternoon / evening. It was the atmosphere – the vibe – that I walked away thinking about most. There were awesome things happening all over the sprawling Amberley Centre estate, with small and large spaces filled with enthusiasm and beautiful music. Most impressive was the way our students were interacting with each other across year levels. The committed staff in attendance were just outstanding. Their effort, organisation and passion for providing every student, regardless of age, ability or musical / acting preferences, with a life shaping experience was admirable. The students were impressive in every way, from start to finish. That can’t always be said when taking groups of students away from ‘normal life’. They were all so happy to be there and by all reports, are inching closer to readiness for upcoming performances of Mamma Mia, rock band performances at assembly, or big band / ensemble showcases they are preparing for. Congratulations and well done to all.

Families are encouraged once again to respond to the call for donations, with the target of $50 per student. Details of how to donate, including each student’s individual donation code has been sent to families and students. The link to donate is also copied below. Please contact me if you have any issues donating.

Social Justice Donation Page - https://st-marys-college-2025-...

Please find below a summary Child Safe Standard 3, which came into effect on July 1 2022, and a summary of our action plan for this standard.

Child Safe Standard 3: Child and student empowerment

School culture must support children and young people to be informed about their rights and responsibilities in an age-appropriate way, where they actively participate in building a school culture that is safe for them and their voice. This includes paying attention to the importance of peer friendships, building the awareness and capacity of staff and volunteers, and implementing child abuse prevention programs. Children and young people are more likely to speak up when they feel respected and confident that they will be heard and be taken seriously.

At St Mary’s College, we are working towards the implementation of Standard 3, by:

• Student voice through: Student Voice Committee, Prefect Team, SRC, House Captains, Social Justice Committee.

• Informing students of their rights and promoting student voice and agency through student designed child safety posters.

• Student attendance at School Advisory Council Meetings and Leadership Team Meetings.

• Child Safety and Bullying Contact email addresses.

• Pastoral Care and Respectful Relationships Program.

• Cyber-safety awareness.

• External providers (guest speakers) for the delivery of important topics to various student cohorts.

Shaun Lancashire
Deputy Principal

Learning to Learn: What Exams Really Teach Us

With the Year 10 and Unit 1 exam periods soon approaching, our students are preparing to enter that familiar yet formative space: Logue Hall transformed into a quiet, focused setting of challenge and concentration. Timetables and requirements are available in the Exam Booklets emailed earlier in the week, and staff are here to guide students through both logistics and nerves.

But at St Mary’s College, we want students to see exams as more than a test of memory. They are a learning moment in themselves an invitation to grow in perseverance, discipline, and depth.

With that in mind, here is a guide to five high-impact study strategies, each explained with purpose, examples, and tips to try at home or school. These tips are habits of mind that can transform the way students learn, think, and experience success.

Five Strategies to Study Smarter

1. Retrieval Practice: Remember More by Remembering Without Notes

What it is: Deliberately trying to recall information from memory without looking at your notes or textbook.
Why it works: Retrieval strengthens memory by pulling knowledge out of the brain rather than just pushing it in.
Example: After revising key quotes for an English essay, close your book and try to list them out on a blank page. Then check and correct your work.
Tips to try:

• Use flashcards or apps like Quizlet.
• Create a “brain dump” page at the end of each study session.
• ·each someone else a topic without notes.If you can explain it, you’ve learned it.

2. Spaced Practice: Beat Forgetting by Studying in Intervals

What it is: Reviewing material over several days or weeks, instead of cramming the night before.
Why it works: The brain needs time to forget and re-learn—this strengthens long-term memory and makes concepts “stick.”
Example: Instead of revising Science for 3 hours on Sunday, do 30 minutes each on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
Tips to try:

• Use a weekly planner or calendar app to schedule mini-revision blocks.
• Review old topics while learning new ones. Don’t “move on” too quickly.
• Write key topics on post-it notes and rotate which ones you review each day.

3. Dual Coding: Use Words + Images to Make Learning Visual

What it is: Combining verbal information (notes, definitions) with visuals (diagrams, timelines, mind maps).
Why it works: Our brain remembers better when it engages multiple senses and forms of representation.
Example: For Humanities, turn your notes on Australia’s democracy into a flowchart showing how laws are made, or draw a comic strip showing key events in WWII.
Tips to try:

• Turn definitions into infographics or use icons to represent concepts.
• Colour-code notes and diagrams to show links between ideas.
• Create posters or slide decks summarising key topics visually.

4. Interleaving: Mix It Up to Think Flexibly

What it is: Practising different types of problems or topics in the same study session instead of doing one topic in a block.
Why it works: Mixing subjects forces the brain to adapt and make stronger distinctions between concepts, which is great for exams.
Example: In one session, revise percentages in Maths, then switch to essay planning in English, then do some Science definitions. Avoid “marathon” blocks of one subject.
Tips to try:

• Rotate through 2–3 subjects in one study session.
• Mix practice questions (e.g., solving different types of algebra problems).
• Review your hardest subject first when your brain is fresh.
  

5. Elaboration: Ask 'How' and 'Why' to Make Meaning

What it is: Digging deeper into what you’re learning by making connections, asking questions, and thinking about relevance.
Why it works: Understanding, not just memorising, builds lasting knowledge. It makes learning personal and transferable.
Example: In Health and PE, don’t just memorise the training methods but also ask why circuit training suits certain goals, or how stereotypes impact physical activity choices.
Tips to try:

• Use sticky notes to write “Why does this matter?” next to your notes.
• Link each topic to a real-life scenario, current event, or personal interest.
• Create your own quiz questions that go beyond facts adnd ask “How would you apply this?”

Final Thought

Studying is not just about passing exams it’s about forming a mind that can think, stretch, and reflect. It’s about becoming a learner for life. Encourage your child to reflect on how they’re studying, not just how long. Thank you to our families for the quiet encouragement, structure, and snacks behind the scenes. Together, we help our students discover not only what they know but who they are becoming as lifelong learners.

Daniel Di Lisio
Direction of Learning & Teaching

Support the Future of St Mary’s College – Building Fund Appeal

As St Mary’s College continues to grow and evolve, so too must the spaces where our students learn, connect, and thrive. Our Building Fund Campaign is a vital initiative that supports the ongoing improvement and development of our learning environment.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, recent projects such as the refurbishment of the McCartney Wing have already had a significant impact, providing students with modern classrooms, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant communal areas. With your continued support, we can ensure that future developments match the high standard of education we offer.

We invite families to contribute to the St Mary’s College Building Fund. 

All donations over $2 are tax-deductible and go directly toward enhancing the educational spaces for current and future students.

Your support, no matter the size, helps us shape a school environment where every student feels inspired to learn and grow.

To make a contribution, please visit:
👉 www.trybooking.com/au/donate/smcbuildingfund

Together, we can build a stronger future for St Mary’s College.

For further information contact David Formosa at dformosa@stmaryscollege.vic.edu.au

Last week the VM Classes attended the Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve in Elsternwick. Students completed surveys of the water quality, looking at native flora and fauna and were able to plant 250 seedlings. This park was converted from a golf course in the last few years to a wetlands nature reserve. Our students have helped to regenerate the area, giving back to the community a natural environment for all to use. Students enjoyed being out of the classroom and being able to do work which helps others and the environment.

Grant Godbold
Vocational Major

Mamma Mia – 2025 School Musical 

With less than 4 weeks to go until opening night, Mamma Mia! is well on track to amaze our audiences. The cast have been working extremely hard for 3 months now, every Tuesday, Thursday, and additionally Sundays in term 2. Students have been busy rehearsing their lines, learning their choreography, and practicing their singing. 

Last week, we had the privilege to go on music camp, which assisted our rehearsal process. It was wonderful to watch how the show came together on camp, and seeing the new friendships and bonds formed was fantastic to witness. With 3 full days of rehearsal, we were able to finalise all the blocking for Act 1 and Act 2 and nearly complete all the choreography. We even had a special surprise performance from Donna and the Dynamos at karaoke night, where they showcased their stunning outfits for the first time! 

I know you must be wondering, when do tickets go on sale, and where do we purchase them? Make sure you have your Money, Money, Money ready, because tickets for the public go on sale Monday June 2nd at 9am! Our exclusive preview show tickets are on sale today at 4pm! You can access them from the QR code attached to this article, or this link: https://www.trybooking.com/DCFUV

We have 4 performance times for you to choose from. 

• 7:30pm - Wednesday June 25th (EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW SHOW WITH GRAZING TABLE ) – All tickets $20 
• 7:30pm - Thursday June 26th – Kids/Students $22, Adults $28 7:30pm 
• Friday June 27th – Kids/Students $22, Adults $28 
• 1:30pm & 7:30pm Saturday June 28th – Kids/Students $22, Adults $28 

Location – Logue Hall, St Mary’s College. 11 Westbury Street, St Kilda East 

I can guarantee that this show is one you don’t want to miss, you’ll be walking out singing Thank you for the Music - and wishing you could see it all over again! Hope you’re getting excited to dance, jive, and have the time of your life! 

Molly Andrews-Dodds – Year 11 Stage Manager

Mamma Mia! Preview Show – One Night Only!

Wednesday 25 June | 7:30PM | Logue Hall

🎟️ Tickets: $20 – https://www.trybooking.com/DCFUV

Be among the first to experience the magic of Mamma Mia! at our exclusive Preview Performance! Join us as the cast and crew shake off the cobwebs and bring this high-energy musical to life in a special sneak peek before opening night.

With all tickets just $20, it’s the perfect midweek treat packed with ABBA hits, heartfelt moments, and plenty of fun. Come along, cheer on our talented students, and be part of the buzz before the curtain officially rises!

Seats are limited – book now and support the incredible work behind this production.

Brendan Tollit
Head of Drama

It’s been a week of outstanding achievements across a range of sports for our students!

In the ACC competitions, our Intermediate AFL and Soccer teams both secured impressive victories. The Senior AFL team started their season with a big win, while the Junior Soccer team also delivered a fantastic performance to come out on top.

In ACC Golf, Anton Kovacevic players showed great skill and determination, finishing in second place with a team score of 70 after 18 holes. Furthermore, Anton & Mia Saik represented St Mary's College at the Victorian All Schools Golf Championships.

Our CGSAV Girls Hockey team made school history by taking out the grand final against St Aloysius in a thrilling match — congratulations to all involved! 

Adding to the celebrations, two of our talented swimmers shone at the All Schools Swimming Championships, each winning their individual races while representing ACC.

A huge congratulations to all our athletes for their hard work, sportsmanship, and school spirit. Go St Mary’s!

Dean Bird 
Director of Sport

Emmanuel 11-8-74 defeated St Mary’s 2-7-19

Unfortunately, a poor first half, allowed Emmanuel to control all facets of the game. Our pressure was below standard, and we didn’t stick our tackles. Dion Cosentino was a shining light he led the way for 4 quarters with his attack on the ball and aggressive attitude.

At half time Emmanuel led comfortably. With some positional changes and coach Harper reading the riot act, the St Mary’s boys came out with a new sense of belief. Our tackling was ferocious, and this allowed us to play the game on our terms creating several scoring opportunities which unfortunately we could not convert.

To the boy’s credit we won the second half demonstrating the St Mary’s fighting spirit.

Special mentions to Edison Lehocz Bradley Akacich and Mason Sacco who continued their good form from last week.

The following boys Jasper Brennan, James Potts and Jack Muir all looked dangerous when given space to work in.

Well, done to Charlie Clarke and Callum Slattery who again hit the scoreboard today.

A shout out to Mason Roach, James Pearce, Elijah Iwanow and Finn Blacklow who all did a great job with the game day duties.

Best- Cosentino, Lehocz, Akacich, Sacco and Brennan

Goal kickers- Clarke 1 and Slattery 1

Eddie Cavolo
Teacher

St Mary’s 10-8-68 defeated Emmanuel 9-11-65

After a comfortable win last week, we knew that Emmanuel were going to be hard to topple.

Again, we started well, our open forward line continued to pose problems for the opposition.

Joe Charlesworth again causing headaches for defenders and with our midfielders racking up possessions led by Will Stone, we went into quarter time with a handy 3 goal lead.

Emmanuel began to take ascendancy in quarters 2 and 3 especially on the spread linking well with the handball. If not for Lochie Dooley who intercepted superbly all day in defence, and our well-structured forward line, well led by Cohen Bentley at centre half forward who provided leads all day and therefore leaving our forward line open we still maintained a slender lead.

The last quarter proved to be an arm-wrestle, an important goal from Noah Korfiatis and a whole team lift in our contested possession proved to be the difference for a memorable 3 point win.

I commend the boys on their spirit and resilience today, there were several times today when Emmanuel looked like they were going to run over us but we remained on the rails and arrived together and our next stop - De La Salle.

A shout out to Matilda Phyland, Zoe Pantazis, Yonas Weldemichael, Finn Davis and Mrs Kirkwood who all supported the team with game day duties.’

Finally, congratulations to Ivan Silva, Harley Corke, Rory Leyshon and Noah Kirkwood who all debuted today for the Seniors.

Goal kickers: Charlesworth 4, Scothern 2,Bentley 1, Kolinac 1, Korfiatis 1 and Fraser 1

Best: Scothern, Stone, Charlesworth, J Corke, Dooley, Bentley and S Daley.

Eddie Cavolo
Teacher

The students in Year 10 and 11 who are enrolled in Computing subjects were invited to attend the annual IT Careers Expo – the Big Day In. Along with over 20 schools, our students listened to a number of guest speakers from companies such as Adobe, WiseTech Global, Avande and Defence Force Recruiting to name a few. Here they learnt of the amazing opportunities that studying computing will have. Students heard how the World Economic Forum has predicted that due to the major global trends in technology, economy and green transitions, there will be 170 million jobs generated by 2030, while displacing 92 million others. Some of the fastest-growing skills required for these jobs are AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, technical literacy – skills that students are being exposed to in their studies. Students had the opportunity through out the day to talk to companies at the Expo about skills needed to obtain such jobs. Our students participated in the day with enthusiasm and even won a prize as a result of their involvement in the day.

Sylvia Pastore
Teacher

Tuesday morning period one we had our reconciliation assembly. We had Years 7, 8 and 12 in the first assembly and Years 9, 10 and 11 in the second assembly.
Four Year 11 students and Mr Tollit led the assembly. Year 8 and 9 students managed the microphones and the image on the big screen.
On the floor chairs had been arranged only two rows alongside the walls. This left a large space in the middle of the hall.
Upturned coffee paper cups were laid out in a winding line in the space. All of them were one colour except for the last one.
Each cup represented 200 years of human history in Australia. The 300 cups represented 60,000 years.
The last cup represented European colonisation and the creation of Australia.
To imagine 60,000 years is difficult. The cups allowed for a sense of time.
We focused on this sweep of human history and the population feature of Australia that mirrored our seating.
Just on 90% of Australians live within 50 kilometres of the coast. Most of this population is spread between Melbourne and Brisbane.
Unlike us, Indigenous Australians lived across the continent in all environments.
In terms of time and space we live on the edge of an Indigenous Australia.
This is a truly humbling realization. Our students and staff were challenged to consider this at the assembly.

Paul Quinn
Director of Identity, People and Culture

Homework Club – Supporting Student Learning

Homework Club is back for 2025, providing a fantastic opportunity for students to receive extra support with their studies. Running every Thursday from 3:15pm to 4:45pm in the College Library, this program offers a quiet and structured environment for students to complete assignments, revise key concepts, and develop strong study habits.

We are fortunate to have two outstanding former students, Raj Johnston and Ethan Oyston (Class of 2023) as our tutors. Both Raj and Ethan excelled academically during their time at St Mary’s College and are passionate about helping current students succeed. Their experience and knowledge make them valuable mentors, offering guidance across a range of subjects.

All students are welcome to attend – no registration required. Whether you need assistance with a tricky maths problem, feedback on an essay, or just a dedicated space to focus, Homework Club is here to help!

David Formosa
Director of Development