Please keep an eye out on PAM, the Loreto College App, website and social media for any scheduled events.
For the full Loreto Events Calendar please visit via the Loreto College Ballarat app or Click Here
Leadership News
From the Principal
Ms Michelle Brodrick
The passing of Pope Francis has been a hugely significant event for the whole world.
Pope Francis will be remembered for his unwavering compassion and his dedication to inclusivity, embracing people from all walks of life with open arms. His profound advocacy for environmental care inspired a global call to live in harmony with the earth and our shared responsibility to protect it.
Beginning Term Two
This term began with gusto, with the College coming together for several occasions including ANZAC day, athletics and Mother’s Day.
Commemorating ANZAC Day
ANZAC Day holds deep significance in Australian history, marking the bravery and sacrifice of those who served in conflicts past and present. As a school community, we gathered today to reflect on the courage and resilience of men and women in service that define the ANZAC spirit. This year, Lilah Rose Goodbourn, Year 7, played the Last Post which is a remarkable achievement.
Honouring the Significance of Mother's Day
On Saturday 3 May, the College held the annual Mother’s Day Liturgy and Afternoon Tea. This occasion allowed us to reflect on the meaning of Mother's Day and take the opportunity to recognize and celebrate the invaluable role of mothers and the act of mothering. This distinction is important, as many individuals—grandmothers, aunts, step-parents, close family friends, and more—contribute profoundly to the nurturing and care of children. There is no singular image or definition of motherhood; rather, it is a diverse and deeply personal experience.
Some of the most cherished moments of motherhood are those filled with laughter and shared experiences. A particularly memorable occasion for me was attending a Geelong football game with my mother and daughter, Olivia. My mother fondly recalls this day as one of the most special, as it was a rare opportunity for just the three of us to spend time together. In recent years, her responsibilities as a caregiver for my father have made such outings less frequent, reinforcing the importance of treasuring these moments.
I encourage everyone to take time to appreciate and celebrate the special women in their lives. These gestures, whether small or grand, will hold even greater significance in years to come.
Acts of care, whether within our own families or extending beyond them, cultivate a sense of humanity and community. Our faith teaches us that through Jesus, we have powerful stories that affirm our worthiness of love and belonging. Let us embrace this lesson and continue to foster kindness and connection in our lives.
Sport
Despite the clouds hanging overhead, the Athletics carnival was held in high spirits with a wonderful energy and level of enthusiasm. There were some impressive performances and results but most important was the level of participation of the students on the day.
There have also been significant achievements of both current and former students on the sporting stage.
Grace Crowe, Year 11 made the Stawell Gift final on the Easter weekend.
Georgia Amoore (2019) was selected as pick 6 in the WNBL for Washington Mystics.
There have been many outstanding sporting results of late. Congratulations to all students who have participated and represented the College and their clubs at the national level.
Upcoming events
Reconciliation Week: Our Shared History
Reconciliation Week is a significant time for all Australians to reflect on our shared past, acknowledge historical truths, and commit to building a future founded on respect and unity. Throughout the week, our College will host a variety of events, including guest speaker, Brenda Matthews, and activities that celebrate Indigenous culture and promote meaningful discussions about reconciliation.
Newsies
We also warmly invite all students, families and community members to the upcoming school production of Newsies, hosted by St Patrick’s College. It will showcase the talent and dedication of St Pat’s and Loreto students, both on and off the stage. This is a wonderful opportunity to support the incredible efforts of our young performers.
From the Deputy Principal
Ms Christine Shaw
The phrase ‘learning to learn’ is common in education, simple on the surface, but really quite complicated. How do we teach our students to learn? This of course is the job of schools, but it doesn’t happen by chance. Our educators work hard to set up environments where learning supports students on many levels but also places the agency for success in their hands and within reach. The Parent teacher interviews held last week allowed families to engage in students’ learning and progress. We know learning is an active pursuit and goes well beyond the classroom and so we hope many discussions have followed at home about how to optimise learning and engagement. In our 150th year, we are reminded of the opportunities we have to thrive at Loreto College and we are constantly reminding students the agency rests with them.
I recently attended the Learning Environments Conference LEA 3001: A Learning Space Odyssey with Ginelle Polanske our Learning Diversity Leader. Stepping into the future of education where boundaries are pushed and conventional thinking challenged, delegates were called to reimagine learning environments for the next century. After many immersion tours to schools around Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, what struck us both was how the opportunity for engagement in sits very much in the hands of our students. Rapid advancements in technology, shifting social landscapes, and environmental challenges are reshaping the way we design and interact with learning and our students are not passive in this. As we continue to enhance spaces at Loreto College, we look to the student voice in ideas about what helps them learn.
I’m sure many of you have been engaged in watching the developments of the papal conclave and the election of Pope Leo XIV. It’s been a positive distraction from the challenging global issues we hear of each day, but a strong reminder there is much to do in our world. Pope Leo’s encouraging words to us all to foster ongoing dialogue and unity among people through peace, resonates deeply and remains a challenge for our students to connect with and feel empowered to be women of action. Small things make a big difference, and our students must use their opportunities, step up and be agents of change.
From the Assistant Principal: Faith & Identity
Ms Felicity Knobel
Our Mother’s Day Liturgy and Afternoon Tea is a highlight in our calendar. This year held on Saturday 3 May (always the weekend before Mother’s Day) we welcomed the women in our community to our Chapel for our Liturgy and then for an afternoon tea. Often at Mother’s Day there is a focus on the sacrifice of women, their nurturing and domestic roles which is true and endearing. However, we believe there is the importance of the women in our world who are mavericks, who are leaders, are role models, encouragers, have high expectations and believe in the good women around them. These women that embody the spirit of Mary Ward and Mother Gonzaga Barry gathered with us on Saturday to celebrate the special role that we uniquely bring to the next generation in our care.
We are proud to work with Raven Collective as a College community and our three raffle prizes came from this organisation who are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for women who have experienced domestic abuse.
ANZAC Day
This year we commemorated ANZAC Day in a whole school assembly led by our College leaders. With the focus on sacrifice of the many groups in our Australian society inclusive of women and also our Indigenous Australians. We also had many students represent our College throughout Ballarat on ANZAC Day as well as in the Legacy organised ceremony at the Shrine of Remembrance.
From the Assistant Principal: Learning & Innovation
Ms Adele Ryan
Parent, Teacher, Student Meetings
Many thanks to the parents, care givers and students who attended our recent Parent Teacher, Student Meetings. These meetings highlighted the strong partnerships we have at Loreto College, which support the growth and development of our students. The focus on the meetings was on student achievement, growth, and ways to navigate challenges. These meetings not only strengthen the connections between home and school but also reinforce our shared commitment to nurturing confident, capable learners. We know that learning is a three-way partnership between the student, the teacher and parents / caregivers. Decades of research has shown that when parents / caregivers engage in their child’s learning, both at home and at school, student achievement and wellbeing are increased (Hattie, 2023; Kim, 2022; Sengonul, 2022; T. E. Smith et al., 2020). Term 3 will also provide another opportunity for Parent, Teacher, Student meetings and we look forward to further conversations. If parents or caregivers have questions about their child’s learning, then please make contact with the teacher or your child’s mentor at any time.
International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) – Symposium
Recently, Ms Sarah Slater and I attended the ICGS Symposium in Sydney. This symposium was a gathering of hundreds of teachers from girls’ schools across Australia and beyond and showcased current research and strategies that support the education of girls. The keynote address was delivered by Dr Jennifer Buckingham and Ms Molly McFayden (Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation). Their address was entitled, ‘Empowering girls: Achieving academic success and fostering belonging’ and emphasised the inextricable link between academic success and a strong sense of belonging. When girls feel connected to the members of their school, this leads to positive academic outcomes and positive wellbeing. We all have a responsibility in driving a supportive, positive environment and this begins with treating others with respect and kindness. This supportive environment, enables students to engage with their learning and take risks as they develop into strong, independent young women.
From the Acting Assistant Principal: Wellbeing
Ms Kerryn Boyko
Autumn is upon us, and the Loreto gardens are full of beautiful colours. Term Two offers a diversity of experiences for students. Winter sports like football and netball commence, we have a dedicated House Week with fun activities,‘Newsies’ will be performed, and Reconciliation Week celebrated, just to name a few.
Recently, the International Coalition of Girls Schools published a research paper Raising Her Voice. Here, it was revealed that ‘on average students ‘sleep less than 7 hours per night’.
Sleep matters for teenagers. Sleep is vital for physical growth, brain development, memory consolidation and mood regulation. A lack of sleep can negatively influence mood and impact mental wellbeing. Experts recommend that students receive 9 to 11 hours of sleep nightly. In addition, studies indicate connections between sleep and academic performance.
Time management can be tricky, especially for a teenager balancing part-time work, sporting commitments, homework and a social life. Structuring time using weekly planners to schedule blocks for extracurricular activities, homework and study can improve productivity and create a set time for sleep. A gentle bedtime routine, where the environment is sleep friendly and screens are switched off an hour before can also help. Students and parents can access specialist advice through our SchoolTV which has a range of short videos, articles and resources about sleep.
https://loreto.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/sleep
Flourish Together
We invite parents to enrol into this immersive pilot event designed to uplift, empower, and celebrate teenage girls through creativity, mentorship, and community. It’s an opportunity for parents to support young women to find their voice, explore self-expression, and connect with inspiring female role models.
For Parents (of all aged teenage girls):
Teen Girls Unfiltered: What they need from you (and how to give it!)
Wednesday 18 June | 7:30–8:30 pm | Online – link to be sent closer to the date
Reserve your spot here: https://events.humanitix.com/flourish-together-parent-webinar
Wearing the Winter Uniform
Now that winter is nearly upon us, it is a good time to check our uniforms and ensure they are worn with pride and in it's entirety. Wearing a school uniform is essential for many reasons. It promotes:
- A sense of pride and belonging to our College Community
- A positive College image; a positive self-image
- Identification and security within our College and the wider community
- Occupational Health and Safety
Winter Uniform:
- The College Winter Skirt (Loreto Blue with gold and white stripes) should be knee length with navy stockings
- The College Winter Pants (Loreto Navy) to be worn with navy socks (plain navy only)
- Long-sleeved Shirt, tucked into either skirt or pants
- College V-neck jumper
- College Blazer
- Optional: Winter Soft-Shell Coat, Winter Scarf, College V-neck Vest, Navy Gloves.
From the Director of ICT
Mr Stuart Campbell
Loreto App Issues
We understand some families are experiencing issues accessing the Loreto app. We are working on a solution and want to reassure families that all College communication can be accessed via PAM, the College newsletter, or the Loreto College Ballarat website.
Any important information will be communicated directly to families via email.
College News
2025 College Production - Newsies
We're so excited to announce that tickets are on sale for our 2025 production of Newsies, alongside St Patrick's College.
SHOW DATES:
Thursday 22 May 2025: 7.00pm - 9.30pm
Friday 23 May 2025: 7.00pm - 9.30pm
Saturday 24 May 2025: 12.30pm - 3.00pm
New York City, 1899. Jack Kelly and his ragtag team of newsboys make a meagre living selling newspapers on the city streets. But when the prices of “papes” are hiked and the newsies are hung out to dry, there is nothing left to do but “open the gates and seize the day!” Led by charismatic Jack and independent, young newspaper reporter Katherine Plummer, the Newsies form a union and organize a strike against the greedy publisher of the New York World. Can a group of idealistic newsboys win against a foe as powerful as acclaimed publisher Joseph Pulitzer? Inspired by the true story of the 1899 Newsboys Strike, Newsies is an ebullient, joyful, and entertaining musical capturing the strength that young people have when they join together and stand up against injustice.
Sport News
Mr Liam Gill (Director of Sport)
Athletics Carnival
When you looked around Llanberris on 28 February, it was a hard choice on which event to watch at our annual Athletics Carnival. With field, track and novelty events happening throughout the day, it was an awesome day filled with plenty of House spirit.
The Year level Champions and Runners Up were:
Year 7 Champion: Eva Bayles - Runner Up: Ruby Trenorden & Misha Jenkins
Year 8 Champion: Gracie Downey - Runner Up: Airlie Fisher & Elizabeth Boyd
Year 9 Champion: Tilly McErlain - Runner Up: Eleanor Downey
Year 10 Champion: Amarli Torney - Runner Up: Abbigail Righetti
Year 11 Champion: Mikala Shannon - Runner Up: Elena Ballinger
Year 12 Champion: Izzy Rossato - Runner Up: Caitlin Mcconchie
It was also great day for smashing records:
Year 9 1500m Aria Violini 4 minutes 59.00 seconds
Year 9 800m Aria Violini 2 minutes 27 seconds
Year 10 1500m Amali Torney 5 Minutes 0.200 seconds
Year 11 60m Hurdles Mikala Shannon 9.66 seconds
Year 11 100m Grace Crowe 12.52 Seconds
The winner of this year's Athletics Carnival will be announced in Mentor next Wednesday.
BAS Athletics Carnival
Our students did amazing at the BAS Athletics Carnival! Loreto College won in all aggregates including:
- Girls Aggregate
- Junior Girls Aggregate
- Inter Girls Aggregate
- Senior Girls Aggregate
Our star athletes broke records once again:
Grace Crowe: 100m, previous record was 12.29 at BAS Athletics, Grace ran 12.10 at BAS.
Grace Crowe: 200m, equalled the record from 1992 at both BAS Aths and LC Aths with a time of 25.20.
Bonnie Burt: 1500m, previous record was 5:06.49. Bonnie ran it in 5:06.27.
Eva Bayles, Daina Griffin, Misha Jenkins and Pippa Dalton: broke the 4 x 100m relay (girls 12 & under: year 7) previous record 57.74, new record 57.62.
Gracie Downey, Anna Streat, Elizabeth Boyd and Airlie Fisher: broke the 4 x 100m relay (girls 13 & under: year 8) previous record 55.75, new record 55.29.
VCE-VM News
Mr Andrew Blackwood (Faculty Coordinator: VCE-VM)
It’s been a busy and rewarding couple of months for our VCE-VM students, with a strong focus on hands-on learning, community engagement and building transferable skills.
Our Year 11 students have commenced their volunteer placements at Yuille Park Community College, where they are supporting classroom learning and building positive relationships with younger students. This partnership gives our students a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the community while developing confidence and communication skills.
For our Year 12 Sport and Recreation students, Friday visits to Ballarat Specialist School have become a regular part of the timetable. They’ve been assisting both in the classroom and in outdoor settings, running inclusive physical education sessions and supporting students with a range of abilities. The relationships being built are already proving to be both valuable and rewarding for everyone involved.
Finally, all Year 12 VCE-VM students have now begun their Community Connections project in collaboration with Platinum Institute. This exciting initiative is transforming a previously unused area at St Patrick’s Cathedral into a functional and welcoming community garden. Students have built and installed raised garden beds and prepared the space for planting a range of vegetables, herbs and native plants. It’s a great example of learning through doing, with a long-term benefit for the wider community.
Thank you to all our local community partners for assisting to provide these amazing learning experiences for our students.
Tim Bone Visit
Early Term 2, our VCE-VM students had the exciting opportunity to learn from MasterChef contestant Tim Bone, who delivered a hands-on masterclass on crafting the ultimate toastie. Tim shared his expertise not only on creating mouthwatering toasties, but also offered valuable insights into branding and running a successful small business. Our students will now put this advice into action as part of their Certificate in Business Studies, launching their very own lunchtime initiative: Toastie Tuesdays — a student-led toastie business right here at the College. We are all looking forward to it!
Language News
Ms Yoshie Burrows (Faculty Coordinator: Languages)
Calling for Host Families
We are excited to welcome once again students from Sacred Heart, Obayashi (Japan) for a short-term visit from 24 July to 6 August!
We're seeking welcoming host families for 2 weeks, to help give these students a true Australian experience.
By hosting, you'll:
- Share your culture and daily life
- Make new international friends
- Support language and cultural exchange
- Receive a $600 home allowance
Junior and Senior students are encouraged to participate in the program, especially those who are considering future Japan Study Tours.
Our next Japan Study Tour is planned for 2026!
Hosting an exchange student now helps build friendships and this may be reciprocated for your future trip to Japan. Students in the past have gone on to stay at their exchange students home in Japan.
Apply early—first 20 applications accepted! Two additional spots will be held for emergencies.
Please contact Ms Burrows - yburrows@loreto.vic.edu.au or Student Reception if you are interested in hosting a student from Japan in July 2025.
English News
Mr Cameron Smith (Faculty Coordinator: English)
English at Loreto College Term 1 & 2 – A Snapshot
English students across all year levels have been busy throughout Terms 1 and 2, developing their skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Below is just a snapshot of the rich and varied learning experiences that have taken place already in 2025…
Our newest learners in Year 7 kicked off the year by writing their own autobiographies, gaining a sense of authorial voice, and experimented with the craft of non-fiction writing. Year 8 students explored contemporary issues that matter to them, presenting speeches to strengthen their persuasive speaking skills in positioning an audience to agree with their point of view.
In Year 9, students examined the recent social media ban, analysing a range of media texts written in response to the issue. Alongside this, they have been studying Future Girl, curating their own ‘writer journals’ and delving into ideas of sustainability, representation, and the power of own-voice stories as they work towards writing their own narratives later this term.
Senior students have been equally engaged. Year 10 English classes have explored Australia’s vaping laws through analysing diverse media texts and participated in lively and spirited in-class debates on topics including the value of single-sex education, mandatory community service for teenagers, whether Australia’s population should be capped and the risks and rewards of social media. In VCE English, students have begun creating and crafting a range of text types focussing on ideas surrounding personal choices and the power of protest. VCE English Language students have been examining the dynamic nature of language in society; currently Year 11 students are investigating how babies and children acquire spoken language. Year 12 students are examining the language used in public contexts, in particular the blurring of informal and formal language in modern rhetoric. Literature students have delved into a rich selection of literary works. Notable novels include F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby in Year 11 Literature with its lavish and opulent parties, whilst Year 12 students have engaged with the palpable love triangle in the pages of Edith Wharton’s The Age of Innocence and compared this with Martin Scorsese’s vivid filmic adaptation.
The English Department encourages all students to be active participants in their learning and to take full advantage of the opportunities available at the College that are in place to support them.
Humanities News
Ms Jayne Carrigg (Faculty Coordinator: Humanities)
Term 2 has seen Loreto College’s 150th birthday celebrations continue in full swing, with the Humanities faculty highlighting a range of engaging learning experiences across year levels.
Year 7: Water Studies at Lake Wendouree
Our Year 7 Humanities students ventured beyond the classroom to the picturesque shores of Lake Wendouree as part of their studies on the theme of Water. They were joined by guest presenters from Water Wise and Central Highlands Water, who shared their expertise and enthusiasm. A highlight of the day was the interactive session 'What waterbugs can you find?', which sparked curiosity and led to some exciting discoveries in the field.
Year 8: Stepping Back into the Middle Ages
Year 8 students immersed themselves in the world of Medieval History during an enriching excursion to Kryal Castle on Friday 9 May. The day was packed with hands-on activities including archery, sword fighting, calligraphy, crime and punishment, and medieval dance. The experience culminated with a lively group dance on the main arena—a memorable end to a fascinating day.
Year 10: World War II Artefacts Bring History to Life
Thanks to the Australian War Memorial, our Year 10 Humanities students studying World War II in the Asia-Pacific have had the unique opportunity to examine artefacts from a special Memorial Box. The collection included original uniforms, medals, POW maps, wartime magazines, and helmets, offering students a tangible connection to the stories of the past.
Unit 3 Legal Studies: Real-World Learning in the Courtroom
Our Unit 3 Legal Studies students extended their classroom learning with a visit to the Supreme Court sitting at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 24 April. Justice Andrew Tinney and his associate generously spoke with the students before court commenced, offering insights into the case of the day and sharing valuable guidance about careers in the legal field.
Arts News
Ms Julia West (Faculty Coordinator: The Arts)
Love and Information
VCE Theatre Students are collaborative creatives and nothing exemplified this more than this year’s VCE Theatre Studies production of Caryl Churchill’s Love and Information. This text is particularly challenging as it is not a chronological narrative, but rather a series of theme connected vignettes. The students discussed how to bring some cohesion to this seemingly disconnected and disjointed work and came up with a ‘game of life’ interpretation, utilising an exploded chessboard set, warped coloured checked make-up and a Rule Book prop weaving through every scene. Actors were challenged to develop multiple characters and utilise variation in acting skills. Actors, directors and designers were required to reinforce meaning, style and elements of theatre composition in their detailed and nuanced designs. Their final production reflected deep textual consideration, intense collaboration and refined production process work and the audience was treated to a highly choreographed and visually stunning show. Further to this the audience were treated to a fabulous light supper created by the VCE-VM business class.
A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Stephanie Greet and her dedicated team of past students and teachers for their invaluable support in bringing this production to life. It was great to see past pupils Bo Clark and Finn Greet coming back to assist with a smooth running backstage. The audience was captivated by the exceptional direction, performances, set design, lighting, props, music, sound, costumes, makeup, and the seamless scene transitions. Special thanks also go to Mr. David Barker for capturing the magic with his incredible photography.
What a great night out!
Music News
Ms Simone Jans (Co-Curricular Leader: Music)
Celebrating Musical Contributions at Loreto College
Throughout this term, our talented musicians have actively contributed to various community events, enriching the spiritual and cultural life of Loreto College.
ANZAC Assembly Tribute
At our recent ANZAC Assembly, Year 7 student Lilah Rose Goodbourn delivered a poignant rendition of 'The Last Post,' serving as a heartfelt tribute to the Anzacs and embodying the solemnity of the occasion.
Mother’s Day Liturgy
The Bella Blues Choir continues to enhance our liturgical celebrations with their harmonious performances. Their contribution to the Mother's Day Liturgy on 2 May was particularly moving. We extend our gratitude to the following students for their dedication and for honouring mothers and mother figures within our community: Evelyn Driscoll, Lilah Rose Goodbourn, Matilda Goodbourn, Baeli Jans, Ashley Keem, Bella Miller, Matilda Read, Zoe Timothy, Elsa and Abbie.
Special thanks to our exceptional accompanist, Jane Nice, for her invaluable support.
Inter-School Musical Performance
On Friday 2 May, we had the privilege of hosting the Mandeville Hall Stage Band and Vocal Ensemble at the Mary’s Mount Centre. This brief yet enriching encounter provided students from both Loreto schools an opportunity to experience the unifying power of music and to appreciate its role in strengthening community.
Senior Band Side-by-Side Rehearsal
In the early hours of 14 May, the Senior Band conducted a side-by-side rehearsal, inviting mentor teachers and interested staff to join them. This initiative offered a unique insight into the commitment and discipline required of our instrumentalists. We commend Band Director Sarah Goodbourn and the Senior Band members for facilitating this engaging experience.
Senior Pathways News
Ms Kelly Pearce (Senior Pathways Coordinator)
Supporting Your VCE and VCE-VM Student
As Senior Pathways Coordinator, I often hear parents asking how best to support their young person during these critical senior years. While students must drive their own educational journey, we can provide essential support structures.
Wellbeing Through Balance Clinical psychologist Andrew Fuller emphasizes that "getting enough sleep helps manage stress, stay happy and also increases marks." Students learn in our school wellbeing sessions that 8-9 hours of sleep and nutritious meals (particularly protein-rich breakfasts) enhance cognitive function and overall wellbeing.
Keep VCE in Perspective Professor Stephen Lewis reminds us that "Year 12 should always be framed as preparing students for life after school." The Year 10 Morrisby assessments help identify strengths that guide career choices, and our Careers Coordinators can assist in exploring alternative pathways to desired courses.
Effective Study Habits Fuller recommends students "do a little bit often" rather than cramming. Our teachers introduce various techniques, including the evidence-based Pomodoro (25-5-5) technique:
- 25 minutes of distraction-free study
- 5-minute break
- Repeat 5 times before taking a longer break
You can support this by helping maintain technology-free study environments.
Regular Breaks Matter Students shouldn't "study all the time," says Lewis. Activities like sports and creative pursuits "enhance cognition, reduce stress and improve self-confidence." The weekends and school holidays offer valuable opportunities for family time and recreational activities.
Support Networks and Self-Advocacy "Positive relationships" reduce stress, according to Fuller. Our Wellbeing and Learning Diversity teams can help identify early signs of stress like "difficulty concentrating, inability to sleep or significant changes in mood."
The VCE years represent a critical transition toward adult learning independence. By recognizing students as leaders of their educational journey, with collaborative support from school and home, we prepare them not just for exams but for lifelong self-directed learning.
For specific strategies, please contact your child's mentor teacher or Year Level Coordinator.
More information can be found at:
- Take breaks, research your options and ditch your phone: how to take care of yourself during Year 12 by Professor Stephen Lewis (Australian Catholic University)
- Setting yourself up for a great year by Andrew Fuller (clinical psychologist)
- Pomodoro study technique: University of Birmingham
Library News
Ms Meghan Douglas (Director of Library Services)
We have enjoyed welcoming our Years 7, 8 and 9 students into the Library during Term 2 for their structured reading program. Our Year 7s have been exploring the Fantasy genre, both in class and through their wide reading. It has been great fun considering the elements of Fantasy fiction, and helping students find a novel that suits them. Harry Potter and Percy Jackson have been popular, along with newer offerings such as Astrid Scholte’s genre-crossing suspense novel ‘Four Dead Queens’, Tom Taylor’s graphic novel reimaging of the Peter Pan story ‘Neverlanders’, and former CBCA shortlisted-novel ‘Dragon Skin' by Karen Foxlee. If your child is in Year 7, make sure you ask them what Fantasy novel they’re reading!
Our Year 8s have continued their discussion-based approach to sharing their reading, exploring both Fiction and Non-Fiction books that fit the theme of “finding your voice”. This includes historical fiction, contemporary YA, and non-fiction that focuses on “how to guides”. Year 9s have explored both Speculative Fiction and Own Voices fiction, mirroring their work in their English program. The mentor text ‘Future Girl’ that they have studied in class is a wonderful jumping off point for these other genres.
We have welcomed Year 5 students from across Ballarat as part of the first round of SEED visits, welcoming them in to our Library space and sharing a mini-reading lesson with them. They were able to choose from a curated selection of accessible non-fiction and picture books for a reading session, before having a book chat with a friend, guided by questions on a chatterbox. It is a great opportunity to meet our future readers and library users!
Our Shadow Judges are working through the CBCA shortlist, with lively discussions around the new Gary Lonesborough novel ‘I’m Not Really Here’ and the verse novel ‘Birdy’. The group are looking forward to sharing their creative responses to all six of the shortlisted books during the course of the year. Keep an eye out during Book Week in August for more from this group!
We are proud to continue offering our students a rich and varied reading program, and we encourage you to speak with them about what they are reading at the moment. We also have a great selection of ebooks and audiobooks on our Wheelers platform. Students and staff can sign in using their Loreto credentials on the website or via the app, and never run out of reading material again!
Happy Reading!
Library Website: https://libguides.loreto.vic.edu.au/Loreto-Library
Our email: library@loreto.vic.edu.au
Our eBook and audiobook collection: https://loreto.wheelers.co/
Instagram: Follow us @loretoballaratlibrary
Career News
Ms Jodie Howlett (Careers Coordinator)
Year 10 Women in Non-traditional Trades
In early April, our Year 10 students took part in a Women in Non-traditional Trades event during STRIVE. They heard from Melinda Davis, General Manager of Empowered Women in Trades, who shared the message that trades are for everyone. Following that, students rotated through a series of workshops presented by companies such as Dulux, Reece Plumbing, UGL and Bunnings. Huge thanks Apprenticeship Support Australia and all involved!
In this week's Career News:
- Career Spotlight - Education
- UAC and TISC Applications Open
- Construction Pathways
- National Careers Week National Youth STEM Summit
- Are you Work Wise?
- Reconciliation Week
- Write for the World
- Entrepeneur Virtual Experience
- Subject Selection Tips
- National Skills Week
- Challenges Open Now!
Finance News
Camps, Sports and Excursion Fund (CSEF)
The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) will provide payments for eligible students to attend camps, sports and excursions. As Loreto College has an all-inclusive fee which covers the cost of camps, sports and excursions, any funds received will be off-set against the student’s tuition fee. $256.00 per year will be paid for eligible secondary school students. Payments will come directly to the College and be credited to the students tuition fee account.
Eligibility:
Families holding an eligible Centrelink Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card, Veterans Affairs Gold Card on the first day of Term 1 or first day of Term 2 or be a temporary foster parent will be eligible to apply.
How to Apply:
Application forms are available on the Loreto College website, or click on the button below. The form needs to be returned to the School Office or emailed to accounts@loreto.vic.edu.au
If you applied for the CSEF at Loreto College Ballarat in 2024, you do not need to complete an application form in 2025 unless there has been a change in your family circumstances (new student/sibling, concession number, etc.). Your child's school will apply for the CSEF on your behalf.
Closing Date:
The closing date for CSEF applications to be submitted to the College is 4 July 2025 (no applications will be accepted after the closing date). All eligible families are encouraged to apply. For more information about the CSEF visit
Conveyance Allowance 2025
The conveyance allowance is a form of financial assistance for parents/carers to transport children to and from school in rural and regional Victoria. Allowances are available for public transport, private car and private bus.
In some locations, students are unable to access free school buses. In these instances, students may receive a conveyance allowance to assist with travel costs.
To be eligible for a conveyance allowance, a student must reside 4.8km or more from the College. Application forms are available on the Loreto College website or click on the link below.
Please note that in 2024 parents who successfully applied and received the Conveyance allowance at Loreto College in 2024 are not required to complete a new application form unless their details have changed – address, mode of transport, etc.
However, to submit a claim Myki receipts or statements or other bus company receipts must be received by the end of each term.
For further information visit:
https://www2.education.vic.gov.au/pal/conveyance-allowance/resources
Any enquiries please email accounts@loreto.vic.edu.au
Community News
Communications
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