From the Principal

The upgrade of Bulmans Road outside our Melton Campus is progressing at great speed.

The five bus bays are now open and working very well and safety has improved considerably for students boarding buses.

Bild Group, contracted to complete the road works for Melton Council, has kept the College updated and worked collaboratively to ensure access to staff car parks.

We look forward to the conclusion of the entire Bulmans Road upgrade, which will provide a much safer and more streamlined solution for those who access the College.

International Women's Day

International Women's Day is held on 8 March annually and is a worldwide celebration.

It is a good time to take stock of the achievements towards equity and inclusion of women in our communities to date.

It is also a time to reflect on what still needs to be done. Last weekend, I read about the gender pay gaps in some industries, particularly fashion and clothing.

This week, staff will celebrate with a morning tea and prayer service, while our Melton Campus resource centre has arranged guest speakers and activities for students. You can read more about this here.

Looking Ahead - Melton Campus Students

Looking Ahead - Cobblebank Campus Students

Student Expectation Framework

At the beginning of 2023, we introduced a school-wide system that develops the expected behaviours from all our students at the college, Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L).

The team developed a Student Expectation Framework that focused on the behaviours our young people are expected to display in all areas of the school and included our Core Wellbeing Values of Endeavour, Community and Empathy.

Feedback was collected from students, families, and teaching staff and the revised Framework was co-designed for 2024.

Last week, the team met with our Melbourne Archdiocese (MACS) Learning Consultant, Jack Mather, to continue to embed PB4L within the St Francis Catholic College learning culture.

We encourage you to look through the Student Expectation Framework with your child and discuss the Core Wellbeing Values and content of the framework.

For our students, the House system has developed a deeper connection to the school, their House Mentor, students in different year levels whom they would not have met and other students in their cohort.

Being a member of each House comes with the responsibility to reflect the Core Wellbeing Values of the College and cultivate their house spirit.

Uniform Checks

All students are expected to wear their uniforms correctly. It forms a strong sense of belonging at the College and students acquire a sense of pride when wearing it.

This week, House Leaders are completing a uniform blitz at Melton Campus. House Mentors continue to monitor uniforms each morning at Cobblebank Campus.

The College has high standards regarding student uniforms. Our Uniform Policy outlines what we expect of our students and is available on our website.

Please note the following as outlined in the policy.

Our blazer is the outer garment for the academic uniform and must be worn to and from school every day throughout the school year unless the temperature is forecasted to be 30 degrees or more.

The rugby jumper or spray jacket is the outer garment for our sports uniform. Please note the addition to the uniform list of a long-sleeved polo shirt for students to wear with the PE uniform.

Black Leather shoes are required to be worn. This does not include Nike Air Force 1s or other fashion shoes.

Please ensure your child has all parts of the uniform to wear every day. All items can be ordered online from Academy Uniforms, or you can visit the Uniform Group Melton Store,
Unit 4, 18 Harrison Court, Melton. The store is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

House Leaders, Mentors and teaching staff monitor students to ensure they wear their uniforms correctly each day. Your child’s House Mentor will inform you if this is not the case.

We ask that you read the uniform policy with your child so they are fully aware of the College’s expectations.

If you would like to discuss this further, please contact the College on 8099 6000.

Blazers and Hot Weather

Parents, guardians and students are asked to note the following regarding the wearing of blazers during hot weather.

If the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) predicts that the temperature will be 30 degrees or above, students are not required to wear their blazers to and from the College.

Moving forward, a message will not be sent each time this occurs.

Please note that if the forecast is for temperatures under 30 degrees, students must wear their blazers to and from school.

Cobblebank Campus Catch-up Photo Day

Students absent on the initial photo day will have their photos taken on Friday 15 March.

Full academic uniform, including the blazer, is required for school photographs.

From the Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching

Data analytics

Last Tuesday, all staff were introduced to Intellischools, the data analytics interface for Simon that gives us easy access to our students' wellbeing, attendance and learning data.

This information allows us to personalise the care we give our students and maximise their achievements and growth. It will inform and support our classroom practice.

The St Francis Catholic College goal continues to be 12 months of growth for 12 months of learning along the learning continuum.

Our staff continue to work positively around the challenges students face to achieve this and we thank families for their continued support. Working in partnership helps achieve the best outcomes for students.

Our teachers meet regularly during Collaborative Curriculum Planning (CCP) time to ensure all units, topics and lesson plans are relevant and reflect the learning outcomes required by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority.

These meetings also provide time to plan and implement new strategies for increased differentiation within the lesson and classroom.

NAPLAN 2024

All Year 7 and Year 9 families have received information regarding the upcoming NAPLAN tests beginning on Wednesday 13 March.

The NAPLAN test window is from 13- 25 March. We ask that families book any appointments for their child outside of this time so we can complete these important tests.

At the college, we use NAPLAN data and student results from assessments to plan for differentiation and target student learning.

Where relevant, families have been contacted by our Learning Diversity Team to discuss these tests.

Year 7, 10 and 11 devices

To protect the laptops provided to students, the devices are fitted with a protective tech skin and include the student’s name for easy identification.

Students and families are reminded that the tech skin is part of the College device and must remain on the laptop. They enable lost and misplaced devices to be returned to their owner quickly.

Laptops are a learning tool and should be looked after at all times. They must not be graffitied.

Students have received a protective case offering further protection against wear and tear. As we roll out the laptop program each year, all students will have a device with the protective St Francis tech skin.

Former Students Return for International Women’s Day Event

Two students from our class of 2017 will return to the College on Friday as part of an International Women’s Day event for senior students.

Alison Vasjuta and Anna Cicalese are forging successful careers in health and environmental engineering. They will speak to students about their chosen pathways and the opportunities our students have ahead of them.

Alison was the College Dux in 2017. She studied a combined four-year degree, a Bachelor of Applied Science and a Masters of Physiotherapy at La Trobe University in Bundoora, graduating in 2022.

Alison now works as a hospital-based physiotherapist for Western Health and rotates across specialities, including neurological, musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory physiotherapy. She also works privately with children with disabilities in aquatic-based therapy.

“Physiotherapy is an in-demand career with the flexibility to work in various settings and with a variety of different people and conditions where no two days are the same,” Alison said.

“Being a physiotherapist can be a highly rewarding and deeply human career. It is an honour to be a part of someone’s life story, helping them learn to walk again, play the sport they love or live without pain.”

Anna also graduated from College in 2017. She studied a combined five-year double degree in Environmental Engineering (Honours)/Environmental Science, majoring in Hydrogeology and Environmental Chemistry at RMIT University, graduating in 2022.

Anna works as an engineer and scientist at GHD, one of Australia's largest engineering consultancy firms.

“I am challenged every day at work to problem-solve some of the planet's most challenging issues,” Anna said.

“Being an environmental engineer and scientist is such a rewarding career path. We get to use our skills to create a lasting, positive impact on the natural world around us and enhance the lives of all living creatures, plants and, of course, humans inhabiting this diverse planet.

“STEM careers are extremely in demand, diverse and offer opportunities for everyone to be at the forefront of innovation. Many STEM professions are all driven by the common goal of making the world a better place.”

Project Compassion

It’s been a busy two weeks during lunchtimes at both campuses as students run competitions and set up food stalls to raise money for Project Compassion.

The mentor groups from each house that raise the most funds will be recognised at the end of the campaign.

We encourage all students and families to give generously to Project Compassion this Lenten season. Along with donation boxes in your child’s mentor group, the College has a fundraising page. You can click here to donate online.

Project Compassion reminds us that the good we do today will extend and impact future generations. Together, we can help vulnerable communities face their challenges today and build a better tomorrow.

Leaia’s story

Samoa may be a country surrounded by water, but access to clean drinking water is scarce in some areas, with many families facing extreme hardship as a result.

Leaia lives with her five children, husband, brother and sister-in-law on the island of Upolu in Samoa. Not having access to a reliable source of clean water caused Leaia a lot of worry.

Their home is not connected to a piped water system, so they had to rely solely on rainwater collected in old fridges. When their water ran out, Leaia had to walk with her young children to collect water in buckets and containers from a neighbour down the street.

With the support of Caritas Australia's local partner, Caritas Samoa, a water tank was installed at Leaia's home. She and her family now have a steady supply of clean drinking water at home. Next year, they will also have a toilet built, with the support of Caritas Samoa, which will further improve their health and living conditions.

“We are very thankful and grateful for the water tank. It has helped us so much and made our daily life easier,” Leaia said.

Watch Leaia’s Story

Sports Update

Melton Campus Senior Mixed Netball

Last Tuesday, the Melton Campus Senior Mixed Netball team competed in a one-day SACCSS tournament against nine other schools.

An incredible display of resilience, determination and grit led us to the semi-final, but unfortunately, we came up short and finished third at the end of the day.

Despite this, the whole team had fun and greatly improved from the first game to the last. A big thank you to Ms Joyce, Ms Dawson, Miss Hodge and Miss Cryan for taking us and being a great support all day!

Lauren Martin and Ebony Raudino, Senior Mixed Netball Team captains

Melton Campus students at SACCSS Open Tennis

Congratulations to the Melton Campus students who represented the College at the SACCSS Open Tennis tournament last Tuesday, all returning with a win in one or more matches!

Boys’ Doubles A: Jonas Cukavac and Corey Brown

Boys’ Doubles B: Shishir Hanumanavar and Jacob Vouri

Girls’ Doubles: Martina Matti Ishak and Edie Todd

Girls Singles: Sophie Donachie (semi-finalist)

Boys’ Singles: Findlay Donachie (finalist)

Below is what Findlay and Sophie had to say about the tournament:

“It was great to be given the opportunity to participate in the SACCSS Open Tennis tournament. It was a fun day, and the weather was very nice. We got to know students from other schools with the same interests, and the competition was fierce but friendly. Everyone had a great time out of school and on the court!”

Senior SACCSS Competition – Melton Campus - Round 4

Melton Campus students at SACCSS Junior Golf

A team of golfers from our Melton Campus came second overall in the SACCSS Junior Golf Tournament held last Friday.

Congratulations to Ned Michael, Josh Comini, Lachlan Wall, Parker Boon, Hayes Lesko and Rob Doensen-Ison for their efforts on the green.

Campus Swimming Carnivals

Melton Waves was a sea of colours last week as students from both campuses got decked out in their house colours and dived into their annual Campus Swimming Carnivals.

On Thursday 22 February, students from the Melton Campus braved the heat to cheer on swimmers from their houses who competed in a series of races and novelty relays.

Chants rang out across the pool and streamers were waved as students attempted to outswim each other to the finish. The big finale was delivered by the Year 12 cohort and their two outstanding synchronised swimming performances.

Cobblebank students took the plunge a day later, showing off their house spirit with a fabulous display of tutus, feather boas and other house-coloured accessories, and some impressive dance moves.

The day began with a slight PA system failure, resulting in a magnificent rendition of the National Anthem thanks to Mr Shaun Coates and the supporting vocals of Bakhita and Catherine houses! The carnival ended with an improvised dance-off won in a tie between Lawrence and MacKillop.

Students from both campuses showed exceptional house spirit, supporting their swimmers, participating in events and maintaining enthusiastic, positive attitudes throughout the day.

The overall Swimming Carnival Cup winners, House Spirit Shield winners and House MVP’s will be announced at the next College assembly. Stay tuned!

Cobblebank Campus Junior Golfers

Last Friday, three Cobblebank Campus students competed in the SACCSS Junior Golf Tournament at Melbourne Airport Golf Club.

Liam, James and Noah represented their campus at the event, which was a fantastic opportunity to showcase their skills and sportsmanship.

Competing against other schools tested their abilities and fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants.

Well done to all three students for their efforts on the day.

Diversity Week - Harmony Day 2024

All staff and students at the College will take part in Diversity Week – Harmony Day from Monday 18 March to Friday 22 March to celebrate and recognise diversity at the College.

Diversity Week brings together Australians from all different backgrounds to strengthen and build respect, inclusiveness, and a sense of belonging for everyone.​

The planning team for Diversity Week – Harmony Day, has been working hard to make this year’s event one to remember with a variety of activities organised to showcase our community.

One of the highlights will be assemblies at both campuses on Tuesday 19 March for which staff and students are encouraged to wear cultural dress or an orange top with their sports pants or shorts to show their support for Diversity Week. 

Caring for the Environment at Cobblebank Campus

This week, our Cobblebank Campus student leaders aim to raise awareness about the importance of keeping our school grounds clean.

Our environmental captains, Year 8 students Andres and Gurnoor, will encourage their peers to pick up any rubbish they see in the yard, place it in the correct bins and bring “nude foods” to school rather than packaged snacks.

They aim to foster the habit of being environmentally friendly out in the yard and ensure it remains a clean and enjoyable space for all.

Andres said protecting our surroundings could help prevent future catastrophes.

“Having an awareness of the environment is important for the climate problem currently affecting the whole world,” Andres said.

“If we don't contribute in small ways to protect the environment and ignore our responsibilities, then sooner or later, we will end up with even bigger problems than we have now, and by then, the consequences will be irreversible.”

Andres and his environmental co-captain Gurnoor look forward to challenging their peers to partake in small acts to save the planet this week and every other week!

Cultivating Kindness at Cobblebank Campus

In keeping with our core College values of Empathy, Endeavour and Community, we are encouraging students to recognise kindness when they come across it.

Students can nominate someone who has been kind by writing the person's name and what they did that showed kindness on a small pink card. They are then encouraged to pin it to the kindness board upstairs in the yellow building.

We hope this will be an ongoing initiative to create a culture of kindness at our campus.

Year 8 Food Studies

Year 8 Food Studies students have been learning about the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, making healthier choices and the design process.

Students used a design brief to create a warm, healthy, hearty snack perfect for after-school activities.

Community Notices

Melton Parish Holy Week timetable

Junior players wanted - Melton Central Football Club

Melton Centrals Football and Netball Club is seeking girls aged 12-15 to join its junior football team.

If you are interested and would like more information please get in touch with club president Rob on 0419 354 887 or come along to training to meet the girls and bring a friend if you wish.

Training is held on Monday and Wednesday from 5pm to 6pm at Arnolds Creek Reserve.

Melton South Football Netball Club 

Young Communities automotive skills course

RMIT STEM program - Young Women in Aerospace and Defence

Melton Young Communities Term 1 Events

The City of Melton Young Communities has a big calendar of events and courses available in Term 1. Their latest newsletter is available below.

Young Communities Newsletter Term 1 2024

Young Women’s Leadership Program

Western Bulldogs Youth Leadership Project

The Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s Youth Leadership Project is returning to Melton in 2024, with applications now open.

This FREE program, led by the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation offering unique opportunities for young people aged 14-16 to build confidence, make new friends and develop skills that will enable them to become leaders in their community.

The 10-session program consists of sessions involving opportunities to develop a range of life skills and connections and culminated in a ‘social impact’ project on a topic of the participant’s choosing.

The program kick starts with a 2-day camp in the April school holidays.

Throughout the 10-sessions, participants learn from experienced leaders in the community who discuss topics including mental health, intercultural understanding, social inclusion, gender equity, education and employment pathways and public speaking.

Due to the popularity of the program, participation is by application only. To find out more, and to start your application scan the QR code below.

Bounce Back Program

School Crossing Supervisor of the Year

Nominations are now open for the School Crossing Supervisor of the Year Award. 

The biennial award acknowledges the dedication of school crossing supervisors who contribute to the safe journey of students to and from school throughout Victoria. 

Click here for more information and to nominate your local crossing supervisor.

Soup Van volunteers wanted