Weekly Reflection


As we draw the curtain on another remarkable year, we reflect on the blessings that have graced our community.

The journey through the seasons has been one of shared inspiration, mutual support, and the spirit of fraternity, as we have strived to grow together in faith and mission.

This year, our collective focus on living out the Franciscan values has brought forth a renewed sense of purpose. From acts of service to moments of prayerful reflection, we have sought to embody the call to build bridges of peace and hope within our College and beyond. Together, we have embraced the challenge of walking in the footsteps of St Francis and St Clare, nurturing a culture of care for creation and compassion for all.

As we continue to transition into the sacred season of Advent, we are reminded of the light that shines in the darkness, the promise of hope, and the boundless love of Christ that renews us. This season invites us to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

To all members of our community, may your Advent season be filled with grace and love.

As we prepare for the celebrations of Christmas, let us carry forward the spirit of family into the new year, continuing to inspire and uplift one another in our shared mission.

May the peace and goodwill of the season fill your homes and hearts.

Rachel Prince

Director of Faith and Mission

From the Principal

I cannot believe how quickly 2024 has flown by and how much we have achieved.

We added 200 hundred students in Year 7 at Cobblebank Campus and the construction of Stage 2, our wonderful Creativity Hub, is well underway.

Work has also begun on the synthetic Oval at Cobblebank Campus. These works should be completed in the first half of Term 1 2025. Thank you to Joslyn Group for their great start to the project.

At Melton Campus, our new Junior Learning Hub has been built and will be furnished over the holidays, ready for the start of 2025.

Students from both campuses performed in a fantastic production of Rock of Ages, we started a College Concert Band, won many interschool SACCSS competitions and in general, had a fun and busy year.

An end-of-year Mass was celebrated at each campus, with students and staff reflecting on the year and giving thanks for the gifts 2024 brought.

Father Alex asked our students to spend their holidays wisely - being grateful for each minute and making the most of their time.

At last week’s awards ceremonies, I spoke about the legacy of St Francis and reflected on the rich heritage that binds us together as a Catholic community. At the heart of our College lies the spirit of St Francis of Assisi, a man whose life of humility, simplicity, and devotion inspires us daily.

As we approach Christmas, it is fitting to recall one of St Francis's most significant contributions to our faith tradition: the Nativity scene.

In 1223, St Francis created the first live Nativity in Greccio, Italy. His intent was simple but profound: to bring the story of Christ's birth to life in a way that would touch hearts and ignite faith.

Through his humble recreation of the stable in Bethlehem, with real animals, hay, and a manger, St Francis invited people to see, hear, and feel the story of God made flesh. This was not merely a historical remembrance; it was a spiritual awakening.

In his words, St Francis wanted to inspire "greater devotion" by showing the humility of Christ’s birth, a moment that changed the world forever.

The Nativity, then, is more than a Christmas tradition; it mirrors our values as a community. Just as St Francis emphasised simplicity, care for creation, and a deep love for the divine, we are called to live those principles each day.

Whether through acts of kindness, service to others, or fostering harmony in our relationships, we embody the Gospel message in our modern lives.

This year, our College has had many opportunities to live out these Franciscan values.

From the moments of joy in the classroom and on the sporting field to the outreach initiatives such as Ks for Caritas or our giving trees that have supported those in need, we have been a visible sign of hope and compassion.

As we look ahead to Christmas, let us take inspiration from St Francis and the Nativity.

May we, like the shepherds and the Kings, approach Christ child with wonder and gratitude. May we recognise the divine in the ordinary, and may our hearts be filled with the peace that only Christ can bring.

Let this holy season remind us of the precious gifts we hold: the gift of faith, the strength of our community, and the opportunity to share God’s love with others.

Thank you to all our families for your support and affirmation this year.

I wish you all a joyful and blessed Christmas. May the light of Christ shine brightly in your hearts and homes. We look forward to welcoming you back in 2025.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and safe travels.

Western Edge Cluster Awards

Congratulations to our VET students who were recognised at the Western Edge Cluster Annual Awards Night.

Thank you to our VET trainers who worked so hard to help students achieve their competencies.

Marlene Jorgensen

Principal

Staff Farewells

We would like to acknowledge and farewell the following staff leaving our community this year. We wish them well and thank them for their contributions to the College.

Looking Ahead - Melton Campus Students

Dates to remember
Friday 13 DecemberCollege reception closes for 2024
Thursday 16 January 2025College reception opens
Friday 31 JanuaryTerm 1 begins for Year 7 and Year 12 students
Monday 3 February Term 1 begins for students in Years 8-11
Thursday 13 FebruaryHouse Welcome Evening

Looking Ahead - Cobblebank Campus Students

Dates to remember
Friday 13 December

College reception closes for 2024

Thursday 16 January 2025College reception opens
Friday 31 JanuaryTerm 1 begins for Year 7 students
Monday 3 FebruaryTerm 1 begins for students in Years 8 and 9
Tuesday 4 FebruaryHouse Welcome Evening - 6pm

From the Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching

Jumpstart

It was wonderful to see the high attendance at our 2025 Jumpstart Program, including some of our new students. We look forward to them joining us next year.

Jumpstart is an essential part of the school year and provides students with the chance to be re-energised in their learning with new subjects and teachers.

The VCE VM and VPC students participated in a range of activities to obtain micro-credentials and began preparation for their work placements in 2025.

Our VCE students began their 2025 courses, consolidating some of the learning from 2024. Year 11 and 12 2025 students have holiday homework, and we ask parents and guardians to support us by ensuring their child completes any work set before they return in 2025.

Our junior students have met new teachers, enjoyed the challenges of new subjects and electives and have worked on skills required for 2025.

2024 Award Ceremonies

Last Friday we celebrated the achievements of students at the Melton Year 7-11 2024 Awards Ceremony and Cobblebank 2024 Awards Ceremony. You will find a full list of award winners here. Melton Campus | Cobblebank Campus

The achievements of about 200 students were recognised across a range of areas including academics, leadership, sport and community. Further award certificates were presented during House assemblies for Endeavour.

Many families were able to attend the presentations. The continued effort students place on their studies, and the way they interact with others, ensures there is a positive learning environment for all.

During the Melton Campus ceremony, our 2025 College Captains led the prayer and provided a congratulatory address. Below is the message from Captain Diana Taylor:

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate each and every student who has received an award today. You have proven that through determination, commitment and resilience, you are all capable of reaching your goals.

“These awards recognise your growth, hard work, efforts and perseverance. We are all very proud of you.

“As we move forward to 2025, I encourage everyone to try to their best, keep pushing and strive for excellence. Good luck in all your endeavours, and once again congratulations to our award recipients.”

I would like to acknowledge all students who have worked to their full potential even if they did not have a chance to walk across the stage and receive recognition. May you continue to know that the College, your peers and your families are proud of your achievements.

I would also like to acknowledge the dedicated staff here at St Francis Catholic College who have worked to engage, support and provide a positive and respectful learning environment, one where all our students can learn, thrive and flourish.

Wishing everyone a happy and sacred Christmas and a safe and relaxing holiday break.

Joanne Holmes

Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching

From the Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing - Melton Campus

As we approach the end of 2024, it is the perfect opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and looking forward to the upcoming year. This year has been marked by growth, resilience, and significant achievements for our students, and it is an ideal time to celebrate all that has been accomplished.

Since the beginning of the year, our students have actively engaged with learning challenges and successfully navigated unexpected obstacles, demonstrating their growth mindset and commitment to learning. The collaborative efforts to support every student, from our House Leaders, teaching, and support staff, have been truly inspiring.

As I take the time to acknowledge our accomplishments, I also eagerly anticipate the opportunities that the new year will bring. 2025 is poised to present us with new challenges and avenues for growth. I remain dedicated to our mission, fostering innovation and supporting one another as we embark on this next chapter.

It is essential to ensure your child is fully equipped for the start of the year with the required uniform and equipment for their classes.

Click here to see our uniform policy. Students are expected to take responsibility for their locks and ensure they have them ready for the first day of school. If a lock is lost, a replacement can be purchased at the College office, or you may choose to obtain your own independently.

As we conclude this year, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for being an integral part of this journey. Your commitment, support, and enthusiasm have made 2024 a memorable year. I look forward to continuing this partnership in the coming year.

Wishing you all a safe, joyful, and peaceful Christmas break and I look forward to working with you in 2025.

Cheryl Bullen

Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing - Melton Campus

From the Deputy Principal – Head of Cobblebank Campus

This year we celebrated a year of growth and achievement, welcoming a new year level, 18 additional staff, and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Students embraced challenges, developed leadership skills, and demonstrated resilience, thriving in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities.

House spirit was a key focus, starting with a House Welcome Evening and continuing through engaging competitions and events that built teamwork and friendships.

Students excelled in various activities, with highlights including a Year 7 netball championship win, STEM club successes at the MACS STEM MAD competition, and the Fibre Club fostering creativity. The Arts thrived with the ensemble's performances, the launch of a concert band, and a memorable school production showcasing collaboration and talent.

We thank parents for working in partnership with our staff to ensure our students are well supported.

We look forward to continued growth in 2025 as we prepare to welcome 250 year seven students and 30 staff.

Families will receive correspondence before the commencement of the school year with key information to ensure a smooth start to the 2025 year.

May your Christmas be filled with love, joy, and the peace of Christ.

Kerrie-Ann Matthews

Deputy Principal - Head of Cobblebank Campus

Melton 2024 Year 7-11 Award Ceremony

Our Melton Campus 2024 Year 7-11 Award Ceremony was held in Sheehan Stadium last Friday.

Please click on the images below to see a full list of the award recipients. Use the arrows to scroll across and see more.

Cobblebank 2024 Award Ceremony

Our 2024 Cobblebank Campus Award Ceremony was held in Sheehan Stadium at Melton Campus last Friday.

Please click on the images below to see a full list of the award recipients. Use the arrows to scroll across and see more.

New Student Leaders at Cobblebank Campus

The last two weeks at the Cobblebank Campus have been busy and exciting, with many interviews for new student leaders in 2025.

The calibre of candidates was commendable. Students were enthusiastic and brought great ideas to implement next year, making the selection process extremely challenging.

We are thrilled to announce the following student leaders for 2025:

Junior School Captains 

Kanwar Sidhu
Xavier Warne

House Captains

Anthony: Miguel Luna

Bakhita: Harneet Brar

Bernard: Prabal Bhumbla

Catherine: James Taniman

Dominic: Amaira Dhawan

Glowrey: Erin Navarro

Lawrence: Cassandra Lorenzo

MacKillop: Rylee Cameron

Music and Arts Captains: Elizabeth Watts and Mackenzie Planche

Sports Captains: Ruth Mainey and Amelie Strugnell

Academic Captains: Rihanna Ethige Silva and Achraj Virk

Environmental Captains: Logan Bingle and Ekamjot Singh

Diversity Captains: Navona Sacher and Noor Sabharwal

Faith and Mission Captains: Clorinda Denis and Cecilia Akon

Congratulations to all our student leaders - we can't wait to see you thrive in your new positions.

Nominations for the Student Representative Council will be advertised early in Term 1 for any students who want to be involved.

Charlee Keating

Student Leadership and Social Justice Coordinator – Cobblebank Campus

Pencil Case Designs at Cobblebank Campus

As an introduction to Design and Technology - Fibre (once called Textiles) at Cobblebank Campus, Year 8 and 9 students have had the opportunity to design their own pencil case for next year. All students were given an A3-sized blank calico pencil case and had to develop an interesting design.

Students were given a few options: a graffiti version of their name, tracing a cartoon character or a design of their choice.

Once students had a design approved by their teacher, they had to transfer it onto their pencil case in grey lead pencil, ready to colour with textile paint. 

Students have done a magnificent job of creating a variety of designs and painting them carefully. They have also been using Sharpie Textas to outline their designs.

Some students will use the first lesson next year to finish their pencil case, and we look forward to seeing many of them used throughout the year.

Natalie Malle and Jen White

Teachers

Community Notices

Western Bulldogs Youth Leadership Program 2025

Useful Links

Keep updated with College events, procedures, resources and information via the links below.

PAM – Parent Portal

Enrolment

Parent Handbook

SFCC Careers Website

Facebook

Instagram

Policies

Uniform

Library

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