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The 2018 Siena College Golf Day is being held this Friday, 2 November at Kew Golf Club.
It is sure to be a fun filled and action packed day for women and men of all golfing abilities. Join us from noon for a light luncheon and warm up on the driving range before the fun team format followed by post golf drinks, gourmet barbeque dinner and prize presentation.
This annual event is held to raise funds for the Scholarship Program at Siena College. Any voluntary donations are tax deductible.
There is still time to register! Just click the image below:
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
As December arrives, we come to the season of Advent and the Church's new liturgical year.
As December arrives, we come to the season of Advent and the Church's new liturgical year. At this time we remember Jesus who was born a carpenter's son in a cow stall, Jesus who shares our humanity. We are invited to let go of those aspects of ourselves that are not life giving or loving and to imagine a time when God's Kingdom will come. When we choose the God of life and love, Christ is born again in us and we are born again in Christ.
The Student Representative Council has once again coordinated the St Mary's House of Welcome Christmas Hamper Appeal. Staff and students collected toys, gifts, clothing and food to donate to Melbourne families in great need of assistance at Christmas. This yearly event is a timely reminder of the privileges that many of us take for granted, a symbol of Advent and the hope that accompanies this season.
We have been much saddened by the passing of our dear friend and former colleague Sue Law, last Saturday, 24 November. Sue was our Director of Marketing and Communications from 2012 until mid 2018 and left an enormous legacy in the branding and marketing of Siena College. We extend our deepest condolences to Sue's husband Stuart, daughter Brenna and father Mal.
As the school year concludes, we look back with pride and satisfaction on the year that has passed. We are grateful for our learnings, for the friendships shared and strengthened, for our achievements and service. I thank you all for your support of the College this year and for your contribution as a student, parent, friend or staff member. Each of us has a part to play in building and strengthening the Siena community and I thank you for playing your part.
I wish all members of our Siena community a safe and rejuvenating break and may Christmas be a time of joy and peace and the New Year full of blessings and promise.
Gaynor Robson-Garth
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Examinations, Headstart Program, Awards Evening
Over the past few weeks, our Year 9 to Year 11 students have been sitting their exams, with the last exam being written by our Year 9s on 5 December. Across all year levels, our teaching staff are very busy marking examination papers and finalising assessment tasks for the Semester 2 reports. Year 9 and 10 examination results will be published on 11 December on Siena Central. Year 11 examination results were published on 29 November. Semester 2 reports will be available on the parent portal on Friday, 14 December.
After a week of Headstart, Year 11 students will enjoy their last school day for the year on 30 November. Year 10 students will participate in a three day Headstart Program and will finish school on Wednesday, 5 December. Our Year 9s complete their last exam on 5 December and with Years 7 to 8 will attend their end of year House Group, final assembly and Liturgy on 6 December.
The annual Academic Awards Evening will be held at the Hawthorn Town Hall on Wednesday, 12 December commencing at 7.00pm. Parents and guardians of students who will receive an award will receive a personal invitation and details of the evening. Invitations to Year 7 and 8 parents and guardians will be sent on Thursday, 6 December after results have been finalised.
Year 7 to 11 Academic Excellence Awards are presented to the top five percent of students in the cohort based on a mathematical calculation of their grades. Year 12 Academic Excellence awards are determined by scores in School Assessed Course Work per subject.
Academic Endeavour Awards recognise a student who has worked solidly with a spirit of enthusiasm and collaboration. She is both supportive and considerate of other students and shows persistence in her academic endeavours. Year 7 to 11 recipients are required to receive a suitable number of nominations across the year level per subject. Academic Endeavour Awards are presented to one student in each Year 12 class.
It has been a busy and productive term and as the school year concludes, we wish all our families a wonderful break over the school holidays. Our prayers and best wishes go to our Year 12 students whose VCE results will be released on 14 December.
The whole liturgical year forms us to be a people with the courage to wait until the Lord comes.
The whole liturgical year forms us to be a people with the courage to wait until the Lord comes. Advent trains us in the patience not to begin celebrating too early, resisting the temptation to celebrate Christ's birth before he comes… Christ is a gift and one respects the gift by waiting for the moment when it is given.
The Latin word for 'to wait' – attendere – means to stretch oneself forward, we are attentive, opening ourselves to what will come.
During Advent, we are like people gathered around the bed, we await the birth. But God's coming was not just the birth of a child, it was the coming of a word… though it needed thousands of years before there was a language in which God's word could be spoken in the form of Jesus.
Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Summer Concert, Melbourne International Women's Jazz Festival, examination results
I would like to thank and congratulate all our music students who have developed their musicianship and ensemble skills through participation in a huge variety of College events throughout an exciting and rewarding year. They have represented the Siena music department with great pride in concerts, festivals, recital evenings, tours, workshops,the school musical, Masses and music camp. Thank you to all our music staff for all that they do to make music a major part of so many students' lives. We wish you a joyful Christmas and a safe and relaxing holiday.
We extend a warm welcome to families to join us for the Summer Concert on 5 December from 4.30pm to 6.30pm adjacent to the St Catherine Centre on the basketball courts. This concert will feature many of our ensembles performing concert pieces and Christmas carols. Bring along your picnic rugs and Christmas hats and join in the fun. Student performers are reminded to remain at school after classes conclude.
As the year comes to a close we ask all students who will be purchasing their own instruments over the holidays to please return their hire instruments after the Summer Concert, so they can be cleaned and prepared for the new Year 7 cohort.
The Siena College Stage Band has been invited to perform at the Melbourne International Women's Jazz festival as part of the students night on Tuesday, 4 December at the Jazz Lab in Brunswick. It is a great honour to be one of the three schools invited to perform and recognises the standard of our band. For more information and ticket bookings click here
Seventeen students from Years 7 to 10 participated in our Siena College music examinations. We would like to congratulations all students for their diligence in preparing for their exams. The results were outstanding and reflective of the practice and effort they put into their instruments.
|Student name
|Exam Grade
|Kayla Huynh
|Jana Lianos
|Amelie Nikolovski
|Isabella Petrone
|Madison Bonacci
|Isla Buchan
|Ella Jennings
|Abbie Sullivan
|Mia Giannangelo
|Tess Hayes
|Majella Hine
|Mia Kelly
|Lily Macpherson
|Madeleine Barr
|Emily Ovens
|French Horn
|Tiffany Ng
|Victoria Zikas
|Hannah Hine
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
Term 4 GSV summary, congratulations to Georgia B
We have had a busy Term 4 of GSV Sport with many Water Polo, Cricket and Basketball teams participating over the last six weeks. Our Junior B and C teams have been particularly successful, making it to the finals after strong performances in their semi finals at MSAC.
Term 4 finals signify the conclusion GSV Sport at Siena College for 2018. Thank you to all the girls for their participation, it has been a great year for Siena once again and all are to be congratulated.
Please note that our Celebration of Sport Awards Evening will be held at Camberwell Grammar School on Thursday, 6 December 2018 from 7.30pm to 9.00pm. Award recipients have been notified and their families have been invited. If you would like to attend, please contact me at email@example.com as we would be more than happy to accommodate you.
We wish to recognise Georgia Byrne, Year 11, on her fantastic achievement of being selected to represent Victoria in Rugby Sevens. The tournament will be played in Brisbane next week and we wish Georgia the best of luck.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
In the latest edition of Siena Career News you can read about a new tertiary course search website, which allows students to search and filter courses based on ATAR, study score and locat...
In the latest edition of Siena Career News you can read about a new tertiary course search website, which allows students to search and filter courses based on ATAR, study score and location. Also, for students interested in Screen, Sound and Creative Media, there are a few events coming up, such as the SAE Information Night in December and the University of Melbourne Filmmaking school in the holidays. JMC Academy are also holding an Open Day in January.
Students interested in a career in Sport may want to read about a program developed between the Carlton Football Club and LaTrobe University. Please refer to Siena Career News for further details on this diploma pathway into the Bachelor of Sport Coaching and Development.
Ansalie HanrahanLearning Enhancement
According to Socrates, 'Philosophy begins in wonder'.
Do you ever find yourself wondering about those big ethical or philosophical questions?
According to Socrates, 'Philosophy begins in wonder'. Do you ever find yourself wondering about those big ethical or philosophical questions? For example, do all creatures have a mind or is everything we see real? Or maybe, how do we know the right action to take or is lying always wrong? Questions such as these have been the focus of debate amongst philosophers for thousands of years.
Small groups of thoughtful Year 7 and Year 8 students accepted the challenge to consider some of life's unanswered questions by attending a philosophy program delivered by the Learning Enhancement Department. Each fortnightly session gave students an opportunity to examine some of life's biggest topics such as perception, beauty, discrimination, art and aesthetics, racism, ethics, truth, forgiveness and identity. They were asked to come with an open mind, to think and share their ideas and to listen without prejudice to the opinions of others.
In each session, students were asked to respond to some form of stimulus based on the topic being considered. Each student demonstrated an ability to think creatively, to work as part of a team, to examine and consider multiple perspectives of a given topic. It was exciting to watch these young philosophers at work, engaging with ideas that challenged them to think and wonder about their world from new perspectives.
'Philosophy this year has taught me to be open and to speak my mind.'
Maliana Tapusoa
'I loved Philosophy because it gave me the opportunity to challenge my ideas and to think deeply about certain topics.'
Pia Perini
'I have been exposed to new ideas and thought about things such as beauty and art in ways I never would have before'
Guilia D'Angelo
'I have loved spending a period each fortnight talking about interesting topics and interpreting them with friends'
Charlotte Ryan
Participating Year 7 Students: Sophie Barnetson, Lauren Edwards, Charlotte Jennings, Evie Goodale, Sophie Birrell, Justina Flunt, Alyssa Leong, Angelina Rodos, Alessia Tevere, Aurora Neumann, Madeline Castoldi, Angelica Rizk, Yasmin Korfiatis, Ella Castoldi, Alessia Erzetic-Nadalin, Jessica Higgins, Mia Kelly, Kayla Huynh, Sienna Saunders, Amber Wadia, Mia Fenton, Sarah Baxter, Amali Hawkins, Ella Jennings, Bridget Quinn, Jasmine Tubb, Carly Walsh
Particpating Year 8 Students: Bridie Warren, Charlotte Dickson, Mikayla Rollnik, Abbey Harford, Mailiana Tapusoa, Daria Del Tito, Giulia D'Angelo, Amy Barnett, Bita Afshar, Trinity Ng, Gabriella Sakkos, Sarah White, Ella Graham, Pia Perini, Madeleine Quin, Aurelia Tjitji, Charlotte Ryan, Sienna Justus
As a part of the Year 9 curriculum, we completed a 'Healthy Food by Design' class...
'As a part of the Year 9 curriculum, we completed a 'Healthy Food by Design' class which included growing vegetables such as silverbeet, coriander, parsley and spring onions. We worked to prepare the soil, plant the seeds and then cared for the plants as they grew. Unfortunately, our garden bed was located in a rain shadow, meaning the garden bed lacked sunlight and needed a little bit more than was available. However, it was still an absolute joy to watch our seedlings grow into plants over the course of the subject.
Although our journey was broken up by the Term 3 holidays, we were delighted to see that the garden bed was still in pristine condition when we returned to school in Term 4. Overall, this project was inspiring and heartwarming as we were able to give back to both the community and the environment. Throughout the subject we gladly devoted a portion of our recesses and lunchtimes to water the garden bed. It was a rewarding experience and I am extremely thankful to have been a part of it.'
Audrey Hawkins
Year 7
Minna DenholmTransition Coordinator
Welcome to the Class of 2024
On Friday 16 November, we welcomed one hundred and forty eight Grade 6 students to our College to begin their transition into secondary school.
The girls began the day with assembly and shortly after were allocated to their Houses. Everyone participated in a variety of 'getting to know you' activities with their Head of Student Wellbeing before breaking for recess.
They were then placed in smaller groups, which rotated throughout the mid-morning session. This provided an opportunity for the girls to make connections with a variety of students from other primary schools. At Siena we understand the importance of relating and belonging. A great sense of belonging promotes positive student wellbeing and generates success in the academic classroom. As such, our Transition Day is structured around creating a strong sense of community.
During lunch the girls were able to sign up for Girls Sport Victoria (GSV) in Term 1 and were introduced to some of the Siena sports faculty staff. The day ended back in House areas where the girls reflected on their first experience of Siena College.
Many thanks to all involved with the preparation and implementation of the Transition program.
Minna Denholm
Transition Coordinator.
Maureen McAuleyCollege Archivist
Christmas has come early for Siena Archives. Wendy Edwards, Class of 1967, recently sent us a number of uniform items including the long sought infamous yellow sports tunic.
Christmas has come early for Siena Archives. Wendy Edwards (Class of 1967) recently sent us a number of uniform items including the long sought infamous yellow sports tunic. We are so delighted and grateful.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all who have donated items this year. We have received photos, badges, pennants, a video, uniform items, reminiscences, a college spoon, magazines and books written by past students. We are very appreciative of the support we continue to receive from our Siena community.
Maria Ang and Maureen McAuley
College Archivists
Reminder that Secondhand Uniform Shop is open Saturday, 1 December
Reminder that Secondhand Uniform Shop is open Saturday, 1 December.
Give a gift with impact this year.
Give a gift with impact this year. Pledge your support for First Nations families changing the future for the next generation of children in Central Australia and the Top End of the Northern Territory.
We are breaking the cycle.
We are changing the system.
We are Children's Ground.
Donate now and walk with us!
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
On 15 November, we commemorated the feast of St Albert the Great (Albertus Magnus), after whom our College Library is named.
On 15 November, we commemorated the feast of St Albert the Great (Albertus Magnus), after whom our College Library is named. A renowned theologian, bishop and Doctor of the Church, Albert (ca. 1200 - 1280) was born to a noble German family. Against their wishes he joined the Order of Preachers. The Dominicans at the time were caught up in the wave of learning sweeping Europe. Albert lectured in several German priories and was director of studies in Cologne. His pupils included Thomas Aquinas. Called "Great" because of his vast knowledge of chemistry, architecture, philosophy, music and mathematics, he helped organize the studies of the Dominican Order. He was also interested in the anatomy of living organisms and is patron saint of students of the natural sciences. In 2019, the Siena Albertus Magnus Library will be renamed the Albertus Magnus Learning Centre. We have re-envisioned the role of our Library and look to new and exciting ways to learn and interact in that space, including a new Science, Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM) area housing the 3D printers and other new technologies.
This week, we welcomed the next generation of 'Siena women', the 2019 Year 7 students. The Year 7 Transition Day is a highlight of Term 4 for the staff and the student leaders who were gathered at the front of the College to welcome them. The girls were whisked away to the St Catherine Centre to be welcomed by the College Captains elect, Jade Devlin and Charlotte Lack, and the Heads of Student Wellbeing. They follow in the footsteps of the many women who have graduated from our College over the past seventy-eight years and inherit a proud tradition. Over the next six years at Siena, they will learn the stories of Dominicans past and present and they too will write their story in the history of this College. May they flourish and grow to be the women they are meant to be and may the friendships and learning stand them in good stead throughout their lives. I look forward to meeting our new parents at the year 7 Information Evening this coming Monday, 19 November.
Year 12 exams continue for some students while others have celebrated as they finished their last VCE examination. We look forward to celebrating with all our Year 12 students and their families at the Graduation Ball next Thursday evening at Leonda by the Yarra. This will be the last time they will gather as a year level and an opportunity for staff and parents to wish them well as they contemplate new beginnings beyond Siena College. For students in other year levels, the exams and final assessments have just begun.
The Convent refurbishment is progressing well and we look forward to reopening the old wooden doors early next year. The Convent will be open to the community in March to allow everyone an opportunity to visit the new Heritage Centre and Boardroom and see the refurbished reception area. I thank all who transport students to and from school for your patience during these building works and the restricted access to the grounds and driveway.
The end of the school year brings with it many opportunities to gather as a community and we look forward to the Academic Awards Night, our 2018 Celebration of Sport and the other rituals and events that mark this season of the year.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Mass of Remembrance, St Mary's House of Welcome Outreach, Australian Teens and Religion
November is a significant month of remembering in both secular and church calendars. Around 8 November, the Dominican family remember those who have died. On this day members of the Siena community gathered for a Mass of Remembrance to honour those who had died, especially in the past year. Candles were lit and loved ones named during the Gathering Rites and roses were presented to all assembled at the end of our liturgy prior to refreshments being enjoyed in the Conference Room. We are grateful to Sr Julianna Drobik OP, Cathy Carr and our celebrant, Fr Kevin Toomey OP for their organisation and support of this important Eucharist.
St Mary's House of Welcome opens the doors daily to over two hundred people living in ongoing poverty. Each year our College undertakes a Christmas Hamper Appeal to benefit this community– these are compiled in House Groups and staff groups across Siena. Please take the time to discuss your daughter's contribution with her and visit https://www.smhow.org.au/ to find out more about this important justice initiative.
In the 2016 Census people declaring that they have 'no religion' formed the largest response category in each age group until 65+, whilst migration continues to reshape Australia's religious profile in unexpected ways. In this context a major study of Australian teenagers discovers the textures of their spiritualities. While most declare that they have 'no religion' that is in fact far from the whole story. Just released data provides the facts to help understand Generation Z who are the largest generation and the leading edge of the future. Read more here.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Years 9-11 examinations, Headstart program, End of Year key dates
Our Year 11 students have commenced their examination period and we wish them all the very best. The Year 10s and Year 9s will commence exams on Friday, 23 November and Wednesday, 28 November respectively.
The examination timetable and the College expectations in relation to examinations have been emailed to all Year 9 to 11 students, parents and guardians. The exam timetables are also available on the Siena Central Portal for both parents and students. Subject teachers have published a revision package for each year level on Siena Central. Year 11 examination papers will be returned through House Group on Friday, 30 November and results will be available on Siena Central on Thursday, 29 November at 3:30pm. Year 9 and 10 examination papers will only be available in 2019, due to time constraints. However, Year 9 and 10 examination results will be published on Siena Central on Tuesday, 11 December at 3:00pm.
We will once again run a Headstart program for our Year 11 and Year 10 students.
On Monday, 26 November, the current Year 11 students will undertake a five day Year 12 Headstart program concluding on Friday, 30 November. The current Year 10s will undertake a three day program commencing on Monday, 3 December and concluding on Wednesday, 5 December.
Each Year 12 subject will be allocated five periods and each Year 11 subject will have three periods allotted. Students will be given a brief overview of the course, as well as holiday home learning. Students will need to bring writing materials, but all other resources will be provided either via Siena Central or by the subject teacher.
Please note that 2019 staffing has not been finalised and therefore, the subject teacher who takes the Head Start class may not be the 2019 subject teacher.
Years 7 to 9 students will finish on Thursday, 6 December at 12:30pm.
We are looking forward to the celebration of our students' academic accomplishments at our Academic Awards Evening on Wednesday, 12 December. Invitations to this event will be emailed to the award winners, their parents and guardians in the coming weeks.
The last VCAA Examination takes place on Wednesday, 21 November and the Year 12 results will be published on Friday, 14 December. There has been a wonderful, positive energy surrounding these examinations with students commenting on the fairness of the examination papers. Our students have been behaving in an exemplary manner and doing themselves and the College proud. With just a few exams remaining until Wednesday, many of our students will have finished their examinations or will do so shortly. May you and your families enjoy some much deserved relaxation. I would like to acknowledge and thank all of our Year 12 teachers who have worked tirelessly to prepare our students.
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Congratulations to everybody on their outstanding music results
The following 37 students participated in an Australian Music Examinations Board practical exam this year. Congratulations to everyone involved for their hard work in preparing for the exam; we hope you found the experience educational and rewarding. The results were outstanding and reflective of the practice and effort you put into your instruments.
|Student Name
|Exam Grade
|Isabella Crane
|Musical Theatre
|Lana Magyar
|Chantelle Mastrangelo
|Madeline Castoldi
|Ella Castoldi
|Lily Koba
|Alannah McCarthy
|Megan Walshe
|Ella Graham
|Lana Magyar
|Amanda Marasco
|Tiana Pamio
|Aurelia Tjitji
|Jasmine Tubb
|Sophia Saunders
|Kristen Todorov
|Claudia Wilhelm
|Adele Browne
|Imogen Burgin Uhlherr
|Abbey Harford
|Alissa Marchese
|Hannah Hine
|Adrienne Duray
|Stella Lawrence
|French Horn
|Carla Morel
|Sophia Bolton
|Aisha Bowker
|Mia Horozidis
|Maja Jakicic
|French Horn
|Angelene Kalafatis
|Ashling O'Farrell
|Bianca Sticca
|Emilia Sutherland
|Anya Wong
|Savannah Young
|Cara Graham
|Hannah Hine
|Grace Kim
|Annie Walshe
Peta MackintoshTeacher - Visual Arts
In 2019, a selection of sculptures from our Year 7 Art students will be on display at the Zart Art Exhibition..
In 2019, we will begin the year with a selection of sculptures from our current Year 7 Art students on display at the Term 1, Zart Art Exhibition. The artworks were generated during the 3D folio Unit where the girls were challenged to design and construct a Mythical Creature that also incorporated visual elements from Mexican folk art –Alebrijes. The sculptures utilised wire armatures as the framework on which a paper clay skin was applied and then painted in elaborate designs.
The exhibition opening is on Thursday, 20 December 2018. Congratulations to the following students who will have their artwork on display during Term 1, 2019 in the Zart Art Student Gallery at Box Hill:
Lucy Parnell
Isabella Spillane
Athena Tsonis
Isabelle Monaco
Sarah Murphy
Priya Doyle
Eleni Pope
Ciara Newman
Indira D'Sylva
Yasmin Korfiatis
Grace Condon
Maddie Simmons
Abbie Sullivan
Kaitlin Patterson
Anita Boussioutas
Paul FaillaTeacher - Mathematics
It has been an exciting month for Mathematics at Siena College
It has been an exciting month for Mathematics at Siena College. Our Year 12 students have been working extremely hard in preparing for their VCAA examinations, completing a multitude of practice papers at school and at home. We hope they have been able to successfully navigate their way through the examination period, and we wish them well for the future.
Our Year 7 cohort had a visit from the World of Maths where they were able to do some fun hands on STEM activities in small groups.
In August a number of our students sat the Australian Mathematics Competition run by the Australian Mathematics Trust. The girls recently received a certificate with their results, with Maria Ng receiving a high distinction, placing her in the top twp percent across Australasia. We also had twelve students receive Distinctions across Years 7 to 10, with another thirty five also receiving Credits. We congratulate all the girls that participated and we look forward to providing them with further opportunities to challenge and extend themselves next year.
Tracy GrobbelaarDirector of Development and Community Relations
Please read this important information for all parents
Dear Parents and Guardians
Thank you all for your cooperation and understanding with the parking restrictions and site traffic management thus far. As per our previous correspondence, there will be further changes from Tuesday, 20 November 2018 as we commence with the driveway works.
Buses will now collect and drop off students on Riversdale Road, between the entry and exit gates. This will become a bus only zone and will be sign posted by the Boroondara City Council. This means no parking or standing for cars in this zone. Staff will be present as students arrive and depart from buses.
To assist parents, the attached College map provides three options for morning and afternoon drop off/pick up, to alleviate pressure on limited parking and congestion in the narrow roads surrounding the school boundary:
Siena-College-Map (366 KB)
> View Document
1. Pedestrian Gate 7 (at the rear of the school, off Hocknell Street) will be open between 7.30am to 9.00am and from 3.00pm to 5.00pm
2. Pedestrian Gate 8 (off Wattle Valley Road) will be open from 7.30am
3. Pedestrian Gate 4 (adjacent to the gym on Riversdale Road) will also be open for student access, as normal
Please note there will be no pedestrian access to the College via Compton Street. By parking in a legal manner with consideration for our neighbours, congestion around the school grounds will be reduced and safety maintained. The safety of our students and easing congestion for busy parents are of paramount importance. We hope that these combined measures assist all parents as we undertake these vital building works.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
In the latest edition of the Siena Career News there are important dates for Year 12's, an Information Evening next week at Swinburne University and details of the Academy of Interactive...
In the latest edition of the Siena Career News there are important dates for Year 12's, an Information Evening next week at Swinburne University and details of the Academy of Interactive Entertainment Open Day this weekend.
For current Year 10 and 11 students, there is information on a three day school holiday Science Program at Monash University from 9 - 11 January.
Open exhibitions include the Monash University MADA exhibition, the Whitehouse College of Fashion graduate's exhibition and fashion runway and Deakin University's Paperspace Exhibition which showcases the work of their Architecture students.
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
On 2 November, students from Years 7-10 completed a six week short film appreciation course.
On 2 November, students from Years 7-10 completed a six week short film appreciation course. The primary focus was to learn about suspense, theme, plot, and character by viewing a combination of award winning live action and animated short films. Prior to each viewing session, students learnt about the theory, students then watched the film(s), and finally students discussed the theory, drawing evidence from the films. Students reported that they found the films 'surprising' and 'clever', particularly when the films had twist endings.
Students who took part were Aurelia Tjitji, Cara Chen, Emily Ovens, Indira D'Sylva, Lucinda Burgin Uhlherr, and Olivia Redford.
Tracy GrobbelaarDirector of Development and Community Relations
Siena College is pleased to advise that the next stage of our parent portal, Siena Central, to go 'live' will be the 2019 fees schedule. Parents will be emailed a link and letter from th...
Siena College is pleased to advise that the next stage of our parent portal, Siena Central, to go 'live' will be the 2019 fees schedule. Parents will be emailed a link and letter from the Chair of the Siena College Board on Thursday, 22 November. All parents are encouraged to update their details via Siena Central and video tutorials are available to assist with the process. If you require any assistance, please contact firstname.lastname@example.com
Maureen McAuleyCollege Archivist
Delgany Castle, Portsea.
Portsea is often called the playground for the rich and famous. Prominent in this seaside area is Delgany Castle, now part of a holiday resort and frequently advertised in the media. For the Dominican community, the excerpt above highlights our thoughts when we think of 'Delgany'
We are fortunate to have in our Archives the above quoted issue of 'The Dominican'. It gives an extensive physical description of Delgany and an account of the earliest days of the school.
Caring for deaf children has been a treasured ministry of our Dominican sisters. Siena students, especially of the 1950s and 1960s, had a particular connection to Delgany. Archival donations from our past students include photos of Delgany, its pupils and buildings. We have a letter from one Siena student, during a weeklong stay at Delgany, describing to another student the activities she is missing by not being there. A number of Dominican sisters, who are past students of Siena, taught at Delgany including Srs Frances Caine and Joan Winter.
Tracey KermondHuman Resources Manager
We extend a warm welcome to the following new staff
We extend a warm welcome to the following new staff:
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020...
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment information and our College Prospectus can be viewed online at www.siena.vic.edu.au/enrolment/enrolment-procedures
Parents can now complete an Application for Enrolment online at https://apply.siena.vic.edu.au
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
We farewelled our Year 12 students last week with a traditional sequence of events marking the end of their schooling at Siena College.
We farewelled our Year 12 students last week with a traditional sequence of celebrations and events that mark the end of their secondary education at Siena College. During Graduation Eucharist, the final assembly and morning tea, staff and students were able to reflect on this significant rite of passage and recall shared experiences and achievements. I commend the Class of 2018 on their dignified departure across these final days. We have been so pleased to see the manner in which they approached their VCE examinations which began this past Wednesday. We thank these students for their contributions to the life and ongoing story of the College. We sincerely wish them well for the remaining examinations and hope that they always remain connected to both each other and to the College.
I congratulate the The Arts and Technology Faculty for another impressive Visual Arts and Technology Exhibition which showcased some outstanding student work. The College Open Day on 20 October was also a great success and a wonderful opportunity for the College to showcase its comprehensive academic and cocurricular programs. I thank all students, staff and parents who have facilitated and supported these celebrations of all that our College has to offer.
November is the month of remembering. It is the time of the year when we celebrate the feasts of All Saints and All Souls. Our Chapel will be the focus for our prayers across this time and I encourage all community members to visit this beautiful and peaceful space to remember those undertaking exams and those who have gone before us. In the words of Sr Elizabeth Helwig OP, 'We take time to remember all whose lives were stirred and transformed by a faith in what they could not see, those who became bearers of hope, healing, justice and peace for us and for our world.' All are welcome at our Memorial Mass at 7.00pm on Thursday, 8 November when we gather in our College Chapel to pray for those members of our community who have passed away in the last year. Just before recess on Friday, 9 November, we will gather beneath the flagpoles to commemorate Remembrance Day and all who have given their lives in service of their country. We give thanks for the peace we enjoy in Australia and pray for wisdom on the part of all world leaders so that the conflicts that divide peoples can be resolved and that all may live in peace.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn;
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning,
We will remember them.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Halloween, Mass of Remembrance, Year 12 Graduation Eucharist
All Hallows = All Saints, Feast of All Saints/Hallows,1 November
E'en = Even(ing)
Evening before the Feast of All Hallows = Halloween, 31 October
Before commercialism hijacked this beautiful commemoration many cultures remembered their dead around this time. It is felt to be when the veil between heaven and earth is at its most fine.
One of the obligations of Christians is to pray for the dead. It is also an important part of the Dominican spiritual tradition. Siena hosts a Mass of Remembrance close to the Church's celebration of All Souls Day each year. This year's Mass will be held in the College Chapel on Thursday, 8 November at 7.30pm.
A Dominican saint, Martin is the patron of mixed race people, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers and all those seeking racial harmony. Read more about him here.
'As much as you are a challenge, you are a gift to us too, as you are seeing your life, your family, our society through fresh eyes; you want to claim your independence and that may mean clashing with us, your family and friends – we accept that and promise to be with you in that; you have shown in your way of being here within the College that you are living and claiming some very important values – among them a passion for questions of justice… My personal wish for you is that you continue to allow your inner spiritual selves to grow strong. Look to the Creator, the God who is present to us in Jesus, who, whether we recognize it fully or not, is daily and always at your side, accompanying you at every moment, in the tough and dark times, as well in the good and joyous. Be messengers throughout your life of Siena College's great motto: VERITAS, TRUTH. You know that this evocative word has stood you in good stead for the past six years. May it continue to be a reason for hope in yourselves and your best reason for living. And may God may go with you in truth, peace and love, throughout the joyous days of your future lives.'
Fr Kevin Toomey OP
Image Captions
Main Image: Mia Catalano, 2018 Ministry Captain
Gallery Image 1: All Saints All Souls
Gallery Image 2: Martin de Porres
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Term 4 is a hive of activity and preparation as the VCAA exams commence and our students in Years 9 to 11 prepare for their exams.
Term 4 is a hive of activity and preparation as the VCAA exams commence and our students in Years 9 to 11 prepare for their exams. Please remember that our staff and teachers are always available to offer help and support.
As we approach the weekend, we would like to remind you that the College is closed on Monday, 5 November, the day preceding Melbourne Cup Day. There will be staff supervising the VCAA examinations and monitoring phone messages but the College and Student Receptions will be closed.
1 November: 2019 Year 11 student subject choices sent via email
1 November: 2019 Year 11 Booklists emailed to parents and students
1 November: Year 9/10 Revision materials published via SC
2 November: Year 11 Activity Free week commences
5 November: Student free day
5 November: VCAA Exams, Further Mathematics and Business Management
8 November: 2019 Years 8 to 10 student subject choices sent via email
8 November: 2019 Years 8 to 10 booklists emailed to parents and students
9 November: Year 11 Revision commences
9 November: Year 10 Activity Free week commences
On Wednesday, 24 October, Siena College teaching staff participated in a highly productive day updating the curriculum and assessments dates in preparation for next year. The 2018 courses were reviewed with a focus on what the essential learnings are, for our students in 2019. Staff will continue to work on finalising the documentation that will then be uploaded onto Siena Central.
As our community becomes more familiar with the Parent Portal of Siena Central, it will become our primary method of communication and the information available to you will be gradually expanded. The College key dates, exam timetables and booklists are now available on the Parent Portal. We ask that you utilise this wonderful resource to assist you with sourcing information in regards to the College and our scheduled activities. When you log in to Siena Central the first page provides access to the 'Tiles' below, to facilitate your search. On the far right we have an 'Important Information' section that offers links to the most current and relevant documentation.
You are always welcome to contact the College if you experience any difficulty logging in or locating information.
Claire Al-NoahHead of Arts and Technology
During the second week of term, we celebrated The Arts and Technology Week culminating in the annual Visual Arts and Technology Exhibition
During the second week of term, we celebrated Arts and Technology Week culminating in our annual Visual Arts and Technology Exhibition. Artist in Residence, Lucile Sciallano introduced the girls to her 3D ceramic printing practice where the girls learnt how this method allows the production of artwork that is very different to that of traditional clay building techniques. Students also had the opportunity to view the Year 12 Drama Solo Performances prepared in readiness for their end of year examination. Other activities included an opportunity for students to create a painting using virtual reality equipment, experiment with robotics and join in a lunchtime disco. All these activities allowed students to participate and deepen their exposure to The Arts and Technology.
The Visual Arts and Technology Exhibition showcased diverse work from Year 7 to 12 students and it was wonderful to see the culmination of all the hard work and effort from the Year 12 students. I would like to thank our special guest speaker, Amanda Meiklejohn from Williams Ross Architects, who shared with us her career journey and kindly opened the exhibition. Across all areas of Art and Design, students produce many beautiful, creative and skilful works. Mietta Borg, Year 12, was the recipient of both the Principal's Award and People's Choice Award with her mixed media conceptual artwork titled '38 months', which explored her own personal journey with a medical condition. She is a very deserving winner who bravely dealt with an issue that was personal to her and others suffering from the same condition.
I would like to congratulate all the staff and students involved on a very successful Arts and Technology Week.
Marissa JoyceHead of English
Young Adult author Ellie Marney visited Siena last week to work with the Year 9 English students...
Young Adult author, Ellie Marney visited Siena College last week to work with our Year 9 English students who are preparing for their next unit on 'Crime Writing'. Ellie worked with each Year 9 class, talking to students about how she develops ideas for a crime story. Each class then worked together on their own story concept.
This was an invaluable experience for our students to learn how published authors develop story ideas. Students will continue working in their English classes on their own story concepts. We thank Ellie for spending time with our Year 9s and we look forward to seeing the thrilling crime stories they will produce!
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
A busy start to Term 4 GSV sport
Siena College has had a busy start to Term 4 GSV Sport, fielding several teams in Cricket, Water Polo and Basketball. Our Cricket teams have had mixed results so far, with the Junior team (pictured) overcoming Ruyton Girls' School, while falling just short against Lauriston Girls' School, losing by two runs in the last over. Our Junior Water Polo teams have had several weeks of training with an enthusiastic squad and have their first round of game this week. Our Basketballers continue to produce promising results, the standout teams so far have been the Junior B and C teams, which have won of all their games and currently sit first in their zones.
On Saturday, 20 October, Siena College Sport was on full display at our annual Open Day, with the final of the Tennis tournament and a number of Aerobics routines. Many prospective parents and students toured the College and were able to familiarise themselves with Siena's sports facilities and GSV program. The final sporting event for the year, the Celebration of Sport Evening, will be held in December, where we will recognise the amazing sporting achievements of our students.
There are a number of individual sporting achievements to note:
Many thanks to Johanna Zikas and Chloe Dang for their efforts as Siena College Sports Captains for 2018, we wish them all the best for the future. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome the 2019 Siena College Sports Captains: Monica Ciampa and Melitta Allen.
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Rising Stars Concert, Summer Concert, Key Dates
On Wednesday, 31 October all Year 7 Instrumental Music students performed in the inaugural Rising Stars Concert in the College Hall. The energy was electrifying from the student performers who thoroughly deserved the rousing audience applause. The concert included performances from Junior Band, Junior Choir, Junior Guitar Ensemble, Junior String Ensemble as well as solos, duets and chamber ensemble performances. It was a fantastic opportunity to feature our talented students in Year 7 and to celebrate how far they have come since the start of the year. Congratulations to all students and staff on a wonderful evening.
The Summer Concert will be held on Wednesday, 5 December from 4.30pm at the rear of the school. This is a relaxed concert with many of the large and small ensembles performing pieces they have been working on this term, including Christmas carols. This is a whole school event and we warmly invite the wider Siena College community to come and enjoy the festivities.
Tuesday, 4 December: Melbourne Womens' International Jazz Festival, Jazz Lab Brunswick. Stage Band required
Wednesday, 5 December: Summer Concert, Siena College from 4.30pm. All ensembles
Monday, 12 December :Siena College Awards Evening, Hawthorn Arts Centre. Canti Dolce, Stage Band.
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Tuesday, 13 November, 6.30pm in the Albertus Magnus Library
Current year 10 students and families are invited to attend the Kopanang Immersion 2019 Information Evening, on Tuesday, 13 November at 6.30pm (Albertus Magnus Library).
Year 11 (2019) students have the opportunity to participate in what has been described as a life changing and enriching immersion program in South Africa. Kopanang is a womens' community project that addresses the impact of HIV/AIDS and endemic poverty in the township of Tsakane situated 55 km south east of Johannesburg. It is a township created as the labour force for the gold mines in the area through forced removal of people in the apartheid era. After the last mine closure in 2006 there has been an unprecedented level of unemployment impacting more than 80% of the population. Most of the women of Kopanang have been deprived of an adequate education, further exacerbating their ability to survive and provide for their families.
The Kopanang community project was cofounded by Sr Sheila Flynn OP to provide the women with a healing space to share their life experiences, their faith and cultural heritage and to learn embroidery and craft skills to enable them to generate a small income.
Students also assist at Sithand'izingane Care Project, located on the same site as Kopanang, which provides a child care program for pre-school children, many of whom are orphaned, a home based support program for the sick, a feeding program, tutoring and afterschool educational programs for the children and adolescents in the township. Students spend two weeks living with a host family in Tsakane and assist with the everyday programs offered at Kopanang.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
This week's edition of Siena Career News contains some very important information for Year 12s in particular, but will also be of interest to students and parents in other year levels.
This week's edition of Siena Career News contains some very important information for Year 12s in particular, but will also be of interest to students and parents in other year levels. Students should always be aware of pathway courses into their 'dream course' at tertiary institutions and this week's Siena Career News lists the best ways of entering particular universities in the event that you do not receive the ATAR required for your preferred course.
There are also timely suggestions regarding some useful websites and apps to assist with study skills and exam preparation, a new Diploma in Screen and Media at Holmesglen Institute and some new initiatives from Monash University. These include 'Parent Chat', information and advice for parents on science degree options at Monash and an event, 'Experience the Peninsula Campus' – with a focus on Para Medicine, Nursing and Education.
Maria AngCollege Archivist
Our College register is precious. The beginnings of Siena come to life when we read the names, beautifully handwritten, of our first students.
Our College register is precious. The beginnings of Siena come to life when we read the names, beautifully handwritten, of our first students. The first page reveals the names of two very special women in our community. Loyis Gibson (née Olive) is student number seventeen and Sr Frances Caine is student number twenty-one. As Archivists, we note with interest that Loyis is spelt 'Lois' in the register. Both Loyis and Frances began their life at Siena on 4 February 1941. We value their wisdom, their memories, their donations, their support and especially their continuing presence and connection with our staff and students. We are blessed to have Loyis, Frances and other early alumnae as regular visitors to Siena.
At the end of last term, Jacqui donated a Siena College badge which had been worn by her family in the 1960s.
Maria Ang and Maureen McAuley
College Archivists
Image captions
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020...
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment information and our College Prospectus can be viewed online at www.siena.vic.edu.au/enrolment/enrolment-procedures
Parents can now complete an Application for Enrolment online at https://apply.siena.vic.edu.au
Congratulations to Fiona R, Year 10, the lucky winner of an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot!
Fiona R of Year 10 was the lucky winner of the Amazon Alexa Echo Dot in the Canteen's Term 3 Online Order competition!
Congratulations to Fiona from all of the Canteen staff!
Tracy GrobbelaarDirector of Development and Community Relations
We are pleased to announce the winners of the Siena Parents' Association Annual Raffle, drawn today by Carmel Musco, SPA President.
We are pleased to announce the winners of the Siena Parents' Association Annual Raffle, drawn today by Carmel Musco, SPA President.
First prize:
Fazna Farook
One year's College fees or a Travel Voucher to the value of $13,300
Second prize:
Lisa Mavraganis
One term's College fees or a Travel Voucher to the value of $3,300
Third prize:
Carly Gruzewski
$1,000 David Jones Voucher
Thank you to our community for your generous support of the SPA Annual Raffle and congratulations to all winners.
We congratulate all of our students whose work was selected for this year's Shared Stories anthology, a joint project between twenty four Victorian regional and metropolitan Catholic seco...
We congratulate all of our students whose work was selected for this year's Shared Stories anthology, a joint project between twenty four Victorian regional and metropolitan Catholic secondary schools. This year's theme was 'Live Simply, Simply Live' and featured a diverse range of writing and artwork across all year levels. We are proud to share some excerpts of our student's work:
They are mammoth now
Knocking the breath from my chest
Bottomless mounds of blue, rising and falling mercilessly
Ribbons of silty water twist along the deck
Fear is in my mouth and eyes and ears and heart
I am sitting
In the corner
There is a gust of warm wind
And I hug my knees, shivering
Waves spit against the boat
And sea spray covers my face like freckles
My hunger is a monster
Snarling for attention, clawing at my insides
Surely it isn't much further?
Juliet Guthrie, Year 9
Death and the girl looked at each other for quite some time.
'Well, you're here early,' said Death eventually.
'I guess so,' said the girl, 'shouldn't you be used to this by now?'
'I suppose I should be,' sighed Death, 'you don't seem very frightened.'
'Yeah,' said the girl, 'I guess it can't be helped.'
They were standing on a cliff at the edge of a forest. The sun was setting behind a vast skyline of trees,
which stirred slightly every once in a while due to a rogue puff of wind. Two birds were singing gaily to
each other in the distance.
'So,' said Death, 'where are we?'
Kayla Gadaleta, Year 10
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
We are once again so pleased to congratulate our Year 12 students on their outstanding results in the 2018 Victorian Certificate of Education. Our students are our greatest assets and the Class of 2018, like those before, have developed into articulate, accomplished and empowered young women during their time at Siena College.
3% of students achieved an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR) of 99 or above, placing them in the top 1% of students in the State
12% of students achieved an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR) of 95 or above, placing them in the top 5% of students in the State
28% of our students achieved an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR) of 90 or above, placing them in the top 10% of students in the State
57% of students, over half, achieved an ATAR of 80 or above, placing them in the top 20% of students in the State
The College maintained a Median Study Score of 34 for the seventh consecutive year
17.5% of Study Scores were 40 or above, placing them in the top 9% of students in the State
Median ATAR of 83.73
Congratulations to 2018 College Dux, Katherine Kim, who achieved an ATAR of 99.85 and the following students who all scored over 99:
Elizabeth Dee 99.75, Bianca Cleland 99.6, Lily Jackson-Martin 99.0
Seven perfect Study Scores of 50 were achieved
Business Management: Sarah Murphy, Bianca Cleland
English: Lily Jackson-Martin, Bianca Cleland
Health and Human Development: Grace Power
Legal Studies: Bianca Cleland
Physical Education: Grace Power
I thank and commend the Class of 2018 on the contribution they have made to Siena College over the past six years in all endeavours that they have pursued. Their leadership, service to others and their contribution to the cocurricular life of the College have added to the richness of our community. We are immensely proud of the young women they have become and I am confident that they will go on beyond the gates of Siena and make intelligent and responsible use of their personal gifts.
I would also like to acknowledge the expertise and guidance of our staff who have supported then throughout their time at Siena College.
Gaynor Robson-Garth
Dear Parents and Guardians
We wish to advise all parents that building works on the Convent are ongoing as the final stages of this project are completed. From the beginning of Term 1, th...
Dear Parents and Guardians
We wish to advise all parents that building works on the Convent are ongoing as the final stages of this project are completed. From the beginning of Term 1, the front carpark area and driveway will be unavailable for student drop off and pick up. The main entrance and exit gates on Riversdale Road will be accessible only to staff and buses. School buses will operate as normal, with additional barricading for student safety around the Convent.
To assist parents, the attached College map provides three options for morning and afternoon drop off/pick up, to alleviate pressure on limited parking and congestion in the narrow roads surrounding the school boundary:
• Pedestrian Gate 7 (at the rear of the school, off Hocknell Street) will be open between 7.30am to 9.00am and from 3.00pm to 5.00pm
• Pedestrian Gate 8 (off Wattle Valley Road) will be open from 7.30am
• Pedestrian Gate 4 (adjacent to the gym on Riversdale Road) will also be open for student access, as normal Please note there will be no pedestrian access to the College via Compton Street.
The safety of our students and easing traffic congestion for busy parents are of paramount importance. We hope that these combined measures assist all parents as we complete these vital building works. These restrictions will remain in place until further notice.
Thank you
Tony Grant
Business Manager
Building Works Map (371 KB)
> View Document
Tracy GrobbelaarDirector of Development and Community Relations
Thank you all for your cooperation and understanding with the parking restrictions and site traffic management thus far.
Dear Parents and Guardians
Thank you all for your cooperation and understanding with the parking restrictions and site traffic management thus far. As per our previous correspondence, there will be further changes from Tuesday, 20 November 2018 as we commence with the driveway works.
Buses will now collect and drop off students on Riversdale Road, between the entry and exit gates. This will become a bus only zone and will be sign posted by the Boroondara City Council. This means no parking or standing for cars in this zone. Staff will be present as students arrive and depart from buses.
To assist parents, the attached College map provides three options for morning and afternoon drop off/pick up, to alleviate pressure on limited parking and congestion in the narrow roads surrounding the school boundary:
1. Pedestrian Gate 7 (at the rear of the school, off Hocknell Street) will be open between 7.30am to 9.00am and from 3.00pm to 5.00pm
2. Pedestrian Gate 8 (off Wattle Valley Road) will be open from 7.30am
3. Pedestrian Gate 4 (adjacent to the gym on Riversdale Road) will also be open for student access, as normal
Please note there will be no pedestrian access to the College via Compton Street. By parking in a legal manner with consideration for our neighbours, congestion around the school grounds will be reduced and safety maintained. The safety of our students and easing congestion for busy parents are of paramount importance. We hope that these combined measures assist all parents as we undertake these vital building works.
Siena-College-Map (366 KB)
> View Document
Congratulations to Jade Devlin and Stephanie Rozario for being awarded the Kooyong Student Prize
Federal Member for Kooyong, Josh Frydenberg MP, invites all Kooyong schools to nominate two students each year in recognition of their academic and co curricular achievements. We are very pleased to announce that Jade Devlin and Stephanie Rozario were the worthy recipients from Siena College in 2018. Jade and Stephanie are pictured with Josh Frydenberg MP and Bernadette Donnolly, Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching at the awards ceremony on Thursday, 22 November.
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
A warm welcome to the final term for 2018.
A warm welcome to the final term for 2018. It is good to be back after my time in South America over the holiday break.
At the core of a Principal's role in a Catholic school, is that of faith leader. During my time at Siena College, the Board has supported periods of enrichment leave, most recently, my participation in an immersion program in South America organised by the Principals' Association of Victorian Catholic Secondary Schools. The program was called 'Çross and Resurrection', and throughout my travels in El Salvador, Bolivia, Peru and Chile, there were confronting, moving and inspirational encounters with both the cross and the resurrection. It was a most privileged experience.
I spent a night in the home of a family of 'Campesinos' in the province of Suchitoto outside San Salvador. The Campesinos are Salvadoran refugees who fled the impacts of war and guerrilla incursions. They settled in abandoned haciendas to build up communities and to secure a future for themselves and their children.
In San Salvador, I listened to the stories of people searching for traces of family members who have tried to cross borders to reach the United States and I heard how the trade in human lives is now more profitable in Central America than drug running. I celebrated Mass with religious and lay people working in areas that are scarcely habitable. I met people like eighty year old Sister of Charity, Peggy O'Neill who intentionally seeks to link her life and her mission to the poor. I learned the stories of martyrs like Australian Josephite Sister, Irene McCormack who was murdered in Peru in 1991 by members of the 'Shining Path', a Maoist rebel guerrilla organisation.
I felt I walked on 'Holy Ground' in many places, including the church where Archbishop Oscar Romero was assassinated in 1980 and his simple home in San Salvador. When Archbishop Romero celebrated Mass and before his homily, he would read the names handed to him on all kinds of paper of those who had been killed or disappeared. Archbishop Romero was canonised on October 14 but it was obvious that the people of El Salvador had proclaimed him a saint a long time ago.
I came across Dominicans in the places I visited and heard again the stories of Antonio de Montesinos who preached against slavery and servitude in the 16th Century and Bartolome De Las Casas who started out as a slave owner but later felt compelled to oppose the abuses committed by colonists against the Native Americans. He gave up his Indian slaves, entered the Dominican Order and advocated on behalf of rights for the indigenous people. I lit candles and prayed for the Siena community at the shrine of Rose of Lima, a third order Dominican who is the Patron Saint of South America.
I visited remote missions in Bolivia with beautiful indigenous artwork gracing the walls of adobe churches, combining elements of 18th Century European and indigenous Indian architecture and decorative styles. The earthy ochre, orange and yellow colours of the painting on the walls and facades glowed in the gentle light of these churches. I encountered the Holy Spirit in the faith of the people and in a small string ensemble of local children aged twelve to fifteen in a Mission called Santa Ana. These children came from simple adobe homes in a village of no more than a few hundred people. They played Vivaldi and Mozart and Bolivian sonatas on cellos and violins in a church built by the indigenous people after the Jesuits were expelled in 1767. The Jesuits' legacy of the previous eighty years persists in these beautiful churches, in the music of the children and in the faith of the local people. I was immersed in a theology of 'God as friend' who accompanies us, and an incarnational theology of encounter with the Divine when we 'walk with' the poor and the marginalised'.
In Cochabamba in Bolivia, I visited the Mayknoll Institute where many Australian missionaries have been trained or learned Spanish or indigenous languages prior to their ministry in South America. I met Gustavo Gutierrez, ninety year old Dominican Priest and theologian who is considered by many to have written some of the most significant theological texts of recent times. I also experienced the extraordinary beauty and splendour of the Andes mountains and the Inca legacy in places like Mach Picchu. I have returned with much to ponder, deeply moved by all who I met on my travels and the conversations with my fellow pilgrims.
It was lovely to hear students perform at the Cabaret Night held in the Susan Alberti Auditorium in the first week of the term. First time performers appeared along with some of our most accomplished music students, much to the delight of all who attended.
An enduring feature of Siena College is the strong sense of community. I am so very grateful for the contribution of parents and the generous and committed members of the Siena Parents' Association, in particular, President Carmel Morabito for her leadership, her tireless efforts and regular presence at the College. I thank retiring members, Vice President Judy Bainbridge, Treasurer Linda Burton, and Mary Bohan the Uniform Shop Coordinator. In 2018, the Association raised more funds than ever before, an extraordinary effort for a group of volunteers. The Association hosted many events to welcome new parents or visitors, wish the Year 12s well as they commenced the year, support students and staff, and fundraise. I look forward to working with the new Committee to continue the invaluable work they do.
Next week we will farewell our Year 12 students and wish them well as they prepare for their final exams. This is a time of mixed emotions as we say goodbye, the enormous pride in seeing the extraordinary young women they have become, the memories of the girls they once were and the excitement of moving on to forge new pathways and new independence. I thank them for their contribution to the College over the past six years.
Gaynor Robson Garth
Image captions
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
We pray…
Over the school holiday break and over the past fortnight we have witnessed the forces of nature devastating lives in other parts of our world
God of mercy and compassion, we ask...
We pray…
Over the school holiday break and over the past fortnight we have witnessed the forces of nature devastating lives in other parts of our world
God of mercy and compassion, we ask for your blessing on those whose lives have been affected by recent natural disasters.
Comfort them in their loss of family, friends and community.
Give them the gift of hope to see beyond their pain and loss.
Give strength to those who work with them to rebuild their families and communities.
Bless them for their willingness to be with the grieving, the injured and the homeless.
"The artist is a witness of the invisible and works of art are the clearest proof that the incarnation is possible." Pope Francis
Much has been written about the connection between the arts and spirituality; Dominicans through the ages have recognised the integral part that the arts play in preaching God's Word to a hungry world.
During the course of this week students and staff have been provided with rich opportunities to engage with the arts on many levels – this experience of the transcendent though words, actions and images is very much a part of our charism and its appreciation of beauty in the everyday.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Curriculum Day reminder, BYOD program, VCAA examinations, 2019 Subject Selections
Wednesday, 24 October is Curriculum Writing Day for teachers and therefore a student free day. Teachers work in teams to update the curriculum and assessment dates in preparation for 2019. It is a very productive day as our staff begin the process of reviewing 2018 courses and what the essential learnings are for our students.
Current Year 9 students who have been using an iPad over the last two years, may continue to bring that device to support their learning in 2019. Alternatively, students in Years 10, 11 and 12 may choose to bring another tablet or laptop to Siena College to use. The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program enables senior students to choose the technology that best suits their needs and learning style.
In 2019, we recommend one of three options; a Tablet, Windows Notebook Device or an Apple Notebook Device. We have a partnership with 'CompNow' who provide new devices at competitive prices. A letter will be sent shortly with further information regarding preferred devices.
We wish all our students undertaking Unit 3 and 4 examinations the very best in their study and in their examinations. We would also like to acknowledge the dedication and work of our committed Year 12 teachers who have worked with our girls this year. We wish all students well as they prepare for these final semester examinations.
Over the next weeks, students will receive via email their 2019 proposed subjects and the Booklist package. If there are any issues with subject selections, students should contact Liz Carr.
The dates for release are as follows:
2019 Year 7 families will be emailed next Thursday, 25 October regarding access to the parent portal, Siena Central. Here they can view book lists and iPad requirements.
Musical performances, sports demonstrations, faculty displays, food stalls and much much more! Joins us for Open Day 2018
Dominic LoschiavoEnglish Teacher
Over the first week of the holidays, nine very fortunate Year 10 and 11 students had the privilege of participating in the Indigenous Immersion Program.
Over the first week of the holidays, nine very fortunate Year 10 and 11 students had the privilege of participating in Siena's Indigenous Immersion Program in Alice Springs, Northern Territory. The trip offered an authentic opportunity to learn more about ancient Aboriginal culture amidst the amazing landscape of the Australian outback.
To commence the trip, the Siena girls teamed up with Catholic Mission to host a soup van in Alice Springs. We offered both food and drink to indigenous and non indigenous locals, it was very humbling to offer small gestures of support to people facing a range of challenges. Our girls showed considerable maturity and empathy in helping people living with considerable disadvantage. The soup van gave us plenty to think about – particularly a reinforced sense of gratitude at how fortunate we are.
We were very grateful for the opportunity to immerse ourselves with indigenous students from Alice Springs' Flexible Learning Centre throughout the trip. Together we explored beautiful parts of Alice Springs such as Simpsons Gap and Emily Gap, and learnt how to cook traditional kangaroo tail out in the hot Australian outback. Their continued presence and hospitality was invaluable and offered an authentic experience for our girls.
Towards the end of the trip, it was great to take a break and put our 'tourist' hats on and enjoy the magnificent sight of Uluru, both at dawn and dusk. The transforming colours of the rock face under varying degrees of light was amazing and provided plenty of great photo opportunities for our girls. Seeing such a cultural icon up close was unforgettable, and we were stunned by both its beauty and size. Our 10km walk around Uluru provided a chance to see the rock up close, including various waterholes and Aboriginal paintings at its base.
Dom Loschiavo
Michelle RobertsonDirector of Learning and Innovation
Each term, teachers and students focus on a different Learning Quadrant from our 'Shared Understanding of Learning' framework that reflects our pedagogical practice and promotes teaching ...
Each term, teachers and students focus on a different Learning Quadrant from our 'Shared Understanding of Learning' framework that reflects our pedagogical practice and promotes teaching and learning endeavours in the classroom. In Term 3, the focus was on the 'Learning Skills' quadrant:
Throughout Term 3, I was able to conduct Learning Walks with students from Years 7-12, asking them to reflect on how 'skills' have enhanced their learning in the classroom. These are some of the student responses:
What kinds of learning skills have you developed in this class?
'Creative thinking'
' to effectively plan my writing piece'
'to communicate my ideas in group discussions'
'to be more focused on independent learning'
' I am able to locate information and analyse it'
How does your teacher enable you to use critical and creative thinking skills in the classroom?
'through interactive learning: guided and independent practice'
'through group discussions and activities: learning from others'
'by allowing us to collaborate with others through seating plans and putting us into different learning groups'
'by encouraging us to ask questions and to find out the answers ourselves'
How do you show your learning in this class?
'through self-reflection journal writing'
'by answering questions in discussions'
'by participating – being engaged, active listening, present- centred'
'by helping to teach others – peer tutoring'
'through assessments both formative and summative'
'getting feedback on your learning from the teacher'
How does your teacher inspire independence in you as a learner?
'sometimes it is better to work on your own to really test your learning and understanding'
'teachers sometimes encourage us to take risks when learning something new'
'the teacher challenges me to learn new things – step out of our comfort zone'
'by asking us to answer questions in front of the class'
'allowing me to make mistakes and learn from them'
This term we will focus on the fourth and final quadrant – Learning Relationships:
Our learning focus in Term 4 will be on continuing to forge strong working relationships in the classroom between students and teachers and students and students to build on the skills of collaboration and continuing to foster learning partnerships in the classroom to maximise successful learning outcomes.
Michelle Robertson
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Cabaret Night, Clarinet Workshop Day
The inaugural Cabaret Night was held 11 October in the Susan Alberti Auditorium. It was a terrific evening featuring Siena's pianists and vocal students and students from Years 7-12 were very excited to perform for an appreciative audience. The vocalists performed contemporary repertoire and the pianists performed a wide range of solos. I would also like to acknowledge the 'house band' and the instrumental teachers for preparing students for the evening. It was fantastic to see so many students who have limited experience performing solos performing so well.
On Monday 15 October all the Siena College clarinettists attended a clarinet workshop day with Georgina Oakes. Georgina is an internationally recognised clarinettist with experience as a soloists and orchestra player. Our students participated in masterclasses, performed in a combined clarinet ensemble and they were amazed at Georgina's recital. Thank you to Mr Ed Ferris for organising such a wonderful learning opportunity for our students.
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
Siena College has begun Term 4 sport with a busy first few weeks, with senior cricket and basketball games being held twice a week. Junior and intermediate basketball for Girls' Sport Vic...
Siena College has begun Term 4 sport with a busy first few weeks, with senior cricket and basketball games being held twice a week. Junior and intermediate basketball for Girls' Sport Victoria (GSV) has also started, with fixtures through until late November. Siena College has had mixed results in basketball, with our senior (2 teams) and junior (6) teams winning and losing similar amounts of games, as well as our senior cricket team off to a strong start, beating Our Lady of Sion College and Ivanhoe Girl's Grammar School comfortably. Siena College's junior water polo and junior cricket teams commence shortly. All the best to all of our teams for the season ahead.
Siena College Sport is looking forward to the annual College Open Day, with the Latingata Morrom gymnasium open to prospective students and parents, showcasing the fantastic facilities and programs on offer. We will also have the final of our Tennis tournament and our school aerobics team will have an opportunity to display their fantastic national routines. Our annual Celebration of Sport evening is also fast approaching (more details to follow), where we will be celebrating the fantastic year of sport and the team and individual achievements.
Late in Term 3, six politically astute students attended the Victorian Secondary Students Parliamentary Constitutional Convention
Late in Term 3, six politically astute students attended the Victorian Secondary Students Parliamentary Constitutional Convention to debate the interesting topic, "Does the Constitution meet the needs of Modern Australia?". Students from thirty schools across Victoria debated and discussed in Victorian Parliament's Legislative Assembly chamber and ultimately strongly disagreed with the proposition. Congratulations to Mia Horozides, Teagan Matthews, Jema Mueller, Katya Scacco, Annie Walsh and Natasha Walsh for representing Siena with pride and talent. They now have the chance to be selected for the National Convention in Canberra in March 2019. .
Michael Petrie
Year 10 Politics Teacher
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
The buzz was electric at Kingswood College on Wednesday 10 October for the Year 8 Academic Challenge.
The buzz was electric at Kingswood College on Wednesday 10 October for the Year 8 Academic Challenge. Siena's Year 8 students Sienna Justus, Trinity Ng, Lucy O'Connell, Pia Perini, Mikayla Rollnik, Charlotte Ryan, Maliana Tapusoa and Aurelia Tjitji joined with 107 enquiring minds across eight schools testing their skills in Mathematics, Science, General Knowledge, Public Speaking, English, Code Braking, Poetry and Art. The event embodied the collegiate spirit with each team composed of mix of student from different schools. These events provide our students with precious opportunities to expand their minds and develop healthy networks with like minded students.
Tracy GrobbelaarDirector of Development and Community Relations
Building works have commenced on our iconic Convent and Cloisters, as we transform this area into the Gateway of the College.
Building works have commenced on our iconic Convent and Cloisters, as we transform this area into the Gateway of the College. We thank all parents for their patience and understanding during these works.
What a fabulous fundraiser to start our scholarship fund! Our thanks once again to guest speaker Jade Rawlings and our sponsor, Mitchelton Wines.
What a fabulous fundraiser to start our scholarship fund! Our thanks once again to guest speaker, Jade Rawlings and our sponsor, Mitchelton Wines.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
The latest edition of the Siena Career News features some reminders about important dates for Year 12s as well as information on the new UCAT test for entry into Medicine courses
The latest edition of the Siena Career News features some reminders about important dates for Year 12s as well as information on the new UCAT test for entry into Medicine courses in Australian Universities. There is also information on a Maths bridging program run by Swinburne University for students who do not have the VCE Maths recommended for the undergraduate degree of their choice at Swinburne. Health Sciences are always popular course choices for our students but many are unaware of the benefits of studying Orthoptics, this week's newsletter explains what Orthoptics is and where a degree in Orthoptics can take you.
Tracey KermondHuman Resources Manager
Welcome to new staff
A warm welcome is extended to all of our new staff:
At the end of Term 3 we fondly farewelled:
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensur...
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment information and our College Prospectus can be viewed online at www.siena.vic.edu.au/enrolment/enrolment-procedures
Parents can now complete an Application for Enrolment online at https://apply.siena.vic.edu.au
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Another busy and productive term has drawn to a close and I am sure all in our community are looking forward to a few weeks of a slower pace and some time to reflect.
Another busy and productive term has drawn to a close and I am sure everyone in our community is looking forward to a few weeks at a slower pace and some time to reflect.
Last week we conducted interviews for 2019 College Captains. Eight students undertook a rigorous process of application, an interview with the Leadership Team and the presentation of their speeches at the College Assembly, to students and staff. Each student spoke passionately and eloquently and it was wonderful to see such strong role models among our senior students. We thank all students for their outstanding contributions and warmly congratulate Jade Devlin and Charlotte Lack, our College Captains for 2019.
Fourteen students and three staff departed earlier this week for the Chinese Culture and Language Trip. Another nine students and two staff left yesterday for Central Australia as part of the Indigenous Immersion experience with the Catholic Mission group. We look forward to hearing of their travels on their return in Term 4.
We have had cause to celebrate this week with some wonderful individual and team results:
As we commence Pillar IV of the Butterfly Campaign, Transforming the Convent into the Gateway of the College, we remind families that building works will commence over the holidays. There will be disruption to access from the beginning of Term 4 with the front carpark and driveway unavailable for student drop off and pick up. Communication has been sent to families regarding alternate drop off points. Please click here for further information.
Mrs Robson-Garth is presently on enrichment leave as part of the retired and current Principals tour of South America. The tour has included visits to missions in Bolivia, work with Christians for Peace in El Salvador (CRISPAZ) and visits to places of Dominican significance including the Las Casas Institute. She writes of her experience:
I have no words to describe this amazing place. There is a deep sense of spirituality and the most amazing mountains I have ever seen. We have had some very moving and confronting experiences, meetings with people in El Salvador searching for loved ones who disappeared through Mexico trying to get to the US, visiting a memorial to over 70,000 who were killed in Peru by the Shining Path, including Josephite Nun Irene McCormack and children as young as three. Yesterday, in contrast to the impressive Spanish architecture of Lima, we visited an area in the outskirts called Canto Grande that people are flooding into. We also met the father of liberation theology, ninety year old Gustavo Gutierrez and visited the place where Archbishop Romero was killed.
We wish all students, staff and families a safe and relaxing holiday break. We hold the Year 12 students in our thoughts and prayers as they undertake trial exams during the second week of the holidays and as they prepare for their final VCE examinations. Term 4 commences for students on Monday, 8 October.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Year 12 students marked their final Religious Education class for the year
Year 12 students marked their final Religious Education class for the year on Thursday in a moving Liturgy .The gathering was launched with a special message from Mrs Robson-Garth in Peru, accompanied by some of the beautiful images from her pilgrimage to South America. Ministry Captain, Mia Catalano led the Liturgy where girls added to a cumulative reflection on their Siena experience and College Captains, Antoinette Collins and Hannah Petrowski shared their insights on the 2018 College Theme, 'One Body, Many Parts'. Teachers offered readings based on this theme and returned letters that the girls had written in one of their first Religious Education classes in February, outlining their hopes and dreams for their final year of school. Heartfelt thanks to Year 12 Catholic Studies teachers and student leaders for assisting in the preparation of this celebration.
In the Christian tradition it is commonplace to send travellers on their way with the blessing of the community, and so we gathered with the 2018 Indigenous Immersion cohort on 13 September to celebrate the Eucharist together. At the end of the Eucharist, College Chaplain, Fr Kevin Toomey OP blessed our Immersion participants with the following words:
God of all pilgrims
you walk with us on every step of our journey.
Bless these travellers
Siena's participants in the 2018 Indigenous Immersion experience.
May they travel lightly with:
eyes that are open to the beauty around them,
ears that are open to stories of dignity and pain
hearts that are open to signs of hope
minds that are open to new perspectives and insights
and hands that are stretched out in friendship.
May they travel with our prayers, good wishes and trust.
May those that remain behind journey with our travellers
as we gaze nightly on the moon and stars.
May Dominic guide them to share the Good News in their deeds and words.
May Catherine inspire them to be truly at one within themselves.
We ask our good and gracious God to guide and protect each one of you and return you safely
to our community with stories of an ancient people striving for justice and equity, faith, hope and love.
We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Unit 3 and 4 trial examinations
Thank you to all parents and guardians who attended the recent Parent Teacher Interviews. Just a reminder that the 2018 Term 3 Interim Reports can be downloaded from Siena Central.
The Unit 3 and 4 trial examinations will run from Monday, 1 October to Thursday, 4 October. Students will receive their corrected trial examination papers in Term 4. A statement of trial examination results will also be available for parents to access on Tuesday, 16 October.
There will be no set holiday learning for Year 7 to 9 students, however, Year 10 and 11 students will have holiday home learning. Students undertaking a Unit 4 subject will need to use their holiday break well in order to prepare for the trial examinations and the upcoming VCAA examinations.
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Oh what a night!
Members of the Siena Community gathered together on Friday, 7 September to participate in the annual Night of Change. Students, parents and staff entered into the evening with high spirits and generous hearts. Siena musicians, including the Stage Band and Year 12 students, entertained the crowd with their usual high quality performances. Families, friends and colleagues sat in teams, shared food and participated in Disco Bingo, Trivia and Silent Auctions.
The night is a major fundraising event for the Kopanang Community in South Africa. Participants from the 2018 South African Immersion shared their personal experiences and stories of the privileged time spent living with these wonderfully stoic, inclusive, funny and empowering women.
The evening was a wonderful success and a reflection of the hard effort and dedication of our Student Representative Council (SRC) and the generosity of Siena families and local businesses who donated services or products for the Silent Auction and other prizes. Our Night of Change raised just over $5500, all of which will be donated to the Kopanang Community Trust. The funds will go towards improving the lives of the women and families of Kopanang.
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
National AeroSchools Championships, School Sports Australia Diving Championships, GSV wrap up
Our Aerobics team achieved outstanding results at the National AeroSchools Championships on the Gold Coast this week. Team placings were as follows:
Ella Gurry and Tess Hayes also performed brilliantly but were unlucky not to place in the Level 5 Intermediate Pairs. Congratulations to all students, including Chelsea Buswell (Year 11) for coaching the winning team, and to staff and parents who accompanied the girls. A wonderful team effort!
Congratulations are extended to Edie Mitra, Year 8, who recently represented Victoria at the School Sports Australia Diving Championships held in Perth. Edie placed fourth in her one metre and three metre Springboard events and achieved a silver medal in the Team Synchro competition. Edie was very pleased with her dives and her achievements are a wonderful acknowledgement of the commitment and dedication she displays to her sport.
Wrapping up a full season of Athletics, nine Siena College students participated in the GSV Athletics Finals at Lakeside Stadium on 11 September. All students did their best and represented Siena College with distinction, particularly Jemma Rigoni who won bronze in the Year 8 400m event. All of the students who came to the weekly training sessions and various GSV Athletics events throughout the term are to be congratulated on an exciting and successful season for Siena College.
Siena College was well represented at the GSV finals, with the Second Intermediate Volleyball team finishing winners for their division and finishing third overall. All three Junior Year 8 teams finished winners of their divisions, with the B team finishing premiers and the A and C teams runners up. Our Junior and Intermediate Soccer teams also performed extremely well, both winning their divisions and finishing runners up overall, with both teams showing a positive attitude and strong commitment. Well done to all of the participants for Volleyball, Soccer and Badminton, who gave their best each week at training and during matches, all contributing to a successful term of sport for Siena College.
We are eagerly anticipating Term 4, with many students involved in GSV Water Polo, Outdoor Cricket and Basketball. The final sporting event for the year will be the 2018 Celebration of Sport evening, details for which will be provided in Term 4. We look forward to an exciting term ahead and wish everyone a good holiday.
Tickets selling fast for the Dads' Night In!
Siena dads, have you booked you ticket to our upcoming Dads' Night In? Exciting news: we have secured Jade Rawlings, former AFL star, 2018 VFL Coach of the Year and Siena parent as our guest speaker. We are looking forward to a great night of fun, complete with barbecue, wine tasting (with thanks to Mitchelton Wines), virtual reality games, raffles and more. Click the image below to book:
In partnership with The Ark Clothing Co., we would like to extend an invitation
In partnership with The Ark Clothing Co., we would like to extend an invitation to our community to attend our Fashion Show on Friday, 26 October at 7.00pm in the Susan Alberti Auditorium.
Siena alumna, Megan Sloley (Class of 1983) has joined The Ark Clothing Co. and her team have put together a Fashion Show that provides our guests with an opportunity to view The Ark's new summer collection. The clothing will be modelled by The Ark employees and the styles cater for all ages and body shapes. Ticket price also includes canapés, drinks and a Personal Styling voucher valued at $25.
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
On Wednesday 12 September, six Year 12 Siena Students participated in the St Vincent de Paul Street Retreat program.
On Wednesday, 12 September, six Year 12 Siena Students participated in the St Vincent de Paul Street Retreat program. The opportunity, open to school students aged sixteen years and over, allows students to shadow the Fitzroy Soup Vans for the evening. The vans run each night and stop at numerous locations throughout the city, providing warm meals, sandwiches, hot drinks and items such as socks, underwear, personal hygiene products, beanies and blankets to those experiencing homelessness.
It is both a humbling and eye opening experience to come face to face with people who are in such desperate circumstances. Through smiles, conversations, laughter and the simple act of sharing food with each other, barriers between our students and these individuals diminished. Vinnies aims to ensure that, through their services, the dignity of each individual is maintained.
Siena students benefited greatly from this opportunity, reflected in their testimonies below. The school program is exceptionally well organised, with students thoroughly briefed before they depart for the evening. We look forward to being more actively involved in this program in 2019.
'On entering the Street Retreat program held by Vinnies, I was unsure of what to expect. I found that we were fully immersed in the evening and felt a greater sense of community hidden amongst the Melbourne CBD, between the students, other volunteers and those currently experiencing homelessness. I found the whole experience inspiring and felt a real generosity between all the people I met during the evening. I learnt from this experience that something as small as a smile has the ability to bring happiness into an individual's day and to broaden the sense of community in Melbourne. I am definitely keen to take part in more volunteer work like this in the future!' Melanie Myrtle
'On reflecting on the opportunity to volunteer with the Vinnie's soup van, the aspect that struck me the most was the invisibility of homelessness in our society. I have enjoyed walking these same streets with my family and friends and have never realised the sheer numbers in our city who experience homelessness, nor the difference both a nutritious meal and a human connection could make to someone experiencing homelessness. That a simple smile or look in the eye can make a difference in a person's day and to their feeling of self-worth and dignity. We learnt about a regular client of the service who took two buses and a tram and then rode his bike to one of the city stops, only to decline any offers of food. He just wanted the conversation. He followed the van to each of the other stops to continue the conversation throughout the night. It made me aware how overlooked and ignored people experiencing homelessness often are, and how invisible they must feel. I met a man who, during his career, had made valuable engineering contributions to Melbourne. He now experiences homelessness. I also met a woman who had fled domestic violence that night and was experiencing her first night on the street. She had nothing but the clothes she was wearing. Volunteering with the Van made me feel so grateful for everything I have and to reaffirm to myself to never take anything for granted as our lives can change in a minute. I would encourage everyone to participate in this volunteering experience.' Grace Oliver
'It was surreal to drive around a less crowded Melbourne city with the Soup Van. The stark contrast of visiting the city's icons, such as Federation Square and the Queen Victoria Market, during a week night provides a completely different perspective of our society. I continue to reflect on the variety of situations that led to these people needing the support of Vinnies. Some were fleeing domestic violence or had experienced a relationship breakdown, while one man had been coming to the Soup Van for over forty years after being the innocent victim of a coward punch. The experience working on the Soup Van was a rewarding reminder of life beyond school. The smiles, optimism and gratitude encountered highlights that even when lifes greatest challenges present themselves, we must continue to provide solidarity as the greatest support.' Madeleine Harriss
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On Tuesday 18 September, five chess club students headed off early for Castlemaine to attend the Mount Alexander Schools Chess Challenge
On Tuesday 18 September, five chess club students headed off early for Castlemaine to attend the Mount Alexander Schools Chess Challenge, which was held in the historic Old Castlemaine Gaol.
Schools competing on the day included Castlemaine Secondary College, Girton Grammar, Bendigo South East, Melbourne High, Olivet CC, and Siena College. The games were timed with students playing seven games each over the course of the day. The chess tables were set up in the corridors of the gaol, with prison cells either side. The cold eeriness of the cells brought to the students the harsh reality of the living conditions of the inmates during the operating time from 1861 until 1990. And the solitary confinement of each stone walled cell reflected the solitary concentration the students have during a game of chess. The only noise you could hear was the clicking of the timers after every turn. I'm not sure if the chill in the air was the actual temperature or the ghosts of prisoners that were hanged for their crimes in days gone by, their bodies buried somewhere on the gaol grounds, standing upright so their souls would never be free.
The results of the day were outstanding, a gold medal to Jasmine Skutela (Year 9) and a Silver medal to Angelina Rodos (Year 7) for coming first and second respectively in the girls division. Both girls along with Zoe Kelly have qualified for Chess Victoria State Girls Final.
The Chess Club will continue next term, Wednesday lunchtimes and the Secondary Girl's State Final will be held on Tuesday 16 October at St Catherine's School, Toorak. Parents are welcome to attend the event.
Heather O'Keefe
Learning Enhancement Department
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
1600 students from 27 countries from as far away as Canada, Jakarta and Dubi participated in the World Scholars Cup Global Round in Melbourne.
The World Scholars Cup Global Round in Melbourne saw 1600 students from 27 countries descend on the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with some travelling from as far away as Canada, Jakarta and Dubai. The extravaganza ran over six days (17-21 August) in the beautiful South Wharf area with various competitions at host schools around Melbourne. The goal of this competition is to inspire in young people a love of learning, confidence in new skills and a sense of global citizenship.
Our intrepid scholars Mia Kelly, Lauren Edwards, and Jessica Higgins experienced the hectic pace of scavenger hunts, keynote speeches, panel discussions, the signature Scholar's Ball, community-building events and rigorous competitive events. A true experience in debate, and build new friendships among fellow scholars from all over the world. Our Siena students found the experience immensly rewarding as they've expressed in their following reflections.
"World Scholars Cup was an amazing experience, that provided a platform for students to connect and learn together, and meet people their age from all over the world. I learnt a lot from this experience, not only about the topics we were studying, but also social skills and creating new relationships with those around me. It taught me how to effectively study, and how to memorise large amounts of work. World Scholars Cup has given me a platform to make long lasting friendships with people all over the world, and has helped me gain lots of academic, and social knowledge."
Jessica Higgins, Year 7
"At World Scholars Cup I learnt many things and was immersed in different cultures and their traditions. During the global round 1,600 students from all around the world came together not only to enhance our learning and overall knowledge but to learn things we could not learn at school or anywhere else. There were six different subject areas we had to study - science, literature, music, social studies, history and the special area. These topics can be applied to all my schoolwork especially English and science as we really focused on those subjects especially the science of memory, the nervous system, films and literature of all forms. I really enjoyed that we had multiple events and activities that allowed us to merge with the other teams and countries and make new friendships that will last even after our time at world scholars is finished."
Lauren Edwards, Year 7
Wen-Liang TaoTeacher: Languages
Celebrating 60 Years of Chinese Teaching in Victoria
The 2018 Victorian Chinese Language Teachers' Conference was held at Camberwell Grammar School on 7 - 8 September. It was at Camberwell Grammar sixty years ago that Chinese language was taught for the first time in Victoria, and actually anywhere outside of China except for some Asian countries. Chinese has now become the most spoken community language in Victoria and one of the most taught languages in Victorian schools.
To celebrate this milestone, special guests were invited to the Conference to congratulate the achievements made by Chinese teachers. Among them were Josh Frydenberg, Deputy Liberal Leader and Treasurer, Mr Zeng Jianhua, Acting Consulate General of the PRC in Melbourne, Dr Fuxin Li, the President of CLTFA, and Mr Jixing Xu, President of CLTAV.
"Learning a language is a window to another culture, a window to tolerance, and a window to friendship," said Mr Frydenberg.
Dr Jane Orton, the Graduate School of Education, the University of Melbourne talked about "developing quality and sustainable Chinese programs...(these) are not outcomes, but comprehensive strategies", she explained. Dr John Tuckfield of Camberwell Grammar has been teaching Chinese for thirty years and said that Australian Government language policy change has shown a shift from the Eurocentric policy to a focus on the Asia-Pacific region.
The keynote speeches were followed by group discussions on the updated VCE Chinese Study Designs to be implemented next year and beyond. A high school music band from China and some students from local schools performed traditional and modern Chinese music and dance, which was greatly appreciated by the audience.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
This week's Siena Career News contains a reminder for Year 12s to complete their VTAC application and pay the application fee by 27 September.
This week's Siena Career News contains a reminder for Year 12's to complete their VTAC application and pay the application fee by 27 September. The closing date for SEAS and Scholarships is 12 October. Information sessions for extension programs at the universities are all listed – this will be of interest to students in Year 11 who are considering studying a University subject as part of their VCE.
The reunion season at Siena is busy and exciting for both the Alumnae Office and for the archivists.
The reunion season at Siena is busy and exciting for both the Alumnae Office and for us in Archives. It gives us the opportunity to research and find memorabilia, photos, magazines, events, trophies, awards and yearbooks relevant to the past students who are attending the reunion.
On the day itself, it is such a joy to see the women (and their inner student) greet former classmates with shrieks of recognition, laughter and hugs. The volume and level of chatter increases as each new group of friends arrive.
It is very rewarding for us, as archivists, to see the women huddled in groups, looking at the PowerPoint, searching the photos on display boards and perusing items on the tables of memorabilia. It is a privilege to witness the bond between these women of all ages and their Siena.
We would especially like to thank Janine Bucci (Class of 1989) who recently donated her blazer and sports uniform to the Archives. We are always grateful for donations, especially those which fill the gaps in our collection.
Maria Ang and Maureen McAuley
College archivists
Each year the Siena Parents' Association (SPA) hold a second hand Book sale with the support of the College, the Siena community and volunteers to assist in the sale, purchase and donatio...
Each year the Siena Parents' Association (SPA) hold a second hand Book sale with the support of the College, the Siena community and volunteers to assist in the sale, purchase and donation of student books.
This valuable service provides families the option to buy/sell preloved student books whilst assisting the SPA to fundraise and ultimately reinvest in College facilities to enrich our daughters' College experience.
This year SPA has engaged Recycled Text books for the Second Hand Book Sale. Further correspondence relating to the intake of books and sale will be emailed to parents early next term, along with the second hand book list. In the interim please diarise the following days:
Intake Days for second hand books
Wednesday, 5 December 8.30 – 10.00am Intake day for books from Year 7 and Year 8 Students
Thursday, 6 December 8.30 – 10.00am Intake day for books from Year 9 – 12 students
Friday, 7 December 8.30 – 10.00 am Intake for all year levels
Second Hand Book Sale – Exclusive Sale Event for Siena College
8 December 2018 @ Recycled Textbook Store
12 Arcade Road, Mont Albert North
9.00am – 2.00pm for Year 10, Year 11, and Year 12 parents
2.00pm – 7.00pm for Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 parents
To learn more about Recycled Text Books registration please visit here
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment forms and Prospectus packs are available from Reception or on the College website
Blackburn Cycling Club, School holiday bike program,
St Michael's netball rep trials
Congratulations to our 2019 School Captains, Jade Devlin and Charlotte Lack.
We are pleased to introduce our 2019 School Captains, Jade Devlin and Charlotte Lack. All of our applicants attended the Pillars Leadership course over two afternoons, which explored what it means to be a Dominican Leader, identified the College's expectations of our leaders and explored the challenges of juggling leadership with senior studies. Girls benefited from hearing the lived experiences of our 2018 College Captains and other Senior Leaders as they discussed their 2018 leadership journey.
Students completed a written Expression of Interest for the position of College Captain and were interviewed by Ms Donnelly, Ms Thompson, Ms Levett and Ms Ilott. They addressed the entire College at a formal assembly held on Friday, 14 September in which they shared their ideas about and vision for leadership at Siena.
Congratulations to Charlotte and Jade.
A reminder that our annual Visual Art and Technology Exhibition opens this Friday, 19 October 2018 at 6.30pm. .
A reminder that our annual Art and Technology Exhibition opens this Friday, 19 October 2018 at 6.30pm. Featuring select Year 7 to 12 student work, the exhibition will continue on Open Day, Saturday, 20 October 2018 from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.
Year 12 student Emer McGing has been awarded the 2018 National Irish Dancing Champion
Year 12 student Emer McGing is the 2018 National Irish Dancing Champion following the National Championships recently held in Cairns. Emer competed over six days from 2-7 October in the Junior Ladies 17 years Championship category. Along with perpetual trophies, Emer has been awarded a bursary to assist with her travels next year to the World Championships in the United States. Congratulations Emer!
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
As I look back over this past term, there have been many moments where I have been inspired...
As I look back over this past term, there have been many moments where I have been inspired by members of the Siena community, both past and present. On Saturday, 1 September, the College Hall was filled with the buzz of conversation as alumnae from the Class of 1978 and Class of 1988 gathered to celebrate decade reunions. We welcomed back past Principal, Sr Rosemary Lewins who concluded her time at Siena in 1978. There was much reminiscing, a tour of the College and an enthusiastic rendition of an old school song about Siena Convent girls.
Congratulations and thanks are extended to Director of Music, Kerryn McGillen and all involved in the Siena Music Concert, Sisterhood. It was lovely to see the pride and range of emotions on the faces of the students who performed and I thank everyone involved for the expertise and hours of effort invested in the evening and in all the preparation that preceded it. Once again, it was a real reflection of our 2018 College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts', with each contribution so important to the final outcome. Events such as this bring our community together and the evening was much appreciated by proud parents and grandparents too.
On Wednesday, 5 September, I was inspired by the finalists in the 2018 Antonio de Montesinos Award for Public Speaking. Four students entered the competition: Micayla Victor of Year 7, Jade Devlin in Year 11, Year 12 student, Ella Frausing and Amanda Marasco of Year 9. All spoke with passion and eloquence on the College theme 'One Body, Many Parts', making associations with topics of concern to them. They addressed issues including recycling of plastics, the need to focus on our shared humanity rather than difference, the perceptions of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder and on belonging and acceptance. Annelise Skliros, the Debating and Public Speaking Vice Captain, did an outstanding job in hosting the evening. Congratulations are extended to Amanda Marasco who was given the Encouragement Award and Jade Devlin who was the 2018 recipient of this prestigious award. My thanks are extended to Alan Anderson for encouraging and supporting our students in their public speaking endeavours this year, and to the adjudicators who were faced with a very difficult because of the excellent standard of the speeches.
The Siena public speaking award is named after Dominican Friar, Antonio de Montesinos who, over five hundred years ago, preached a powerful sermon on behalf of his community that challenged the Spanish rulers in the Dominican Republic at the time about their treatment of the local indigenous people. His powerful words continue to challenge us as we engage with the issues of our time: '… by what right and by what justice do you keep these Indians in such cruel and horrible servitude?… Are they not human?... Are you not bound to love them as you love yourselves?' As members of a Dominican College, we too are called preach the Gospel by the way we live our lives, by what we say, what we write and what we do.
There are many stories of Dominicans in South America and their role in preaching justice. On Friday, 7 September, I am heading off on an immersion program offered by the Principals' Association of Victorian Catholic Secondary Schools. The focus is on spiritual enrichment, Catholic Social Teaching and the role of the Principal as Faith Leader. In 2018, the program has added appeal for me because of the Dominican history in South America and the stories of the early Dominicans like Antonio De Montesinos and his community. The immersion will be lead by Dr James Nickoloff who is the Associate Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts and by Jesuit, Fr Tom Martin who will be the Spiritual Director.
The program will include time with a group called CRISPAZ, Christians for Peace in El Salvador. The information provided by CRISPAZ states the following: 'The CRISPAZ El Salvador Encounter is for people who are willing to have their lives touched and forever changed. …To participate in an El Salvador Encounter is to enter into an ongoing dialogue which we hope will challenge and change your heart, mind, and spirit.' I will have the opportunity to meet with Salvadorans, hear their stories, and accompany them for a short time in their daily lives. Other countries visited include Bolivia and Peru that are at the heart of the Liberation Theology movement in the Catholic Church and the forming of people such as Archbishop Oscar Romero, Gustavo Gutierrez who is a Dominican Priest and Pope Francis. I will visit Dominican Centres as well as Jesuit Missions in Bolivia.
I will be away from the College from September 8 until October 3 during which time, Bernadette Donnelly will be Acting Principal. I thank Bernadette for taking on these additional responsibilities.
Just prior to my departure, I attended a breakfast together with eight of our Year 12 Politics students, Catherine Judd and Patricia Cowling who is the Deputy Chair of the Siena College Board. The breakfast was hosted by the Honourable Member for Kooyong and new Treasurer, Josh Frydenburg, and the new Education Minister, Dan Tehan, We were pleased to be invited and to be able to advocate for a better funding deal for Catholic schools like Siena College.
While I am away in South America and as the term draws to a close, I will be thinking of the Siena community and the Year 12s in particular. I will light a few candles and say a few prayers for everyone at places of special significance. I look forward to sharing my experiences on my return.
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Siena students were privileged to attend the White Rose Mass at Xavier College Memorial Chapel
'The real damage is done by those million who want to "survive". The honest people who just want to be left in peace. Those who don't want their little lives to be disturbed by anything bigger than themselves. Those with no sides and no cause. Those who don't like to make waves – or enemies. Those for whom freedom, honour, truth, and principles are only literature.'
Sophie Scholl, White Rose member (1921-1943)
Matilda Baker, Georgia Smith and Jana Lianos were privileged to attend the White Rose Mass at Xavier College Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, 22 August. The Mass was to mark the 75th anniversary of the executions of six members of the White Rose, a group of German citizens who stood in opposition to the Nazi regime and paid the ultimate sacrifice.
Following the Mass, our students participated in a Human Rights Forum with peers from schools throughout Victoria. Participants reflected on current Human Rights issues and explored the courage involved in standing up and speaking out. Students discussed the many and varied ways it was possible to make a difference in our contemporary world.
Overwhelmingly, our students walked away feeling both challenged and empowered to consider how they could work individually, and collectively, to stand up for human rights, for freedom and for justice.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
A friendly reminder to all that the Parent Teacher Interviews are taking place...
A friendly reminder to all that Parent Teacher Interviews are taking place on Wednesday, 12 September from 4.00pm to 7.30pm and also on Thursday, 20 September from 4.00pm to 7.30pm in the College gymnasium. Bookings for all year levels are now open on Siena Central and will close at 4.00pm on the day preceding the interviews. We look forward to seeing you there.
The 2018 Semester 2 Interim Reports are now available on Siena Central and you are welcome to bring them with you to your Parent Teacher Interview for discussion.
Additional Key Dates for the Term can be found on the College website under News and Events.
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
This year's Annual Music Concert, Sisterhood showcased our young women coming together to share their music...
This year's Annual Music Concert, Sisterhood, showcased our young women coming together to share their music with the school community. It was the first year where the concert was held at Eldon Hogan Performing Arts Centre, Xavier College. The music ensembles performed works that celebrate the work of female composers and performers who have lead the way for up and coming female musicians, as well as works inspired by the lives and stories of young women. The concert featured Junior Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Orchestra, Groove Train, Planet Groove, Sisters of Swing, Stage Band, Senior Strings, Junior Strings, Folkus, Guitar Ensemble, Senior Choir, Junior Choir, Canti Dolce and Year 12 Band. I would like to congratulate all students and staff in the Music department for a wonderful concert.
Throughout the month of August, Wind Orchestra, Symphonic Band and Groove Train participated in the Victorian Schools Music Festival. The three ensembles represented the school very well and were all awarded Silver Shields for their performances. I would like to congratulate all students and their directors for working hard and performing so well.
The Year 9 Music Performance class have been learning about musicals and performance skills. On the Wednesday, 22 August, the class went to see The Boy from Oz at the State Theatre in the city. For many of them, this was the first time they have attended a musical at the State Theatre. It was a fantastic experience for the students to learn about Peter Allen, an Australian iconic performer and the elements of a musical.
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
Siena College has been performing extremely well this term...
Siena College has been performing extremely well this term in Soccer, with the Junior and Intermediate teams both close to securing finals. The Junior team has the only perfect record across all teams in each zone (all wins), which is a fantastic effort. There are a number of Volleyball teams doing very well, with all of the Junior 1 (A, B and C) teams likely to be in the finals. Siena's Badminton players have also represented Siena College well across all levels. This week was the last week of ordinary GSV Term 3 competition, with finals next week. Siena College is poised to do very well across many levels and sports and we wish all the best to our participants!
Our Aerobics team continues to develop and represent Siena College very well. Recently they had a competition meet at Melbourne Girls' College, with a number of Siena teams and participants gaining first, second and other high results. The group is now focusing on the major tournament, the National Aeroschools Competition on the Gold Coast, with nineteen Siena students poised to represent the College. Good luck, girls!
While the Athletics season is almost over, it has been amazing period. We have participated in a number of GSV events, as well as the Siena College Athletics Carnival on Tuesday, 21 August . The team has been working hard over the past term, with weekly training sessions and GSV preliminary meets culminating in the GSV Athletics Division 3 Championships on Wednesday, 29 August. With a strong representative team, Siena College finished third overall. Our Juniors placed first, Intermediates fifth and our Seniors placed second. A fantastic effort! After this strong performance, we have a number of students who will represent Siena at the GSV Finals Evening on Tuesday, 11 September at Lakeside Stadium.
Siena College also recently participated in the 2018 Victorian Interschools Snowsports Championships at Mount Buller. Our students had a wonderful time competing in near perfect conditions.
On an individual note, Jordyn Kourmadias was a part of the 2017 Australian National Under 14s team, representing Asia Pacific in the Junior NBA World Championships in Orlando, Florida. Jordyn helped her team reach the grand final of the International Division, finishing runners up. A huge congratulations goes out to Jordyn on this amazing effort.
Term 4 is coming up soon, with Siena College entering a number of Basketball, Cricket and Junior Water Polo teams. We look forward to another exciting GSV season.
Alan AndersonPublic Speaking Coordinator
On Wednesday, 5 September, Siena again staged our annual competition for public speaking.
On Wednesday, 5 September, Siena again staged our annual competition for public speaking. The event is named in honour of a Dominican friar, Antonio de Montesinos, who lived five centuries ago. Appalled at the cruel enslavement of indigenous people in the place we now know as Haiti and the Dominican Republic, Antonio delivered a famous sermon in which he sharply criticised Spanish colonists and slave traders. Eventually, he managed to persuade King Ferdinand of Spain that slavery is wrong and consequently, the first ever documents designed to protect indigenous people came into being. Antonio de Montesinos changed the course of history by bravely speaking his truth.
This year, four students also showed bravery by participating in this challenging competition. They were Ella Frausing (Year 12), Jade Devlin (Year 11), Amanda Marasco (Year 9) and Micayla Victor (Year 7). The girls spoke with conviction on their selected topics, which were required to show a connection to our College theme for 2018: 'One Body, Many Parts'. The students were also required to make an impromptu speech on a topic given to them just five minutes beforehand.
At the conclusion of the competition, audience members commented very positively on the impressively high standard set by the speakers and the way in which each student approached their speeches. Certainly, the adjudicators had difficulty in reaching their decisions regarding to whom presentation of the trophy and encouragement award medal would be made. At the final tally, only a handful of points separated the four girls.
After very careful deliberation by the adjudicators, Jade Devlin was announced as the winner of the 2018 Antonio de Montesinos Award. Amanda Marasco received the Encouragement Award.
Jade will recite her winning speech at the next school assembly. It will also be reproduced in the 2018 Siena College Yearbook.
Public speaking is alive and well at Siena College!
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On Tuesday, 28 August, Kingswood College hosted a Northern Star Chess Tournament
On Tuesday, 28 August, Kingswood College hosted a Northern Star Chess Tournament for primary and secondary schools. Siena College attended the event with ten participants: Nicole Ahn, Renata Fanthome, Mia Fenton, Estelle Jones, Siena Justus, Zoe Kelly, Emily Ovens, Angelina Rodos, Jasmine Skutela and Micayla Victor. The girls were selected to attend based on their commitment to Siena's own Chess Club, which meets every Wednesday at lunchtime in the Albertus Magnus Library.
For five of the students, it was their very first Chess Tournament so they were very excited, if not a bit nervous, especially when a Year 7 student competed with a Year 12 student in the first round.
There were over one hundred students competing from a number of schools around Melbourne. Each student played seven games of fifteen minutes against students from the other competing schools in a round robin tournament. The games all began with a friendly handshake and a cheery 'good luck!', but after that it was down to the serious business of attempting to trounce your opponent on the chessboard!
Congratulations to Zoe Kelly, Angelina Rodos and Jasmine Skutela who qualified for the Victorian State Secondary Girls final which will be held at St Catherine's College, Toorak on the Tuesday, 16 October.
The next tournament will be on the Tuesday, 18 September in Castlemaine.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
Siena College hosted students from Christian, Jewish and Muslim schools
On Thursday, 9 August, Siena College hosted students from Christian, Jewish and Muslim schools, keen to engage in interfaith dialogue, promoting mutual understanding, respect and ethical behaviour across religious diversities to encourage the development of competent global leaders of the 21st century. Our Year 10 Building Bridges students presented this program with confidence and pride in their Dominican and faith traditions, showcasing the College and our Catholic identity.
If the visiting schools arrived early enough, we treated them to a tour of the College ahead of the main program of the night. Engaged and animated chatter filled the air as questions and answers brimming with pride reflected respectful yet probing dialogue.
The first session began in our beautiful Convent courtyard with a warm welcome and explanation as to the purpose of, and history behind, our Tuscan styled cloisters. We visited the Prioress' cell and the Archives room before all eighty of us squeezed in to our stunning but tiny chapel. Again, our Year 10 students spoke with confidence about the significance of the altar, the Tabernacle and the Stations of the Cross. St Catherine's relic featured which created a range of interested responses from those from other traditions.
Once settled in the Hall, our Year 10 students spoke with conviction to the Building Bridges cohort about that which is unique to Catholicism, our understanding of the Sacraments as key highlights/markers of our faith journey, the significance of Catholic Social Teaching and the beauty of the Dominican charism. We shared photos, and artefacts by way of the Baptismal candle, Christening robe, rosary beads and our new Catholic Social Teaching poster.
Our delicious halal/kosher dinner was enjoyed by all. Encounter and dialogue featured as we celebrated the company of our guests with this shared quintessential human experience. The evening concluded in small group discussions of mixed genders. This last session was pronounced, 'way too short' and 'hugely successful' by all participating. Our final Building Bridges evening will be held at Bialik College in a couple of weeks to which we look forward with great anticipation.
'I enjoyed hosting the Building Bridges night as it was fascinating to hear about the similarities and differences between schools from different beliefs and faith traditions. It's interesting to ask people questions about their religions as this isn't something that you often discuss. We have all met so many lovely people and it was nice to show them what our school is like and to talk to them about both religious and everyday things.' Hannah Hine, Year 10
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
On Thursday, 16 August, Siena hosted Julie Arliss, who presented to our Year 10 and 11 students
On Thursday, 16 August, Siena hosted Julie Arliss, an international presenter from the UK, Director and Founder of Academy Conferences, a former Cambridge CIE examiner, and a Fellow at Harris Manchester Oxford University, 2018. She presented to our Year 11 students for their third Eckhart seminar and challenged them to consider 'The Philosophy of Sex'.
Julie deconstructed modern attitudes to women as portrayed through the media and movies which can continue to uphold and reinforce values of gender inequality. Our students came to realise that many had accepted these ideas unquestioningly in film and text. Julie differentiated between ways of interpreting love as well as intimacy. She also explored the ideas of famous philosophers; Plato's view of spiritual love, free of lust, with a focus on the adoration for one's soul, rather than the physical self; as well as the beliefs of Aristotle, that all things, including relationships, can enable the potential in each partner through shared virtue. This love reflects our pursuit of happiness. Julie ultimately linked this with Christian love, emphasising that all love is formed in the image of God, and that, as his followers, we are called to love and cherish all of his divine creations.
Our key learning in Year 10 Religion and Society Unit 2 is centred on Ethics. We were privileged to secure Julie to present a Masterclass to our Year 10 cohort on Relativism. She approached this learning from two perspectives: Cognitive Relativism, which is subjective, and Cultural Relativism, which is social. Julie argued that with Relativism, there is no single moral standard that applies to all people and all places. She drew on art (Caravaggio's painting, The Sacrifice of Isaac), and famous philosophers, from Nietzsche to Immanuel Kant, to highlight that, if morality is culturally defined, only those who are part of the culture can be part of the conversation. Julie was able to reinforce the way this attitude, in turn, has massive Justice implications if we are working to overcome slavery, prejudice and human rights issues across the world.
Such enrichment in the learning of Religion and Society at Year 10 and 11 should develop critical thinking, engagement with the big, existential questions of life and recognition of the importance of the inquiry process. Julie's passion for a structured philosophical and ethical approach to learning and as a way to access deeper thinking is contagious and inspired so many of our students to want to explore Philosophy and Ethics further.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
This week's Siena Career News features information on a webinar for Year 12s
This week's Siena Career News features information on a webinar for Year 12s about to sit the CASPer Test. The CASPer test is a compulsory requirement for entry into Education/Teaching at Tertiary Institutions nationally and students in Year 12 should have registered to sit the test in the next school holidays. The webinar will talk students through what the test looks like (webcam is required) and what the possible questions will be like.
There is also an Extension Studies Evening at Monash University. Extension Studies, also known as VCE Extension, are University level subject/units that a Year 12 student can pick up as part of their VCE program (usually available if they have completed a Unit 3 and 4 sequence in a similar subject area in Year 11).
Medicine is always a popular career choice and Bond University's medical degree offers the shortest pathway to becoming a doctor: Four years and eight months. See the latest Siena Career News for more details. You will also find information on a new 'Pre-Medicine' university degree at the University of Woolongong.
Many Fine Arts and Design courses at Tertiary Institutions require a folio for entry. Deakin University is holding a Portfolio Information Evening for students applying for these courses and further details can be found in the Siena Career News.
Father's Day Breakfast, SPA Second Hand Uniform Shop, Siena Central Updates for Parents
The Siena Parents' Association (SPA) hosted the annual Father's Day Breakfast on Friday, 31 August. The event was, yet again, a fantastic success with a full house of Siena students and their dads gathering in the College gym for a hearty breakfast of bacon and eggs, muffins, fruit and yoghurt. Our guest speaker for the morning was Siena staff member, Martin Gibbs who reflected on his own experiences as a dad. Thank you to Martin and all of our SPA volunteers for your help hosting this wonderful event.
If you would like to view and/or purchase any of the professional photographs taken on the morning, visit www.makphotos.com.au, click 'View Your Photos' and enter password: scfd310818.
Opening Hours, Term 3 2018
Wednesdays: 8.00am – 9.00am and 3.00pm – 4.00pm
Additional Opening Hours, 2018
Friday, 30 November: 8.00am – 9.00am and 3.00pm – 4.00pm
Saturday, 1 December: 9.00am – 12.00pm
Saturday, 8 December: 9.00am – 12.00pm
Opening Hours, 2019
Wednesday, 23 January: 9.00am – 12.00pm
Friday, 25 January: 9.00am – 12.00pm
We are always in need of help at the Uniform Shop! If you would like to volunteer your time, please call us on (03) 9835 0267 or email email@example.com
As part of Siena College's ongoing website development, the homepage has recently been upgraded with a user friendly 'Siena Central' button, to allow you easy access to the College's portal. Click on the image below to access the College website.
Additional Siena Central tiles are also being developed for parents: 'Finance' and 'Update Your Details'. These tiles will allow parents to view fee statements, make online payments and update contact details, all within Siena Central. Parents will be advised in the upcoming weeks when these functions are live and ready to use.
Liz MerrettAlumnae Coordinator
The Class of 1978 and Class of 1988 were welcomed back to Siena College last Saturday
The Class of 1978 and Class of 1988 were welcomed back to Siena College last Saturday, 1 September for their Decade Reunions. We had over seventy alumnae return to the College and it was hard to imagine it had been thirty to forty years since these ladies had left! There was much chatter and laughter as we celebrated the Siena sisterhood, with drinks and canapes at the College followed by dinner at Hellenic Republic in Kew.
Class of 1978 Forty Year Reunion
Class of 1988 Thirty Year Reunion
The Decade Reunions for the Class of 1998 and Class of 2008 will be held on Saturday, 15 September and the annual 1940s, 1950s and 1960s Reunion Brunch will be on Saturday, 20 October. Alumnae can book for their reunion at www.sienaconnect.com.au/reunions
We also encourage alumnae to join our new onine networking platform, Siena Global Connect to stay connected (or reconnect) with your classmates and other Siena alumnae.
Tracey KermondHuman Resources Manager
Welcome new staff
We congratulate Cathy Carr on her appointment to the position of Executive Assistant to Principal, Gaynor Robson-Garth. Cathy brings a wealth of experience, expertise and enthusiasm to the role and we wish her well.
We are pleased to welcome Casey Stone to the Mathematics department, Mark Baldasso to the role of Assistant Business Manager and Zhoutian Lin as our new Chinese Language assistant.
|Casey Stone
|Mark Baldasso
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment forms and Prospectus packs are available from Reception or on the College website
In partnership with The Ark Clothing Co., we would like to extend an invitation
In partnership with The Ark Clothing Co., we would like to extend an invitation to our community to attend our Fashion Show on Friday, 26 October at 7.00pm in the Susan Alberti Auditorium.
Siena alumna, Megan Sloley (Class of 1983) has joined The Ark Clothing Co. and her team have put together a Fashion Show that provides our guests with an opportunity to view The Ark's new summer collection. The clothing will be modelled by The Ark employees and the styles cater for all ages and body shapes. Ticket price also includes canapés, drinks and a Personal Styling voucher valued at $25.
Siena dads are invited to join us for a great night of fun
Siena dads are invited to join us for a great night of fun, complete with BBQ, wine tasting, virtual reality games, raffles and more! Click the image below to book:
During Term 3, all online orders over $5 will receive an automatic entry to win an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot!
During Term 3, all online orders over $5 will receive an automatic entry to win an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot!
1. Create an account
Go to www.school24.net.au
Click on 'Create Account', fill in your details and submit
Please note our School Registration ID: 25307963
If you need help, call (02) 8901 0398
2. Before you can start ordering, log in to your secure portal
Add students
Top up your account
3. Placing an order
Select a student
Enter/select the date
Click on 'Start Order' and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
Orders can then be collected at lunchtime from the Priority Lunch Order Collection line.
We are very fortunate to have alumnae donate photos, uniforms and memorabilia
We are very fortunate to have alumnae who not only donate photos, uniforms and memorabilia to our archives, but also recollections of their time at Siena. They bring depth and life to our official records.
Recently, Barbara Dowling, née Robertson (Class of 1962) described her time at Siena College. We were very excited to receive her reminiscences, especially the paragraph below which describes the sports uniform of her era. We would love to have this uniform, or even a colour photo of it, in our collection.
'Our sports tunics were made of butter yellow Cesarine, the same material as the pinafores and therefore almost indestructible. They were of the same design as the winter tunics with three box pleats fore and aft. We had to kneel down and the hem had to touch the ground. Travelling to school on tram or train they crushed badly unless you could arrange the pleats oh so carefully before sitting down otherwise they ballooned out at the back and looked terrible - so the best plan was to stand up all the way!'
The Mooring sisters, c1958: Dr Rose Marie Prosser (Class of 1961), Ann Leonard (Class of 1967) and Judith Netting (Class of 1960). Rose Marie and Judith are wearning the sports tunic.
Maria Ang and Maureen McAuley
College Archivists
Join the Reuse Revolution
Siena KeepCups are an SRC initiaive. All funds raised from the purchase of KeepCups will go towards environmental sustainability causes. Click the image below to order.
St Cecilia's Parish Reunion
All are welcome to attend the St Cecilia's Parish Reunion in South Camberwell on Sunday, 14 October 2018. Mass will commence at 10.00am, followed by a gathering of friends in the Church Hall at 11.00am. This will be a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends from the past. RSVP at https://trybooking.com/XXWO
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself...
'You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God' Leviticus 19:34.
This week the Church celebrates Migrant and Refugee Week and we are all invited by the message to consider how we can welcome, protect, promote and integrate migrants and refugees with open hearts and minds. Understanding, tolerance and empathy provide strong foundations for social cohesion in our community.
Students in Year 10 and Year 11 have been invited to attend the Pillars Leadership Course next week, facilitated by Jennifer Levett, Deputy Principal Mission and Identity and Bronwyn Illot, Head of Student Formation and Justice Education . The two sessions will explore many facets of leadership, with a specific focus on leading within a Dominican context. The 2018 College Captains and other members of the student representative council (SRC) will share their experiences of leadership with their peers, including the highlights and challenges they have faced and the discoveries they have made about themselves along the way.
Our congratulations to Mia Kelly, Jessica Higgins and Lauren Edwards who were awarded invitations to the third global round of the prestigious World Scholars Cup. The goal of this competition is to inspire in young people a love of learning, confidence in new skills and a sense of global citizenship. Over 1600 competitors from 27 countries participated in Round 2, held at the Melbourne Convention Centre, 16 - 21 August and we congratulate all of our students who have participated and represented our College with such distinction.
My thanks to James Houghton for his organisation of this year's Athletics Carnival and to all staff who so willingly assisted to ensure the day's schedule proceeded so smoothly. Despite the ever present threat of rain, the energy and enthusiasm of the girls never wavered and Dianella were the overall winners with Waratah taking the honours in the Spirit Award.
We have over seventy guests registered for the Class of 1978 and 1988 reunion on Saturday, 1 September. I am looking forward to meeting with this group of alumnae and sharing their memories of their days at Siena. Past students of the College are so important to our community and we encourage all alumnae to keep in touch via the Alumnae Coordinator, Liz Merrett.
Finally our congratulations and best wishes to Natalie Tricarico (Class of 1994) on her upcoming wedding to George Calombaris.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
From 21 to 27 August the Catholic Church celebrates Migrant and Refugee Week with a particular focus on Welcoming, Protecting, Promoting and Integrating Migrants a...
From Tuesday, 21 to Monday, 27 August the Catholic Church celebrates Migrant and Refugee Week with a particular focus on welcoming, protecting, promoting and integrating migrants and refugees.
Often the stranger turns up unexpectedly: it's normal on these occasions that we may feel anxious, mistrusting or fearful. It's important that we daily invite God to be part of our encounter with the stranger and to pray that our community can overcome fear and suspicion towards asylum seekers. Whenever fear is present, it simultaneously provides an opportunity to be a powerful witness to our faith. People will know that we are followers of Jesus when we place the dignity of people seeking asylum before our own needs and fears.
Researchers from Monash University have found that successful refugee students find a way to use their experiences to help them learn, adapt and thrive in a new country. They worked with a group of primary school children to make this short film Ali and the Long Journey to Australia.
It's hard to believe that we have commenced planning for the 2018 Graduation Eucharist. Parents will receive formal invitations to all final proceedings. Please note that this Eucharist will be held at St Dominic's Church on Tuesday, 23 October, commencing at 7.30pm. With September and the end of term on the horizon I also encourage Year 12 students to start contemplating all that they are grateful for as they conclude their Siena experience. They will participate in a special Final Liturgy on Thursday, 20 September in their Religious Education class across Periods 3 and 4. This will focus both on gratitude and the 2018 College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts'.
This week in an impassioned letter addressed to 'The People of God', Pope Francis urges us all to stand in solidarity with victims of abuse. He says:
'With shame and repentance, we acknowledge as an ecclesial community that we were not where we should have been, that we did not act in a timely manner, realizing the magnitude and the gravity of the damage done to so many lives.' Read the rest of his letter here.
Newly installed Archbishop of Melbourne, Peter Comensoli has responded with his own letter to the Faithful, saying:
'It falls to me, as your Archbishop, to ensure that our local Church in Melbourne is unequivocally committed to attending to the harm done, prioritising the dignity and care of all who are young and vulnerable, rebuilding trust among our people, and creating safe environments in our communities, agencies and organisations. This is the way of Jesus Christ. It must be my way. And I invite you to join with me in making it our common Gospel way.' Read the full text here.
For a number of years now, Siena College has held the annual Antonio de Montesinos Public Speaking Award competition, which is open to all students to enter.
For a number of years now, Siena College has held the annual Antonio de Montesinos Public Speaking Award competition, which is open to all students to enter. This an event that encourages girls to prepare and deliver a speech on a topic that they feel is important. Each year, the speech topics are linked to the College theme, which in 2018 is 'One Body, Many Parts'.
Born in the fifteenth century, Antonio de Montesinos was a Dominican friar who famously and bravely delivered a speech in December of 1511, decrying the exploitation by Spanish colonists of indigenous people in the well-established slave trade of the time. His speech eventually changed the course of history.
Siena College pays tribute to Montesinos' bravery in speaking the Truth by naming this public speaking award after him.
This year, the Antonio de Montesinos Award will be held in the Susan Alberti Auditorium on Wednesday, 5 September at 7.00pm. The students who participate will speak to the audience on their chosen topic for a timed period of four to five minutes. After interval, they will also present an impromptu speech on a topic which will be presented to the participants on the evening. They will have a short time to prepare.
An engraved trophy will be awarded for the best speech on the evening, as decided by our adjudicators. The runner up will receive an engraved, boxed medal.
If you would like to attend the Antonio de Montesinos Award, please click here to reserve the number or places you require. Entry is free. A light supper will be served during the interval. Everyone is welcome!
The Albertus Magnus Library was abuzz this week with a celebration of Australian books, authors and illustrators.
Internationally renowned performance poet Joel McKerrow was a special guest in the library on Wednesday, 22 August entertaining a lunch time audience of students and staff with a performance of his self penned poetry. In addition, two small groups of Year 7 students were treated to a performance poetry and writing workshop.
Young adult author, Simmone Howell, who is this year's Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year winner for Take Three Girls spoke about her writing experiences with Year 7 to 12 students on Thursday, 23 August and select VCE English students were invited to part in a writing workshop with this award winning author.
House spirit was alive and well at the annual House Book Week Library Trivia Challenge. Each House battled it out to answer twenty book related questions. The winning house was awarded the inaugural perpetual shield. Congratulations to all students and the daily winners of the Book Week Trivia question on Siena Central who each received a $30 Readings Gift Voucher.
The Albertus Magnus Library was abuzz this week with a celebration of Australian books, authors and illustrators.
Internationally renowned performance poet Joel McKerrow was a special guest in the library on Wednesday, 22 August entertaining a lunch time audience of students and staff with a performance of his self penned poetry. In addition, two small groups of Year 7 students were treated to a performance poetry and writing workshop.
Young adult author, Simmone Howell, who is this year's Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book of the Year winner for Take Three Girls spoke about her writing experiences with Year 7 to 12 students on Thursday, 23 August and select VCE English students were invited to part in a writing workshop with this award winning author.
House spirit was alive and well at the annual House Book Week Library Trivia Challenge. Each House battled it out to answer twenty book related questions. The winning house was awarded the inaugural perpetual shield. Congratulations to all students and the daily winners of the Book Week Trivia question on Siena Central who each received a $30 Readings Gift Voucher.
Assimina SemertjisHead of Science
The 2018 theme for National Science Week was 'Game Changers, Change Makers'...
The 2018 theme for National Science Week was 'Game Changers, Change Makers' and to celebrate, the Science Department scheduled a number of engaging lunchtime and class activities. We started the celebrations with the lunchtime screening of 'Hidden Figures' in the Hall. Students crunched on tasty popcorn while watching this film based on the true story of the women who worked at NASA during the Space Race in the 1960s.
Students who entered the 'Who Am I' competition and were able to successfully name the four Australian Scientists (Professor Elizabeth Blackburn, Sir Howard Walter Florey, Professor Michelle Simmons and Professor Fiona Wood) and explain why they were each considered a 'Game Changer' were awarded an ice cream ticket. With these tickets, students were invited to sample the delicious ice cream made on the spot using liquid nitrogen.
On Wednesday, 15 August, nine of our Year 10 students (Julia Cabai, Anna Litchen, Lucia Litchen, Teagan Matthews, Serena Potter, Olivia Redford, Emilia Sutherland, Zara Turner amd Bailey Webb) represented our college at the 'Science Week at the Cathedral' forum. Guest speakers included Felicity Furey, the new Engineer in Residence at the STEM Practice Academy at Swinburne University of Technology. Felicity is a consulting engineer and entrepreneur, and was recognised as one of the 100 most innovative engineers this year by Engineers Australia. She also cofounded the Power of Engineering, a social enterprise to engage students across the country to encourage them into STEM careers. Please see Anna and Lucia Litchen's reflections below.
Just as Australia has a chief scientist, Dr Alan Finkel, Siena has our own STEM scientist, Madeleine Burchill. Madeleine Burchill is an engineer who works in the Aerospace Division – DSTO Australian Government Department of Defence Science and Technology. Ms Burchill conducted workshops with our Year 9 and Senior students to help them learn more about STEM careers and the value of continuing with their Science and Mathematics studies. Ms Burchill discussed her learning journey and how it led to a STEM career as an Aerospace Engineer. Students also worked in teams and built Spaghetti Towers under a time limit.
During Thursday lunchtime, the nail biting Science Kahoot competition took place in the Susan Alberti Auditorium. Siena College's very own Jade Devlin entertained the audience with her scientific banter while executing her Masters of Ceremony role. The week finished with great excitement as students entered the world of Virtual Reality and tried their skill at 'Beat Saber'.
I would like to thank Fay Mak, Theresa Azar, Sam Redman, Anthony George, Jennifer Levett and Dr Anthony Vadala, as well as all the Science Department for all their assistance and work behind the scenes in making all these events happen.
Assimina Semertjis
Head of Science
'As part of National Science Week, a handful of Year 10 students were given the opportunity to listen to the experiences of the guest speakers involved in a range of scientific fields and ask questions concerning what new technologies and people influenced them. It was fascinating to learn from them and their discussion of the relationship between science and the society in creating game changing discoveries. Through my participation I was provided a greater insight to some of the many fields within science including biomedical engineering and cell research. I learnt how these areas of study can and have been applied to the modern world in order to benefit society. This day was enriched by the knowledge of these panelists and allowed me to develop a better understanding of the world of science and major breakthroughs within the field.' Anna Litchen
'On 15 August, myself and a small group of Year 10s were given the exciting opportunity to attend Paul's Cathedral in the city and listen to a panel of scientist who discussed the theme 'What is a Game Changer?' There was a diverse panel from biomedical engineers to philosophers, all of which who had contributed immensely to their field and creating these 'game changers.' We were able to interact with the panel by directly them asking questions about ethics in science, and it was enjoyable to hear how their experiences in science made their opinions differ. It was also interesting to learn how everything from government authority to religion can impact scientific developments.' Lucia Litchen
Tina Di CamilloHead of Languages
Students at Siena have the opportunity to study Chinese, French and Italian
Students at Siena College have the opportunity to study Chinese, French and Italian. Before starting at Siena, students choose two languages to trial in Year 7, one in each semester. At the end of the year, students decide which of the two languages they would like to continue studying in Years 8 and 9. The current Year 7 students are in the process of making this decision. Below is a little of their experience of language study this year.
'When I first began learning my first language, I was very excited, as I had done very little language study at my primary school so I was very excited for the opportunity to be able to speak two languages: French and Italian. It was not just the fact that I would be able to speak the language it was that I could communicate to others who spoke that language when I would go and visit their country or go to a restaurant where they spoke the language. None of my family speaks anything except English so this was a very new experience that I was ready for. I have thoroughly enjoyed learning two languages and have learnt so much, from learning how to count to having a full conversation in French and Italian.' Evie Goodale
'During my first year at Siena College, I have enjoyed learning French and Chinese. I have learnt many different ways of saying hello, goodbye and thank you. During Semester 1, I learnt French. I not only learnt how to speak the basics of the language but we also got the opportunity to learn about the culture and how French children learn at school. We had a few French exchange students come in and spoke to us about their life over in France and the explain differences between Australia and France. This semester, I am studying Chinese, which has been extremely fun. We have learnt about the Chinese dragon and how to move the puppet around to create the dragon dance. We also had a special guest, Dr Wang Zhengting from the University of Melbourne who came in and showed us all the different Chinese instruments and played different tunes on each of them. We had a special performance where we heard a famous Chinese tune. I have really enjoyed learning these two languages.' Abbie Sullivan
'Learning a language at secondary school is enjoyable. I have learned Chinese and Italian. In Chinese I learned how to greet people, how to order food and I learned the names of different countries. We did many fun tasks and were able to hold the Chinese dragon. I am now learning Italian. So far, we have learned the alphabet, how to greet people, how to say our address and how to give and follow classroom instructions. It has been a really enjoyable and great experience.' Leah Backlien
A huge congratulations to the girls representing Siena College in Term 3, who are getting some fantastic results while showing fair play and sportsmanship.
A huge congratulations to the girls representing Siena College in Term 3, who are getting some fantastic results while showing fair play and sportsmanship. Our Soccer teams are dominating their divisions: the Intermediate team sits second and the Juniors are ranked first. The Volleyball teams are also having strong results with the Intermediate Siena College Firsts team and Junior Firsts sitting second and first respectively.
The next few weeks also sees the last few rounds of GSV Volleyball, Soccer and Badminton, with Siena College well placed to compete in multiple finals, as highlighted in the previous section. We wish the participants all the best!
Over the past few weeks, Siena College's Aerobics team has been training hard in preparation for the September Australian Aeroschools Competition on the Gold Coast, with another competition on Friday, 24 August at Melbourne Girls' College. We wish the girls the best of luck as they prepare for these events. The Siena College Athletics team has also been busy, training twice a week in preparation for the GSV Track and Field Championships on Wednesday, 29 August.
The Siena College Athletics Carnival was held earlier this week at Tom Kelly Athletics Track. Despite the threat of rain, the weather held out and House spirit was in full force. There were a number of standout individual perfomances, including Holly Nieuwenhuizen's (Year 8) win in the Michele Timms 100m race, with the eight fastest sprinters over the day battling it out. Dianella was the overall winner of the day and Waratah received the House Spirit Award.
Year Level Champions: Johanna Zikas (Year 12), Jade Devlin (Year 11), Amy Fisher (Year 10), Victoria Zikas (Year 9), Jemma Rigoni (Year 8), Abbey Vicino (Year 7)
Michele Timms Race: Emily Hodder, Year 11 (Second place: 13.827 seconds), Holly Nieuwenhuizen, Year 8 (First place: 13.542 seconds), Ella Gurry, Year 10 (Third Place: 13.885 seconds)
A huge congratulations to Jaimie Guan, who placed fourth in the 2018 Australian Karate Federation Nationals Competition in Caloundra, Queensland, competing in four rounds of the competition. Well done, Jaimie on this outstanding result!
Liz MerrettAlumnae Coordinator
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
This week's Siena Career News is packed full of information that will assist students make some of those important decisions about subjects and tertiary courses to pursue.
This week's Siena Career News is packed full of information that will assist students make some of those important decisions about subjects and tertiary courses to pursue. There is information on Fine Arts and Music courses, an Information evening for any Year 11 considering a university study as part of their VCE, Teaching Course Information sessions at Deakin University, a folio Information session for students applying for courses that use this as a key requirement for entry and news regarding a special Student Experience Day at the Monash Art, Design and Architecture Faculty.
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On 15 August, Siena College hosted the second Junior Gifted and Talented Day for 2018.
On 15 August, Siena College hosted the second Junior Gifted and Talented Day for 2018. Over 70 students from Avila, PLC and Scotch College joined an enthusiastic group of Siena girls to participate in the Junior Stretch and Challenge Day. The conference was an intensive one day program of short lectures for Year 8 and 9 students, presented by Julie Arliss, Farmington Fellow at Oxford University and founder of Academy Conferences. The program seeks to identify and challenge the students' preconceived ideas and encourage them to think creatively about their world. It aims to provide students with an opportunity to interact with other like minded students as they explore a range of interesting and thought provoking ideas about relevant modern day issues.
In the first session of the day, Julie presented a lecture entitled 'Justice, Truth, Beauty and Mathematics'. The session explored the difficulty of achieving agreement about 'what is justice?' and 'what is the point of punishment?' She used contemporary examples to demonstrate the complexity of the related philosophical issues and the impact on other areas of human knowledge, such as beauty, mathematics and art.
The second session was an interactive discussion based on a community of enquiry approach. The students formed small, mixed groups and were given a set of tasks designed to stimulate discussion based on the question, 'Do animals feel pain and is it OK to kill them?' Each team worked to reach consensus on a set of ideas, then elected a spokesperson to present their ideas at the end of the session.
After lunch, Julie presented a lecture entitled 'Science: What comes First, Observation or Inspiration?' which examined the underlying ideas that frame science. The students were inspired to think how they, as the next generation of inventors, will use science to solve current and future challenges.
he final session was a debate based on the contention "That it is never right to kill a person". The debate gave students an awareness of the inconsistencies of our laws, which prohibit killing, yet condone killing in war. The debate also addressed the many issues surrounding capital punishment. This session gave the students an opportunity to apply quite a different set of analytical and evaluative skills, as they debated the topic. The session concluded with an invitation for students to contribute their opinions on the topic and ended with a vote on the issue.
"The day was exciting and rife with new information. We learnt and considered a broad range of topics outside the spectrum of our everyday life and asked some big questions that will keep me thinking long after the day is over."
Juliet Guthrie
"Today's presentation inspired me to think deeply into topics about morals, ethics, and truth and consider all perspectives of a topic. This way of thinking is a new technique I could apply to all subjects in school, not only science and religion."
Claudia Wilhelm
"I learnt about the criminal justice system and how scientists came up with the Big Bang Theory."
Georgia Wells
"The discussions helped me to think wider than just what we learn at school and taught me a lot about working with new people and talking about topics that don't have an expected or certain answer."
Aisha Bowker
"I liked the guest speaker as she orchestrated her information down to our level of understanding."
Charlotte Rieniets
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On Wednesday 26 July, Siena College hosted an Enrichment day for Year 9 students from the Boroondara Cluster.
On Wednesday 26 July, Siena College hosted an Enrichment day for Year 9 students from the Boroondara Cluster. Students from Scotch College, Genazzano, Strathcona, and Camberwell Girls Grammar joined five Year 9 students from Siena to participate in the following areas: Philosophy, Psychology and Debating.
The first session was facilitated by Mrs Bronwyn Ilott, exploring questions such as 'What is the difference between right and wrong?', 'How do I know what I believe is true?', and 'What makes us valuable?' These questions were examined through philosophical discussion and focus activities. Through individual thinking and group activities, students explored the difference between assumptions and inferences, establishing the importance of individuals having their own set of values and attitudes. Students were given stimulus material on a Holocaust survivor and Nobel Laureate, Elie Wiesel, who gave an impassioned speech about the perils of indifference which reflects Desmond Tutu's words, "If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor".
The second session, led by Mrs Libby Moore, explored psychology and the concepts of conformity and individuality. Using The Asch Experiment and the Zimbardo Stanford Prison Experiment as Case Studies, Mrs Moore explored the idea of conformity and examined the impact that social forces may have on the behaviour of individuals. Students were challenged to consider the relevance of these studies to not only their behaviour as individuals, but also to our contemporary society. The human need for connections through many social groups over a lifespan, was also discussed.
Ms Becky Scott facilitated the debating session, discussing the statement that individuals can have a larger impact than groups of people. Students unpacked the three elements of a debate: matter, method and manner before forming an affirmative and negative side to tackle this contention.
Although we were all nervous about beginning the Enrichment Day, we all found it a great opportunity to work collaboratively in higher order intellectual thinking in regards to what it means to be an individual. We thoroughly enjoyed the sessions that were run during the day.
Andrea Paramboukis, Maddie Mitra, Lauren Lane, Fiona Rassias, and Sophie Gurney.
SPA Uniform Shop Opening Hours 2018
Wednesdays 8.00am - 9.00am and 3.00pm - 4.00pm
Additional opening times for remainder of 2018
Friday 30 November: 8.00am – 11:00am and 2.00pm – 4.00 pm
Saturday 1 December: 9.00am – 12.00pm
Saturday 8 December: 9.00am – 12.00pm
Additional days 2019
Wednesday 23 January 9.00am – 12.00pm
Friday 25 January 9.00am – 12.00pm
*Please note current Year 12 students require their School Uniform and blazer for the academic awards on Tuesday, 11 December. After the Academic Awards parents/students can drop their uniforms (dry cleaned) with the relevant paper work to the uniform shop.
For enquiries please contact the Uniform Shop on firstname.lastname@example.com or 03 9835 0267
Snow in Camberwell! Who would believe that?
We have proof in a photo taken of Siena in 1951.
Snow in Camberwell! Who would believe that?
We have proof in a photo taken of Siena in 1951. It is an iconic image for us. The dictionary definition of iconic is 'an image that brings to mind an event or location, often with emotional impact, for people in a given time, place or culture.'
Many of our iconic images are, of course, of our students and they are especially dear to us. There are also photos of buildings that we recognise as significant in our history and which, for the students and staff of that era, and for us now, have a strong emotional impact.
The 1958 photo is particularly special. Siena is nestled within, and seemingly protected from the outside world by pine trees. Two girls are playing tennis and other students and staff are relaxing in the background. Why is the red van at the entrance to the school? Perhaps it is delivering furniture or groceries. Whatever the case, it helps illustrate that Siena was and is, not only a physical landmark but also relevant to and wholly engaged in our in Camberwell community.
In the years to come, what will future generations of our Siena community consider to be their iconic images?
Maria Ang and Maureen McAuley
College Archivists
During Term 3, all online orders over $5 will receive an automatic entry to win an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot!
1. Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.au
Click on 'Create Account', fill in your details and submit
Please note your School Registration ID: 25307963
If you need help, call 02 8901 0398
2. Before you can start ordering, log in to your secure portal:
Add students
Top-up your account
3. Placing an order
Select a student
Enter or select the date
Click on 'Start Order' and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
Orders can then be collected at lunchtime from the Priority Lunch Order Collection line.
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020...
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment Forms and Prospectus packs are available from Reception or via our website.
Tracey Lawson
Head of Admissions
St Cecilia's Parish Reunion, Canterbury Girls Cricket
All are welcome to attend the St Cecilia's Parish Reunion in South Camberwell on Sunday, 14 October 2018. Mass will commence at 10.00am, followed by a gathering of friends in the Church Hall at 11.00am. This will be a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends from the past.
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
St Dominic's Day, launching #sienaspirit, A Chorus Line, new outdoor advertising
We celebrated the feast of St Dominic on Tuesday, August 7 and gave thanks for Dominican preaching over more than eight hundred years. St. Dominic was a priest who lived in the thirteenth century in Europe. He studied hard and was a man of constant prayer. He was said to be a deeply caring person who gave a lot of thought to the needs and concerns of others. As we celebrated St Dominic's Day, we reflected on the part each of us plays at Siena College and in our global family. We are all called to be parts of one body in Christ, people who dream of a better world and share God's love for all people. That requires honesty and self reflection about how we treat others, and how we are called to live a truly human life as Jesus showed us.
Our College Chaplain, Father Kevin Toomey presided at our St Dominic's Day Mass, reminding us all to be inspired by St Dominic's life and guiding principles:
'(Dominic) was salt to the earth and a light to the world during his short but eventful life. I hope today that you will take some time to think, "What is it that I am learning at Siena that I will take forward into my future life: is it the beauty of Jesus, or the goodness of each human being and their dignity; or how to reach out to the poor? or some other value that you cherish? Whatever it is, may each one of you think of yourselves as salt and light to our needy world. I know in God's great love for you God will delight to see you as stars, the bearers of God's light. As you do this, you will be living out your school motto, VERITAS - truth.'
We continue to pray for each other, for our Dominican family in Camberwell, the Sisters, the Friars, the parishioners of St Dominic's, our Siena community, and for Dominicans round the world, particularly those in places like Iraq, Israel and Palestine and for all who are confronted by war and violence at this time.
This week, we launched our #sienaspirit campaign, with our school leaders joining me in signing their names to a banner which will eventually hold all of the signatures of our 2018 cohort. Additionally, our development and marketing team have been hard at work promoting our College with an exciting new outdoor campaign. Billboards will appear over the coming months in our local community, Chadstone Shopping Centre and of course, here at the College and on our social media platforms. I hope you enjoy these new images and our thanks go to the students who gave their time to participate in the photographic shoot.
After five sold-out shows of 'A Chorus Line' our cast and crew are enjoying a well earned break and my appreciation is extended to the many staff who assisted out of hours to ensure the production was such a great success. It was a wonderful example of our 2018 College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts', with so many students and staff contributing to backstage support, lighting, the orchestra or the singers and dancers. Their commitment to many hours of rehearsals culminated in a wonderful production. I'm sure that all who enjoyed the show would agree with me that the talent on display was truly extraordinary.
Please enjoy this week's news.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
This week we celebrated the Feast of St Dominic with a whole school eucharist
This week we celebrated the Feast of St Dominic with a whole school eucharist at St Dominic's church. In his homily, our College Chaplain Fr Kevin Toomey OP reminded us that:
"Dominic and his friars went back to study and loved the word of God in the scriptures; from there they were able to present a renewed idea of what Jesus and Christianity were really all about. Dominic took all the Gospel to heart, but especially the reading we have for today. He was salt to the earth and a light to the world during his short but eventful life…"
Fr Kevin then went on to add:
"I hope today you will take some time to think 'What is it that I am learning at Siena that I'll take forward into my future life: is it the beauty of Jesus, or the goodness of each human being and their dignity; or how to reach out to the poor? Or some other value that I cherish?' Whatever it is, may each one of you think of yourselves at salt and light to our needy world; as you do this you will be living out your school motto, VERITAS – truth."
Exciting news - the Catholic Church is providing Australians with the opportunity to define the future of the Church in Australia with the Plenary Council 2020. While the Plenary Council is, in part, a response to the Royal Commission it also provides the Catholic community with the opportunity to play a role in the consultation process as the Church embarks on a restart and a refresh by asking the question: what is God asking of the Church Australia?
It's an opportunity for the Catholic community in Australia to affect real and much-needed change in our Church.
The consultation process began recently in Canberra where four open dialogue sessions were held. These sessions were aimed at engaging with disenfranchised Catholics who have left the Church in the wake of the Royal Commission. The sessions were held away from any Church-owned property to create an air of neutrality and an environment where each person could speak freely.
The dialogue sessions are the first step in a three-stage process: dialogue, discernment and legislation.
The process will culminate in a meeting involving all the bishops in Australia in Adelaide to be held in March of 2021. The goal of will be to distil the proposals resulting from the Plenary Council 2020 and transform them into points of action which will determine the future of the Catholic Church.
Find out more by watching Welcome to the Plenary Council
Ansalie HanrahanLearning Enhancement
Early in Term 3, Siena College proudly hosted the first of two Junior Gifted and Talented Days for 2018.
Early in Term 3, Siena College proudly hosted the first of two Junior Gifted and Talented Days for 2018. Over 140 students from the local schools joined an enthusiastic group of Siena girls to participate in the Junior Stretch and Challenge Day. The conference was an intensive one day program of short lectures for Year 7, 8 and 9 students, presented by Julie Arliss, Farmington Fellow at Oxford University and founder of Academy Conferences. The program seeks to identify and challenge the students' preconceived ideas and encourage them to think creatively about their world. It aims to provide students with an opportunity to interact with other like-minded students as they explore a range of interesting and thought provoking ideas about relevant modern day issues.
In the first session of the day, Julie presented a lecture entitled 'Justice, Truth, Beauty and Mathematics'. The session explored the difficulty of achieving agreement about 'what is justice?' and 'what is the point of punishment'? She used contemporary examples to demonstrate the complexity of the related philosophical issues and the impact on other areas of human knowledge, such as beauty, mathematics and art.
The second session was an interactive discussion based on a community of enquiry approach. The students formed small, mixed groups and were given a set of tasks designed to stimulate discussion based on the question, 'Do animals feel pain and is it OK to kill them?' Each team worked to reach consensus on a set of ideas, then elected a spokesperson to present their ideas at the end of the session.
After lunch, Julie introduced her colleague Dr Andrew Pinsent, resident Physicist, Philosopher and Theologian from Oxford University. He presented a lecture entitled, 'Science: What comes First, Observation or Inspiration?' which examined the underlying ideas that frame science. The students were inspired to think how they, as the next generation of inventors, will use science to solve current and future challenges.
The final session was a debate based on the contention 'That it is never right to kill a person'. The debate gave students an awareness of the inconsistencies of our laws, which prohibit killing, yet condone killing in war. The debate also addressed the many issues surrounding capital punishment. This session gave the students an opportunity to apply quite a different set of analytical and evaluative skills, as they listened to the debate between Julia and Dr Pinsent. The session concluded with an invitation for students to contribute their opinions on the topic and ended with a vote on the issue.
The first of the 2018 Gifted and Talented Days provided students with an engaging and enriching experience as they were encouraged to broaden their understanding of the world. Julie Arliss and Dr. Pinsent presented a series of well-researched lectures designed to complement and enrich school-based gifted programs as well as extending and deepening gifted students' understanding of traditional school subject matter.
Ms Heather O'Keefe and Mrs Ansalie Hanrahan
I thought the Gifted and Talented Day was a really great experience that helped me delve deeper into topics that I don't usually consider. I enjoyed collaborating with different schools as there were a lot of different opinions to be shared.
- Bridie Warren, 8B
On Tuesday, I participated in the Junior Stretch and Challenge Day. Something new I learnt from listening to our guest speaker Julie, was how justice, truth, beauty and maths are all connected in a way I'd never considered or thought of before. This session got me thinking about what justice is, and whether it is something mankind has constructed, or not. I really liked hearing other students' views on the subject of 'Do animals feel pain and have a right not to be eaten?' as they challenged my opinions. Meeting new people and discussing various questions with them has helped my confidence, and I will be able to use this in my classes at school. The day gave me a new understanding of many topics, and challenged me to think and work with completely unfamiliar people.
-Giulia D'Angelo
Throughout the conference, I learnt about how justice, maths and beauty are all linked together and to think beyond the simple things in life to ask questions about why and how all these topics and ideas can be grouped together. I enjoyed listening to the students from other schools' ideas; they were insightful, and everyone had a different opinion. Listening to each other also inspired me to think from different perspectives and broaden my thinking. Julie Arliss led a passionate debate amongst the students, and Fr Andrew Pinsent gave us an insight into the science of everything possibly imaginable and linked it with religion and theology. I can apply the knowledge I gained from this experience in analytical reports, essays, and conversations I have with my peers. This engaging experience was collaborative, inspiring, and challenging. I would thoroughly enjoy it if this experience was to be available again.
-Ella Graham 8D
An exciting day at the Florey Centre for Neuroscience
After qualifying through an online quiz, we were invited to attend a fantastic day at the Florey Centre for Neuroscience, at Melbourne University. Gabrielle Mannix, Matilda Baker, Emily Abrahams, Natasha Walsh, and Lucy Salvati enjoyed talks from guest speakers, neuroscience quizzes, an amazing tour of the working labs (seeing research into neural growth), and a tour of the Dax Gallery of mental health artworks.
Marissa JoyceHead of English
We have been very fortunate here at Siena to have three authors visit over the past couple of months...
We have been very fortunate here at Siena to have three authors visit over the past couple of months to work closely with the budding writers amongst our cohort. Students have had the opportunity to hear these published authors speak and to take part in writing workshops.
Our first visit was from young adult crime writer Ellie Marney. Ellie chatted to students in the Library at lunch and then worked with a group of Year 8 students in a writing workshop. Ellie will be back again later in the year to work with the Year 9 English classes on their Crime Writing unit.
Melbourne-based writer Gabrielle Williams also visited Siena College to work with Year 10 students. Gabrielle writes humorous young adult fiction and spoke to students about how she became a writer. As with Ellie, Gabrielle worked with a small group of Year 10 students on a character writing workshop. The students involved enjoyed coming up with creative, entertaining and, most importantly, flawed, characters.
Most recently, Robert Newton, author of the novel 'Runner', spoke to Year 8 students about what inspired him to become a writer and how he juggles writing with his other job as a firefighter. The Year 8s who are currently studying 'Runner' found Robert's presentation engaging and informative, they had the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the importance of the novel as a piece of historical fiction.
Although our visiting authors came to writing in different ways, the common factor in their success was their passion for writing and willingness to persevere with a story, redraft and take on feedback. These events are invaluable for our English students to learn from experienced, published writers and we thank Ellie, Gabrielle and Robert for sharing their wisdom.
Students who would like to be involved in future writing workshops should speak to their English teacher or contact Miss Joyce.
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Music Camp 2018, Key Dates
On 4 August, students from Junior Band, Junior Choir, Junior Strings, Symphonic Band, Senior Strings and Groove Train all made their way to Rutherford Park Camp in Blampied for the Annual Music Camp. Students enjoyed learning new pieces, developing their ensemble and musicianship skills and spending time with new and old friends. We all had fun with Mr Ferris' Trivia Night as well as the Movie Night and a few card games. The camp concert was a wonderful celebration of what was achieved on camp. We look forward to sharing our music with families at the upcoming Annual Concert. Thank you to all staff who assisted; without your talent and support music camp wouldn't be possible.
"My favourite thing about Music Camp…. Playing music with friends, making new friends, learning new music, learning heaps from the sectionals, having fun at the trivia night, playing in the super band, the food, hanging out with friends, playing clarinet………."
Music Dates Term 3 (377 KB)
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Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
A day of reflection at Amberley for our Year 8 cohort...
On Monday, 23 July and Wednesday, 25 July our very excited cohort of Year 8 students headed to Lower Plenty to enjoy a day of reflection in the beautiful surrounds and gardens of Amberley. Our day was led by the GPBS team, (Gather Proclaim Break Send), and filled with music, song, dance, and deep personal reflection.
Our first session, Gathering, was focused on the Cross and the intentions we hold deep in our hearts. Lighting a candle reminds us that we are a people of hope, that we are not alone on the journey, and that we embrace Jesus' message of God's love for all. Our next session, Together, challenged us to embrace the power of the team. We are strong when we live our lives in partnership; we are made for community and become more whole when we share our lives with others.
Women who Inspire, our third session, focused on the role-models in our world. 'Who inspires me and why?' created powerful discussion. We also conversed about the challenges we all face in the ways social media is used. We worked in groups to discern ways we could illicit the most beneficial and affirming impact of the legacy of impressive women and use of technology. We critically considered how we use Social Media ourselves as a positive influence.
After lunch, our day concluded with a Eucharist, celebrated by our Chaplain, Fr Kevin Toomey OP. We prayed with music, story and by remembering the needs of our world. The beautiful live music created by Alyssa and Dan enriched and supported our Day of Reflection.
'On 23 July 2018, some of the year 8 students went to Amberley for a Reflection Day. Throughout the day we reflected upon how we can make the world a better place through music, film and prayer. We learned about inspiring women and men and how inspiring people have changed the world for the better like Malala, Bethany Hamilton and Rick and Dick Hoytz. All of the stories we heard were very heartwarming and made us aspire to become inspiring. At the end of the day we shared Eucharist and Liturgy with Father Kevin, students, teachers and the staff from Amberley. Overall it was a great day!'
Ashling O'Farrell
'On 23 July we went to Amberley for our second Siena Day of Reflection, as part of the Religious Education and Faith Development program. Before we left, we felt excited about what we would be doing and what it would be like. During the first session on Together, we were inspired by a video we watched about a father and son who ran marathons, rode and swam together, even though the son couldn't walk or talk. From this video, we learnt about teamwork and standing together. During the second session on Women who Inspire, we were thinking about how these women make a big difference in the world and what we can do to be like them in the future. Our final activity was to have a Mass, celebrated by Fr Kevin Toomey OP, a Dominican and our school Chaplain. This was a lovely end to a day of growth and inspiration.'
Sarah White, Sasha Sahely and Lucy O'Connell
'On 23 July we went to Amberley for our second Siena Day of Reflection. Upon arrival, Amberley was very warm and inviting. We were excited to see instruments and a beautiful cross. During the first session on Together, we were thinking about how we can do so much more if we give each other a hand and how being together sounds so much more fun than doing things alone. During the second session on Women who Inspire, we were thinking about all the inspirational girls out there and how we can be one ourself. Our group specifically focused on Bethany Hamilton, a brave woman who continued surfing despite the fact that she was involved in a shark attack, losing her arm. A Day of Reflection is a day for contemplation, thinking deeply and reflecting about how I am going in my life.'
Lucinda Burgin Uhlherr and Aurelia Tjitji
On Wednesday, 23 July, we visited Amberley for a day of reflection. When we arrived we were warmly welcomed by the Gather, Praise, Break, Sing (GPBS) ministry group. Our first session was on Together, emphasising the idea of how more can be achieved by working collaboratively. We watched a short video clip on two men who enforced the spirit of working together! Rick, due to a complication at birth, wasn't able to talk or walk. With the advanced technology of today, he was able to communicate to his father, Dick, that he wanted to run in marathons. Together, they ran. Dick was the body and Rick was the heart and spirit. This made me think about the bigger impact that 'together' can make. The next session was focused on the women in our world who inspire. I was thinking about the hard work and determination that they exert in order to accomplish their goals. Finally, we had a mass celebrated by Fr Kevin Toomey OP, who is our school Chaplain. This was a great time to value being in the present and to reflect on who we are and what impact we strive to make on the world. The experience at Amberley made me think about the small things we can all do to make a difference. Overall, the Day of Reflection was a day to contemplate and reflect on how I am going in my life. I learnt many things, one of which being that 'together' is powerful and that you only need a passion for empowerment to inspire others.
Milly Whitehead
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
Selected Year 10 and 11 students participated in this enriching experience at Scotch College...
On Wednesday, 25 July, the following Year 10 and 11 students attended the Philosothon and Ethics Olympiad at Scotch College: Matilda Baker, Lily Dickenson, Adrienne Duray, Sophie Gurney, Angelina Haj, Gabrielle Mannix, Madeleine Mitra, Sasha Pittorino, Velentina Boulter, Jade Devlin, Claire Garwoli, Yasmin Howard, Rebecca Hwang, Teresa Meese, Ashley Moran, Claire Sullivan, and Olivia Wilhelm. They were accompanied by Ms O'Keefe and Ms De Luise.
A Philosothon is concerned with big questions at the edge of science and reason and explores philosophical and ethical issues orally. Schools that attended included Camberwell Girls, MacRobertson Girls High, McKinnon Secondary, MLC, Albert Park, Aquinas, Scotch and Siena College. A community of inquiry aims to encourage learners to think critically, collaborately, caringly, and creatively. To do this, the students were divided into groups of ten, presented with a stimulus or philosophical discussion topic, which developed into a framework for dialogue after they had thought about their own philosophical question.
After lunch, the students were divided into groups of ten (two teams) to undertake an Ethics Olympiad. They were each given a case study and five minutes to prepare their presentation with each team responding alternatively. A judge independently scored each team.
Overall, the day offered a unique opportunity for academically gifted students to be inspired to undertake philosophical and ethical inquiry. They were provided with many opportunities to further improve their critical thinking and to think systematically and rigorously about contemporary issues. They are now looking forward to the opportunity to participate in an Ethics Olympiad with students from around Australia and later on, around the globe through Skype.
The Philosothon and Ethics Olympiad was an engaging experience that made me think about ethics and the importance of an ethical principle. We learnt about different ethical philosophies and the difference between them. I really enjoyed the Ethics Olympiad at the end of the day where we were able to debate about different topics with members of different schools.
Sophie Gurney
Coming out of the excursion, we felt very inspired and we are looking forward to being able to participate in our own ethics Olympiad. The day consisted of a morning where we participated in a community of inquiry and learnt how to effectively discuss and give reason to our opinions. In the afternoon we delved deeper into ethics and even ran our own ethics Olympiad together with another school. Overall the day enriched our learning and the skills we have to reason with which we can use throughout our schooling.
Yasmin Howard and Velentina Boulter (Year 11 Philosophy students)
It was interesting to discuss different ethical and moral dilemmas with students from other schools in a different environment. It was also beneficial to understand how an ethics Olympiad works and how it is similar and different to what we've experienced in class discussions and in debates. The content included and the resource pack we received were also very extensive.
Olivia Wilhelm (Year 11 Philosophy)
Friday, 27 July was National Tree Planting Day. 8B Geography class decided that we would like to plant some trees around the school to celebrate.
Friday, 27 July was National Tree Planting Day. 8B Geography class decided that we would like to plant some trees around the school to celebrate. At first, Mrs Moore thought that we could dig the holes for the trees ourselves, until she later found out that there was actually a tennis court underneath where we would be digging! Therefore, Mrs Moore decided to request some help!
On the morning of the tree planting, our class split off into two groups: one group planted an olive tree next to the chicken coop and the other group planted two lemon trees in the Mezei House garden. I was in the group planting the lemon trees. The lemon trees weighed around 70kg, so we had to get some help to roll them into the holes! Once they were securely in, we were handed shovels and had the task of laying the soil that had been dug up, back on and around the newly planted lemon trees.
The lemon trees were in fact already 10 years old and had a couple of lemons sprouting on some branches. We were told that if the trees were planted correctly, were surrounded with enough soil, and earth that they would grow to live a strong healthy life.
Overall, it was a very enjoyable morning and I would definitely like to do something like this again!
Macey Brick, 8B
Siena College has had a busy but positive start to Term 3 GSV Sport, competing in soccer, volleyball and badminton. ..
Siena College has had a busy but positive start to Term 3 GSV Sport, competing in soccer, volleyball and badminton. With a strong group of soccer players, as shown by Siena College's successful 5-a-side GSV Tournament in July, we have commenced with a winning start at Intermediate and Junior levels. Siena College has also made a successful start to the term in volleyball, winning a number of games and showing a strong, competitive spirit. While we have been less fortunate in badminton, the girls continue to work hard and represent the College well.
In addition to GSV Sport, we have a number of major sporting events fast approaching this term, namely, the Interhouse Athletics Carnival, the Interschool Snowsports and the Aeroschools Nationals in the Gold Coast. We will also be competing at the GSV Championship Athletics Carnival at Lakeside Athletics Track. If you would like further information regarding these events, please refer to the Siena Central Sports Page
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
It has been incredibly busy in the Careers Office recently with subject selections and tertiary course decisions requiring careful consideration
It has been incredibly busy in the Career's Office recently with Year 9 and 10 students seeking help with choosing subjects and researching careers, as well as Year 12 students applying for tertiary courses through VTAC and seeking assistance with SEAS (special consideration) and scholarship applications. We are extremely fortunate that we have a representative from VTAC visiting Siena College on Monday 20th August at 6.30pm to take Year 12 students and their parents through the application process. Students from Year 11 and their parents are welcome, but bear in mind there may be some minor changes in 2019 when they will be applying.
In this week's Siena Career News you will find information on Important dates for Year 12s applying for tertiary courses both here in Victoria and interstate, also information on the CASPer test required for entry into teaching courses, a list of free TAFE courses as well as details on the new Guaranteed Entry into the University of Melbourne Graduate programs.
Occasionally an archivist comes across a simple sentence and on reflection realises it is much more than that.
Occasionally an archivist comes across a simple sentence and on reflection realises it is much more than that. The last comments in Miss Bakhap's letter of December 1940 read: It was just a Speech Night perhaps; but, a Speech Night with a difference! – A cameo in my memory.' The program for that first speech night and Miss Bakhap's congratulatory letter highlight how Siena's curriculum and cultural activities have evolved over the intervening seventy to eighty years.
Art of Speech was included in the advertisement for Siena Convent in 1942 and our records show that a number of our students sat for Elocution and Art of Speech Examinations with The London Trinity College of Music until the late 1950s. We have treasured donations of exam cards, results, certificates and medals. Photos show the joy and pride of our students who achieved great results in this area of their studies.
We are very grateful to our Siena alumnae who, by their donations, have helped shape our understanding of life at Siena in the early days.
Maria Ang and Maureen McAuley
College Archivists
Photo captions: First Speech Night Program, Convent with ad for first day, 1950 Verse Speaking Choir,1951 mark and comments, 1940 First Speech Night, 1949 Art of Speech medallists
Next SPA Meeting, Second Hand Uniform Shop
* Reminder SPA Meeting on 14 August, Tuesday 7.30pm in the Staff Room all welcome
We are looking for volunteers to assist in running the second hand Uniform shop in 2019 .
The uniform shop is open as follows:
• Wednesdays 8.00am - 9.00am and 3.00pm - 4.00pm
If you are interested in assisting as a volunteer please contact firstname.lastname@example.com or 9835 0267
Please note parents wishing to sell uniform items should drop your consignment to the uniform shop during their opening times.
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020...
As we continue the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment Forms and Prospectus packs are available from Reception or via our website.
Tracey Lawson
Head of Admissions
During Term 3, all online orders over $5 will receive an automatic entry to win an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot.
1. Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.au
Click on 'Create Account', fill in your details and submit
Please note your School Registration ID: 25307963
If you need help, call 02 8901 0398
2. Before you can start ordering, log in to your secure portal:
Add students
Top-up your account
3. Placing an order
Select a student
Enter or select the date
Click on 'Start Order' and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
Orders can then be collected at lunchtime from the Priority Lunch Order Collection line.
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
Staff Faith Development Day, Staff Long Service acknowledgements, Convent Open Morning, A Chorus Line...
At the commencement of Term 2, Siena College staff participated in an enriching Staff Faith Development Day as we again welcomed former Master of the Dominican Order and highly regarded theologian, Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP to our College. Together with staff from Presentation College and Our Lady of Sion, we reaffirmed our sense of commitment to our shared endeavours as Dominican educators and to our Mission of Truth Searching. We thank Fr Radcliffe for another thought provoking and insightful presentation, more details of which can be found in 'Mission Matters'.
Siena College Board and staff gathered this week to acknowledge long service of several staff members. Board Chair Sean McGing welcomed all present, particularly incoming Board members, Vanessa Barcellona and Neal Murphy. Maree Cody, Angela Ho, Georgie Plasto, Anita Galli, Danielle Soccio and Maree Hodgson were all thanked for ten years of service to the College, Sandra Siapantis for twenty years and Anne Rice for thirty years. The contribution all have made to College life cannot be overstated and we thank them for their excellence as educators. Additionally the Board acknowledged Deputy Principal Wellbeing, Sue Thompson for her dedication and commitment to our students as she commences her final semester at Siena College.
On 21 July, we welcomed members of the local community (many of whom were former students) to explore our Convent and Cloisters at our Convent Open Morning. Visitors were able to wander through the Chapel, Cloisters and Heritage Centre where our Alumnae team have recreated uniforms from decades past. Our thanks to SPA who provided a delicious Devonshire morning tea for all present.
Over one hundred and forty prospective students and their families visited the College over two evenings last week as we commenced the enrolment process for Year 7, 2020. My thanks to all staff who conducted interviews, students who so willingly offered to assist with escorting families to the Thomas Aquinas Centre and to our Head of Admissions, Tracey Lawson, for her coordination.
We also welcomed back approximately forty alumnae from the Class of 2013 for their Five Year Reunion. It was wonderful to hear the sounds of chatter as they reminisced and discussed their adventures since graduating from Siena College.
Finally, I must congratulate the entire team behind our combined Siena College and Whitefriars College school musical, A Chorus Line, who will perform their third sold out show this evening. The production is a true testament to the many weekend and holiday rehearsals, hours spent on set construction, costumes and the myriad of other tasks that have all been completed behind the scenes. All involved should be justly proud of their efforts, our students continue to amaze me every year with their talent and courage.
Please enjoy reading the remainder of this issue, which details a very busy start to Term 3 indeed!
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Semester Reports feedback, Senior Pathways Evening
We would love to hear some feedback from parents regarding our two new reporting initiatives. Firstly the online feedback via Siena Central and secondly, accessing the online Semester Report (a statement of results).
The subject selection process has commenced which can be both exciting and yet daunting for some students. We have a very comprehensive process to support students and parents in their decision making. Heads of Learning have addressed Year 9 and 10 students, providing a snapshot of the subjects available and the pathway that subjects may offer. A similar presentation will be held on Thursday, 2 August for Year 8 students. Year 9 and 10 students and their parents are invited to the Senior Pathways Evening on Thursday, 2 August, where they will have the opportunity to attend a formal information session providing an overview of Year 10 and VCE/VET course requirements. Parents and students will also be able to seek individual subject advice from the Heads of Learning and VCE teachers. To finalise the process, all Year 9 and 10 students will attend individual subject selection interviews with a senior staff member. Parents are invited to attend this interview if they wish.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP at Siena
Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP is a Dominican friar of the English Province and former Master of the Order of Preachers from 1992 to 2001. He is Patron of the International Young Leaders Network and helped launch Las Casas Institute, dealing with issues of ethics, governance and social justice.
At our Staff Faith Day at the beginning of term we welcomed Fr Timothy to our College, as well as staff from Presentation College, Windsor and Our Lady of Sion College, Box Hill. Our guest speaker presented two keynotes:
'Pope Francis has called upon the Church to welcome everyone, whoever they are and whatever they have done. Some people have not felt welcome – how can we open the doors of hospitality to everyone? How did Jesus combine both the invitation to perfection and the unconditional welcome to all? I suggest that the answer lies in the nature of his friendship – indeed of every true friendship, which offers both complete acceptance and the invitation to grow.'
'How can the Word of God come alive and 'make our hearts burn within us' as the disciples who met Jesus on the road to Emmaus said? Reading the scriptures is not trying to decipher mysterious messages from God, as if from outer space. We are caught up in a conversation with God that leads us ever deeper into the mystery of love. Through the centuries, we are led into more profound insight into who we are and to what we are called – even the worldwide web is helping us to understand some aspects of Scripture more deeply.'
After this input we met in small groups to reflect using our 'R' wordle and form questions for the afternoon's panel plenary session.
Fr Timothy says 'the biggest challenge of our time is to recover hope'. Read more about this in an interview with him here.
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Siena FIRE Carriers attend Mass to observe National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee
It was a wonderful privilege to attend Mass at St Francis Church with three of our FIRE Carriers on Sunday, 8 July to officially launch NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week and to acknowledge the work of Vicki Clarke. The theme for the 2018 NAIDOC week was 'Because of her, we can', a theme which brought honour to the work of all women in Aboriginal and Islander communities, but most especially on this occasion, to recognise the work of Vicki. As a member of Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, Vicki was acknowledged as being a 'true, gentle warrior who has fought for her community with unwavering passion and commitment'. Amongst Vicki's many achievements, she was acknowledged for her vision in creating the FIRE Carrier Program (Friends Igniting Reconciliation in Education), of which Siena is very proud to be a part. The congregation was uplifted and greatly inspired by the example Vicki has set for us all as we journey together towards Reconciliation.
Claire Al-NoahHead of Arts and Technology
Last week saw five Year 11 students partake in the Siena Design Experience...
Last week saw five Year 11 students, Ruby Housakos, Thaisha O'Neill, Sienna Ectoros, Olivia Piccoli and Natalie Decarne partake in the Siena Design Experience offered by Amanda from Williams Ross Architects. This experience allowed the students an insight into this industry as they spent a full day with Amanda Meiklejohn in Fitzroy at the firm and listened to the various professional women with roles within the firm talk about their career journeys. The students then formed two design teams and worked with Amanda for the rest of the week back at Siena to redesign an area of Siena College that is presently being earmarked for redevelopment. The teams acted as clients for each other and developed a brief for each to work too.
Throughout the week, the girls developed skills in working to a brief, developing concepts and creating plans. Under the guidance of Amanda and Michelle Dammous (also an architect from Williams Ross), they learnt the importance of site visits, existing infrastructure, design plans and working collaboratively. On Friday, the girls presented the 'pitch' of their designs to each other and the school community, including members of the College Board, parents and special guests from Williams Ross Architects. The girls worked extremely hard all week and their presentations were excellent, demonstrating very creative responses to the brief and most of all showing their engagement with the project and the knowledge and understanding they had gained.
The girls are to be congratulated on their effort and Siena College would like to thank Amanda and the team from Williams Ross Architects for their generous time and expertise offered to the students.
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
A Chorus Line, Music Camp, upcoming dates...
The buzz around Siena has been building over the past few months and we are all very excited that production week is here. Our opening night audience left the auditorium amazed at the talent on display and word of mouth has now sold out all shows bar the Saturday matinee. Limited tickets are still available for that session here. Many hours of work have gone into the production, both on and off the stage and we would like to congratulate all students and staff whose dedication and talent have made the show 'a singular sensation'!
For many students, the annual music camp is one of the highlights of the year. Students in Junior Band, Symphonic Band, Junior Choir, Junior Strings, Senior Strings and Groove Train will all be attending the ensemble rehearsals and sectionals over the weekend of 4 to 6 August. The camp will be held at the Rutherford Park Country Retreat, a warm and inviting conference centre in Blampied.
Wind Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Groove Train and Junior Band will all be participating in the Victorian School Music festival. Please check the upcoming Music Dates below for the scheduled times. This festival gives our students the opportunity to perform two to three pieces to adjudicators and to listen to other bands from the same section at the Hawthorn Arts Centre or the Australian Institute of Music. Each band participates in an onstage workshop with the guest adjudicator and the conductors will also hold a tutorial session. Please look out for the CareMonkey permission forms that will be sent out shortly.
Siena's Guitar Ensemble has been invited to participate in the Guitar Ensemble Extravaganza, a festival for school acoustic guitar ensembles on Sunday, 29 July at MLC. This is the first festival and excursion that Siena's guitar ensemble will be taking part in and it will be a wonderful learning opportunity for our thirteen guitar students in the ensemble. We hope they have a fantastic time and have fun!
Ensemble students are reminded to bring their instruments on Tuesday, 31 July as we will be having our Annual Music Photographs taken on that day. All students will need to be in full winter uniform, with black tie and clean shoes. Students will be notified regarding specific photo times on the day.
Term 3 Music dates
|Students Involved
|25 to 28 July
|A Chorus Line: High School Edition
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|Cast, musical orchestra, crew
|29 July
4.00pm - 7.00pm
|Guitar Ensemble Extravaganza
|Guitar Ensemble
|31 July
|Music photos
|Siena College Hall
|Music students
|4 to 6 August
|Music Camp
|Rutherford Park, Blampied
|Symphonic Band, Junior Band, Junior Strings, Senior Strings
|7 August
|St Dominic's Day Mass
|St Dominic's Parish Church
|Choirs, musicians, whole school community
|10 August
4.00pm - 7.30pm
|Wind Orchestra Workshop
|Ensemble Room, Siena College
|Wind orchestra
|10 August
|European Music Tour Information Evening
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|2019 Wind Orchestra and Senior Choir students
|15 August
Performance 6.00pm
|Victorian School Music Festival (VSMF)
Symphonic Band
|Hawthorn Arts Centre
|Symphonic band students
|20 August
|VSMF - Wind Orchestra
|Hawthorn Arts Centre
|Wind Orchestra students
|22 August
Performance 2.00pm
|Year 9 Music excursion
The Boy from Oz
|Melbourne Arts Centre
|Year 9 Music Performance students
|24 August
|VSMF - Groove Train
|AIM - Australian Institute of Music Melbourne
|Groove Train students
|3 September
|Annual Music Concert
|Eldon Hogan Performing Arts Centre,
Xavier College
|Music Ensembles
|10 to 19 September
|Ensemble Auditions including European Music Tour
|West Wing, Siena College
|Music students
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
Senior GSV Basketball, Victorian Aeroschools Aerobics Championships, GSV Soccer...
On 21 June, an enthusiastic team of Siena College Senior girls represented the College in the GSV Senior Basketball Tournament. Whilst we had competitive losses to Sion and Genazzano in the first round, Siena College performed well against Melbourne Girls' Grammar, winning 50-32, before being narrowly beaten in the Preliminary Final by Sion, 25-26, despite leading with thirty seconds to go. All six players contributed and showed good sportsmanship, with a particular mention to Mietta Borg and Maisy Hammond for their rebounding efforts, attacking prowess and scoring ability.
The Siena College Aerobics team have been training hard since the beginning of the year and throughout the Term 2 holidays, in preparation for the Victorian AeroSchools Aerobics Championships last week. This culminated in nineteen students qualifying for the Australian AeroSchools Championships on the Gold Coast in September. Siena College performed exceptionally well, including first place finishes in four intermediate level categories and one senior level category. We wish them all the best for the Australian AeroSchools Championships!
On July 19, twenty girls from Siena College participated in Junior (two teams) and Senior (one team) Five-a-Side GSV Soccer at Knox Regional Centre. With a successful history at this tournament, Siena College performed very well once again, finishing as champions in the Junior section and runners up in the Senior section. All players contributed to the strong showing, with standouts being Victoria Zikas, Johanna Zikas, Zoe Kelly, Petena Ballis and Trinity Williams, who scored a decisive hat-trick in the Junior Grand Final.
A number of Siena College students have also been rewarded for hard work and excellence and are to be congratulated. First, Johanna Zikas, who won the Pierre De Coubertin Award on June 22 at the MCG, showing the Olympic values of fair play and sportsmanship, representing Siena College with distinction. Second, Lucy Read, who recently competed in the Victorian Schools Mountain Bike Competition, winning her category, as well as finishing third overall in the junior section. Finally, to Celina Maderski, who recently went to South Korea for the 2018 World Taekwondo Cultural Expo and Competition with her Taekwondo Club, winning a bronze medal in her division, the 'A Match Kyorugi Event'.
With GSV Sport (Badminton, Volleyball and Soccer), the Snow Sports Interschools Competition at Mount Buller, Siena College's Interhouse Athletics Carnival and the aforementioned Gold Coast Aerobics Competition, Term 3 is an exciting time for Siena College Sport. All the best for all of our teams and participants!
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
The Building Bridges program continues for a group of Year 10 students with interesting, challenging and exciting conversations to deepen our understanding of different faith traditions. ...
The Building Bridges program continues for a group of Year 10 students with interesting, challenging and exciting conversations to deepen our understanding of different faith traditions. Schools from Muslim, Jewish and various Christian backgrounds meet a number of times across the year to engage with each other in the spirit of sharing and understanding each other's religious beliefs and practices.
The Creative Day on Wednesday, 18 July was an absolute highlight and featured a prayerful service led by students of Melbourne Grammar in their beautiful chapel and an aboriginal fire ceremony in the Botanical Gardens on a sunny winter's afternoon. We journeyed into the ancestral lands of the Koolin nation and explored their rich and thriving culture on an Indigenous walk. We experienced a traditional smoking ceremony with an Indigenous guide and discovered traditional uses of plants for food, tools and medicine.
Great conversation and a delicious lunch of pizza were shared after a morning of interfaith activities based on dialogue which led to strengthened friendships and a sense that commonality was much stronger than difference. A real Community of Inquiry helped unpack some of the big questions in our world in a respectful and open environment.
One of the key features of Catholic Studies in Year 12 is to explore the idea of Life's Journey.
One of the key features of Catholic Studies in Year 12 is to explore the idea of Life's Journey. Our Year 12 students are challenged to think intimately about the person they are, and want to be, as they prepare to embark on that intensely personal journey, Life's Journey, beyond the Siena gates. Our Guest Speaker program invites students into the world of our presenters whose lives have taken surprising and challenging detours, enabling them to make a profound difference in our world.
We have been blessed with a range of interesting and challenging speakers who generously share their stories of witness with us. Early in the year, Sr Sheila Flynn OP told us about growing up in Ireland and her vision which enabled the establishment of the Kopanang community in South Africa, a place of welcome, joy and love for HIV/AIDS affected women and children. The Kopanang project was the first part of a community based response to begin training women in income generating skills (embroidery and papermaking), empowerment, personal development, dealing with critical health issues, life and death, all within a faith based context, establishing relationships, building confidence and respect for the various cultures that came together.
We also welcomed Ann Hatchett, a Community Health Nurse, who works serving the poor and homeless of Melbourne. She spoke inspiringly about health as a universal aspiration and a basic human need. Her stories of people living in the streets, parks, squatting in derelict buildings, cars or railway carriages and of moving from one shelter to another using emergency accommodation, refuges, relatives or friends reminded us that poverty is a desperate reality in our community. Ann uses her medical training in compassionate and proactive ways to bring about greater justice for those who are voiceless in our society.
Paulie Stewart, lead singer of iconic Australian punk rock group, Painters and Dockers, lost his older brother, Tony Stewart, who was one of the Balibo 5. We are privileged to host him each year, to listen to his story of profound loss, musical success and great love for the East Timorese people who also inspire his support for asylum seekers and their plight here in Australia. In 2014, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) abandoned a war crimes investigation into the killing of five Australian newsmen at Balibo in East Timor in 1975. There has been no protest from successive Australian governments over the forty years since Balibo and the consequences for the East Timorese people were devastating. Paulie brought with him Zeca, an asylum seeker from Timor Leste. Zeca too, shared with us some of his journey, seeking refuge from violence and poverty, which has brought him to Australia, where he witnesses in schools and shares his passion for drumming.
Insightful reflections made by our students included:
'We were unable to come to terms with the fact that many countries, particularly Australia, turned blind eyes to East Timor's devastating circumstances, choosing not to get involved… Despite losing his brother in this shocking way, Paulie turned disastrous circumstances into positive ones, working with the East Timorese people, building schools for disabled children… The whole story of Balibo was incredibly moving and inspired an interest in me to learn more.'
'The Balibo story has sparked real curiosity in me. I am amazed at the sheer bravery of the reporters and how determined they were to report the injustice they were witnessing.'
'What was most interesting is that there are still so many issues of injustice that Australia faces today. What was most shocking is that Australia did so little to help these people and our complete lack of sympathy and support given to one of the poorest countries in the world.'
'As a truth seeker with a strong interest in politics and history, I found the story of Balibo striking, surprising that it is one not known, and the injustices committed against innocent civilians outrageous… It takes ten times more courage to face the issue and bring about change… What I learnt from Balibo was essential for the life I wish to lead and the world I dream of for the 21st century.'
'Paulie is so inspiring and his work profound. I'm so grateful to have been given this insight into forgiveness and how to move forward, creating good in the world.'
'Power and corruption are rife in this world and leave many people devoid of human rights.'
'I found it interesting to learn of the events of Balibo and, in particular, the way this grave injustice inspired Paulie to pursue a life of action and service to work for justice for the East Timorese community. As Catholics, we can't help but reflect on the core principles of Catholic Social Teaching and the imperative to make these real in our world.'
'As Christians, we must strive to seek truth. Exposure to the story of Balibo has made me question what else I don't know about in this world. Learning to question is an essential skill to make the world a better place.'
'Opening my eyes to the world around me and being informed are essential if we want to make a difference. We are impelled to spread awareness. Our government acts in our name; what happened at Balibo was not transparent.'
'Reflecting on Paulie Stewart's presentation, this was one of the most insightful and important experiences I have heard of and participated in at Siena.'
'The key learning I have taken away from these lessons is the importance of involving ourselves in social justice issues. It is imperative to ask questions and be diligent in raising awareness in our commitment to seeking truth and justice.'
'In the Balibo story, every one of the Catholic Social principles was violated. This reminds me how important these are to fight for.'
As truth seekers, we must hear God's call to action on our journey, inform ourselves, ask questions, and act with intelligent compassion. We are lifelong learners and the challenge of adulthood by virtue of our Dominican tradition is to remain contemporary and to be a voice, a crusader for justice, for those who can't speak. The Guest Speaker program compels us not to be bystanders; rather, we are 'upstanders'. This means that we are courageous; we care.
Becky ScottHead of Debating
Siena has had an amazing start to Debaters Association of Victoria 2018 (DAV) schools' competition. This year there are four teams representing Siena from D Grade at Year 9 through to A G...
Siena has had an amazing start to the Debaters Association of Victoria (DAV) 2018 Schools Competition. This year, there are four teams representing Siena College, from Year 9 D Grade through to Year 12 A Grade, including both experienced debaters and students who are debating for the first time this year. The students have been dedicated to working hard, with the support of their Siena staff coaches and the Debating and Public Speaking Captain, Hayley Kennedy and Vice Captain, Annalise Skliros.
The girls have also taken part in after school training sessions with coaches from DAV leading up to each debate. These have provided a great opportunity to delve into the topics and discuss ideas and tips with some expert university debaters. We are looking forward to a wonderful season of debating and we would like to wish all of the teams well as they prepare for the final rounds. Everyone should be very proud of their efforts both leading up to and during the debates, whether or not their team was successful in the first few rounds. The teams have been faced with some very challenging topics and have done a fantastic job, collaborating as a team and working well to prepare their arguments. We look forward to continuing to build on debating skills and confidence throughout the year.
For Year 8 students who are interested in getting involved in debating, there will be an opportunity to participate in the Junior Schools Competition (JSP) in late Term 3. The girls will be receiving more information in the coming weeks.
We have also enjoyed having so many students involved in House Debating so far this year and we look forward to seeing some of those girls representing Siena in the Interschool Competition in future years.
Becky Scott
Head of Debating
Below is the report from Hayley and Annalise on the first three rounds of debating.
A Grade: Mia Catalano, Olivia Kourmadias and Hayley Kennedy
Won the debate by one point against Balwyn High
B Grade: Olivia Ventura, Olivia Wilhelm and Annalise Skliros
A very close debate against Strathcona which they unfortunately lost by only one point, with Annalise winning Best Speaker
C Grade: Elizabeth Zagon, Natasha Walsh and Mia Horozidis
Won the debate by one point against Kingswood College, with Natasha Walsh winning Best Speaker
D Grade: Amanda Marasco, Claudia Wilhelm and Jasmine Skutela
Won the debate by one point against Strathcona
A Grade: Ellie Dickinson, Hayley Kennedy and Olivia Kourmadias
Won the debate by two points
B Grade: Hannah Walsh, Olivia Wilhelm and Jade Devlin
Unfortunate loss by five points to Camberwell Grammar
C Grade: Mia Horozidis, Annie Walsh and Lucia Lane
Won the debate by a phenomenal four points, with Mia Horozidis winning Best Speaker
D Grade: Mia Ng, Audrey Phommasone and Aisha Bowker
Won the debate against Trinity Grammar by one point
A Grade: Ellie Dickinson, Maddy Harries and Bianca Cleland
A very close debate against Trinity Grammar that was unfortunately lost by only two points
B Grade: Olivia Ventura, Jade Devlin and Annalise Skliros
Won by two points against Box Hill Secondary, with Jade Devlin winning Best Speaker
C Grade: Elizabeth Zagon, Annie Walsh and Lucia Lane
Won against Camberwell Grammar by three points, with Lucia Lane winning Best Speaker
D Grade: Amanda Morasco, Savannah Young and Martina Lovric
Another close debate with a loss of only one point to Kew High School
A big thank you to all parents and friends who attend the debates and support our teams. We encourage all parents and families to come and watch the debates to cheer on the debaters. Thank you also to all the coaches of the teams for giving up their time to assist and support the girls. Congratulations to all teams, the girls who won best speaker and the team coaches. Good luck to everyone for the final debate which is on Monday, 6 August at Camberwell Grammar School.
Hayley Kennedy and Annalise Skliros
Debating and Public speaking Captains
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Dominican schools throughout Australia and New Zealand gather biannually to celebrate their connectedness as members of the Dominican Family.
Dominican schools throughout Australia and New Zealand gather biannually to celebrate their connectedness as members of the Dominican Family and to deepen their understanding of what 'being Dominican' actually means. This year, the On Common Ground conference was hosted by St Mary's College in Adelaide, the theme for the conference being 'Preaching the Gospel in our Times'. Attendees were privileged to hear international guest speakers Patrick Spedale and Michael Petro share their understanding of the Dominican tradition. The four Dominican Pillars of Prayer, Learning, Service and Community formed a strong foundation for conference sessions and helped students gain a deeper level of understanding about the values of our tradition. Other guest speakers included Sr Bernadette Kiley, who shared stories of the inspiring work of some of the Dominican Sisters in Palestine and Vietnam. Firm friend of the College, Sr Sheila Flynn inspired us with her prayerful and reflective sessions pertaining to issues of Social and Eco Justice. All attendees, both students and staff alike, greatly valued this opportunity to deepen our connections with Dominicans nationally and globally.
Siena College was fortunate to send five Year 11 Leaders to the Conference: Olivia Wilhelm, Jade Devlin, Hannah Walsh, Yasmyne Chung and Sabrina Pittorino. Students were accompanied by staff members, Sue Thompson and Bronwyn Ilott.
Tracey KermondHuman Resources Manager
A warm welcome is extended to all of our new staff
A warm welcome is extended to all of our new staff:
We wish a fond farewell to the following staff:
The HOTY (House of the Year) assembly is always an exciting event at Siena College.
The HOTY (House of the Year) assembly is always an exciting event at Siena College. There is palpable tension before the bins are opened and when those red, blue, green or yellow balloons are released, the exuberance of the winning house is a joy to behold.
From the records we have in the Archives, we know that in 1948 there were two houses: Aquins (Red) and Calarogans (Green). In the 1973 Yearbook, four houses are mentioned: Red, Blue, Green and Gold. The 1974 Yearbook gives these four colours names: Waratah (Red), Dianella (Blue), Kurrajong (Green) Cassia (Gold). We welcome any information as to why the houses were given names of native plants.
The Siena Yearbook was first published in 1972 and each issue is a valuable source for building our story. We are grateful to our Siena community for information prior to 1972. We also welcome corrections to the information we have in the Archives.
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
This week's Siena Career News has a focus on upcoming Tertiary Open Days.
This week's Siena Career News has a focus on Tertiary Open Days, which are so important for senior secondary students to attend for a number of reasons. Students can get a feel for the university, tour campus facilities, explore social opportunities (Clubs and Societies) and complete valuable research on courses they are interested in. Checking the Open Day program is a must in order to get the most out of your day and always ensure that you attend at least one course information session. Meeting tertiary staff and students is also hugely beneficial. Many hints and tips are included in this week's Siena Career News.
If you are considering studying a VET subject in 2019, you may be interested in the VET Expo. Refer to details below:
VET Expo Flyer (10142 KB)
> View Document
Your chance to win an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot!
Year 7 student, Gabby, was the lucky winner of the Term 2 Canteen Online Order Competition and was presented with her prize, a Google Home Mini, on the final day of last term.
During Term 3, all online orders over $5 will receive an automatic entry to win an Amazon Alexa Echo Dot. The winner will be drawn on the last day of Term 3.
1. Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.au
Click on 'Create Account', fill in your details and submit
Please note your School Registration ID: 25307963
If you need help, call 02 8901 0398
2. Before you can start ordering, log in to your secure portal:
Add students
Top-up your account
3. Placing an order
Select a student
Enter or select the date
Click on 'Start Order' and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
Orders can then be collected at lunchtime from the Priority Luch Order Collection line.
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
Information from the Catholic Education Commission of Victoria (CECV) regarding collection of data on school students with disability.
Dear Parents and Guardians
Please find attached information from the Catholic Education Commission of Victoria (CECV) regarding collection of data on school students with disability. Please note while student names are provided to CECV, only de-identified information concerning students with a disability will be passed on to Department of Education and Training. No action is required from parents/guardians. Any questions regarding collection of this information can be directed to Ms Simone Ryan or Mr Michael Hanrahan at the College.
CEM 2019 SWD NCCD Information Sheet parents (002) (448 KB)
> View Document
Congratulations to Siena College alumna, Susan Alberti AC, who was named 2018 Victorian of the Year on Monday!Click the image below to read the full Star Weekly article.
Congratulations to Siena College alumna, Susan Alberti AC, who was named 2018 Victorian of the Year on Monday!
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
It is with great pleasure and confidence that I announce the appointment of Ms Antonella Rosati to the position of Deputy Principal Wellbeing, as of January 2019. Antonella is currently ...
It is with great pleasure and confidence that I announce the appointment of Ms Antonella Rosati to the position of Deputy Principal Wellbeing, as of January 2019. Antonella is currently the Deputy Principal at Presentation College Windsor. She has held a number of leadership roles during her time at Presentation College, including Year Level Coordinator, Head of Senior Years, Head of Student Wellbeing and Management, and for the past nine years, the roles of Assistant Principal, and then Deputy Principal since 2014. Prior to her time at Presentation College, Antonella taught in the United Kingdom and at Mercy Diocesan College in Coburg. Antonella has a Bachelor of Arts from Monash University, a Diploma of Education from ACU and a Masters in Educational Leadership from The University of Melbourne.
Antonella is a warm and relational leader with a strong commitment to the wellbeing and learning of young women within a faith based framework. I have no doubt that she will build on Siena College's strong foundations and the exemplary work of Sue Thompson and the Wellbeing Team over past years. We look forward to welcoming Antonella to Siena College in 2019.
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
'Every stranger who knocks at our door is an opportunity for an encounter with Jesus Christ, who identifies with the welcomed and rejected strangers of every age.' Pope Francis
'Every stranger who knocks at our door is an opportunity for an encounter with Jesus Christ, who identifies with the welcomed and rejected strangers of every age.' Pope Francis
Never before have there been so many displaced people in the world seeking refuge. Over recent months we have witnessed the development of the Rohingya refugee crisis which has led to the displacement of more than 900,000 Rohingya people. We have seen the ongoing and devastating impact of drought and civil war in South Sudan and in Syria, the images of people on boats in the Mediterranean and this week, children being separated from their parents as they endeavour to cross the Mexican border with the United States. It is good to know that this legislation has been revoked and that the children will now be reunited with the parents.
In the annual Papal message for the World Day of Migrants and Refugees this year, Pope Francis reminds us of the Gospel call to welcome, protect, promote and integrate every stranger for the sake of their fundamental dignity. John Lennon wrote the lyrics of a song, 'Imagine'. I was reminded of this song as I read these words recently (and apologies to the author for not attributing credit as I can't recall where I read this):
'Imagine if we truly understand and live by the truth that no one wins until everyone wins. Imagine if we understand and were able to see a world where there is no "me", only "we", there is no "them", only "us". Imagine if we lived by the understanding there is no "their" children or "my" child, there is only "our" children.'
As long as injustice, persecution and inequity of access to basic human rights persist in our world, the global migration of people will only continue. There is much misinformation around this issue and also good news and stories of welcome and inclusion in pockets of our world and our country. May we all continue to work towards a more just world for all people.
Staff and students have been very busy rehearsing for the Siena College and Whitefriars College musical, A Chorus Line: High School Edition. It has been lovely to witness the commitment, energy and excitement of all involved and I wish the cast, musicians, backstage crew and the Directors and Producers well as they prepare for Opening Night on Wednesday, 25 July. I encourage all members of our community to come along for what promises to be a wonderful night of entertainment.
At the same time, Siena student, Vanessa Parissi is preparing to perform in the Victorian Catholic Schools' production, Time to Shine that will take place at The Arts Centre on 28 July. It is lovely to have a Siena student involved and I look forward to seeing Vanessa perform in this very entertaining annual event. Tickets are still available through the Arts Centre website for the matinee and evening performance.
Throughout the academic year, our students engage in a variety of assessments. This past week has seen all of our Year 9 to 11 students undertaking their mid year examinations. This is an opportunity to showcase their knowledge and apply many of the skills they have learnt over the course of the semester. Providing students with opportunities to engage in formal assessments assists in developing useful study skills and habits as well as affirming their achievements and pointing to ways to improve future learning. We trust that parents are finding the online reporting of students' work and progress helpful and that these mid year assessments offer an opportunity to have encouraging and supportive conversations about learning.
Over the first two days of Term 3, staff will be engaged in significant work on curriculum, compliance matters and in relation to our Mission as a Catholic school in the Dominican tradition. On Tuesday, 17 July we will welcome a former Master General of the Dominican Order, Fr Timothy Radcliffe, to Siena College. Fr Timothy is the author of numerous publications and is currently based in Oxford in the UK. In 2015, he was named a consultor of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and is Patron of the International Young Leaders Network. Fr Timothy helped launch Las Casas Institute, that deals with issues of ethics, governance and social justice. We will be joined on that day by staff and Sisters from Our Lady of Sion College and Presentation College Windsor, as well as by members of the College Board and the wider community. We look forward to Fr Timothy's insights and his engaging manner as he addresses theological perspectives on aspects of Church teaching and the Gospels.
We extend our deepest condolences to staff member, Liz Merrett and former staff member, Gayle Peggie whose mother Margaret passed away on 15 June. Gayle is Co President of the Alumnae Association and both Liz and Gayle are Siena College alumnae.
It has been a busy and productive semester and now it is time for a break and an opportunity to step back from the intensity of the past two terms to a gentler pace of life. I would like to wish all of our Siena College community a safe and enjoyable break for the upcoming holiday period, especially our Year 12s as they prepare for their final months of secondary education. I remind all parents and students that Term 3 commences for students on Wednesday, 18 July.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Marking Environment Week at Siena, Service to the Community, World Refugee Week
In keeping with the desires of Pope Francis promulgated through his 2015 encyclical on the environment and human ecology Laudato Si' and the outcomes of the 2016 International Gathering of Dominicans involved in academic and social justice life, we marked World Environment Day on Tuesday, 5 June with a special Morning Prayer. In keeping with the 2018 theme, Beat Plastic Pollution, student leaders encouraged our community to look carefully at recycling procedures and minimise waste.
As community members would be aware, service is one of the four pillars of Dominican spirituality. At Siena, students seek out opportunities to serve the College and wider community as part of our education in faith, engaging students' head, heart and hands. We also know that, increasingly, tertiary institutions look for students who have demonstrated a commitment to local organisations, clubs and service groups, knowing they are enrolling students with a breadth of life experience, compassion and initiative.
Today, more than ever, we need a global movement to demand the safety and rights of refugees are protected. In Australia, it is the responsibility of our Government and each one of us, to ensure people forced to flee from their homes can live with dignity and with hope.
Click here to watch James Martin SJ exploring a Scriptural perspective on refugees, migrants and foreigners.
When history looks back will it be to see them standing alone or will it see we were standing #WithRefugees ?
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Semester 1 Reports 2018
Year 9 to 11 examinations will be returned via House Group and results will be entered onto Siena Central on Wednesday, 27 June 2018. Parents and guardians will be able to also access examination results on this day.
Semester 2 classes will commence on Monday, 25 June. Students have received their Semester 2 timetable via email and it will be available on Siena Central as of Friday, 22 June.
Please also note that Term 3 commences on Wednesday 18 July, as Monday, 16 July and Tuesday, 17 July are two staff professional learning days.
As you are aware, in 2018 we have enhanced our reporting system through the implementation of online feedback via Siena Central. For each assessment task, students and parents/guardians have received timely feedback and the publication of assessment task results via Siena Central. Therefore, the Semester Report is a statement of results.
The Semester Report will cover the following areas:
The Year 7 to 10 Semester Report:
The Year 11 Semester Report:
The Year 12 Semester Report:
All Years 7 to 12 students will receive a House Group Report and those studying an instrument will also receive a music report.
Please refer to the instructions (below) on how to access your daughter's Semester Report. You will be able to download this report on Friday, 29 June at 3.30pm.
1. In Siena Central, choose your daughter's name from the list of My Students
2. Choose the 'Academic Reports' tab from the menu bar under the student profile
If you encounter any issues logging in to Siena Central or accessing Academic Reports, please contact email@example.com or call 9835 0200 and ask for IT.
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
Professor Michelle Welsh has stepped down from her role as Deputy Chair of the College Board after serving as a Director of Siena College since 2010.
Professor Michelle Welsh has stepped down from her role as Deputy Chair of the College Board after serving as a Director of Siena College since 2010. Michelle graduated from Siena College in 1983 and has a deep affection for the College and its Dominican heritage. Michelle was a member of the Siena Parents' Association in 2009, a member of the Policy Committee of the Board from 2009 to 2010, and in 2010, she joined the Board Executive when she took on the role of Deputy Chair of the Board, a position she held until June 2018.
Michelle's pathway after graduating from Siena College lead her to a career as a solicitor, then lecturer, researcher and Professor of Business Law and Head of the Business Law and Taxation Department in Monash University Business School. Michelle has stepped down from her role on the Board to devote more time to her professional responsibilities, but continues to support other local community organisations.
Michelle is featured as a notable alumna in the College's 75th Anniversary publication. The entry in the book states that she '…embodies the values of Siena College'. Nothing could be more true. On behalf of the College, I thank Michelle for all she has done for the Siena community over these past years.
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
Ten students from Years 8 to 10 recently travelled to Methodist Ladies' College to compete in the Boroondara Gifted Network Showcase.
Ten students from Years 8 to 10 recently travelled to Methodist Ladies' College (MLC) to compete in the Boroondara Gifted Network Showcase, which involved presenting findings about issues pertaining to human colonisation on Mars. Leading into the showcase, students worked within pre selected groups of peers from participating schools and were required to collaborate using tools such as Google Hangouts to explore the following ideas relating to colonisation: the selection process of colonisers, the design of the city, laws and governance and money and financial exchange. The results of this research and the collation of information was presented to the Mars Relocation Committee (which included teachers and a student of astrophysics at Swinburne University) and the many parents also in attendance.
The day was a great success with students getting to meet face to face with their collaborators and presenting their hard work in a variety of media. Siena College students reported that they 'enjoyed the challenge of finding solutions to an issue that is not necessarily far away', 'working with like minded people' and 'showing their work to their parents at the Showcase'.
Our participating Siena College students were: Lana Magyar, Sarah White, Gabrielle Mannix, Lucy Hodder, Zoe Kelly, Erin Baklien, Jasmine Skutela, Maria Ng, Audrey Phommasome and Jessica Ovens.
Gabrielle's team won first prize, Zoe's team won second place and Jasmine's team won third place as well as the People's Choice Award. Congratulations!
Goran Spoljaric
Learning Enhancement
Public speaking at Siena had a fantastic start in 2018 with many girls demonstrating interest in participating in the variety of competitions on offer.
Public speaking at Siena College had a fantastic start in 2018, with many girls demonstrating interest in participating in the variety of competitions on offer. Year 10 student, Elena Cruz, performed to an exceptional level in the Rotary Club of Balwyn's Public Speaking Competition on 7 May. Elena spoke very eloquently and passionately on the plight of refugees and the Australian government's approach to the issue. The standard of competition was very high.
Year 11 student, Jade Devlin, represented Siena in the Rostrum Voice of Youth Public Speaking Competition on Sunday, 20 May. She spoke on the topic 'A home for every child', performing exceptionally well. Jade won her heat cogently and has proceeded to the semi finals. We wish her luck in the next stage of the competition.
On Monday, 28 May Bianca Cleland, Year 12, represented the College at the VCAA Plain English Speaking Competition at St Leonards College in Brighton East. Bianca's self selected topic was titled 'Women vs Women in the Workforce'. She performed spectacularly, just missing out on placement into the next round.
We have several other Public Speaking events to come this year and we are looking for more students to give it a go. It is a fantastic learning experience and gives you that extra edge in your oral class presentations.
One of the upcoming competitions is Siena's very own Antonio de Montesinos Award. This is a fantastic opportunity for any student, no matter your year level, to give public speaking a try. This event is internally judged, taking stress away from speaking in front of strangers, as we are all a family here at Siena. The topic, as following tradition, is our College Theme 'One Body, Many Parts'. It is a great topic with many possible avenues that could be explored. The event will be held on the evening of Wednesday, 5 September, starting at 7.00pm. More information on how to participate will be available soon.
Remember it's never too late to join in on the fun! Just send an email to Mr Anderson or the Captains of Public Speaking to find out about the upcoming tournaments. Everyone is welcome!
Hayley Kennedy and Annalise Skliros
Public Speaking and Debating Captain and Vice Captain
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
A few weeks ago, the following students from Years 7 to 10 participated in the World Scholar's Cup: Jessica Ovens, Elena Cruz, Gabrielle Mannix, Savannah Young, Lucasta Cain, Carla Goutzo...
A few weeks ago, the following students from Years 7 to 10 participated in the World Scholar's Cup: Jessica Ovens, Elena Cruz, Gabrielle Mannix, Savannah Young, Lucasta Cain, Carla Goutzoulas, Madeleine Quin, Bridie Warren, Charlotte Dickson, Lauren Edwards, Jessica Higgins and Mia Kelly.
The goal of this competition is to inspire in young people a love of learning, confidence in new skills and a sense of global citizenship. During this event, the selected students competed with schools from across Victoria in four events: Team Debate, Collaborative Writing, Scholar's Challenge and Scholar's bowl. The theme of this year's Scholar's Cup was 'An Entangled World'.
The topics that the students studied in preparation for this competition included human relationships, the history of diplomacy, black market economics, the science of memory, art, music and literature. The students are to be congratulated on their fantastic results and enthusiastic participation in debating rounds, individual and group writing tasks and intelligence quizzes which took place over two days. At the end of the competition, the students were awarded numerous silver and gold medals and trophies in both individual and team categories.
All four Year level teams earned an invitation to the Global Round of the World Scholar's Cup. There are three Global Rounds which bring together 5000 students from over sixty countries. The students have the opportunity to compete in the Global Round that will take place in at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Thursday, 16 August to Tuesday, 21 August. Participants in all three of the Global Rounds will have equal opportunities to earn invitations to the final conference at Yale University, to be held in November 2018.
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
'A man is but a product of his thoughts, what he thinks he becomes' Mahatma Gandhi
'A man is but a product of his thoughts, what he thinks he becomes.' Mahatma Gandhi
On Monday, 4 June, fifteen Siena College students travelled to the Immigration Museum to attend The Gandhi Experiment, a conference facilitated by Margaret Hepworth. They also visited the current Gandhi exhibition. n The students from Siena included: Bridie Warren, Mikayla Rollnik, Abbey Harford, Maliana Tapusoa, Daria Del Tito, Amy Barnett, Bita Afshar, Trinity Ng, Charlotte Dickson, Gabriella Sakkos, Sarah White, Ella Graham, Pia Perini, Maddy Quin and Aurelia Tjitji. They joined a group of Year 10 students from Preshil to learn about the three platforms in Gandhi's life: non violence, Satyagraha (his deepest beliefs) and taking action. Following this, the students discussed global issues such as equal rights, terrorism, poverty, racism and how to apply Gandhi's methods of making a difference in today's world.
Nelson Mandala and Martin Luther King were both influenced by Gandhi and adhered to his three platforms. Mandala said, 'We all need to rise above our own expectations of ourselves' and Martin Luther King said, 'Intelligence plus character: that is the goal of true education'.
After lunch, the students were challenged with the question, 'What is the change that I want to see in the world?' In the discussion that followed, Margaret invited the students to share their 'almost impossible thoughts' to an issue in the world that needs changing but might seem impossible right now. This activity focused on using Gandhian principles for the citizens of tomorrow.
Margaret Hepworth's goal is to teach teenagers that non violence is a choice; that we need to rise against injustices, that 'hope in action' and 'moving from apathy to action' are of supreme importance and that 'Satyagraha' is the very foundation we stand on.
Heather O'Keefe and Ansalie Hanrahan
Learning Enhancement
Today, at the Immigration Museum, I participated in an amazing opportunity that allowed me to open my mind to different opinions, possibilities and unique discussions. I learnt a lot about Gandhi and how we can transfer his teachings into actions in my everyday life. This experience has taught me new ways in which I can perceive life's questions and answers. Overall, I would strongly encourage other students to participate as I found it very beneficial. Maliana Tapusoa
The conference made me think particularly about some of Gandhi's, Rumi's and other philosopher's quotes especially 'Don't judge, be curious'. I love the simplicity of the quote, yet it has such deep meaning regarding questioning things before judging and forming opinions. I look forward to taking this quote forward into my schoolwork too, in questioning new information or opinions in the classroom in the way of getting to the root of the problem. Gabriella Sakkos
Simone RyanHead of Learning Enhancement
Earlier in the term, a group of enthusiastic Year 10 students attended the 2018 Constitutional Convention at Strathcona BGGS.
Earlier this term, a group of enthusiastic Year 10 students attended the 2018 Constitutional Convention at Strathcona Baptist Girls Grammar School. The Siena students who attended the Convention were Isabelle Bates, Ruby Flynn, Sophie Duvnjak, Mia Horozides, Bridget Hoy, Angela Mantarakis, Bianca Pignataro, Sarah Russell, Katya Scacco and Charlotte Taylor. Along with around ninety students from fourteen schools, the girls spent a thought provoking day participating in a series of sessions designed to increase their understanding of the Australian Constitution, its function, history and the complex process for alteration. The focus of the Convention was the contention 'That Australia should amend its Constitution and mandate an equal representation of males and females in Federal Parliament'.
The program began with presentations from three guest speakers: Mr John Pesutto MP, Ms Jessica Wilson and journalist and politician, Ms Mary Delahunty. The speakers engaged the students by providing a broad range of ideas and personal insights into the topic under discussion. Following these presentations, the students established plenary groups to explore specific discussion topics. Subjects included the 'Historical context of women in Australian Government', 'Current Australian Federal Parliament Levels of Representation' and 'Constitutional changes and previous issues considered worthy of amendment'. These topics promoted much fervent discussion and sharing of ideas within each group.
In the afternoon session, each table presented the group's position on their given topic. Next came the Soapbox session, with individuals sharing their opinions or thoughts with the assembly on any related topic. This proved to be one of the highlights of the program, sparking much passionate debate on a range of subjects.
In the last session, each table voted together in a mini referendum: 'That Australia should amend its Constitution and mandate an equal representation of males and females in Federal Parliament'. Each table represented an Australian State or Territory. The result was a resounding 'No'.
The day's program provided students with valuable insights into the Australian Constitution. It was inspiring to watch representatives of the next generation of leaders debate a broad range of often contentious issues, respectful of each other's opinions.
'The sessions prompted me to think about my views and opinions about the topic. It was an eye-opening and fun experience, which is what I liked most. I also learnt about seats in Parliament.' Angela Mantarakis
'I liked today as it showed everyone's different perspective on the issue of equal gender representation in Federal Parliament. We discussed different issues society is facing.' Charlotte Taylor
'I learned about what it takes to change the Constitution. The whole Convention was educational and listening to everyone's opinions and beliefs was interesting.' Sarah Russell
Tickets are selling fast for A Chorus Line: High School Edition and rehearsals are in full swing! Click here to book your tickets.
Tickets are selling fast for A Chorus Line: High School Edition and rehearsals are in full swing! Click on the image below to book your tickets.
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
As Term 2 GSV sports finish up, we want to congratulate all girls who participated this term and thank them for their contribution to the Siena College Sports program.
As Term 2 GSV sports finish up, we want to congratulate all girls who participated this term and thank them for their contribution to the Siena College Sports program.
Looking ahead to the end of this term and the start of next, we want to applaud the seven aerobics girls who competed in the Aerochallenge Aerobics Competition last week at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC). Well done to Emer McGing and Samantha De Monte, who placed second in the Level 4 Duo competition, Emer McGing, Samantha De Monte, Claudia Perez, Rebecca Pitman and Ellie Dickinson who placed first in the Level 4 Group Competition and to Emma Highfield and Meg Curtin who placed fourth in the Intermediate Duo Competition.
This week, Siena College is competing at the GSV Senior Basketball Tournament taking place on Thursday, 21 June at MSAC. Best of luck to Mietta Borg, Gabriella Di Camillo, Maisy Hammond, Georgie Kirkwood, Charlotte Lack, Breana Ritchie and Cheylan Webb who will all be participating on the day.
With Term 3 almost here, we have sports trials to be conducted from next week in preparation for GSV weekly sport next term.
A special mention goes out to Jamie Guan, who was recently selected for the Victorian Karate Team, representing Victoria at the 2018 Australian Karate Federation National Championships. Well Done Jamie! Also, a huge congratulations to Darci Hudson, Harriette La Motte and Gabriella Rawlings, who were all selected for the Yarra Junior Football League Under 15 Southern Metro Championships. Finally, we wish all the best to Johanna Zikas, who has been nominated by Siena College for the 2018 Pierre de Coubertin award to be held at the MCG on Friday, 22 June, having represented the school with excellence, positivity and respect.
Claire Al-NoahHead of Arts and Technology
This term, Senior Art and Design students had the opportunity to participate in a series of life drawing classes after school to develop their drawing skills. Students studied the life mod...
This term, Senior Art and Design students had the opportunity to participate in a series of life drawing classes after school to develop their drawing skills. Students studied the life model and practised drawing, considering correct proportions as well as the use of tone to render the form and depict the light source. Students experimented with a range of media to explore the expressive and aesthetic qualities of each. The students gained valuable experience and it was apparent that their skills in life drawing developed over the sessions. Thank you to Gabrielle Snell and Kate Caish who facilitated these sessions.
Parents Social Night, Entertainment Book
The Siena Parents' Association sub committee, Friends of Sport (FOS) will be holding a mid year event for parents and their friends to enjoy a fabulous night out. FOS has hired a brilliant band called 'Wingin It' to come and perform at Siena for one night only: Saturday, 4 August 2018 at 7.00pm in the Siena College Hall.
Rally your friends for a great night of dancing and singing. All funds raised will go towards funding aircon/heating for the College gymnasium.
Ticket price includes entry and finger food with drinks at bar prices (no BYO).
Ticket sales are now open and will close on Wednesday, 1 August. To book your tickets please click here
The Siena Parents' Association looks forward to your company at this exciting event. Please contact email@example.com with any enquiries.
Carmel Musco
Siena Parents' Association President
As part of our fundraising, Friends of Music and Performing Arts (FOMPA) are offering the opportunity to purchase a 2018/2019 Entertainment Membership. Hundreds of great value offers are ready for your enjoyment.
See what is inside the book here and learn about the Entertainment Digital Membership here
Clare TimminsHead of Careers
It has been a busy and productive time for the Siena Careers department this past fortnight.
It has been a busy and productive time for the Siena Careers department this past fortnight. Year 12 students have been visited by all major tertiary institutions during their Study Block and have heard about a variety of courses and future study options. These highly informative and interactive sessions gave our Year 12s detailed insight into faculty majors, minors, work integrated learning opportunities, pathway programs and scholarships. Students also had the opportunity to compare similar university courses to enable them to make informed choices between institutions and course content. Researching tertiary courses is so important and often students are unsure of where to look and who to ask. Hopefully they now have some of the answers they need as we head into third term and commence their course selections through VTAC.
The annual Siena College Careers Showcase, the biggest event on the Siena Careers calendar, is coming up on Thursday, 28 June at 7.00pm. This event offers an amazing opportunity to hear about a variety of careers from our wonderful alumnae. The Careers Showcase is open to students in Year 9 to 12 and their parents. To register, go to www.sienaconnect.com.au/event/careershowcase.
This week's Siena Career news can be accessed here. In this edition you will find many school holiday activities at universities, information on some new initiatives at ACU, the benefits of an Arts degree, how to become a Diplomat and courses in Human Resources.
Introducing our new Keep Cups, $15 each. An SRC initiative, all funds raised will go towards environmental sustainability causes.
Siena Keep Cups are an SRC initiaive. All funds raised from the purchase of Keep Cups will go towards environmental sustainability causes. Click the image below to order.
'Fashions come and go but style is forever.' The correct wording of that advice is 'Mode passes, style remains' as Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel said in 1965.
'Fashions come and go but style is forever.' The correct wording of that advice is 'Mode passes, style remains' as Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel said in 1965. It applies not only to society in general but also to our Dominican sisters. Since 1926, when the Sisters arrived in Camberwell, there have been a number of changes to the habit, always with style. The photos in the gallery below show the habits worn over the years.
We would like to place a replica of the 1955 habit (image on stairs) in our heritage space to share with the Siena community. Unfortunately, we only have photographs for reference but the Sisters who wore this style of habit assure us that it was a fairly simple design. If anyone with sewing skills could help us with this project, we would love to hear from you. Please contact us at firstname.lastname@example.com
Maureen McAuley and Maria Ang
College Archivists
Order online for your chance to win a Google Home mini
3 easy steps to online ordering at Siena College Canteen
1. Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.auClick on Create Accou...
Three easy steps to online ordering at Siena College Canteen
1. Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.au
Click on Create Account Fill in your details and submit (Please note Your School Registration ID: 25307963)
If you need help call 02-89010398
2. Before you can start ordering Login to your secure portal
Add Students
Top-up your account
3. Placing an order
To place an order, follow these steps:
Select a student
Enter or select the date
Click on Start Order button and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
For the month of June all online orders over $5 will receive a free Prima Orange Juice and the chance to win a Google Home Mini! One entry for every online order. The winner announced at the end of Term 2.
Collect your order at lunchtime from the priority lunch order pick up.
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we commence the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensur...
As we commence the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment Forms and Prospectus packs are available from Reception or via our website.
Tracey Lawson
Head of Admissions
St Dominic's Camberwell East Youth Group and St Thomas the Apostle Parish Forum
A message from the Youth Coordinator at St Dominic's Camberwell East
We once again extend an invitation to the young people (specifically high schoolers) of your area to join us here on the first Friday of every month for our youth group, Lumen!
Our next youth evening coming up is going to be on Friday, 6 July. This is going to be a special Lumen as we are also extending the invite to the parents of the young people who attend, in order for them to have a feel of what our youth group is all about. It will be in the Parish centre, 816 Riversdale Road Camberwell from 6.00pm until 8.30pm. It will be an evening of food, fun, fellowship and adoration.
We also have a young adults program that has recently begun. This is on the third Sunday of the month at 8.00pm at McDonalds, cnr Burwood Highway and Scott Grove where we encourage young adults (18-35) to come along and participate in solid discussions with other like-minded individuals! Our next get together is on Sunday, 17 June.
Every third Sunday of the month at 6.00pm we also have our youth mass where ALL young people are invited to participate. This is held at our Parish, 816 Riversdale Road Camberwell. Our next mass will also be on Sunday, 17 June.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read through this and we hope that you will encourage your young people to come along! If any young people are interested and have dietary requirements, please send them through to firstname.lastname@example.com
I look forward to hearing from you
God Bless,
St Thomas the Apostle Parish Forum
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
The glorious colours of autumn have disappeared and winter has well and truly arrived.
The glorious colours of autumn have disappeared and winter has well and truly arrived. This time of year brings with it exams, assessment tasks, reports and, very soon, the end of another term. This can be a stressful time for students, however our Heads of Wellbeing, House Group teachers and College counsellors are all excellent resources for those who may be feeling overwhelmed. Hopefully our girls will grasp the opportunity to reflect on their learning thus far, organise their study materials and demonstrate the knowledge and skills refined over the past semester. Term 2 has already provided a steady stream of inspirational moments of student learning and achievement in and beyond the classrooms across the College. St Catherine's Day Mass and House Fiesta, Autumn Music Concert, Mount Gambier Generations in Jazz, GSV Winter Sport, Reconciliation Week activities, Siena in the City presentation evening and reflections from Kopanang have all been highlights.
As part of our commitment to Reconciliation Week, two of our FIRE Carriers created a wall for individuals to pledge their support to 'act to close the gap' and to not 'keep history a mystery'. It was wonderful to see so many students enthusiastically sign their names and continue this important awareness and conversation around reconciliation.
A Siena College Convent Redevelopment Town Planning Application was lodged this week. These plans for the refurbishment of the Convent will create a new front entrance through the original wooden doors of our beautiful Italianate building that was completed in 1939, the year before Siena Convent School opened its gates to the first group of fifteen students. The Convent with its cloisters, Chapel and beautiful blue dome, is the most treasured part of our College where we honour all the Dominican Sisters who lived or worked at Siena College, past Prioresses and Principals, past Board Chairs and our alumnae. We have worked with Williams Ross Architects to design a new College Reception and front entrance. The intention is to honour and retain as much of the original building and its features as possible while creating new spaces to house the Principal and Deputy Principal Mission and Identity, a new Board Room on the first floor and a heritage room that can be used to host small gatherings. We are so grateful to the many donors who have supported this project and look forward to its completion before the end of the year.
Please enjoy reading the newsletter and the comprehensive overview it gives of the many activities that contribute to our vibrant College life.
Gaynor Robson-Garth
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Semester 1 Examinations
We wish our Unit 3 students well as they sit their compulsory VCAA General Achievement Test (GAT) on Wednesday, 13 June. As a result, there will be no Year 11 or 12 classes on this day.
We also wish our Year 9 to 11 students well as they prepare for their semester examinations which commence on Thursday, 14 June and conclude on Thursday, 21 June.
Friday, 22 June is a student free day as teachers finalise their marking. Year 9 to 11 examinations will be returned via House Group and results will be entered onto Siena Central on 27 June.
If a student is unable to attend an examination for some reason, parents and guardians need to contact their Head of Student Wellbeing and Student Reception. A student will receive a NS (not submitted, no penalty) for a school sanctioned reason, such as illness, or a NA (not assessed, zero) for a non sanctioned reason.
Semester 2 classes will commence on Monday, 25 June.
Bernadette Donnelly
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
After the Ascension of Jesus the Church places before us a number of theological and devotional constructs to inform our lives of faith...
After the Ascension of Jesus the Church places before us a number of theological and devotional constructs to inform our lives of faith: the Feasts of the Trinity, Corpus Christi and the Sacred Heart.
During this past week we have marked the last two of these special days: The solemnity of Corpus Christi is specially associated with the Dominican Order, as Thomas Aquinas composed the proper texts for the liturgy as well as a number of hymns, the best known being Panis Angelicus.
The solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus reminds us of the immense and unending love God continues to show for us in the person of Christ.
Martin GibbsHead of Student Wellbeing and Pastoral Care Program
Each Thursday we commence our day with our Pastoral Program, focusing on a range of specific year level priorities set up by the planning committee at the beginning of the year.
Each Thursday we commence our day with our Pastoral Program, focusing on a range of specific year level priorities set up by the planning committee at the beginning of the year.
The Year 12 cohort have been focusing on motivation and thinking for peak performance this term. The students heard from 2017 College Captain, Sinead Hickey and another high performing student, Livia Frattaroli, who focused on the importance of organisation, aiming high and setting high standards for yourself throughout the year. The girls also explored the positive psychology Legacy theory from the All Blacks New Zealand rugby team. Some of the key messages include:
YEARS 10 and 11
The Year 10 and 11 cohort have been focusing on our Dominican sisters in the Solomon Islands and their struggle with climate change, as part of our Catholic Social Teaching framework. Catholic Social Teaching covers all spheres of life: the economic, political, personal and spiritual. With human dignity at its centre, a holistic approach to development founded on the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, is what Pope Paul VI called 'authentic development'. The Pastoral unit called 'authentic sustainability' focused on the girls discussing what we can do to help minimise the impact of climate change. While we may not feel the impact as immediately as our Pacific Island neighbours, the Catholic teaching principle 'Stewardship of Creation' asks us how we show respect for creation and reminds us that we are all responsible for taking care of the earth. The girls, as a result, debated what changes we could all make to minimise our impact, and ensure we are sharing resources equally. The girls watched the following clip to better their understanding:
The Year 7 and 8s have undertaken a four week program focusing on their own wellbeing. The students watched the following clips and then were asked to draw or write on the image attached that described their own sense of wellbeing
The girls were asked to reflect on the small things that happen in class that boost their wellbeing. The Berry Street Education Model calls these 'micro moments'. What are the many small thoughts, words and actions, rather than the big gestures or events that create and boost your wellbeing? The girls also reflected on the bigger activities that the College does to promote their wellbeing.
In Week 7 and 8 of this term the focus will be on the first domain of the Berry Street Education Model which is about the body. We will consider the impact of chronic stress on the body and our overall wellbeing. The students will study physical symptoms of stress and actions that can be affected and also explore the hidden and noticeable effects of stress and the stress arousal curve. The attached de-escalation plan will help provide information that can assist with reducing stress levels and developing techniques to bring to class in order to achieve an optimal state of learning. We hope this will create even more enthusiastic and engaged students.
In Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), FIRE Carriers aimed to encourage the school to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories,
In Reconciliation Week (27 May to 3 June), FIRE (Friends Igniting Reconciliation in Education) Carriers aimed to encourage the school to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and histories, to share that knowledge and help grow as a nation. As part of this we promoted the 'Don't Keep History A Mystery' campaign through the 'Reconciliation Pledge'; a sign which included facts on the harsh reality of Indigenous Australians, while providing a space for all to show their support and willingness by writing their names. We are proud of the overwhelming response, particularly from our Year 7s, who showed their commitment in achieving Indigenous equality throughout Australia.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
With great excitement and anticipation, our Year 7 students headed out for a day of reflection, spirituality, fun and friendship in beautiful Lysterfield.
With great excitement and anticipation, our Year 7 students headed out for a day of reflection, spirituality, fun and friendship in beautiful Lysterfield. Fr Martin Tanti welcomed us to the Don Bosco Retreat Centre where we all quickly made friends with Monty the Jack Russell.
Our theme for the day was Pentecost (meaning fifty), the coming of the Holy Spirit and the special gifts bestowed on the frightened disciples to equip them with courage and wisdom. We enjoyed a guided Thanksgiving meditation to practise prayerful relaxation in the beautiful Chapel, we mindfully contemplated whilst creating a colourful Pentecost 'stained glass window' mandala and we performed in a Pentecost dramatisation which called us to make a courageous pledge: Committing to the future to take daily steps towards reconciliation.
We were treated to a delicious morning tea and lunch, however the real highlight for us was the mass, prepared by the Year 7 students and celebrated by Fr Martin Tanti and Fr Kevin Toomey OP, aided by Monty.
Fr Kevin, our Chaplain, spoke of the special friendship between Elizabeth and Mary in his homily on the eve of the Feast of the Visitation. He reminded us of the wonderful things that happened to Mary and Elizabeth as mothers at the heart of which lies a friendship that was cemented on that day for life. Fr Kevin called this feast, the Feast of Friendship. He told us that, very often, it is at school that lifelong friendships are born, and the values of love and support that they will bring us begins there. He encouraged us to connect with those girls who will be our good friends now and also later in life.
Some student reflections on the day include:
'I learnt a lot from St Catherine, especially about making a difference and using our unique abilities to make good changes in our world. When we went to the chapel for Mass, I felt comforted and at peace. This Reflection Day was definitely needed and I learnt much that I will try to use and take with me through my life.' Yasmin Korfiatis
'The Mass at the end was a great way to finish off the day and bring everyone together. I really enjoyed the company of the little dog, Monty. The muffins and juice were delicious and meant that the people who planned our retreat really cared about us.' Madison Simmons
'I loved the amazing scenery and views. We could take time to meditate and relax. It was really calming. It was fun to perform the play about Pentecost. The Mass was good as everyone was involved and I liked the choir singing.' Lucy Parnell
'The most relaxing part of the day was meditating in the chapel and I was calm and relaxed, not worrying about anything. It was really fun to perform the Pentecost play with my whole class. I really enjoyed the warm up activities at the beginning.' Indira D'Sylva
'I liked how our Reflection Day was a different way of learning, that we were relaxed but still learning about the important themes of Reconciliation Week, Pentecost and St Catherine's message to us.' Eilish Hersom
'The day was one of the best days ever. I love reflecting on God and religion. The meditation allowed me to pray and let my worries go.' Lily McNidder
'I enjoyed being in a peaceful environment with beautiful views of the mountains and my friends. My favourite activity was colouring our 'stained glass window' mandala, gazing out at the alpacas and sheep.' Madeline Castoldi
'I was chosen to decorate the altar for mass. I really enjoyed picking the flowers and deciding on the symbols that represented the Siena Year 7 students as a community.' Athena Tsonis
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
Our Year 11 students participate in the Eckhart program as part of the Religious Education course.
Our Year 11 students participate in the Eckhart program as part of the Religious Education course. This program is one of enrichment, offering our students three seminars across the year that are delivered by renowned and highly accomplished presenters who challenge them to think differently and creatively.
On Friday, 1 June, Dr Frances Baker RSM ran a workshop based on Christian anthropology that addressed such philosophical issues as 'In the Light of Reason', 'The Human Person Adequately Considered' and 'The Human Person in the Light of Christian Faith'. She couched these within the framework of Catholic Social Teaching and focused on the encyclical, Laudato Si, to raise important considerations for our study of Religion and Society.
Dr Frances Baker RSM is Deputy Master of the Catholic Theological College. She is Head of the Department of Moral Theology and Canon Law, a member of the Department of Systematic Theology and is Coordinator of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching Religious Education. She lectures in Moral Theology and Systematic Theology.
The students spoke of feeling 'stretched' and challenged in their thinking. They appreciated being exposed to different thinking tools and other approaches to access the core principles behind Religion and Society. Some of their comments included:
'Dr Frances Baker visited Siena College to challenge the Year 11 students with what makes the human person, from a predominantly Catholic perspective. It was interesting to engage in different viewpoints and insights. Dr Baker also used reasoning to support her arguments and that's important in Philosophy. It was an interactive lecture and she was open to questions and different interpretations.' Olivia Wilhelm
'On 25 May, Dr Frances Baker came to Siena to challenge us and expand our minds on a wide range of interesting topics on Christian Social Teachings, the Human Person and their Christian faith. She encouraged us to always try and find the common good in others and stressed the fact that we are all made in the image and likeness of God. Her insights opened not only our minds but also our hearts as we reflected on what it means to be human. Overall, Dr Frances ignited a lot of discussion amongst our year level which will help us to grow and develop our own views on what it means to be Catholic.' Emily Bolton, Yasmin Howard and Velentina Boulter
'The seminar presented by Dr Frances Baker was one that was intriguing and enlightening for us all. I am a student in the Philosophy class and I found many points that correlated with our course. This seminar expected us to think. Some points brought up allowed for us to practise our thinking process especially using the Socratic method. I found myself thinking deeply about the meaning of being human which is a mammoth question. This was guided by the talk Dr Frances Baker gave. This seminar made me think about the very core of philosophy, and helped to foster in me a love for wisdom.' Jade Devlin
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
On Tuesday evening, six Year 11 and 12 students attended the Xavier Social Justice Network Dinner in support of Jesuit Refugee Services.
On Tuesday evening, six Year 11 and 12 students attended the Xavier Social Justice Network Dinner in support of Jesuit Refugee Services. Our students were delighted to meet guest speaker, Gillian Triggs, former President of the Australian Human Rights Commission.
Bronwyn IlottHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Student Social Justice Day at the Australian Catholic University
Attending the Justice Education in Catholic Schools Student Social Justice Day at Australian Catholic University (ACU) provided three of our student leaders with the opportunity to learn about the principles of Catholic Social Teaching and to consider how they could apply these principles to their roles as Justice Leaders at Siena. FIRE Carriers Captain Rebecca Klavc, Social Justice Captain Madeleine Harriss and Social Welfare Captain Grace Oliver met with student leaders across the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne for a day of education, community and reflection.
Our leaders attended workshops presented by Caritas Australia, Catholic Mission, ACRATH, The Benenson Society and Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Melbourne. These sessions promoted the work of each organisation and opened up opportunities for dialogue with students from other Melbourne Catholic Schools. The theme of the day was 'Leave your mark on History' and the sessions explored how, through their work as leaders, our students could do just that.
A highlight of the day was participating in an African Drumming Workshop facilitated by Foday Camara from Ghana.
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
The majority of GSV Netball, Hockey , Water Polo and AFL have finished for the season, with a mixed season for Siena teams.
The majority of GSV netball, hockey, water polo and AFL have finished for the season, with a mixed season for Siena teams. All teams had good periods and showed strong character and effort, with our AFL teams having a mixed but competitive season, led by the Senior A team, which finished second in the Zone 1 ladder, as well as the Siena 1 AFL 9s team, which finished first in its zone ladder. Our water polo team was competitive, with two strong performances at the start and end of the season. Siena's hockey teams also endured a tough season but were well represented by the Junior A Grade team, which did well to finish second in a competitive zone group. Our netball teams have competed in a professional and strong manner, even though not reflected by the ladder positions. A huge congratulations to the junior netball teams, some of which are still in contention for finals. We also have competed strongly in cross country events, with athletics, aerobics and basketball competitions upcoming to complete the term.
Congratulations to Jemma Rigoni who came 49th out of 226 runners in Junior A cross country, a phenomenal effort. Katie Netherway was 41st in Senior A overall out of 191 Runners, again an amazing effort that has made us proud. Well done to both girls.
A special mention also to Jaimie Guan, who over recent months has been competing in various karate tournaments, achieving not only outstanding results, such as winning bronze and silver medals, but also showing the true Siena character of strength and perseverance, a lesson we can all learn from. Well done, Jaimie!
Congratulations to the girls for your amazing efforts this term and we look forward to a strong Term 3!
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On Tuesday 22 May, the Siena Chess club attended Presbyterian Ladies College Chess Tournament, facilitated by Chess Victoria.
On Tuesday 22 May, the Siena Chess club attended the Presbyterian Ladies College (PLC) Chess Tournament, facilitated by Chess Victoria. In addition to our Siena girls, the competition for secondary schools included teams from PLC, MacRobertson High School, and Balwyn High School. There were 115 students competing in both the primary and secondary school divisions.
The Siena participants were: Jasmine Skutela, Zoe Kelly, Emily Ovens, Siena Justus, Estelle Jones, Nicole Ahn, and Carly Walsh. The competition was very tough with both PLC and MacRobertson entering several teams each for the day. However, our single teamed Siena girls played well, using clever strategies and recalling skills learnt in the weekly Chess Club meetings. For most of the Year 7 and 8s, it was their first ever tournament and so it was a great opportunity to learn tournament protocols and combat nerves. Zoe Kelly won four out of seven games and was ranked 8th out of 31 girls.
The Siena Chess Club meets every Wednesday at lunchtime in the College Library. At the meetings, we are very fortunate to have the benefit of learning from Ms. Rose Unal, an expert chess player and representative of Dark Horse Chess Coaching. New players of all skill levels, including absolute beginners, are very welcome to come along!
Heather O'Keefe
Learning Enhancement
From the chess tournament, I learnt many new tactics and defensive moves to put to use in the future. I really enjoyed the day and thought it was busy but in a good way. I can't wait to go to more chess tournaments in the future.
Jasmine Skutela
This week I had the opportunity to compete in another chess tournament, the first for 2018. We went as a team of 7, but only two of us had been to a tournament before, so it was a great start to the year - especially for the newer players - to learn some new skills and improve. I thoroughly enjoyed the tournament, and I'm looking forward to continuing chess this year and building up my skills to teach others. (And hopefully not being placed on table 1 so much...)
Zoë Kelly
Entertainment Book forms
Please remember to return your Entertainment Book forms to Student Reception.
Tickets are selling fast for A Chorus Line: High School Edition and rehearsals are in full swing!
Tickets are selling fast for A Chorus Line: High School Edition and rehearsals are in full swing! Click here to book your tickets.
Last Friday, the Year 12s were visited by a series of guest speakers from a variety of Tertiary Institutions during their Study Block.
Last Friday the Year 12s were visited by a series of guest speakers from a variety of Tertiary Institutions during their Study Block. The University of Melbourne, RMIT, La Trobe University and Box Hill, Kangan and JMC Institutes and Lattitude GAP Year programs were all present. Students heard about courses in Media and Communications, Design, Business, Music, Film and TV, Health Sciences, Nursing and Sport.
Next week Year 12s will be able to choose sessions presented by Monash University, Swinburne University, Deakin University, ACU, the International College of Hotel Management and Defence Force Careers.
Students in Year 10 have started to visit to discuss their Career Test results and subject selection for VCE. Parents are most welcome to organise a Careers appointment in the coming weeks. This week's Siena Career News features many school holiday activities that the universities are running for students in Years 10 to 12.
Introducing our new Keep Cups, $15 each. An SRC initiative, all funds raised will go towards environmental sustainability causes.
Siena Keep Cups are an SRC initiaive. All funds raised from the purchase of Keep Cups will go towards environmental sustainability causes. Click the image below to order.
Win a Google Home mini!
3 easy steps to online ordering at Siena College Canteen
1. Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.au
Click on Create Account Fill in your details and submit (Please note Your School Registration ID: 25307963)
If you need help call 02-89010398
2. Before you can start ordering Login to your secure portal:
Add Students
Top-up your account
3. Placing an order
To place an order, follow these steps:
Select a student
Enter or select the date
Click on Start Order button and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
For the month of June all online orders over $5 will receive a free Prima Orange Juice and the chance to win a Google Home Mini! One entry for every online order. The winner announced at the end of Term 2.
Collect your order at lunchtime from the priority lunch order pick up.
How do we decide the gift we will give to a special friend on their significant anniversary? The Dominican communities of Eastern Australia were pondering this in 1945.
How do we decide the gift we will give to a special friend on their significant anniversary? The Dominican communities of Eastern Australia were pondering this in 1945. Mother Mary Gonsalvo Byrne was professed in Maitland in 1895. She had been Mistresses of Novices, Prioress General and in 1945 was Prioress of the Siena Convent. For her Golden Jubilee, the students of Siena and St Dominic's presented her with a diary of Siena Convent since 1926. The list of other gifts from Dominican communities presents an interesting snapshot of social history. Some of the gifts included a handmade lace table centre and doilies, a silver fruit dish, a Shelley jam dish, a silver mustard pot and casters and an encyclopaedia of furniture.
Mother Gonsalvo was much loved by the Siena Community. After she died in 1951, the past students erected a crucifix, in her memory, in the gardens outside the Convent.
This issue we are looking for information. We have several of these hats in archives but not one photograph of the hat being worn. We are unsure of the exact dates when it was in use but our best guess is between 1998 to 2013 and we believe it was an optional item of uniform. If you can shed any light on the mystery please let us know at email@example.com
Maureen McAuley and Maria Ang
College Archivists
An invitation to interested members of the community from St Thomas the Apostle Parish...
Monday, 25 June 2018 at 7.30pm, followed by supper at approximately 8.30pm
School Hall, St Thomas the Apostle Parish
57 Central Road, Blackburn
St Thomas the Apostle Parish Pastoral Council invites you to a gathering in Response to the Child Sexual Abuse Tragedy in the Church
Special Guest: Fr Kevin Dillon
Guest Speakers will speak on:
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
The Christian feast of Pentecost developed late in the fourth century, signifying "the fifty days of Easter", an entire period of rejoicing.
The Christian feast of Pentecost developed late in the fourth century, signifying the fifty days of Easter, an entire period of rejoicing. Pentecost invites us to consider our own participation in the fellowship, worship and mission of the church and renew our commitment. As our community marked Pentecost Sunday last weekend, the following reflection by Joan Chittister OSB reminds us all of the wider meaning of this celebratory time of illumination.
For fifty great days, the heart of the Christian community has a sense of ultimate fulfillment. It is a delicious time. A shaft of light has come to pierce the uncertainties of the seeking. We are living now with a torch in our hands, however dark the darkness.
For the early Christians, and for us now, it is a matter of allowing the Spirit to transform us so that our lives and the life of Christ do finally merge, do really melt into one another, do truly become one, are united both here and hereafter.
Pentecost is a period of Christian enlightenment. We come to know during these fifty days not only who Jesus is but who we are meant to be, as a result.
It is a time of unbounded assurance and a sense of limitless liberation. It is hope and faith and trust all bound into one in us.
(Joan Chittister, A reflection of the meaning of Pentecost, The Liturgical Year)
Over the last two weeks, we have had cause to both celebrate and reflect on achievements within our College community. Year 12 student Kate McDonald has recently returned from the Pacific Rim Gymnastics Championships with two bronze medals. Kate placed third in the uneven bars individual event, and was part of the Australian girls team which placed third overall. We are very proud of Kate's achievements and her dedication and commitment to her training.
Our debating team continues to move from strength to strength with Jade Devlin (Year 10) representing Siena at the Rostrum Voice of Youth Public Speaking Competition on 20 May. Jade won her heat convincingly and will proceed to the semi finals. Elena Cruz (Year 10) participated in the Rotary Club of Balwyn Public Speaking Competition on 7 May and spoke very eloquently on the plight of refugees. We congratulate these girls and wish Bianca Cleland (Year 12) well as she prepares to represent Siena at the VCAA Plain English Speaking Competition at St Leonard's College on 28 May.
Last Friday, Siena College staff bid farewell to much loved staff member Kate Gotlib, née Kelly, who has taken up a position at St Michael's Grammar. Kate is an alumna of the College (Class of 1996) and has been a valued member of staff since 2001. In this time, Kate has taught English, History, Politics, Geography, Money Markets and Psychology, has been the Debating Coordinator, the Waratah House Coordinator and, for the last three years, our Head of Student Formation and Social Justice Education. All this while raising a beautiful family with husband, Ralph. Kate is Co President of the Alumnae Association and has made an extraordinary contribution to many aspects of life at Siena College. We will miss her daily presence and thank her for her leadership, her gifts as an educator and for the inspiration she has been to staff and students alike.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Pentecost, the birthday of the Church, National Reconciliation Week, our Solomonese sisters
In the story Luke tells, the coming of the Spirit introduces a season of reconciliation.
The breach between people was symbolised in the story of the Tower of Babel and the division of people by language.
That division is healed at Pentecost when people who had travelled from many different parts
to celebrate the feast each hear the disciples' words in their own language.
It follows that Jesus' followers are to overcome divisions by forming a church united by the Spirit of Christ in discovering God's love.
After the story of Pentecost, Luke describes in idealised terms what the church is like when it lives in the Spirit.
It becomes a place of reconciliation where people gather to pray, and share their goods together.
The divisions caused by inequality are overcome in the life of the community, and people of different cultures
and rank are reconciled with one another.
Reconciliation is another name for community – community grows when people are reconciled.
Andrew Hamilton SJ
Siena has a long standing commitment to the national reconciliation process. Saturday, 26 May is National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is then bookended by two important dates: the anniversary of the 1967 referendum on 27 May and the anniversary of the historic High Court Mabo judgement on 3 June.
27 May 1967: On this day, Australia's most successful referendum saw more than ninty per cent of Australians vote to give the Australian Government power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and recognise them in the Census.
3 June 1992: On this day, the Australian High Court delivered the Mabo decision, the culmination of Eddie Koiki Mabo's challenge to the legal fiction of 'terra nullius' (land belonging to no one) and leading to the legal recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Lands. This decision paved the way for Native Title.
This year's NRW theme is 'Don't Keep History a Mystery: Learn. Share. Grow'. To explore this, all students participated in a Pastoral program on Thursday that highlighted some of the lesser known aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and achievements. These provocations are designed to prompt Australians to ask themselves: What are some of the things I don't know about our shared history?
We recently welcomed Sisters Loretta and Teresa from the Solomon Islands to our College. Along with Sisters Jenny Gerathy and Elizabeth Hellwig OP, they educated staff and students about the significant impact of climate change in the Solomons and the effect this is having on their community. Read more about this here. The presentation and discussion provided a context for funds raised from our St Catherine's Day Fiesta and the ways in which they will be used to support programs facilitated by the sisters.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
Our Service to the Community program was launched back in February and since then, Siena students have been involved in many exciting and powerful Justice initiatives.
Our Service to the Community program was launched back in February and since then, Siena students have been involved in many exciting and powerful Justice initiatives. They are keen to make a difference and help bring about change in our community. I am hearing wonderful stories of students accompanying their parents on the Soup Van, to bring nourishment and warmth to the homeless of Melbourne on these cold Winter evenings. We also have a dedicated group who give their time on a Tuesday morning before school preparing sandwiches at St Dominic's parish centre.
Other students have shown compassion and kindness for the elderly as they serve at the St Dominic's parish Seniors' lunch, brightening the day for those older people enjoying an afternoon of friendship and companionship. Marching in support of asylum seekers here in Australia had a profound impact on many of our students who attended the Palm Sunday rally.
Practical service such as baking cakes for the St Dominic's cake stall, enabled our students to support the work of the FCJ Sisters at Patayas, a community on the edges of a rubbish dump on the outskirts of Querzon City in the Philippines. The aim of the Sisters is to educate the young people and lift them out of the cycle of poverty.
A few of our senior students took up the offer from FareShare to volunteer in their kitchen in Abbotsford to help make meals for those in need during the Term 1 holidays. With the rising cost of living, the number of people needing assistance with food is growing constantly. Last year, FareShare supported thousands of children, women and men by cooking 1.1 million meals. It is exciting to hear about the creative ways our students are making real and valued contributions that are life changing and empowering, because they understand that we can make a difference by engaging compassionately in our world.
We remind our students that Service to the Community challenges us to look for ways to understand the lives of others who are impacted by poverty and injustice in our community so that we can work to bring about change and make a difference in our world. Our Dominican educational journey asks of us to walk with others, to see and respond to the Truths in our society of the marginalised, the oppressed and the poor in our community.
Please remember that, in the true spirit of Service to the Community, the following guidelines apply:
Thank you to our students who are giving of their time and talents so generously and selflessly to bring about joy and justice for others.
The team making sandwiches for the Soup Van: Justina Flunt, Ava Briglia, Abbie Sullivan, Gabrielle Vogels, Manaswi Vulpala, Abigail Millar
Pictured at Seniors afternoon tea: Madeline Castoldi
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
The aim of the Building bridges program is to promote mutual understanding, respect and ethical behaviour across our cultural and religious diversities.
The aim of the Building bridges program is to promote mutual understanding, respect and ethical behaviour across our cultural and religious diversities and develop competent emerging global leaders. Over 2,400 students have participated since the program commenced in 2004, with more than 350 students from twenty-six independent schools taking part in the 2017 program.
Each year, students engage in five two hour sessions, plus one full day of creative activities. The concluding event is a Presentation Night that provides an opportunity for representatives from each region of Melbourne to share their experiences, and for the students to receive their Graduation Certificate.
So far, we have enjoyed our first two evenings of interfaith dialogue, friendship and food, both halal and kosher. For our first evening, we began with a traditional Examen in the Xavier College chapel, a prayerful expression of Ignatian spirituality and reflection. Later in the same week we also prayed together at the East Preston Islamic College. We learned about (and tried on if we wished) different forms of dress from Islamic cultures, and experienced making Wudu with the students (ritual washing).
The Siena students have commented on how enriching the Building Bridges experience has been for them in their study of Religion and Society Unit 2 and understanding particularly of the Abrahamic religions. The experiential nature of the program provides opportunities for them to reflect upon, articulate and critique their core values, beliefs and experiences that have shaped them as they develop a better understanding of the different religious and cultural perspectives of our neighbours.
Siena College will host a session in August, where we will delve deeper into our own Catholic tradition and faith, to explain it to others and explore its influence in our lives.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
Mt Scopus Smorgon Outreach program
Each year, as part of the comparative component of Religion and Society Unit 1, our Year 11 students engage in Interfaith Dialogue with our neighbouring Jewish school, Mount Scopus College. We participate in a peer-to-peer run program designed to encourage and support the students from both schools to explain their faith tradition to the other.
An experience of synagogue is an essential part of the program and hearing a student read from the Torah in Hebrew is quite profound. Judaism within synagogue is explained and our students are encouraged to ask questions and view the beautiful presentation of the Torah, handwritten on parchment.
In small groups, we are told the story of Passover, Pesach, and of the fulfilment of the Covenant. The rituals of Pesach are explained to our students by their Jewish peers and the sampling of the Matzah (kosher unleavened bread) is a highlight. Both traditions recognize this great opportunity for enrichment and learning.
Some student comments include:
'It is interesting to be immersed in the Jewish religion and hear how adherents live their lives as Jewish people. It made me realize how interesting and diverse our society is.'
'It was fascinating to see how religion is practised by a person who is our age. It made it much easier to identify with a peer who is explaining Judaism. The students from Mount Scopus practise their faith in different ways, some stricter than others. The students who are passionate about their religion were quite inspiring.'
'Seeing the Jewish faith as central to every aspect of the school was eye-opening and my expectations of learning were challenged. I enjoyed hearing about the culture also, day-to-day life, and the rituals and ethics of another faith tradition.'
'Being confronted by the strict security on the gates of Mount Scopus led to some great discussion about why this could be necessary and I learnt much about events in Israel of which previously I had no understanding. It was also fascinating to have explained why synagogues separate men and women, sometimes from one floor to another, sometimes with curtains, such as at Mount Scopus College.'
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Autumn Concert, Shannon Barnett workshop, Year 9 Music and Beyond, VCE Music...
Year 9 Music and Beyond students attended CLOC's production of Strictly Ballroom: the Musical at the National Theatre on Friday, 18 May. The students were very excited to see a live show, especially one with such amazing costumes and sets. The hit songs from the movie were sung with gusto and the newer dance songs had the audience doing the rumba! The Year 9 class will be writing up their reviews this week and comparing the live show with the hit movie.
Shannon Barnett, an Australian trombonist, vocalist and composer, who is an important contributor to our Australian music scene, visited Siena College to lead workshops with our trombone and jazz ensemble students on Thursday, 17 May. Our students were very excited to hear her play some of her original compositions, learn ways to improve their technique and develop their improvisation skills on their instruments. Shannon worked at Siena in 2009 and she was very impressed at the number of students in the program and with our new facilities.
Preparation for the Autumn Concert has been underway for weeks and with all the extra sectionals and practise by students, it is not a surprise that the Autumn Concert showcased many polished performances from our ensembles and soloists. Despite a few nerves before the concert, Junior Band musicians performed Hit the Spot to an excellent standard for students who only started learning their instruments last term.
The concert, held on Wednesday, 23 May, also featured fabulous performances from Symphonic Band, Wind Orchestra, Groove Train, Planet Groove, Senior String Ensemble, Junior String Ensemble, Canti Dolce, Senior Choir, Junior Choir, Folkus, Clarinet Ensemble, Galway Flutes, Guitar Ensemble and VCE Music Performance soloists. It was also very exciting to see our new bass flute featured in the Galway Flute performance. Congratulations and many thanks to all student musicians and music staff for a fantastic concert.
Bookings now open!
Bookings are open for our 2018 Siena College and Whitefriars College musical, A Chorus Line: High School Edition. Click on the image below to book your seats:
This week, our library staff hosted our first Siena Reads week in the Albertus Magnus Library.
This week, our library staff hosted our first Siena Reads week in the Albertus Magnus Library. Siena Reads will be held annually and aims to promote reading and the development of a reading culture at Siena College.
Events included Siena College participating in the 18th annual National Simultaneous Story Time. Our Library Captains, Catherine and Sophie, read aloud Hickory Dickory Dash by Tony Wilson to a captive audience during recess on Wednesday.
On Thursday, Australian Young Adult crime author, Ellie Marney, addressed students at lunchtime and then facilitated a creative writing workshop for Year 8 English students.
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On Wednesday, 9 May, three of our Year 8 students participated in Creative Commerce at Fintona...
On Wednesday, 9 May, Charlotte Goldfinch, Mikayla Rollnik and Abbey Harford joined fifty other Year 8 students at Fintona Girls School for a day of Creative Commerce entitled Can your Business Survive and Thrive or will it Dive? Participating schools included Scotch College, Camberwell Girls Grammar, Strathcona, Kingswood College, and Camberwell Grammar School.
A guest speaker from the financial markets spoke to the students about the stock market and buying and selling shares. This led to a scenario based game where each team competed against other teams to lead a successful business. During the day, the students were engaged in problem solving techniques as part of investing in a business. Each student team made up a company and valued it using a cashflow model and had to face the issues that businesses round the world face today. They had to model the changes in the cashflows that these issues created and use their knowledge and teamwork skills to solve the problems that arose from those issues.
The day was a wonderful experience with students being challenged to collaborate and think creatively and critically in the assessment of their company valuation.
Heather O'Keefe
Learning Enhancement
I learnt how unpredictable the stock market is and how even small changes can make a huge difference in shares and profits. You need to be adaptable, but consistent at the same time, you need to know what you're up against and how you can make yourself better, and end on top. I liked working with other schools and people and using Excel, because I've never used it before. A lot of fun and numbers!
Abbey Harford, Year 8
Career News, Careers Showcase 2018
At this time of year many of the universities and other tertiary institutions hold events to introduce secondary students to the world of tertiary study and what courses and careers are available. In this week's Siena Career News you will find all the upcoming dates for the My Melbourne Future series of course information presentations. These are great to attend and perhaps not as overwhelming as an Open Day as they are focused wholly on a particular course at the university. Secondary students can listen to lecturers, current students, hear about new initiatives, opportunities for overseas study and pathways into courses.
For students interested in Hospitality and Hotel Management there is information on the Blue Mountains school of Hotel Management, William Angliss Institute and Le Cordon Bleu culinary school. Also for Year 12s, La Trobe University opens applications for the ASPIRE program. This program rewards the skills and knowledge students have gained through contribution to their community by awarding an early offer into the course of their choice at La Trobe.
As always, I am happy to meet with students and their parents to discuss future career options and encourage all to check out our careers website http://www.sienacareers.com.au
On Thursday, 28 June the Siena College Alumnae Association is hosting the annual Careers Showcase. The Showcase is run for students from Years 9 to 12 and their parents to hear first hand from Siena alumnae about their career journey and what an occupation is really like. Further details and information on how to register will be provided in the next few weeks.
Clare Timmins
Head of Careers
Year 12 student Kate McDonald has returned from the Pacific Rim Championships with two bronze medals!
Year 12 student, Kate McDonald, has returned from the Pacific Rim Championships with two bronze medals. Kate came third in the uneven bars individual event, and the Australian girls won bronze overall in the teams placings. Congratulations, Kate!
Image: Kate and her coach, Jeb Silsbury.
Friends of Sport Swim and Dive Breakfast
Our thanks to FOS parents and particularly Penny Frausing who hosted a breakfast this morning for our swim and dive team. Head of Sport, James Houghton congratulated everyone on a fantastic season and recognised the following Year 12 students who have participated in the program for six consecutive years:
Ilaria Del Tito
Ella Frausing
Giselle Hudson
Emer McGing
Grace Mikleus
Ellie Dickinson
Did you know that Siena has had a number of community dogs?
Did you know that Siena has had a number of community dogs?
In the 1940s, Jock was a special presence for all the community, students and staff, and especially for Mother Magdalen Christie. In a newspaper clipping from 1983, Joyce Williams, a Siena student during the 1940s, says '…he would sit next to her, gradually leaning until he was half asleep against the skirt of her habit.'
Jock was an English Setter born on 28 October 1936. His pedigree shows his lineage to his great, great, great grandparents. His colour is described is described as 'Blue Belton'.
Do you have any memorabilia for our archives?
We are particularly keen to find:
However, all Siena related donations are most welcome. Contact us via email at email@example.com.
Maureen McAuley and Maria Ang
College Archivists
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
As we commence the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020...
As we commence the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment Forms and Prospectus packs are available from Reception or via our website.
Tracey Lawson
Head of Admissions
A reminder that the Siena College canteen accepts online lunch orders,read below for the quick and easy three step process...
Three easy steps to online ordering for Siena College Canteen:
1. Create an account
2. Before you start ordering
3. Placing an order
For the month of May all online orders over $4.90 will receive a complimentary bag of Cobs Popcorn or a yogurt. Online orders can be collected at lunchtime from the priority lunch order pick up at the Canteen.
Catholic School Parents Victoria (CSPV) represents the important perspective of parents across all Catholic schools in Victoria.
Catholic School Parents Victoria (CSPV) represents the important perspective of parents across all Catholic schools in Victoria. As a parent who has children enrolled in a Catholic school you are automatically a member of the parent council. There is no fee to be a member and parents of children attending Catholic schools across Victoria are welcome to apply to join our council through an expression of interest and nomination process. CSPV is officially recognised as the peak Catholic school parent body for nearly five hundred Catholic primary, secondary and special needs schools, representing parent perspective in Catholic education at a diocesan, state and national level through our membership of CSPA (Catholic School Parents Australia). Learn more at the CSPV website.
CSPV invites Siena College parents to subscribe to their newsletter or provide CSPV with feedback on Victorian Catholic education advocacy issues via the subscribe or feedback button on their newsletter or an email to email@example.com.
Click here to view CSPV's latest newsletter.
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
Despite the winter chill descending on Melbourne, Siena College has been abuzz with activity and wonderful community events this past week.
Despite the winter chill descending on Melbourne, Siena College has been abuzz with activity and wonderful community events this past week. It was with great pleasure that I joined a group of Siena College staff, Board Chair Sean McGing, and thirteen students at the sixth annual Susan Alberti Foundation Mother's Day luncheon. Held yesterday at Leonda by the Yarra, the luncheon is a key fundraising event for the foundation which provides ongoing support for medical research. Importantly, this includes vital financial assistance to female researchers whilst they are on maternity leave so that their work can continue. This year's guest speaker was Associate Professor Louise Purton, who spoke of the challenges and adversity she faced throughout her schooling and career (Louise is hearing impaired and has been since the age of three) and the support she received from her extended family when she had her own child, support that ensured her research continued uninterrupted.
We also extend our warm congratulations to Susan for her recognition at the tenth annual Instyle magazine "Women of Style" awards. Susan was the deserving recipient of the "Irrepressible Force" award, recognising her tireless work in the fields of diabetes research, health care for the disadvantaged, and women's football.
We can be justly proud of our students who travelled to Generations in Jazz at Mt Gambier last weekend. The Stage Band performed with aplomb, finishing fifth in their division of 29 bands, with the Sisters of Swing placing 14th out of 26 bands in their section. Additionally Celina Maderski was selected for the Diviison 4 "Superband", made up of the best students across each instrument in the entire division. Our warm congratulations go to all who participated and our thanks to the Siena College staff who accompanied the students - Kerryn McGillen, Sarah Clark, Ben Nieuwkerk, Ivan Rosa and Emily Caracella.
Our thanks once again to SPA for a wonderful Mother's Day Breakfast this morning, the gymnasium providing welcome respite from the chilly weather outside as over 400 guests gathered to enjoy a delicious buffet. Director of Learning and Innovation, Michelle Robertson, was the guest speaker and her thoughts on the realities of balancing career with family life would have resonated with many present. Michelle reminded us of the words of Betty Friedman, American writer and feminist of the 1960's, "A woman has got to be able to say, and not geel guilty: Who am I and what do I want out of life?" An excerpt from Michelle's speech follows:
"So here I am, still fulfilling my passion for teaching and learning and loving every minute of it. I feel blessed to work in a wonderful school such as Siena, to teach engaged young women and to work with so many inspiring colleagues...young women of Siena, the sky is the limit! Do not be afraid to chase your dreams both big and small."
Sadly we finished the week on a sombre note with the news that our former colleague, Marie Salinger lost her precious youngest child last Saturday evening. We extend our deepest condolences to Marie, and also to Fr Dominic Murphy whose mother passed away on Wednesday and to staff member Tina Di Camillo, whose father passed away after a battle with cancer. May they all be at peace with our God.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
As we approach the end of the Easter season we can reflect on how we are called:
As we approach the end of the Easter season we can reflect on how we are called:
The resurrection to which Easter calls us
— our own —
requires that we prepare to find God where God is
by opening ourselves to the world around us with a listening ear.
That means that we must be prepared to be surprised by God in strange places,
in ways we never thought we'd see
and through the words of those we never thought we'd hear.
We must allow others
— even those whom we have till now refused to consider —
to open our hearts to things we do not want to hear.
We must release the voice of God in everyone, everywhere
Joan Chittister O.S.B.
During Holy Week at the end of Term One, our Year 12 students, accompanied by twelve staff members, took part in their annual residential retreat at Pallotti College Millgrove. Over three days and two nights the students were provided with opportunities for prayer, reflection and creative activities, as well as time to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Speaker Melinda Tankard-Reist highlighted the role played by the media in influencing the way young women are portrayed and encouraged the girls to continue to 'seek truth' as living examples of our College motto Veritas. The retreat concluded with a liturgy in the Chapel and an acknowledgement of our generous hosts Bill and Maryanne.
Human Resources Manager, Tracey Kermond and I joined members of Dominican communities across Australia and the Solomon Islands to participate in a Pilgrimage to the Lands of Dominic, throughout the month of April. Travelling through Spain, France and Italy we discovered the 'human' face of St Dominic in the simple and generous actions of those we met, as well as in the relationships formed with our fellow pilgrims. Whilst staying in the Dominican Monastery in Caleruega , Dominic's birthplace, we woke to find gentle snow falling, visiting the site of the first community at Prouilhe we joined the sisters for vespers and in Siena we encountered St Catherine through powerful stories and visual images. It was also wonderful to visit the Museo Civico and see Lorenzetti's Allegory of Good Government which served as inspiration when developing this year's College theme of One Body, Many Parts. On our final day in Rome we attended a Papal Audience and were fortunate to be in close proximity to Pope Francis as he travelled through the crowd - read a transcript of his address here. We both found the pilgrimage a transformative experience and look forward to sharing our learnings with the Siena College community.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
As we approach the busy end of Term in regards to assessment, I refer to some of the learning and teaching matters that were communicated to parents earlier this year.
As we approach the busy end of Term in regards to assessment, I refer to some of the learning and teaching matters that were communicated to parents earlier this year.
The Semester Report will again report on the five specific Classroom Learning Indicators and parents and students will be able to see if there has been any progress or consolidation in this area. It will also include a statement of results of all assessment tasks and at Years 7 to 11, an overall percentage score taking into consideration the individual weightings for each task. If a percentage score is not given, a letter grade is used, such as NS – a school sanctioned absence and no penalty or NA – not assessed and a score of zero. At Year 12, it will consist of S (Satisfactory) or N (Not Satisfactory) for each assessment task. Semester reports will not have teacher comments, as the feedback has been throughout the semester and targeted to the assessment task.
All assignments, whether hard copy or electronic, must be received by the College on the due date and time set by the subject teacher. In the case of a known absence, a student must submit a 'Change of Assessment date' form with the assessment task prior to the due date. The student can submit both documents either directly to the Subject Teacher, via email or by uploading to Siena Central by the due date.
In the case of an unforeseen absence, the student must submit the 'Change of Assessment date' form with the assessment task assignment to the class teacher in their next class with either a medical certificate (for illness or injury) or a written statement from parents or guardians supporting the situation.
When required, it is also the responsibility of the student to ensure that the teacher has approved a 'Change of Assessment date' application. Failure to do so, and the subsequent submission of late work, will result in a score of zero for the assessment task and NA on the report. The 'Change of Assessment date' form can be accessed on Siena Central in the Student Zone or obtained from Student Reception.
Absence on the day of a test, presentation or performance is sometimes unavoidable. Whatever the unforeseen circumstance, the assessment must be fair both to the individual student and to all other students enrolled in the subject.
All students must meet the same performance standards and requirements of knowledge and skills required by other students. Consequently, tests, presentations and performances for which a student has been absent must be completed at another time. At Years 7 to 11, this will normally occur in the next lesson. At Year 12, a rescheduled date will be negotiated with the Head of Senior Pathways. Assessment tasks will only be rescheduled by the Subject Teacher where appropriate evidence substantiating the absence has been provided and an extension requested and granted.
If the task is not completed zero marks will be allocated and an 'NA' (Not Assessed) recorded on the end of semester report.
Please note that Siena College does not support students going on holidays outside of the scheduled term holidays, as it can be very disruptive to a student's learning. If a student is unable to complete the set assessment task or an examination due to their holiday absence, the student will receive a zero and NA for the task on their report. Unfortunately, examinations cannot be rescheduled outside the designated time. However, in some instances, students may be able to complete the assessment task prior. We ask for your support in this matter. If you require further clarification, please speak to the relevant Head of Student Wellbeing.
Ms Bernadette Donnelly
Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
The Year 10 students enjoyed a Jewish immersion experience last Thursday...
The Year 10 students enjoyed a Jewish immersion experience last Thursday which provided a fantastic practical learning opportunity for Religion and Society Unit 2. We were challenged by trying to understand the horrors of the Holocaust, enjoyed a kosher lunch, listened to the role of women in Judaism and wondered at the beauty of one of Melbourne's oldest synagogues.
We began our day, welcomed at the Holocaust museum half an hour ahead of opening time to accommodate our busy schedule. A film on the Holocaust reminded us that we are all part of one humanity; it commemorated the six million Jews murdered by the Nazis between 1933 and 1945. Listening to Holocaust survivors, Abe and John, was a moving experience as they told their stories of survival and loss. We toured the museum in small groups, accompanied by our own personal tour guide, and wondered at how one human being could commit such atrocity against another. Our visit concluded with the hope-filled lighting of the candle for the Memorial Room and being tasked with passing on the Holocaust stories so that we become voices for those who had no voice.
Our next stop on our itinerary was the Beth Weismann Centre, to enjoy a delicious kosher lunch, served to us by members of the Jewish community there. We listened to an engaging presentation by Dr. Michal Kaufman who is the Head of the Midrasha (a women's communal learning institute) at the Mizrachi synagogue. At the Midrasha, women of all ages come to learn and study biblical text, Talmud (Jewish Law), and traditional Jewish commentators. Dr Kaufman gives weekly classes in Bible study and Jewish commentary. She addressed many aspects of our learning regarding Judaism within our study of Religion and Society Unit 2.
The last session of the day was a visit to the St Kilda Hebrew Congregation synagogue, the St Kilda Schule, and our host was Rabbi Ronnie Figdor. This beautiful building is one of Melbourne's earliest synagogues and we sat in wonder at the elaborately decorated scrolls containing the Torah. Ronnie explained many aspects of life in the synagogue and how they, in turn, reflect the life of its adherents. Ensuring food is kosher, fit for consumption, is a complex process; hand-writing the Torah on parchment takes a year to complete and must be free of error. These are examples of the gems of knowledge we took away with us at the end of an engaging and enriching day.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
The sunshine greeted us as the Year 9 students and their Religious Education teachers headed for a day of thought-provoking ideas and spiritual solace at the beautiful Paulist retreat cen...
The sunshine greeted us as the Year 9 students and their Religious Education teachers headed for a day of thought-provoking ideas and spiritual solace at the beautiful Paulist retreat centre in Wantirna.
Our first session was presented by Rachel Shields, and her focus was on Indigenous spirituality. Rachel Shields is a Gamilaroi and Weilwan Woman (Ga-mil-uh-roy & Wah-when) from North Western New South Wales. She grew up living in many areas of Australia and spent much time learning about Creation and connection from the Elders. Rachel's spiritual foundation is grounded in her ancient cultural heritage, many refer to this as indigenous spirituality.
Rachel explained to us that this is simply a sustainable and natural way of being which includes all people, the earth and all living creatures. Among many things, Rachel is a teacher of indigenous knowledge, a counsellor, a singer songwriter, an author and public speaker who enjoys sharing and learning alongside others.
Rachel said, 'Creation does not make mistakes. I am not a mistake. I have worth because I exist.' She challenged us through song, craft and story to reflect on creation, our connection to the earth and to others, and on our journey through life.
Lovett Lahai is from Sierra Leone and shared her story as an asylum seeker in the second session of our day. She spent many years in refugee camps before she journeyed to Australia. She is a mother to five children whom we met through her PowerPoint. She spoke of the importance of Hope. Her final observation to us was inspiring, 'I came to realise that Australians can easily walk with you, in your shoes, if you share your story with them'.
Zeca, a refugee from Timor Leste, ran a drumming workshop for us. The rhythmic beats that resonated from 30 different drums, often complex and challenging, set our toes tapping and hands clapping. What fun!
As well as enjoying delicious food and warm sunshine with our friends, we finished our day with a moving liturgy, celebrated for us by Fr. Kevin Toomey OP, our College chaplain. He spoke to the students about the life of Oscar Romero and the importance of being prepared to stand for what we believe, as was also exemplified by our guest presenters. We sang, prayed for the intentions of our world, our school and of us, and enjoyed the opportunity for quiet prayer and peaceful reflection. Overall, the Year 9 students commented that the day helped fill them with hope and reminded them of the blessings of living in Australia.
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Generations in Jazz, Autumn Concert, Shannon Barnett workshop, upcoming events
Each year Siena College takes two bands to Generations in Jazz who perform at an incredibly high standard. This year was no exception. In each division, students perform a test piece, a ballad and an own selection. Our girls did exceptionally well with the Stage Band finishing 5th in Division Three out of 29 bands, and the Sisters of Swing came 14th out of 26 bands, many of which were senior ensembles at their schools. The girls played with exceptional sensitivity and musicality which is a testament to themselves and their ensemble directors Emily Caracella and Ivan Rosa. Congratulations to all involved.
It is not often that in a group activity where we strive for cohesive performances that students receive individual accolades. However, over the weekend Celina Maderski was given the honour of being selected for the Division 4 Superband at Generations in Jazz. A bit like the All-Australian football team, Super Bands are made up of the best students on each instrument across the whole division, meaning that Celina was considered the best baritone saxophone player out of 50 students. She was told by Ross Irwin, one of the festival's organisers and trumpeter in the Cat Empire that she had a "monster sound." Congratulations to Celina for all her hard work.
The Trombone section in the Siena College Stage Band was awarded the Bach Trombone award for the best trombone section in their division. The section who wins the award receives $1500 of brass products for their school. The winning section, consisting of Melanie Myrtle, Madeline Harris, Mia Flynn and Emily Bolton, have shown endless dedication to their craft, and their countless hours of individual practice have paid off. Credit goes to the girls and their teacher Emily Caracella who has worked tirelessly over many years to help these girls to reach the heights they have achieved this year. Congratulations girls!
The Autumn Concerts, featuring many of our large and chamber ensembles will be held in the Susan Alberti Auditorium at Siena College, on 23 May 2018. The concert is split into two halves with the following ensembles performing in either half. Our 2018 Junior Band will perform for the first time, so families are encouraged to arrive early to secure seats in the auditorium.
Concert 1
Commences at 5pm (in performance order): Symphonic Band, A Capella Choir, Groove Train, Clarinet Ensemble, Junior Band, Junior Choir, VCE soloists
Concert 2
Commences at 7pm (in performance order): Senior Choir, Senior String Ensemble, Planet Groove, Galway Flutes, Folkus, Guitar Ensemble, Junior String Ensemble, Wind Orchestra
The 2018 Student and Parent Instrumental Music Handbook has been distributed to parents of music students via email. This valuable resource is also available on Siena Central and we encourage parents and students to please read through the information supplied.
Shannon Barnett, an Australian trombonist, vocalist and composer and important contributor to the Australian music scene, will be coming to Siena to work with our trombone and jazz ensemble students. After seeing Shannon performing at Generations in Jazz, I have no doubt our students will be inspired by her workshops and lessons on Thursday, 17 May. Shannon won the Young Australian Jazz Artist in 2007, released several albums and travelled the world performing with recognised performers. She is currently living in Germany and will be visiting 'home' for a few weeks in May.
|Students Involved
|Thursday, 17 May
|Shannon Barnett Jazz and Trombone Workshop
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|Jazz ensemble students and Trombone students
|Friday, 18 May
|Year 9 Music and Beyond Excursion - "Strictly Ballroom"
|National Theatre,
20 Carlisle Street,
St Kilda
|Wednesday, 23 May
Concert 1: 5pm
Concert 2: 7pm
|Autumn Concerts
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|Ensembles: Junior Band, Symphonic Band, Wind Orchestra, Junior Strings, Senior Strings, Folkus,
Planet Groove, Groove Train, Junior Choir, Senior Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Galway Flutes,
Clarinet Ensemble and VCE Year 12 soloists
|Thursday, 24 May
|VCE Music Recital Evening
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|VCE UNits 1 and 3 Music Performance students
|Wednesday, 30 May
|Year 10 Music Performance - MSO Meets Tripod Excursion
|Hamer Hall, Melbourne
|Year 10 Music Performance Class
|29 May - 1 June
|Instrumental Music Assessment Week
|Siena College Music Department
|All students learning an instrument at Siena College
|Thursday, 7 June
|Year 10 Recital Evening
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|Year 10 Music Performance class
|Thursday, 7 June
|Lunchtime Soiree #2
|Suan Alberti Auditorium
|Students who have nominated for this will be contacted by email
|Thursday, 14 June
|Lunchtime Soiree #3
|Susan Alberti Auditorium
|Students who have nominated for this will be contacted by email
|Friday, 15 June
|Clasax Saxophone Ensemble Competition
|Fintona Girls School, Balwyn
|Siena College Senior Saxophone Ensemble
2-3 July
|A Chorus Line
holiday rehearsals
|Siena College
|A Chorus Line cast and orchestra
Siena students were privileged to spend a lunchtime with author Francesca Ohlert on Wednesday, 18 April.
Siena students were privileged to spend a lunchtime with Francesca Ohlert on Wednesday, 18 April. Francesca is a Melbourne based writer and editor and ambassador for the Shared Stories Anthology, an annual collection of writing and artwork submitted by students across Melbourne. Francesca spoke to our writers about the role of reading and language in her life and the power of words to move and transform people. Our girls were encouraged by Francesca to seize opportunities to become members of writing communities, both in school and beyond, taking opportunities to practice writing and publishing work wherever possible.
One such opportunity available to Siena students is to enter a piece of writing to be published in the Shared Stories Anthology. In 2018, the Shared Stories theme is "Live Simply, Simply Live". Students are encouraged to submit pieces of poetry, prose or art work relating to this theme to Mrs Ilott by the end of Term 2.
All students are warmly invited to join Siena's own writing community, the Siena Writers Group, where they will be given the opportunity to meet with like-minded peers, to experiment with their writing under the guidance of a staff member. The group meets each Thursday at lunch in B214.
The session with Francesca was so insightful and interesting. Francesca provided a great perspective on how she got into writing her own stories and encouraged us to realise that there is a style for everyone. She also reinforced the idea that with practice you will improve and I found that truly inspiring.
Hayley Di Stefano, Year 9
Francesca was amazing to listen to! She has inspired me to keep practicing and to achieve the impossible.
Indira D'Sylva Year 7
Heather O'KeefeLearning Enhancement
On Wednesday, 2 May, Siena hosted a Year 8 Enrichment Day called "All Fired Up" for schools in the Booroondara cluster.
On Wednesday, 2 May, Siena hosted a Year 8 Enrichment Day called "All Fired Up" for schools in the Booroondara cluster. Students from Kingswood College and Scotch College joined six girls from Siena College (Charlotte Dickson, Bridie Warren, Gabriella Sakkos, Trinity Ng, Maddy Quin, and Maliana Tapusoa) to participate in learning activities that explored the theme of energy.
The students commenced the day with a session run by Mr James Houghton, from Siena College. Through fun activities, they learnt about the bones and muscles of the body, energy systems and the importance of breakfast. They also learnt about the science of converting energy into movement and the importance of food choices in providing the body with the right fuel it needs for optimal performance.
Peta Mackintosh from Siena's Art faculty, took the students through an exploration of a range of wire sculptures that depict the theme of ''All Fired Up" through different facial expressions. Their task was to create a face using wire, working collaboratively in small groups. Their goal was to express their subject matter as energy, movement or mood and the final products were vastly different and very impressive. The final wire faces were projected up on the wall, casting shadows which portrayed how we can interpret people's moods differently.
The last session for the day was run by Katherine Shone, a Sports Dietitian from Olympic Park Sports Medicine Centre. She spoke to the students about energy, how it is measured and consumed, nutrition, and how nutrition enhances performance. She said there is no one "superfood" but reminded us of the importance of responding to your body's cues. She said "One of the very nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating".
Overall, the annual Year 8 enrichment day was highly successful. Students enjoyed the opportunity to learn content that broadened and extended their existing knowledge and were challenged to think creatively in their application of this knowledge. The day provided students with the opportunity to mix with students from neighbouring schools in a stimulating environment.
Student reflections:
Today's workshop "All Fired Up" was a great experience that I had the privilege to take part in. I thought it was a great opportunity to mix with other schools and meet new people, while extending my understanding of energy through art and sport. In the way of art, I particularly enjoyed planning and constructing the wire faces and was ecstatic about the results that my group created. As someone who enjoys sport, I also enjoyed the nutritional advice we were given from a coach and dietitian.
Gabriella Sakkos
Overall, this opportunity was really exciting. We got to learn about things we were particularly interested in such as sport, art and an overlying theme of energy. This day taught us about how energy relates to us in everyday life. As a group, we practised important skills like working cohesively, sharing and improving ideas and having fun.
Maliana Tapusoa.
Earlier this term, three classes of Unit 1 Psychology students visited St Dominic's Primary School, in order to conduct activities with Grade 1 children.
Earlier this term, three classes of Unit 1 Psychology students visited St Dominic's Primary School, in order to conduct activities with Grade 1 children. The girls were studying Developmental Psychology with an emphasis on Cognitive abilities as described by Piaget. The results of the activities were collated and the girls subsequently completed an assessment.
We are grateful to the parents, teachers and students of St Dominic's for assisting us to complete this very important part of the VCE Psychology curriculum.
Mother's Day Stall, Mother's Day Breakfast
Siena College students were spoilt for choice at the annual Mother's Day Stall, with a terrific variety of gifts available for purchase. Thank you to our community for their support of this event. A reminder that passes are still available for the Estee Lauder Corporate Sale, this outlet is not open to the general public and offers substantial discounts on many cosmetic and perfume brands such as MAC, Clinique, Aveda and Bobbi Brown. Tickets are $10 each (one pass per customer) and may be purchased by dropping completed forms to Student Reception at the College by Monday, 14 May.
Despite the arctic conditions, we had just over 400 guests at our annual Mother's Day Breakfast, the biggest event ever hosted by SPA. We enjoyed a delicious buffet breakfast with thanks to our team of dedicated and enthusiastic helpers (many Dads amongst them).
Our thanks to Michelle Robertson, Director of Learning and Innovation, for graciously agreeing to be our guest speaker. Her thoughts on the realities of juggling work and family were honest and amusing and her words of advice rang true, "...your children will be your greatest achievement, beyond anything you aspire to in your chosen career."
Just before school returned for Term 2, a number of Year 12 students visited Canberra.
Just before school returned for Term 2, a number of Year 12 students visited Canberra. The inspiration for the trip came from one of our students, Jess Broderick, who argued that students studying Australian and Global Politics and Legal Studies should find out first hand how laws impact on society and how government operates. Mr Petrie organised the trip and joining him and the students were Ms Walsh and Ms Judd.
Visiting the Governor General's residence was a highlight, as was the High Court, old and new Parliament Houses, the Australian War Memorial and the National Gallery, just to name a few. We were extraordinarily fortunate to be able to meet with political aides and have an hour with Minister Josh Frydenberg who discussed the work of a politician and the various key roles in which he has been involved. He then answered the many questions students had for him.
We are indebted to the support shown by Mr Merv Kiley who helped arrange the visit with Minister Frydenberg. The trip to Canberra was an amazing experience!
On Wednesday, 2 May, four students from Year 9 travelled to Kingswood College to compete in the Academic Challenge Day.
On Wednesday, 2 May, four students from Year 9 travelled to Kingswood College to compete in the Academic Challenge Day that consisted of tasks in eight categories: General Knowledge, English, Engineering, Science, Public Speaking, Art, Poetry, Maths, and Code Breaking. Students took part in activities such as answering general knowledge questions about Australia and the wider world, "off the cuff" speeches covering the topics of sport and occupations, creating a marble-and-cup flying fox, and designing an artwork to illustrate a poem of the students' own creation.
With over fifty students participating from several different schools, tables of six were formed in which students worked collaboratively to complete the challenges. The day was a huge success with students enjoying the interaction with like-minded peers in a stimulating environment and being challenged to think creatively and spontaneously in the application of their general knowledge. Siena students who accepted the Challenge were: Erin Baklien, Nicole Rozario, Charlotte Velona, and Maria Ng.
Results of the Challenge:
Erin Baklien and Maria Ng's table won the Science challenge.
Nicole Rozario and Charlotte Velona's table won Code Breaking.
Goran Spoljaric
Learning Enhancement
Tracey LawsonHead of Admissions
The enrolment process for year 7 2020 has begun...
As we commence the enrolment process for students wishing to enter Siena College for Year 7 in 2020, we would like to remind any current families with daughters in Grade 5 to please ensure that you have submitted an enrolment form. Enrolment Forms and Prospectus packs are available from Front Reception or via our website.
Tracey Lawson
Head of Admissions
A reminder that the Siena College canteen accepts online orders, read below for the quick and easy three step process...
3 easy steps to online ordering for Siena College Canteen
1. - Create an account
Go to http://www.school24.net.au
Click on Create Account Fill in your details and submit
Please note Your School Registration ID: 25307963
If you need help call 02-89010398
2. - Before you can start ordering Login to your secure portal:
Add Students
Top-up your account
3. - Placing an order
To place an order, follow these steps:
Select a student
Enter or select the date
Click on Start Order button and select from Cold Menu, Hot Menu, Snack Menu
For the month of May all online orders over $4.90 will receive a complimentary bag of Cobs Popcorn or Yogurt and collect your order at lunchtime from the priority express lunch order pick up.
Tracey KermondHuman Resources Manager
A warm welcome is extended to the following new staff...
A warm welcome is extended to the following new staff:
Dr Sarah Russo has joined the College Counselling team
Alex Morris has commenced as an Administration Officer - Sport and will provide much needed support to the Cocurricular Sport program
Gemma Tomlinson (Cello) and Daniel Sheehan (Piano) have added their skills to the Instrumental Music Department
Regina Li will support our Chinese students in her role as Language Assistant.
We wished Katrina Honey (Database Coordinator) well as she has left Siena College to explore new opportunities and celebrated the wonderful news of the safe arrival of Dan Henderson's (IT) baby daughter Millie.
Glen Iris School of Dance Mid Year Gala (featuring some very talented Siena College students),
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
A few years back, we called Term 2 'Catherine's Term' in honour of our College patron, Catherine of Siena. At Siena, St Catherine's Day includes many long-standing traditions...
A few years back, we called Term 2 'Catherine's Term' in honour of our College patron, Catherine of Siena. At Siena, St Catherine's Day includes many long-standing traditions, from our prayers and Eucharistic celebration in the morning at St Dominic's Church, to the fundraising stalls in the middle of the day and the Fiesta in the afternoon. It is a day for prayer, for building community, and for reaching out to others in the Solomon Islands.
St Catherine challenges our complacency in 2018 as she invites us to respond and act to address the problems of our time. Her example and inspiration are as relevant in 2018 as during her short lifetime in the fourteenth century. Thomas McDermott OP put it this way:
"Although Catherine was a mystic, there was nothing aloof or detached about her. Throughout her writing there is an appreciation that the quality of our love of God is mirrored in the quality of our love of neighbour. If you want to know how much you really love God, then look at how much you really love those most in need: the most vulnerable, the outcast, the stranger."
Kevin Toomey OP, our College Chaplain was the celebrant for our Mass on St Catherine's Day and he too shared his reflections on Catherine of Siena. We were reminded that St Catherine's love for God and for her neighbour were the two feet on which she walked and that we too have the Gospel and Jesus to help each one of us to discern our path, our truth. St Catherine calls us to live courageously the gift of life which God has given us and to be who we are meant to be.
This year was a twenty-year anniversary of the Fiesta and a day to welcome back past 'winning House Captains' and alumna, teacher and Co President of the Alumnae Association, Gayle Peggie. It was Gayle who introduced the tradition of Fiesta in 1998 and in 2018, it was Gayle who presented the much sought after Catherine's Cup to the winning House Captains of Waratah. Much enjoyment was had by all due to the high standard of the student directed and produced performances. Thank you to Amber Hobson from Glen Iris School of Dance for adjudicating the Fiesta dance performances for us this year.
Waratah House Captains
As Term 2 unfolds, we continue to be reminded of our 2018 College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts'. St Catherine's Day was a lovely reminder of the ways in which we are many parts of the one Body of Christ, in our studies, our work, our care for one another, our awareness of the world beyond the College, and in our action to make the world a more just and harmonious place for all.
We look forward to the many events and activities of this autumn term that are still to come, Generations in Jazz at Mount Gambier, excursions and reflection days, the Siena in the City Presentation Night and the ongoing preparations for the Siena/Whitefriars Musical, 'A Chorus Line: High School Edition' to name just a few.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
As Dominicans, we understand the cycle of life and death is hallowed and renews itself continually.
As Dominicans, we understand the cycle of life and death is hallowed and renews itself continually. We are called to that experience of life and freedom, to heal and make whole, and to carry on the story of the cycle of renewal for our holy, broken world.
Gerard Manly Hopkins reminds us so beautifully, 'Let Him Easter in us, be a Dayspring to the dimness of us, be a crimson-crescent East!' In House Groups, Siena College students gathered to reflect on the Easter story and the challenges of the Resurrection for each of us:
'Christ has no hands but ours, No feet for the journey but ours.'
Led by our student leaders, we reflected on Teresa of Avila's inspirational call to us to be Christ for others. What is the 'Truth' of Easter, our Veritas, which calls us to mercy?
'Christ has no dreams but ours, No eyes of compassion but ours.'
Compassion opens the door of the heart and enables us to express closeness especially to all those who are alone and marginalized, because it makes us all children of one Father. It fosters the recognition of all those in need of consolation and makes us find the appropriate words to give them comfort … Let us never forget that mercy is the turnkey in the life of faith, and the concrete way with which we give visibility to Jesus' Resurrection.
We understand, from the Gospel reading, that it was the women who found the tomb empty and set forth to reveal and proclaim the joy of the Resurrection. These women came to nurture and tend the body out of love and compassion for Jesus and those close to Him. It was the women who, by showing compassion, revealed the Good News story of the Resurrection. What a compelling message for our students.
Our beautiful Easter liturgy concluded with the powerful reminder that, as Dominicans who journey with Jesus: 'We are Christ's body here on earth, We are many parts of this one body, called to bless the world.' Teresa of Avila (1515–1582)
Father Kevin Toomey's homily from Friday's Mass reminds us all to make no apology for who we are...
I have recently become aware of the film The Greatest Showman which has a great song in it: "This is me". I am sure that most of you could sing this for me and that the words ring round in your heads. It would bring back the situation where Barnum is slowly pushing away his original group of ugly friends, because he was ashamed of them. It brings forth this magnificent song. Barnum's friends are not going to be put down so easily. The lines which continue to ring in my ears are:
When the sharpest words wanna cut me down
I'm gonna send a flood, gonna drown them out
I am brave, I am bruised
I am who I'm meant to be, this is me.
I'm not scared to be seen
I make no apologies this is me.
These courageous words remind me that St Catherine was another person passionate for God, who could not be put down and would make no apologies for what she did. She was a warm, affectionate person who from early on attracted people to her like bees to a honeypot, because she had so much to give to others. She had a great ability to make friends and keep them, whether they were of high status or low – it mattered not to her. For her, they were individual people made in the image of her God, and therefore precious in her eyes. There is one lovely story from late on in Catherine's short life which illustrates this. It concerns a young man from Perugia a small city close to Siena. Niccolo was his name. He had been sentenced to death and was awaiting execution. Catherine was determined that she could help this young man face his death and so she went, befriended him and talked with him, helping him to accept his situation before God, and to receive the eucharist for the first time on the morning he was to die. Catherine stayed close by him as he was executed, and cradled his head as it dropped to the ground, an incredible act of courage and generosity on her part. She had seen Niccolo to the other side – encouraging him to see that his life after death would be with God. You and I may not called to do that today, though an American Sr Helen Prejean did something similar in the 1970s for a man on death row which is commemorated in the magnificent film Dead man walking. Both Sr Helen and St Catherine are upholding the dignity of every human being, and giving each one of us the comfort and the challenge to do the same thing. At the same time, if you are being excluded from friendships, or just ignored in playground or class room, remember that you have not to make any apology for who you are – people like St Catherine used their compassion and love to ensure that your human dignity would be remembered and upheld – make no apologies for yourself and your goodness: remember "This is me."
It is said of St Catherine that she saw the possibilities in every situation rather than the achievements. There was always more that she would try to do. So this simple unlettered but shrewd and intelligent woman had huge courage coming from her relationship with God. She was to be a bridge, a mediator in difficult political situations. You may get the amazing comparison if we say that these situations were as distressing and difficult as those we are now seeing in Syria and the Middle East: Catherine convinced the Pope, Gregory XI, to move from Avignon in France back to his rightful place in Rome – something that many people, including European kings, had been unable to do. She was asked by the Pope to help stop warring factions in Italian city states from continuing their existing conflicts or beginning new ones. In some of these conflicts she was successful in stopping the war; in others not. But always she had the courage coming from her deep relationship with God to give it a go.
So for Catherine, the gospel of today rings so true where Jesus pronounces himself: "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life". Her love for God and for her neighbour were the two feet on which she walked – they were for her the way, the truth and the life of which Jesus speaks so simply. The same applies to each of us: we have the gospel and Jesus to help each one of us search, to find our path, our truth, our place as Catholic women and men, and to live out courageously the gift of life which God has given us. That search is in many ways only beginning for you, but it has definitely begun, and it will never stop until it reaches its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Siena College has a wonderful tradition, one that comes to it from the Dominican Sisters, whose patron is St Catherine. That same tradition from St Catherine is handed down and upheld today by your teachers and principal. Grasp the many gifts that are within your hearts and minds. They are a steady and sure foundation on which to build your future lives. And remember "This is me." You are already who you are meant to be.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Siena in the City Parent Showcase Evening, Naplan, 2019 Subject Selection
Year 9 students will present their Siena in the City group findings at the Parent Showcase on Thursday, 3 May. The evening will take place in the St Catherine's Centre and will commence at 7:00pm and conclude at 8:00pm. We look forward to hearing about the many varied learning experiences that took place during Activities Week.
NAPLAN testing at Year 7 and 9 will take on 15, 16 and 17 May. Students are assessed using common national tests in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy. These tests provide a snapshot of the progress that individuals and the cohort are making in comparison to state and national standards.
Parents, guardians and students will have received a letter outlining the schedule and the materials required for the tests. Further details are available from the NAPLAN website. NAPLAN is not a test of content. Instead, it tests skills in literacy and numeracy that are developed over time through the school curriculum. Excessive test preparation using previous tests is not necessarily useful. NAPLAN tests identify whether all students have the literacy and numeracy skills that provide the critical foundation for their learning, and for their productive and rewarding participation in the community. (http://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/the-tests.html)
Parents and guardians will receive their individual child results as soon as they become available, usually in September.
Year 9, 10 and 11 students will undertake Semester Examinations in June. Students studying a VCE Unit 3 and 4 subject will sit the compulsory VCAA GAT (General Achievement Test). The Year 9 to 11 Semester One examinations will commence on 14 June and conclude on 21 June. The GAT will take place on 13 June 13. Please note there will be no Year 11 or 12 classes on this day.
Parents, guardians and students will receive a letter in early May with more information regarding the Examination period and their examination timetable. Students should also be speaking to their subject teachers regarding their specific examinations, so that they are confident with both the content of the examination and the best revision strategies. Year 9 to 11 Revision materials will be released on May 23.
In Term Three, students will be asked to select their subjects for 2019. A student applying for an accelerated studies subject in 2019 must have proven ability to cope with the workload, have sound organisational skills and have demonstrated excellence in her chosen Year 9-10 subject area. The accelerated study subject must not negatively impact on the remaining Year 10-11 subjects and a high level of literacy would also be beneficial.
It would be expected that a Year 9 student considering applying to study a Unit 1 and 2 subject as a Year 10 student would be performing at a high academic standard, achieving results of 80% or higher in the relevant subject area and averaging 75% or higher in at least four other subjects studied in Semester One. A Year 10 student applying to study a Unit 3 and 4 subject will need to have achieved 80% or higher in the subject and average 75% in three other Year 10 subjects. Heads of Learning will oversee the application process.
A student who does not meet the criteria based on Semester One results is able to reapply at the end of Semester Two, but cannot be guaranteed a place. If you have any questions regarding the accelerated studies application process, please contact the relevant Head of Learning, or the Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching.
In early Term Three, current Year 9 and 10 students will receive a hard copy of the 2019 Subject Handbook and the current Year 11 students will receive an interactive digital copy of the of their Subject Handbook. More details regarding the subject selection process will be published at a later date.
Ms Bernadette Donnelly
Deputy Principal – Learning and Teaching
Michelle RobertsonDirector of Learning and Innovation
In 2018, the teaching staff have formed Action Research Teams to investigate the ten instructional practices that reliably increase student learning...
In 2018, the teaching staff have formed Action Research Teams to investigate the ten instructional practices that reliably increase student learning and are commonly referred to as the "High Impact Teaching Strategies" (or HITS). The purpose of this approach is to provide opportunity for staff to work together collaboratively, across faculties to investigate, trial, analyse, evaluate and finally to make recommendations regarding our pedagogical direction and subsequent future teaching practice.
The HITS are derived from the studies of educational researchers Robert Marzano and John Hattie, who have synthesised hundreds of teaching strategies from around the world and ranked their impact on student learning. The HITS are the top ten instructional practices considered to have the most impact on student engagement, achievement and wellbeing.
Throughout this process, staff will be required to collect data from the classroom, to determine the impact of the teaching strategy they are investigating. Much of the data will be collected from surveys and questionnaires that students will be asked to complete over Terms 2 and 3. This data will greatly assist teachers in their Action Research projects to benefit your daughter's learning at Siena College. We look forward to completing this exciting research by the end of 2018.
Michelle Robertson
Director of Learning and Innovation
Kate GotlibHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
Staff report and a student's reflection
Trip Reflection - Student
When people ask me about the Kopanang Immersion, I reply saying "it was amazing" or "it was incredible." However, these words do not provide justice to the feelings, experiences and women that come to mind and heart when Kopanang is mentioned. Upon arriving, we were serenaded by our mamas, who ran to embrace their new daughters with warmth and love. I particularly felt the love from my Mama J, who over the next two weeks made Mel and I feel like we were family. So much so that moments after we introduced ourselves to the women, Mama J proudly declared, "Those are my babies." The things which I thought would challenge me - such as limited water, electricity and gas, very quickly become insignificant. It is impossible to detail her daily challenges, yet she is always optimistic in striving for a better day. Her joy, humour, gratitude and faith inspires me with the strength to persevere, open my heart, and embrace everything, especially the challenges. I truly can't wait to return to the Women of Kopanang and see them all again.
Madeleine Harriss (Year 12)
Trip Reflection - Staff
One of the most difficult things about the Kopanang Immersion is attempting to answer the well-meaning question from family and friends upon return 'How was it?' It is such a hard question to answer because of the range of emotions all participants feel. There are no words to describe the initial nerves, the first sighting of the Kopanang Project, the welcoming from the host mother (spontaneous and beautiful singing), the warm families, the contrast between the wealthy and the desperately poor. It is an experience that moves far beyond words. Each day the staff on the Immersion would send a text message to the families in Melbourne, giving a brief update on the trip. Those text messages have been included below, along with some photos from the trip. A huge thank you to Ms Minna Denholm and Ms Bronwyn Ilott for their support on this trip. Opportunities like this are a real team effort.
Should an Immersion run in 2019, there will be an application process for all current Year 10 students commencing at the start of Term 4.
Kopanang Messages:
Day 1: It is 6pm and everyone is safely at home. We visited the Geluksdal School (Refiloe's high school) where the Siena students were treated like rock stars!. The girls also had orientation at Kopanang and spent some time with the children. They have a full day at Kopanang tomorrow – making meals and working in the crèche. The day has been filled with laughter and singing.
Day 2: Today the girls listened to the stories of the Kopanang women and shared their own reasons for being on the immersion. There were tears but also much laughter and singing. We also sorted through the many donations we brought with us and took some out for distribution in the shack areas. The girls were compassionate and kind and held themselves well during what can sometimes be a very confronting experience.
Day 3: Another busy day. The girls worked in the crèche and did an Easter egg hunt with the children. They also designed some embroidery with their host mothers and a few of the girls even learned some basic stitching. We then went to a large store similar to Costco and the girls spent some time selecting meaningful gifts for their host mothers.
Day 4: Good Friday started with Stations of the Cross at Kopanang. We then delivered food supplies to some of the families most in need within the township. The girls attended mas from 2pm – 5.30pm. They were respectful and engaged…even when the priest teased them about the Australian cricket team!
Day 5: It is Saturday night and we are just heading home from a three hour Easter Vigil. It was an incredible celebration and the girls all got up and sang in front of the congregation. We even have video evidence! Today we also went to Constitutional Hill and had a tour of the court as well as the men's and women's prisons. We also went to the Apartheid Museum.
Day 6: Happy Easter from South Africa. Today we have been at the Regina Mundi church - the birthplace of the Soweto resistance in the 1970s. We also went to the Hektor Pietersen Memorial Museum and then on to Rosebank markets. The girls have all made some purchases for their families and friends. We are on the bus now heading home. The route we are taking is through Sandton, one of the most elite suburbs in Johannesburg. It is a stark contrast to the homes we share with our Tsakane families.
Day 7: We are safely home from the Pillensburg Game Reserve. It is raining now but the weather was fine for our 3.5 hour tour through the park. We were VERY lucky and saw a rhino, giraffes, two lions and also came up very close to two elephants. A terrific day was had by all. The girls will sleep well as our day started at 5am.
Day 8: It is Tuesday night and the girls have all been dropped safely home. They spent the whole day at Kopanang working in the crèche and kitchen. In the afternoon the girls tutored students in English and Maths. The students ranged in age from 6 to 17. They did not take a break from the tutoring for a full two hours, even when they all had to run for cover from a storm. You should all be very proud of how the girls are handling themselves.
Day 9: Another day of tutoring, kitchen work and playing with the very energetic crèche kids. Home tonight to cook meals for our host mothers.
Day 10: It is nearly 7pm on Thursday night. All reports from the girls were positive regarding their cooking efforts last night (except for one or two with gluggy pasta!). Today was our last day at the Project. The girls tutored, embroidered, volunteered in the crèche, washed dishes even though they were not required to and completed beading activities with the children. Some of them even tried their hand at soccer before the rain set in.
Day 11: We have just been dropped home after our last full day in South Africa. This morning the girls laid out all the donations we brought over for the women to choose from. Everyone left with bags of fresh clothing, footwear and toiletries for themselves and their families. None of the photos you will see can do justice to the extraordinary effort made by all families and friends to provide useful goods to the women. One quote was priceless – Mumma Patience found a beautiful black and silver scarf and as she wound it around her head she said "Thank you. I feel like Winnie Mandela." We went to the Johannesburg suburb of Kensington to the beautiful home of Sheila's artist friend, mandy. With her guidance, the girls all produced a charcoal mandala drawing as a way of debriefing on their experiences over the fortnight. It was a fitting end to a wonderful trip.
Day 12: Breakfast at the Project and farewells complete. We are now on the bus to the airport so this will be our last message. Everyone is sad to leave but excited to see their families. See you all tomorrow.
On Friday 20 April, the Year 11 Legal Studies students visited the Marngoneet Correctional Centre...
On Friday, 20 April, the Year 11 Legal Studies students visited the Marngoneet Correctional Centre to obtain further knowledge on how the prison system operates as well as an understanding of how prisoners live under these conditions. We spoke to two panels of four prisoners who had been convicted of crimes ranging from drug offences and culpable driving to murder. We learned how everyday people could make simple misjudgements that could seriously impact their lives and others. From speaking to a man convicted of culpable driving resulting in death, we learnt how his mistake of believing that his "issues were the most important on that day" resulted in him being sentenced to six years imprisonment. Through this experience we learnt how important rehabilitation is to ensure prisoners don't reoffend and can get their lives back on track. We believe this was a really rewarding experience that we would recommend to future legal studies students.
Penny Carr and Sarah Murphy
Liz MerrettAlumnae Coordinator
On Monday, 16 April, we hosted a special gathering of current students, and their grandmothers and mothers who were past students of Siena.
On Monday, 16 April, we hosted a special gathering of current students, and their grandmothers and mothers who were past students of Siena. We shared many laughs, exchanged our tales, and spoke of the College with great fondness. We look forward to hosting this event annually.
An update from the Siena Parents' Association
Our annual Mother's Day breakfast has once again sold out, thank you to our school community for the support. We look forward to a wonderful morning on 11 May.
The Mother's Day Stall will be held on Wednesday, 9 May in the undercroft during recess and lunch. Students can purchase gifts via cash or eftpos.
A reminder that tickets to the Siena College Estee Lauder Shopping Fundraiser will be available for purchase for $10. (Refer email sent home earlier this week)
Our GSV pennant flags are now proudly hanging in the gymnasium with thanks to the generous donation from FOS.
A reminder that we have a fantastic range of wines available for purchase in support of this year's Siena and Whitefriars musical, A Chorus Line: High School Edition.
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In Term 2 many of our students are engaging in sports activities that can involve contact injuries. Please refer to the following link for some useful information on concussion.
In Term 2 many of our students are engaging in sports activities that can involve contact injuries. Please refer to the following link for some useful information on concussion.
In order to support the students we ask for parents and guardians to familiarize themselves with the significance of concussion and precautions for returning to activities.
Please always contact the Health Centre and relevant Head of Student Wellbeing should your daughter receive a concussion at weekend or private sports.
Lisa Anderson
Health Centre Coordinator
Community News and many happy returns to our neighbour, Mr Davenport
The Siena College community wishes our neighbour Mr John Davenport a very happy 97th birthday. The College and the Davenport family have a longstanding relationship dating back to the 1940s when the Sisters were a closed order living in the convent.
Click on the images below to learn more...
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
The washing of the feet and the sacrament of the Eucharist are two expressions of one and the same...
The washing of the feet and the sacrament of the Eucharist are two expressions of one and the same mystery of love entrusted to the disciples, so that, Jesus says, "as I have done… so also must you do" (Jn 13: 15) St John Paul II
The Last Supper by Leonardo Da Vinci
This week, Holy Week, we celebrate the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. Holy Week began on Palm Sunday when we entered a time of peace, reflection, penance and prayer for all Christians. A group of Siena students, staff and parents joined thousands of others for the Palm Sunday Walk for Justice for Refugees. The rally and march through Melbourne's CBD, started and finished at the State Library on Swanston Street and included groups drawn from Catholic education and the wider community. While detention on Manus Island was declared illegal in April last year, people are still being held there with some approaching their fourth year on the islands and arrangements for relocation of refugees to the US still uncertain. Speakers at the rally drew attention to the plight of over 30,000 refugees and asylum seekers who are living on bridging visas in our community, with their future insecure and without access to work or education for their children.
The last week of term has been named 'Activities Week'. The College is certainly a hive of activity with special programs at each year level. Twelve students and three staff departed on Monday evening for Kopanang in South Africa, Year 7s are on Camp, Year 9s in the city and Year 12s are on retreat at Casa Pallotti in Milgrove, near Warburton. Students in other year levels are involved in a range of activities both on site and at external venues.
It was a joy to attend Siena's Night of Jazz last week at the Manningham Hotel and to listen to students, staff and alumnae making music together. I could not help but reminisce about the early beginnings of Siena's Night of Jazz in a small but packed venue in Richmond, Dizzy's Jazz Club. The night has come a long way since then, as have our musicians whose talent seems to grow each year. A warm thank you is extended to Kerryn McGillen, Sarah Clark and the Music Department and to the Siena parents who make up the Friends of Music and Performing Arts (FOMPA). It was a lovely evening of entertainment for all who attended.
As the term draws to a close during this Easter season, we are reminded again that Jesus suffered and died that we might have life and have it to the full. May we see and encounter the risen Christ in the people we meet and may the days ahead and the opportunities to share in the rich traditions of our Catholic faith, bring spiritual renewal.
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
A group of students, teachers and parents marched on Sunday 25 March at the Palm Sunday Rally
A group of Siena students, staff and parents, eager to stand in solidarity with asylum seekers, protested the treatment of those detained on Nauru and Manus Islands by walking on Palm Sunday in the public rally in the city. Keen to 'Welcome and Protect', we walked to be a voice for justice for refugees.
This Service to the Community opportunity also proved to be a great example of our democratic processes in action as the streets of the CBD were closed to traffic and we marched, chanting our message for all to hear, particularly our representatives in government.
Pope Francis has challenged all of us with his action plan for Asylum Seekers and Refugees: to Welcome, to Protect, to Promote and to Integrate. Unfortunately, Australia's sad treatment of Asylum Seekers continues and so we are called to make a public witness to "WELCOME THE STRANGER!".
Across Australia, people from all faith groups, community groups and organisations and unions joined the Palm Sunday actions for Refugees, bringing banners and other messages of support to express our concern about the treatment of refugees and people seeking asylum. In this election year, our message to our aspiring leaders is that we stand together with refugees.
We continue to call on Australia's political leaders to abandon the current harsh and unjust policies, and to provide permanent protection for these vulnerable people. As Dominicans, we also call for truth and respect in the public discourse – Australians are shocked that some politicians show little regard for the truth while pursuing short term political advantage.
Australia IS RESPONSIBLE for these people. Instead of spending millions to prolong their despair, Australia should #BringThemHere and #LetThemStay. Our message to our political leaders is to give refugees HOPE- not despair.
The buzz and excitement about this year's Siena's Night of Jazz could not be missed around the Music department.
The buzz and excitement about this year's Siena's Night of Jazz could not be missed around the Music department. Stage Band, Sisters of Swing, Groove Train and Planet Groove have all been rehearsing for many weeks in preparation for the night. They each performed several pieces of various styles with featured soloists. They played standards and set pieces in preparation for Generations in Jazz. The appreciative audience were delighted with the standard of performances, the authentic and expressive solos and the relaxed and intimate new venue, The Manningham Hotel ballroom.
Our special guest artist this year was Bob Sedergreen. He is a highly regarded international musician and his impact and influence in performance, composition and education for over half a century has secured his place as a national treasure. We truly believe he is the Godfather of Jazz in Melbourne! Our students felt both relaxed and excited to be performing with such a legend.
Joining the impressive line-up was our new vocal ensemble, A Capella Choir, led by Stephanie Hill. Singing the familiar 'Come Fly with Me', they soon had the audience tapping their toes. They are to be congratulated for performing so well.
This event is a major fundraiser for the Generations in Jazz festival and we would like to thank Tanya Ovens, (FOMPA/SPA) for all her assistance . The night was well supported with over 220 people in the audience and a most successful raffle with numerous prizes.
Congratulations to all students and staff for a wonderful night of Jazz.
Year 7 music students eagerly made their way down to the new ensemble room for their first rehearsal on the 15 March. It was fantastic to see so many happy faces and hear such enthusiastic music making. Mr Nieuwkerk and Ms Patton were thrilled with their first rendition of "Hot Cross Buns". For most of the band, playing this three note song was a milestone as it was their first song! We look forward to watching their skills develop alongside their confidence.
This year Stage Band and Sisters of Swing will be heading off to the Generations in Jazz Festival in Mt Gambier from Friday, 4 May to Sunday, 6 May. They have been working hard preparing for this festival and are excited about performing in the competition and attending concerts featuring The Cat Empire and internationally renowned jazz musicians. In preparation for the festival we will be running a jazz workshop on 20 April from 4-8pm for both Stage Band and Sisters of Swing.
Following the success of last year's series, we will again be running three lunchtime soirees next term on 18 April, 7 June and 14 June. We are encouraging all musicians to sign up to gain solo performance experience. This is highly recommended for students sitting AMEB examinations. We are also delighted to be running a fun and supportive Year 7 soiree to give our new music students the chance to show off their newly acquired skills. Sign up sheets will be on the noticeboard outside the ensemble room during Week 1 of Term 2.
Siena Parents' Association invites you to the 2018 Mother's Day Breakfast on Friday, 11 May
Please note key dates for Term 2
|Monday 16 April
|Term 2 classes start
|Monday 16 April
|Alumnae Parents Evening
|Tuesday 17 April
|SPA meeting
|Wednesday 25 April
|ANZAC Day Public Holiday
|Friday 27 April
|St Catherine's Day and Fiesta
|Friday 4 May
|Generations in Jazz departs (returns Sunday 6 May)
|Friday 11 May
|SPA Mother's Day Breakfast
|Tuesday 15 May
|NAPLAN assessment period starts (finishes Thursday 17 May)
|Friday 18 May
|Year 7 and Year 12 photography
|Monday 21 May
|Years 8-11 photography
|Wednesday 23 May
|Autumn Concert
|Monday 28 May
|Instrumental Music assessment period starts (finishes Friday 1 June)
|Monday 4 June
|Alumnae Association meeting
|Friday 8 June
|Open Morning
|Monday 11 June
|Queen's Birthday Public Holiday
|Wednesday 13 June
|VCE GAT (no Year 11 or year 12 classes)
|Thursday 14 June
|Years 9-11 examination period starts (finishes Thursday 21 June)
|Friday 22 June
|Student free day
|Monday 25 June
|Semester 2 classes commence
|Thursday 28 June
|Alumnae Association Careers Showcase
|Friday 29 June
|Term 2 ends (Term 3 classes start Wednesday 18 July)
Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
The 2018 College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts', continues to resonate, never more so than over the past two weeks as we welcomed a number of alumnae to the College.
The 2018 College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts', continues to resonate, never more so than over the past two weeks as we welcomed a number of alumnae to the College. The women and the families of past decades are a valued part of our community and their stories and their wisdom provide inspiration for the students and families of today. Celia Conlan (Class of 1987), was the speaker for International Women's Day and the 2017 inductee into the Siena College Hall of Excellence. The Hall of Excellence was established as a way of recognising notable alumnae who embody the spirit and traditions of the College and of St Catherine of Siena. We talk at Siena of educating women to go out and make the world a better place for others. Celia is one such woman. Her account of her time at Siena College and her advice to all who attended the International Women's Day breakfast was interwoven with humour and challenging stories of her work as a barrister practising in the area of family law. As we celebrate the achievements of women in 2018, we are reminded that there is still much to be done to achieve equity, particularly for women in third world countries. We stand in solidarity with all who continue to face inequity on many fronts, those who are oppressed, denied access to education and meaningful work, and subjected to violence and disadvantage. I thank Kate Gotlib and the SRC for their efforts to organise a much enjoyed breakfast, the proceeds of which support the Kopanang community in South Africa.
Year 7 students have well and truly been introduced to the history and traditions of the College since the start of the year. This week, they listened to stories from a panel of speakers including two women from the Class of 1944, Sr Frances Caine OP and Loyis Gibson who was the recipient of an inaugural Siena Community Award in 2017. The panel also included the Presidents of the Alumnae Association, Gayle Peggie (Class of 1974) and Kate Gotlib (Class of 1996), Liz Merrett our Alumnae Coordinator, and Mr John Davenport, a neighbour, whose family has long been associated with Siena College. The panel reflected on our Dominican heritage, their school days, and the nuns at a time when they were enclosed and relied heavily on the Davenport family for support with shopping and other practicalities.
The recent College Swimming Carnival was a great community day with close to perfect weather, enthusiastic cheering from all four Houses, excellent competition and many students electing to swim or dive or take part in novelty events. Congratulations are extended to all competitive swimmers and divers who secured a place or achieved a personal best and to the students and staff who took to the water to participate in an event. Thanks to the excellent leadership of Head of Sport, James Houghton, and all staff who oversaw events on the day, it ran like clockwork and was much enjoyed by all who participated.
The term has flown by and this week we look forward to parent teacher conferences, online access to reports for the first time, a Year 11 Formal and to the final two weeks of a busy and productive term. A number of staff and students depart for distant places prior to the end of the term and will be commissioned and blessed at our weekly College Eucharist in the Chapel on Thursday, 22 March. Kate Gotlib, Minna Denholm and Bronwyn Ilott will accompany a group of twelve students to South Africa to work with Dominican Sister, Sheila Flynn, and the women and families of the Kopanang community near Johannesburg. Sr Sheila describes an immersion as '…a pilgrimage, a sacred journey into the unknown but in the Spirit's power, that enlarges and engages the heart in transformation.' The South African Immersion offers our students and staff an experience that takes them out of their own context and immerses them into the culture and spirituality of a vastly different country and people. It is an invitation to enter the context of the poor, the disadvantaged and the marginalized, and to view the world in a radically different way, from the heart and the hearth of the other.
Two staff, the College's Human Resources Manager, Tracey Kermond, and Deputy Principal Mission and Identity, Jennifer Levett, will participate in a Dominican Pilgrimage to Spain, France and Italy along with other Dominican educators and Dominican Sisters over the Easter break. We wish all our pilgrims a transformative experience and a safe journey.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
Mission and Identity News
God of Life,
We gather in your presence to affirm and give thanks
for the whole of creation that is sustained by you.
We celebrate the gift of life, of courage, of grace,
of solidarity with women the world over…
You remind us that women stand in the centre of the Good News
and continue to confront us with issues of integrity, dignity and responsibility.
May we continue to be outraged wherever human dignity is compromised.
May we be those ears to listen.
May we be that voice like St Catherine of Siena was in her time
so that the drama of grace and your life in us
may effect transformation in our time.
From Prayer for International Women's Day, Sr Sheila Flynn OP
Our College Captains, Antoinette Collins and Hannah Petrowski, along with Ministry Captain, Mia Catalano, took part in Archbishop Denis Hart's Conversation with Student Leaders held at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College in Braybrook. Accompanied by staff member Angela Ho, they joined other leaders from across the Archdiocese in exploring this year's theme, 'Opening New Horizons for Spreading Joy'.
As part of their study of VCE Religion and Society Unit 2, all Year 10 students were given the opportunity to listen to and ask questions of three members of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim Association. It was a valuable experience in comparing and contrasting these Abrahamic traditions, with a particular focus on 'living' these faiths in the contemporary context.
The first Dominican Education Enrichment Programme (DEEP) session for this year took place during the week. Staff were welcomed into St Dominic's Church by Fr Kevin Toomey OP who gave us further insight into our rich heritage. Fr Kevin took us back to the origins of the Dominican community, both global and local, along with some of his fellow brothers he prayed in song the beautiful Salve Regina and O Lumen.
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Siena Learning Framework
In 2017, Siena staff worked collaboratively on developing a Siena Learning Framework. In Term 1, the focus has been on the Learning Environment quadrant. We recognise that it is important to establish a learning environment that allows students to maximise their potential. We have identified four key elements of such a learning environment. Subject teachers have been working with their classes on creating an environment that is challenging, collaborative, inclusive and allows for safe and positive relationships. Recently, we have been conducting Learning Walks in a variety of classes to gather feedback on how well we have been establishing these elements of an effective learning environment. We look forward to sharing some of this data early next term.
In our Siena classroom, learning relationships are built upon unconditional positive regard of each individual in the classroom. Our interactions are inclusive, trusting and foster mutual respect. Individual abilities and interests are valued, each voice is shared and supported and students and teachers work together to maximize student engagement, achievement and success.
At Siena, engaged students are involved, interested and motivated to learn. Collaborative students show a willingness to share and respond. They value student voice, actively participating and listening, thus creating an understanding of learning as a shared purpose and responsibility. A student's attitude to learning is one of growth, having the confidence to take risks and the resilience to respond to challenges and opportunities. Siena students are encouraged to develop emotional self-regulation.
In the Siena classroom, students use questions that go beyond surface level understanding to advance their application of learning. The skill of critical and creative thinking provides the learning opportunity to build willingness in our students to take risks, learn from failure and solve problems collaboratively. Students engage in routines to reflect independently on their learning in order to make connections to prior learning and to clarify the direction of future learning.
The learning environment of a Siena classroom is safe, inclusive, positive, collaborative and challenging. This is supported by clear expectations and consistent routines. Students and teachers feel known and respected. Each student feels empowered to participate, confident to ask questions, express opinions and extend their learning.
Donna LaughlinLeader of Pedagogy
As students undertake assessment tasks, we remind you that you are able to access your daughter's results and feedback via Siena Central.
As students undertake assessment tasks, we remind you that you are able to access your daughter's results and feedback via Siena Central. Parents will receive an email notification when their daughter's work has been marked. To access the result and comments, log on to Siena Central through the College website portal (please see earlier email regarding log on details). Select daughter's name in the side menu and select 'Grades' from the options. The percentage result and a teacher comment is available for assessed tasks. This system replaces the old system of a Semester Report. At the end of Semester 1, Year 7 to 11 parents will receive via Siena Central, a final statement of results including the overall result for the subject and how your daughter has performed against the classroom learning indicators.
If you have any questions or difficulties accessing the Siena Central Parent Portal or the online feedback, please contact IT Help at the College on 9835 0200 or email@example.com
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
Service to the Community - What a great start…
We are all challenged to respond to the needs of others with humility to make a difference by contributing to build a more just and sustainable world. How can we do this? As Dominicans, our preaching, our contemplation and the pursuit of justice are grounded in our life of study. Our preaching is inseparable from our passion for the truth. St Catherine came to understand that she couldn't be separate from the world into which Jesus came, the world in which He worked serving the poor, the sick, the marginalized. 'To praise, to bless, to preach' - we must see the big picture of our world, and hear the voice of the other.
We have begun the year with an array of important Justice initiatives. The upcoming Palm Sunday walk, taking a stand in solidarity for refugees, is a great way to be a voice for the voiceless and send a message to our politicians, 'Not in my name'. Please join us for this important campaign.
Many students are working in service for the homeless by making sandwiches for the Soup Van every second Tuesday morning before school. Below are some great reflections on their experiences:
Last week I participated in making sandwiches for the Soup Van. I had such a great time because I was with lots of nice girls and we felt we made such a difference. We made numerous sandwiches and it made me so happy to know that I was supporting the people who are less fortunate than all of us. To know that, just by just buttering some bread you can make a difference in someone's life, is an incredible feeling. So if we all put in just a bit of work, we can make a huge difference in our community. I recommend this for anyone who is struggling to find Service to the Community hours or just wants to help out the less fortunate.
Jordyn Kourmadias
Sandwich Making for the Soup Van was a great experience for me. It made me feel so good about myself, thinking about all the people I was helping. This event was lots of fun. It was a mixture of helping our community and also being surrounded by the laughter and happiness of my friends. It is not a big job but has a great impact on our community. This simple job of making sandwiches for people in need made me think about how many peoples' lives I was making just that extra bit happier and easier.
Ella Castoldi
Service to the Community - What a great start…
We are all challenged to respond to the needs of others with humility to make a difference by contributing to build a more just and sustainable world. How can we do this? As Dominicans, our preaching, our contemplation and the pursuit of justice are grounded in our life of study. Our preaching is inseparable from our passion for the truth. St Catherine came to understand that she couldn't be separate from the world into which Jesus came, the world in which He worked serving the poor, the sick, the marginalized. 'To praise, to bless, to preach' - we must see the big picture of our world, and hear the voice of the other.
We have begun the year with an array of important Justice initiatives. The upcoming Palm Sunday walk, taking a stand in solidarity for refugees, is a great way to be a voice for the voiceless and send a message to our politicians, 'Not in my name'. Please join us for this important campaign.
Many students are working in service for the homeless by making sandwiches for the Soup Van every second Tuesday morning before school. Below are some great reflections on their experiences:
Last week I participated in making sandwiches for the Soup Van. I had such a great time because I was with lots of nice girls and we felt we made such a difference. We made numerous sandwiches and it made me so happy to know that I was supporting the people who are less fortunate than all of us. To know that, just by just buttering some bread you can make a difference in someone's life, is an incredible feeling. So if we all put in just a bit of work, we can make a huge difference in our community. I recommend this for anyone who is struggling to find Service to the Community hours or just wants to help out the less fortunate.
Jordyn Kourmadias
Sandwich Making for the Soup Van was a great experience for me. It made me feel so good about myself, thinking about all the people I was helping. This event was lots of fun. It was a mixture of helping our community and also being surrounded by the laughter and happiness of my friends. It is not a big job but has a great impact on our community. This simple job of making sandwiches for people in need made me think about how many peoples' lives I was making just that extra bit happier and easier.
Ella Castoldi
Year 7 Welcome Evening, Second Hand Uniform Shop, SPA Donations, SPA survey...
On Friday, 2 March the Siena Parents' Association (SPA) hosted and welcomed our new Year 7 parents to the College community. Below is the speech from SPA President,
Carmel Musco:
Good evening everyone
On behalf of the Siena Parents Association, which you will come to know as SPA, we welcome you all here tonight and look forward to being a part of you and your daughter's journey through high school. SPA tonight commences your journey by hosting this Welcome Night to embrace all incoming Year 7 students and families into the Siena Community.
SPA prides itself on hosting many social events, as well as actively fundraising throughout the year, to enrich your daughter's education and complements the community spirit at Siena. For those of you who attended the Twilight Fair on Wednesday evening, this is an excellent example of the College and SPA working together to nurture this wonderful community atmosphere.
I stand here tonight as a very proud committee member to announce that SPA has successfully raised in excess of $150,000 over the past four years. These funds have contributed towards equipment and furniture for the newly opened West Wing, the dazzling new electronic scoreboard in the gym and a portable scoreboard, cabinetry for the new Second Hand Uniform Shop, decking outside the undercroft area. These are just a few of the current contributions, which follow previous generous donations to the College since SPA commenced in 1971. Team SPA is a dedicated and outstanding group of parent volunteers whose enthusiasm is contagious.
I thank all the Team SPA volunteers who have assisted with preparation for tonight's event, and for all the unseen work completed in the background. You are what makes SPA a great committee. We also thank Tracey Grobbelaar and her fabulous team, Gaynor, the College staff and the Maintenance team for their continued support of our events and SPA.
We hope that over the next six years you see your daughters grow into empowered young women, as Team SPA continues to contribute to that growth by striving to fulfil the many wish list items for the benefit of all current and future students. Please continue to enjoy the evening and we look forward to entertaining you again at our future events.
Thank you,
Team SPA
SPA Uniform Shop Opening Hours (during school terms)
Term 1 to Term 2, 2018
Wednesdays 8.00am - 9.00am and 3.00pm - 4.00pm
We have stock of winter uniform available if you need to purchase any items
During our opening hours, you will also be able to drop off your uniform items for sale or kindly donate them. Please remember that all items must be freshly laundered and pressed (blazers and winter skirts must be dry cleaned, with dry cleaning tags still attached) and if submitting as a consignment, relevant paperwork must be attached.
A reminder that as Term 1 is a short term, the students can choose to wear winter or summer uniform for the first nine days of Term 2. On St Catherine's Day on Friday, 27 April, all students will be expected to wear full winter uniform with blazer and tie.
A reminder for all parents to please complete the survey that was emailed out earlier this week.
Kate GotlibHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
The Susan Alberti Auditorium was once again transformed into a beautiful breakfast venue for International Women's Day.
The Susan Alberti Auditorium was once again transformed into a beautiful breakfast venue for International Women's Day. Staff, parents and students enjoyed a morning of good company as well as inspiring words from our guest speaker, alumna Celia Conlan (Class of 1987). For those in the community who were not able to attend the event, here is the introduction to Celia's keynote address, read by Social Welfare Captain Grace Oliver:
It is always such a privilege to welcome back alumnae to our breakfast. Over the years, we have had many women speak to us who are at the top of their field in sport, medicine and science. It speaks volumes of the quality of education that these women received at Siena, that they have achieved such heights in their chosen field. Celia is no exception. Celia is clearly a product of a Dominican education as she considers service to others as an important motivator both professionally and personally. After her years at Siena, Celia joined the Marist Youth Ministry and this experience inspired her to channel her career in law towards those who can least afford access to quality assistance. Early in her career, Celia spent four years living and working in Vietnam and India, giving her a true appreciation of the complexities of integrating into a foreign culture.
More recently, Celia finds most of her work occurring predominantly in Family Law, property and children's cases and associated matters including child support, intervention orders and crimes compensation. Celia has authored many well regarded publications including Surviving Separation: How to Protect Your Children, Your Finances and Your Sanity and War and Peace: Balancing the Needs of Unhappy Families. Celia's publications highlight her passion for lifelong learning, another strong Dominican trait.
Celia is a mother of four children. Needless to say she is busy! Like many people in this room, she finds the work life balance challenging at times. That does not stop her from giving back to the community. Most recently, she has been elected to the Siena College Board. The College is clearly very lucky to have her.
Celia's words were moving, powerful and inspirational. At times she spoke of confronting issues regarding family violence but these types of details are necessary if we are ever going to change the plight of women and children who find themselves in these harrowing situations. Celia also spoke of the importance of the sisterhood and of having strong female mentors. The sisterhood comments resonated with all present, especially the Student Representative Council (SRC) as the breakfast would not have been possible without their teamwork and dedication. They are an excellent example of what can be achieved when women work together.
When I first came to the Victorian Bar in 1996, 22 years ago, there was no evidence of sisterhood. If anything, more senior female barristers appeared to believe that life at the B ar was already far easier for women than it had been when they started out so why make it easier still. About seven years ago when I returned to the Bar, I was invited to take chambers on the eleventh floor of ODE – some female family law barristers were aiming to form a practice group, a sisterhood. While we are opposed to each other on a daily basis in Court, the aim was to create a common place of support and exchange of ideas. A convenient forum to vent, commiserate and congratulate each other. Our doors are generally open and we share each other's chambers for conferences and mediations. Since arriving on this floor, my professional experience has been significantly enhanced. It is the best thing that has ever happened to me as a lawyer. I am a much better barrister because of these sister peers.
Women are at an extreme professional, and consequently financial, disadvantage because they generally prioritise the needs of their family above their own needs and particularly above their professional development (family = not just partners, and minor children, but also adult children, parents, in laws and grandchildren). Women usually endeavour to compensate for this by the highly risky investment of supporting their partner while that partner professionally develops and establishes themselves financially. Women do this in the, not unreasonable, belief that they will equally share in the benefits of their partner's career advancement in the decades to come. Bearing in mind, we all seem to be living at least eight decades these days, a woman who stops professionally developing at thirty takes a large punt in assuming that her partner will in fact be ready, willing and able to support her financially for fifty years or so. Life is full of unexpected developments - disease, death, redundancy, bankruptcy, infidelity, relationship failure - so try to keep an iron in the employment fire, always. To quote the barefoot investor, Scott Pape, albeit slightly out of context, 'a man is not a financial plan'.
Go forth and strut your stuff, dwell in the stars. You exist in the Siennese Sisterhood: One Body, Many Parts. You are fabulous.
James HoughtonHead of Cocurricular Sport
House Swimming Carnival results
On Friday, 9 March we had our Interhouse Swim and Dive Carnival at Boroondara Sports Complex. With a focus on participation, there were a number of opportunities available for our students including 'Diving for Fun', 'Competitive Diving', 'Ironwoman', 'Competitive Swimming' in the 50m pool and 'Novelty' in the 25m pool. The combination of perfect weather, a large number of swimming events on offer, and Ms Redman doing a fantastic job in charge of the music, ensured that spirits were high and a fantastic day was had by all.
A special mention to Anais Johnstone in Year 7 who won the 50m Michelle Timms Open Freestyle Event with a time of 30.6 seconds and to Dianella House who were the overall champions. The full list results can be located on the Sport Page on Siena Central.
Year 7 Champion: Anais Johnstone, Dianella
Year 8 Champion: Alice Frausing, Cassia
Year 9 Champion: Stella Lawrence, Cassia
Year 10 Champion: Angelina Haj, Waratah
Year 11 Champion: Riley Khan, Waratah
Year 12 Champion: Ella Frausing, Cassia
Junior Diving Champion: Edie Mitra, Cassia
Intermediate Diving Champion: Matilda Baker, Kurrajong
Senior Diving Champion: Sam De Monte, Cassia
Michelle Timms 50m Freestyle Champion: Anais Johnstone, Dianella, 30.6 seconds
House Relay Award: Cassia
House Cheer Award: Waratah
Junior House Winner (Year 7 and 8 Aggregate): Cassia
Intermediate House Winner (Year 9 and 10 Aggregate): Dianella
Senior House Winner (Year 11 and 12 Aggregate): Waratah
Overall House Winner: Dianella
Claire Al-NoahHead of Arts and Technology
The Arts and Technology Department has begun the year well. Three students from the 2017 Year 12 cohort have been chosen to exhibit in the 2018 VCE Season of Excellence.
The Arts and Technology Department has begun the year well. Three students from last year's Year 12 cohort have been chosen to exhibit in the 2018 VCE Season of Excellence. Jessica Sexton and Sinead Hickey will have their work exhibited at the Ian Potter Centre, NGV from Friday, 23 March until Sunday, 15 July as part of the Top Arts exhibition and Natalie Borgese will have her work exhibited in the Top Designs exhibition to be held at the Melbourne Museum from 16 March to 15 July 2018. Three other students were also shortlisted: Clarissa Smith for both Studio Art and Product Design and Technology and Carla Caruso and Britney Pascal-Therios for Product Design and Technology. These students are to be congratulated on their wonderful achievements.
Sinead Hickey explored the use of typography and how the presentation of different words can have an impact on the actual meaning of the word. In particular, her focus was on the juxtaposition between the masculine and feminine and the interpretations of these. Sinead's artworks depicted gendered statements: the first being 'Girls Build the Future', an artwork that used Lego to create the words which added a layer of complexity to the artwork's meaning. Her second artwork, 'Caution, Women at Work', was presented in the format of a road sign but completed using the technique of crochet. Her artworks were innovative in their approach and showed her strong engagement with the conceptual approaches to art making.
Jessica Sexton focused her folio on her trip to Nepal where she aimed to capture the unique landscape of the Himalayan region and the essence of Nepalese culture. Her final artworks consisted of a painted Tibetan prayer flag on which she depicted the five elements (earth, air, wind, fire, water), and a large acrylic painting that encapsulated the awe-inspiring Himalayan ranges. A series of painted layered images presented within a light box allowed the viewer to engage with the Nepalese landscape in a more intimate manner. Her finely detailed and delicate brushwork allowed Jessica to create a series of very moving and aesthetically beautiful artworks.
Natalie Borgese was selected to exhibit her final garment and folio in the prestigious Top Designs Exhibition. She is part of a group of only seventeen Product Design and Technology students in the state to be invited to exhibit their work. 'Luminosus' is a highly decorative, complex and aesthetic garment that is designed to convey the boldness and beauty of the phoenix bird as a symbol for 'The Free Woman' campaign. This event is intended to celebrate and empower feminine hearts to lead lives of beauty, goodness and justice. This hand dyed, silk satin garment with its gradation of colours and flowing skirt, features delicate feathered sleeves and a copper shim decorative motif attached to the neckline.
The Catholic Education Office is also hosting an exhibition opening on 13 March. Five students were selected to exhibit:
This exhibition runs until Sunday, 18 March and showcases work from Catholic Schools from around Victoria.
The College Musical is underway as students completed their auditions for A Chorus Line and are now in the early stages of rehearsal in combination with Whitefriars College.
Please remember to place your Prospect Wines fundraising order form to the dropbox at Student Reception by Wednesday, 28 March. Alternatively you can return the order form and payment via email to email@example.com. Wine orders can be collected at 2 Compton Street (off Riversdale Road, East of the gymnasium) on Wednesday 18 April between 8.00am–12.00pm and 3.00pm-5.00pm. Download order form below:
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Siena College will host the annual Night of Jazz on Thursday, 22 March with special guest, Bob Sedergreen. Three bands and a number of soloists will perform. The students will play a number of swing pieces and ballads. All money raised will go towards the trip to Mt Gambier later in the year to attend the 2018 Generations in Jazz festival, which provides invaluable exposure and performance experience.
Each term, Zart Art selects works by students in primary and secondary schools to exhibit in their Student Gallery. A number of Siena students who studied Art in Semester 2, 2017 have been selected for the Term 2 exhibition. The students studied the Pop Art movement and were then required to generate imagery that utilised the conventions of Pop Art, but embraced the contemporary context in which they live. Students had to work on stretched canvas as their material and use the art form of painting to produce their imagery.
Congratulations to the following students:
Exhibition details
Zart Art Student Gallery
Friday, 16 March to Tuesday, 12 June 2018
4/41 Lexton St, Box Hill North 3129
Phone: 03 9890 1867
Opening Night: Thursday, 22 March 2018
Time: 4.00pm to 5.00pm, with Offical Opening at 4.30pm
Kate GotlibHead of Student Formation and Justice Education
McAuley House Drive, Alliance Breakfast at Parliament House, Project Compassion Update
It was fitting that the delivery of the large collection of toiletries and stationery to McAuley House fell on International Women's Day (IWD). After the IWD breakfast, a van full of much needed goods were taken to McAuley House's brand new premises in Footscray. Thank you to all the staff, students and community members who donated to the drive. Your contributions will make a real difference to women who have fled family violence.
The Year 12 House Captains attended the annual Alliance Breakfast at Queen's Hall, Parliament House. Each year the symbolism of the hall is not lost on our leaders - the hall contains portraits of all the leaders who have served as Premier of Victoria, but only one of them is a woman. The portrait of Joan Kirner gazes out across over one hundred young female leaders from girls' schools, many of whom will go on to be community leaders and make a difference in our society. As host, Georgie Crozier, Shadow Minister for Families and Children, rightly pointed out that there may only be one woman hanging on the wall, but there is also a statue in the centre of the room of another exceptional female leader, Queen Victoria.
This year's keynote address was given by Ms Sally Capp. Sally spoke of her many great achievements as a female leader and discussed her newest venture, running for Lord Mayor of Melbourne. Her advice to our students about the importance of risk taking was sound: if we don't stand up and have a try we may never reach our true potential. Sally's biography is written below.
Sally Capp has extensive experience in CEO and executive leadership roles in the government and private sectors, including the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, KPMG, the Committee for Melbourne and the ANZ. She was the first woman to hold the post of the Victorian Government's Agent-General in London, where she represented the interests of the state in Europe and Israel from 2009 to 2012. Sally was the first female director of the Collingwood Football Club and has served on the boards of numerous private and public companies and not-for-profits organisations. Currently, Sally is on the boards of: Rowing Australia, the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Melbourne, the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness and Research Centre and the Sport Australia Hall of Fame.
The fundraising for Project Compassion is in full swing. This week's activity was House Nails. For a gold coin, staff and students were able to have their nails painted for the House Swimming Carnival. Some even chose to paint their nails purple and green for International Women's Day. It was again pleasing to see so many of our Junior SRC Representatives and non SRC members supporting the cause.
The Year 7 students greatly enjoyed the annual chess incursion on Tuesday, 27 February.
Year 7 students had the wonderful opportunity of experiencing and participating in the annual chess incursion on Tuesday, 27 February. Chess coaches Vanya, Vivienne, Nikayla and Denise from Dark Horse Chess, taught the girls how to play and some of the clever strategies of the game.
After the initial welcome and introduction of the coaches, each student was placed into a group based on her level of experience and expertise in playing chess. All levels of ability were represented, from absolute first-time beginners to advanced chess strategists. In their groups, the students worked with one of the four Dark Horse staff to learn more about the game, to become familiar with and practise the different moves of each chess piece and to apply some clever strategies when playing.
The Year 7s enjoyed the day immensely and after the sessions, many girls were able to say that they had learnt something new about how to play the game. Some of the attributes that learning chess helps to develop are:
Siena also offers students at each year level the opportunity to join the Chess Club, which meets every Wednesday at lunchtime in the Albertus Magnus Library. Chess Club members benefit from the support of Rose, a staff member of Dark Horse Chess. Rose attends each week during term time, coaching and encouraging the students to build upon and practise their skills, regardless of level. Those students who attend enjoy the opportunity to participate in chess tournaments at other schools which improves their chess skills.
Heather O'Keefe
Learning Enhancement
On Friday, 23 February, select Year 8 students participated in the Robogals program at the University of Melbourne
On Friday, 23 February, six Year 8 students went on an excursion to The University of Melbourne to complete the Robogals program. The program is aimed specifically at girls in order to address the current gender disparity in STEM fields such as programming and engineering. They worked with girls from other schools to write programs for Lego Mindstorms robots in order to solve problems in an outer space context. The girls enjoyed themselves, and learned to apply programming skills to solve problems.
Marc Nguyen
Teacher Maths/Science
I enjoyed the Robogals competition/workshop greatly. It was really enjoyable and we got to work with some other schools on our engineering. I think I learnt lots about robots and engineering and I now know how much work goes into engineering.
Charlotte Dickson 8B
The Robogals program was really enjoyable and informative, and I had lots of fun. We learnt how to program little robots to do different things, like complete courses that were set up for us. I thought it was a really new and exciting experience, and it expanded my knowledge of robots and mechanics too!
Bridie Warren 8B
On Friday, 23 February six students and two teachers (Ella, Ellie, Charlotte, Bridie, Maddie, Ms M and Mr Nguyen and I, just to be exact) set off to The University of Melbourne to participate in a STEM workshop called Robogals. It was really fun and we learned how to program really cool robots. I enjoyed it a lot and would jump at the chance to do it again.
Lauren Sammut 8C
On Wednesday, 7 March our VCE Physics students joined other students from across the state at Luna Park.
Every year, the VicPhys association books out Luna Park for VCE Physics students across the state to visit and perform physics calculations in a real life environment. Students were able to use vests with in-built force sensors to record the forces on their bodies at different points of various rides. While it is easy to say things like 'you feel lighter at the top of a roller coaster and heavier on the bottom', the girls could measure the forces to calculate how much heavier they felt, and were even able to calculate aspects of the ride, such as the radius of circular motion or the speed they were travelling at. That being said, a lot of the fun of the day is just to get out of the classroom and examine physics in real life. It was a great day for it, and the girls even got an aerobatic display from the RAAF Roulettes!
On Wednesday, 7 March the Year 12 Physics class had an excursion to Luna Park. Our task was to basically have fun on all the rides and not get sick, whilst also exploring the effects of forces in motion. We did this by going on a range of rides that demonstrated different laws of motion, whether it was through circular motion, the effects of gravity or experiencing different velocities. Overall the excursion was informative whilst also fun and I would definitely do it again!
Kelly Stefanos, Year 12
On Thursday, 22 February, Year 10 Drama attended The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time at the Melbourne Arts Centre. This play premiered in London, and has since travelled the...
On Thursday, 22 February, Year 10 Drama attended The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night Time at the Melbourne Arts Centre. This play premiered in London, and has since travelled the world and won seven Olivier Awards, including Best Play 2013, the 2015 Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Play, the 2015 Outer Critics Circle Award (Outstanding New Broadway Play), the 2015 Drama League Award for Outstanding Production of a Broadway or Off Broadway Play and the 2015 Tony Award for Best Play. With such an amazing reputation, we were very keen to finally understand what made this play so special.
We were also lucky enough to be booked into a behind-the-scenes 'Technical Insight' of the performance which revealed how the unique stage and set design of the play came about as well as how it works. From the creative team, we learnt how the show was adapted from the novel, how it was first staged, the thoughts behind the heavy use of sound, lighting and projections and the incredible level of detail within the performance. As an example, the book Christopher writes during the play is filled with actual handwriting, and there are so many different props in the performance that the pre-show checklist is two and a half hours long! The workshop made the class even more excited to finally see the play ourselves, but we still weren't prepared for the sheer creativity behind the story and staging.
The play began spectacularly with flashing lights, blaring music and a panicked Christopher (the main character) running out onto the stage. Throughout the performance Christopher shocked the audience by walking along the walls, being picked up, moved and flipped by the ensemble, drawing on the set and even pulling a table out from the wall without leaving a hole behind. One of the most fantastic moments in the show was when Christopher's father gave him a puppy as a present and a real Labrador puppy came out onstage!
After the performance we had the opportunity to ask the cast and crew questions about the process and the production. These questions will be useful in writing our performance analysis for Drama class. The performance analysis involves evaluating and explaining the use of stagecraft, the actors' expressive skills, the themes in the performance and the performance's mood. Our class enjoyed the performance and the chance to learn more about the dramatic process. This was an incredible experience that we are sure to remember.
Elena Cruz and Lucia Lane
Year 10 Drama students
On Thursday, 8 March, Year 10 Religion and Society classes gathered in the auditorium for the Jewish Christian Muslim Association presentation
On Thursday, 8 March, Year 10 Religion and Society classes gathered in the auditorium to listen to the Jewish Christian Muslim Association (JCMA) presentation. As we listened, we were able to gain an understanding of the three main monotheistic religions which are Islam, Judaism and Christianity. There were three presenters, one representing each religion. They explained the basic beliefs, history and customs of their religion. Then each presenter gave a speech about why they choose their faith and their personal religious experiences. This gave us an enhanced understanding of each religion and will assist us in our RE class assignment.
Lucia Lane
The JCMA presentations on Thursday held interactive and eye-opening discussions about different Abrahamic religions. We learnt about the similarities and differences between Islam, Christianity and Judaism, and the traditions and beliefs of each tradition. Each speaker provided an insightful and personal perspective on the religion to which they adhered, opening up the conversation about stereotypes, and welcoming questions from the audience. I found it really interesting and inspiring hearing the stories of each speaker and what led them to having a relationship with God. I believe programs like these are so important to preventing misunderstandings and ignorance in our society, as they remind us to see the humanity in our neighbour.
Emily Abrahams
The JCMA provided all Year 10 students the ability to learn and discuss the beliefs of people practising Jewish, Christian and Islamic faiths. This enlightening experience has led me to become more connected with people of different religious traditions through the discussion about how their faith empowers them to be their best selves and the similarities and differences we share. Listening to the speakers was an engaging opportunity that encouraged me to link the learning of my Religion and Society classes with people giving first hand accounts on the influence and importance of their beliefs. This will be very beneficial for my studies. Through this experience of Interfaith Dialogue, I have become more informed of other religious practices through the inspiring stories of Sue, Digger and Amna.
Anna Litchen.
For the JCMA visit, students received the opportunity to meet three people from the Muslim, Jewish and Christian traditions and were able to learn about their faith. But beyond gaining a better understanding of each of the three Abrahamic religions, we were able to listen to each of their stories and experiences as part of their religions. I felt like I was able to able to connect to each of the guests through their charming and joyful personalities, which meant that I felt comfortable asking my questions. When asking questions, it was fascinating to see how the responses differed because of their religions, as well as the perspectives and stories that they could share. I was able to compare and contrast Christianity, Judaism and Islam and received an insight about how a religion can affect one's ethics. It was interesting to learn about Jewish rituals such as Shabbat as well as being left shocked at how appallingly Muslims can be treated in today's Australian society. The perspectives and personalities of each of the guests made learning about their religions an enjoyable and unique experience.
Lucia Litchen
Sue, Digger and Amna are part of the JCMA (Jewish Christian Muslim Association) and came to facilitate a discussion with us on the eye-opening differences and similarities revealed through Interfaith Dialogue. They spoke as representatives of their religion but, more accurately, as individuals as part of something bigger; they shared their personal experiences and beliefs as adherents of their faith. The Year 10 students sat in the auditorium and were immediately engrossed by the stories of the these three individuals who shared nothing but truth, knowledge and laughs with us. They were outspoken whilst remaining respectful; funny yet serious - all of which created an atmosphere infused with connection and solidarity. The fast facts about each religion at the beginning of the talk and our ability to ask what are usually sensitive questions freely and in a non-judgemental environment, broadened our understanding of the various faiths and opened our minds to new ideas. Because of this, the talk was highly beneficial to our learning and provided a good foundation for our upcoming work. It will personally be embedded into my mind as it was interactive learning made fun - a change from reading the textbook. The JCMA talk linked many aspects of the three different religions, corresponding the beliefs, rituals and ethics of interfaith which aided in our general knowledge. Personally, many things stood out from this talk, the major one being how the speakers came to be religious. Amna pretended to be someone completely different as she hated the colour of her skin and her culture (being Muslim) compared to her European friends. Digger liked a girl and found out she attended church every Sunday and went to Christian camps, so he started doing the same in an attempt to get closer to her. These personal experiences were what sparked the light of faith for Amna and Digger. Sue, on the other hand, seemed to be brought up with faith from the minute she could walk, it was a part of her. I have learnt from this that no matter your upbringing or your family's background, you need to find yourself in order to discover your faith.
Caari Burton-Smith
On Thursday, 8 March, the Year 10 students listened to three people from the JCMA (the Jewish Christian Muslim Association). The reason we did this was to get a better understanding of our topic which is Interfaith Dialogue. We listened to, and wrote down facts about each faith tradition. As well as hearing each individual story and some of the traditions and rituals, we were also allowed to ask as many questions as we could about the religions. This was a great way to learn and gain a better understanding of each tradition and also understand more clearly the similarities and differences between the Abrahamic religions.
Lucy Di Camillo
Every Victorian child should have access to the world of learning opportunities that exist beyond the classroom
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Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
Each year we experience the rhythms and the cycle of the seasons and of the Liturgical Calendar. In the Southern Hemisphere, the arrival of autumn seems to fit so well with the season of...
Each year we experience the rhythms and the cycle of the seasons and of the Liturgical Calendar. In the Southern Hemisphere, the arrival of autumn seems to fit so well with the season of Lent; the light becomes softer, the days shorten and there is a sense of peace and of drawing back from the energy and busyness of the summer. At this time, we are invited once again to deepen our relationship with God and to free ourselves from those things that have a hold on us. May these forthcoming days of autumn encourage us all to slow down, to create a sacred space in our days and to remember that God is everywhere and all around us, even in the most unlikely situations.
I enjoyed many community events over these past two weeks. The Genazzano swim meet on a warm summer evening included all the usual friendly rivalry that exists between neighbouring Catholic Girls' schools, much cheering and a good result for our swimmers who placed second overall after our Genazzano hosts.
It was good to join the Music Department staff and students last week to welcome new Year 7 families and to showcase the opportunities that are offered through the Siena Music Program. The Music staff and our students are certainly a talented and enthusiastic group and the Siena bands and ensembles provided a toe tapping entrée to the evening.
Rehearsals have begun for the Siena/Whitefriars Musical, A Chorus Line. From the enthusiastic contributions I witnessed this week, we can look forward to an entertaining showcase of music and dancing later in the year.
Visitors to College Open Mornings often comment on the sense of community they experience and our Twilight Fair brought together students, families, staff and even a past student who had not visited the College since her graduation in 1958. It was lovely to be able to showcase our refurbished Music and Drama facilities in the West Wing and the Undercroft.
Our Term 1 assembly was a joyful occasion as we welcomed new students and staff, particularly the new Year 7s. It is a long standing tradition for the Year 7s to process into the assembly behind their House banners to rousing applause, lead by the four House Captains and House Coordinators. The Term 1 assembly is also an occasion on which we welcomed back high achieving students from the 2017 VCE and acknowledged their success. We are very proud of their achievements which will be published shortly in the 2017 high achievers' brochure. Our College Dux, Caitlin Angus gave an inspiring address, acknowledging her peers, her teachers throughout her time at both primary and secondary school, and her family. We greatly value the partnerships we nurture with families as we endeavour to offer the young women of Siena the best possible opportunities to learn and flourish. We look forward to welcoming Year 7 parents at the end of the week as our Year 7s and 12s dance the night away in the gym at their 'Pyjama Party'.
A group of students and staff is busily preparing for a visit to Kopanang in South Africa. Last week, Sr Sheila Flynn OP worked with them to focus on the history and politics of South Africa and on what life is like for the women and children trapped in endemic poverty. We continue to be challenged across the globe by the lack of progress in addressing the millennium goals signed by the United Nations in September 2000, committing world leaders to combat poverty, hunger, disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation, and discrimination against women. Countries making the least progress are those like South Africa, that are affected by high levels of HIV/AIDS and economic hardship. The students and staff are collecting clothing, sporting equipment and stationery to take with them and we look forward to hearing about the impact of this life changing experience on their return.
I extend our deepest condolences to the Broderick and Bohan families on the recent passing of Year 12 student, Jess Broderick's mother, Cheryl, and of Mrs Kathleen Heanue, grandmother of Genevieve Bohan in Year 12 and mother of SPA member Mary Bohan.
Jennifer LevettDeputy Principal Mission and Identity
It is a centuries old tradition for the Pope to celebrate the Eucharist on Ash Wednesday at the Basilica of Santa Sabina in Rome – the headquarters of the Dominican Family. In his homily...
It is a centuries old tradition for the Pope to celebrate the Eucharist on Ash Wednesday at the Basilica of Santa Sabina in Rome – the headquarters of the Dominican Family. In his homily at Santa Sabina this year, the Pope reflected:
'Lent is the ideal time to allow our hearts to beat once more in tune with the vibrant heart of Jesus. The whole of the Lenten season is imbued with this conviction, which we could say is echoed by three words offered to us in order to rekindle the heart of the believer: pause, see and return. Pause for a little while, refrain from the emptiness of everything that is instantaneous, momentary and fleeting, that deprives us of our roots, our ties, of the value of continuity and the awareness of our ongoing journey. See the faces of our young people filled with yearning for the future and hope, filled with 'tomorrows' and opportunities that demand dedication and protection. Return without fear, to experience the healing and reconciling tenderness of God.'
One way to put Pope Francis' words into action is to try to reduce our use of technology by committing to this 2018 Lenten Carbon Fast
We were delighted to welcome Sr Sheila Flynn OP to Siena for a few days recently. Sheila spent this time:
On 22 February, the new Mission Team gathered for our first meeting. The purpose of the Mission Team is to animate, oversee and evaluate the multitude of College activities and experiences that constitute the Catholic and Dominican ethos of the College.
Mia Catalano Ministry Captain
Hayley Di Stefano Youth Ministry Captain
Madeleine Harriss Social Justice Captain
Martin Gibbs Head of Student Wellbeing Dianella
Kate Gotlib Head of Student Formation and Justice Education
Jen Levett Deputy Principal Mission and Identity
Maureen McAuley and Maria Ang Archivists
Christine Miller Religious Education Coordinator
Gaynor Robson-Garth Principal
Year 7 students experienced a wonderful day of initiation into the Dominican tradition through participation in activities on the Dominican Discovery Day. We explored and wondered at the ...
Year 7 students experienced a wonderful day of initiation into the Dominican tradition through participation in activities on the Dominican Discovery Day. We explored and wondered at the beauty of St Dominic's church, whilst listening to the ethereal voices of the Dominican friars as they sang the haunting Regina Coeli for us. We marvelled at the rich timbre of the church bells as they rang above our heads, calling us into communion with God.
In the Priory, we responded to the presenters who told us about many of the great Dominican figures who continue to inspire the Brothers and Friars and were enthralled by the story of the voting using the black and white balls.
Back at the College, we meditated, experiencing what it means to contemplate, one of the four Dominican Pillars. With great excitement and a strong sense of competition, we raced around the school grounds on an orienteering course to discover the many signs, statues and religious artefacts that remind us we are in a Catholic school in the Dominican tradition.
After a delicious shared lunch, we reflected on the College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts' and created a jigsaw that was made up of our own personal strengths and abilities. This helped us realize that we bring so many gifts and talents to Siena and have much to contribute to the life of the College.
A couple of weeks ago, all of the Year 7 students were privileged enough to spend the day finding out more about Siena's history. We wandered the school on a Dominican dash, finding answers to clues about the school's past through cryptic messages, hidden in Caleruega and met the friars at St Dominic's who shared stories with us about their life and the Dominican tradition. To end the day, we decorated puzzle pieces with drawings and words to describe us, sharing a bit of ourselves with the school. This went perfectly with our theme this year, 'One Body, Many Parts'. This day was a great way to learn more about Siena in a different way with lots of people telling us stories and to give us a deeper understanding of what it truly is to be a Dominican.
Mia Kelly and Jessica Higgins
Dominican Discovery Day gave the Year 7 students an opportunity to learn more about God through hands on activities. We began the day with a scavenger hunt learning about the history of Siena. This was followed by meditation and attending mass at St Dominic's. Our day concluded with making puzzles in small groups which in my opinion was the best of fun and was a great way to reflect on the day.
Francesca Stapleton
On Friday, 9 February, the Year 7s attended Dominican Discovery Day. We raced around the school doing the Dominican Dash, then we went into Caleruega and experienced the manner in which the sisters prayed. We then went across to the church and looked around the Priory with the brothers from St Dominic's church. After that, we met Sr Juliana. Once we came back from the church, we were supplied with a delicious lunch by Siena College. Once the bell went, we were put into point groups and did a jigsaw puzzle together. Over all it was an amazing day and we thank all the teachers who helped organise this day.
Georgia Froutzis
After Dominican Discovery Day, I came away with new knowledge about Siena's history. Some things I learnt about the Dominicans is that they were founded by St Dominic and Dominicans are also known as the Order of Preachers (OP). When taking part in the exciting treasure hunt, I learnt about Siena's Dominican history by discovering historical paintings and I learnt that Siena College is named after St Catherine's home town of Siena in Italy. That's how our rust coloured blazers were chosen, as Siena is a small town with a colour scheme of rust. When wandering around the Dominican friar's house, I learnt about the rules and regulations of being a Priest. I asked one of the brothers, 'Is it a necessity to wear the robes all the time?' He replied with 'No. It is our choice as to when to wear it. I don't wear it when mowing the lawn'. The highlight of my day was working with my class to create a creative puzzle that really highlighted who we are and what makes us special. The puzzle pieces each described us, so when the puzzle was finished, we had different colours and images but it all made a whole, just like our College theme, 'One Body, Many Parts'. I thoroughly enjoyed this day and I'm looking forward to discovering more about Siena.
Evie Goodale
Bernadette DonnellyDeputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Staff have been very involved in the four professional practice sessions that we have run this term.
Staff have been very involved in the four professional practice sessions that we have run this term. In the first session, House Group teachers worked on a more consistent approach to the expectations and running of House Group. The second session was an introduction to a new initiative, implementing Action Research teams. All teaching staff have nominated an area from the High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS) to focus on throughout the year. The third session focused on strategic planning and a discussion about future goals. The Student Wellbeing Team ran the fourth session, looking at visible wellbeing and how it is integral to student learning. There has been great emphasis on sharing learning and how it benefits and impacts student learning.
Years 7 to 12 Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, 15 March and Wednesday, 21 March between 4.00pm and 7.30pm in the Latingata Morrom Gym. Parents will receive an email when online bookings are available, as well as instructions on how to download and print the Interim Report. The Interim Report, as shown in the Learning and Teaching parent letter from 5 February 2018, will provide information regarding the subject, classroom learning indicators and number of days absent.
As Parent/Teacher Conferences are an important opportunity to develop a working and supportive relationship between subject teachers, parents and students, we believe that it is essential that the student attend. This allows the student to share their learning experience and participate in the conversation about their subject expectations.
Years 7 to 12 Activities week will occur from 27 March to 29 March 2018. This program is well planned and supports the learning and wellbeing of our students. We ask for your support in student attendance. Year 7 students will attend their three day camp, Years 8, 10 and 11 students will be involved in a variety of activities run from the College, and Year 12 students will be on their retreat. Please note, the Year 9 Siena in the City program is a four day program, commencing on Monday, 26 March and concluding on Thursday, 29 March. Parents will receive individual year level notices in the following weeks.
Bernadette Donnelly
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Michelle RobertsonDirector of Learning and Innovation
Home learning is an integral part of the learning process and the Dominican faith tradition. Home learning assists students by complementing and reinforcing classroom learning and provid...
Home learning is an integral part of the learning process and the Dominican faith tradition. Home learning assists students by complementing and reinforcing classroom learning and provides a means by which students can take responsibility for their own learning. Home learning is also an opportunity for parents to work in partnership with teachers and to further participate in their daughter's education.
Because of the inherently different nature of subjects, home learning requirements will vary. Part of the learning process for students involves discernment and time management as they plan home learning. Subject teachers use the suggested total guidelines and their professional judgement as to the quantity of set home learning for their individual subject. The following is a guide per year level to the amount of time that students should spend on home learning:
Year 7: 60-90 minutes per day
Year 8: 60-90 minutes per day
Year 9: 90 minutes per day
Year 10: 90-120 minutes per day
Year 11: 2-3 hours per day
Year 12: 3-4 hours per day
In becoming independent learners, students are encouraged to:
Parents, as the primary educators of their children, are encouraged to:
In order to maximise your daughter's learning opportunities, it is important to establish a home learning environment that is conducive to completing home learning tasks and revision of class learning. Tablets and laptops are not always required to complete home learning tasks and can become a distraction. Ensure that technology is switched off when not being used to complete home learning in order to avoid unnecessary distractions. Your daughter's home learning space should:
Best wishes to all students in your learning endeavours in 2018!
Michelle Robertson
Director of Learning and Innovation
Donna LaughlinLeader of Pedagogy
Siena Central Online Feedback
The implementation of Siena Central with all classes this year provides the opportunity for students and their parents to receive ongoing feedback...
The implementation of Siena Central for all classes, provides the opportunity for students and their parents to receive ongoing feedback regarding the students' areas of achievement and improvement for each assessment task. Online feedback will be made available to students and parents in a timely manner and can be accessed in the following ways:
If you have any questions or difficulties accessing the Siena Central Parent Portal or the online feedback, please contact IT help at the College on 9835 0200 or firstname.lastname@example.com
Christine MillerReligious Education Coordinator
At Siena College, we embrace opportunities to develop higher order thinking skills to find Veritas, Truth, in our world. Eckhart von Hochheim OP (c.1260–1328), commonly known as Meister ...
At Siena College, we embrace opportunities to develop higher order thinking skills to find Veritas, Truth, in our world. Eckhart von Hochheim OP (c.1260–1328), commonly known as Meister Eckhart, was a German Dominican theologian, philosopher and mystic, born near Gotha, Germany, in the Holy Roman Empire. Meister Eckhart, in the final words of his Book of Divine Comfort, prayed: 'May the loving compassionate God, who is Truth itself, grant to me and to all who seek knowledge may find the truth within ourselves and become aware of it. Amen'
As Dominicans, we are Truth Seekers. A number of years ago, as part of our Year 11 Religious Education program, it was decided that in each of our first three terms a seminar session would be introduced, with specialist guest presenters, who would widen the vision of our students beyond the prescribed curriculum. These would include topics such as ethics/philosophical questions, a broader understanding of religion in our world and a link between Dominican and Catholic perspectives.
Alumna Dr Rose Marie Prosser (Class of 1961), a former teacher and Religious Education Coordinator at Siena College and a lecturer at Yarra Theological Union, delivered our first presentation for 2018.
Dr Rose Marie Prosser
Below is a student reflection on our first Year 11 Eckhart seminar this year:
'On Friday, 16 February, the Year 11 students were visited by Dr Rose Marie Prosser who spoke to us at our first Eckhart seminar. During her presentation, we reflected on this year's College theme 'One Body, Many Parts'. Dr Prosser's presentation helped to enrich our understanding of images of God, beauty and connections with our Jewish heritage as Catholics. It further added to our exploration of religion and how interrelated religion and society are.' Hannah Gosby and Emily Hodder
Kerryn McGillenDirector of Music
Year 7 Music Information Evening
There is always a busy hum of excitement at the Year 7 Music Information Evening...
There is always a busy air of excitement at the Year 7 Music Information Evening and this year we weren't disappointed, with many Year 7 students and their parents in attendance. The night started with our senior ensembles performing so our youngest musicians could hear the various instruments and ensembles on offer at Siena College. Mel Myrtle, Music Captain 2018, talked about her musical journey at Siena and our talented music staff introduced themselves and demonstrated their instruments. After that, the fun began with instrument trials. We had tooting, honking, bowing, strumming, banging and singing all throughout the gym. The energy level was high and the beginning notes were attempted without fear. Enrolments are now due and we encourage students to get their forms in fast to secure a spot in the program.
On Tuesday, 20 February the Wind Orchestra made a surprise appearance in the Undercroft performing a medley of songs from the hit musical Aladdin. Students carrying instruments and stands made their way through the gathering of students enjoying recess in the Undercroft and started performing this chart. It was a lot of fun to perform as a flash mob and we all appreciated the experience in this new space.
This inaugural College event was a relaxed and family friendly evening. The musical performances were impressive even after only four weeks of rehearsals and our students coped with the windy conditions of the outside gig. Thank you to all musicians and their conductors for putting on such a great show. Extra special thanks to our maintenance team for helping the music staff set up the outside stage and chairs. These events don't happen by themselves and we would like to thank SPA and FOMPA for their support. The stalls, cheese and wine platters as well as the food vans created a fun and relaxed feel to the night.
The Music Department has made its way across to the West Wing Performing Arts Centre and we are delighted to be running music lessons in the new tuition rooms and classrooms. We will miss the beautiful cloisters but we are delighted to have new, bright and sound proof music teaching spaces.
Siena's Night of Jazz will be held on Thursday, 22 March this year at the Manningham Hotel, Grand Ballroom, 1 Thompsons Road Bulleen. This is one of the highlights of the music calendar and tickets are on sale now. This concert will feature our jazz and contemporary ensembles and it is a fundraiser for the Generations in Jazz tour. This event sells out quickly so we recommend purchasing your tickets promptly. Book online at www.sienaconnect.com.au/event/noj
This year we would like to welcome Gemma Tomlinson who is our new cello teacher and Junior Strings director. Gemma is a professional musician and teacher and brings her love of beautiful string music and a sense of fun. Pictured in the gallery is Lucinda Burgin Uhlherr with Gemma.
It was wonderful to see so many of our Siena community enjoying the atmosphere at our first ever Twilight Fair....
It was wonderful to see our Siena College community enjoying the atmosphere at our first ever Twilight Fair. Guests were able to tour our new West Wing Performing Arts Centre, watch the Staff vs Student Basketball game, enjoy a range of food and drinks, listen to musical performances by our talented students and participate in a number of activities and games. All proceeds from the evening will go towards our 2018 musical production, A Chorus Line: High School Edition, in collaboration with Whitefriars College. The production will run from Wednesday, 25 July to Saturday, 28 July 2018 and tickets will go on sale Tuesday, 1 May 2018.
Thank you to the Siena Parents Association (SPA), particularly Friends of Music and Performing Arts (FOMPA) and Friends of Sport (FOS), for their support of this community event.
In December last year, a group of Year 10 and 11 students travelled to Italy for two weeks, as part of their Italian studies.
In December last year, a group of Year 10 and 11 students travelled to Italy for two weeks, as part of their Italian studies. We visited Venice, Verona, Florence, Pisa, Siena and Rome. It was a very memorable, fun and exciting experience, as we got to see so many amazing monuments and architecture and immersed ourselves in the Italian culture. We ate lots of pasta, pizza and Italian delicacies as we practised and improved our language skills along the way.
The first place we visited in Italy was Venice, where we stayed for three days. We visited the iconic St Mark's square, la Piazza San Marco, with all the gorgeous churches and buildings near the water. We visited the Doge's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and Saint Mark's Basilica. In Venice, we also had the opportunity to visit Murano and Burano, two islands that are famous for producing hand blown glass and hand sewn lace.
Whilst in Verona, we visited Juliet's statue on her beautiful balcony and all the love letters addressed to her plastered on the walls. After Verona, we then visited the beautiful city of Florence where we stayed for six days. We went to school there for five of those days where we enhanced our Italian knowledge in exchange for teaching our teachers some of our Aussie slang. We climbed the Duomo in Florence and when we reached the top, we were blown away from the amazing panoramic views of Florence. During our stay in Florence, we also visited Pisa where we saw the famous leaning tower and made the 284 stair climb to the top. The climb felt a little strange as you could actually feel the tilt in the tower.
We stopped in Siena on the way to Rome where we saw firsthand the inspiration for our College blazer, as all the rooftops were made of rust Tuscan tiles. We explored the city and visited churches, one of which contained the sculpted head of St Catherine of Siena whose house we also visited.
In Rome, we visited the Vatican City where we toured the Vatican museum and Sistine Chapel as well as St Peter's Cathedral. We also visited the Colosseum, the Forum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. This was a trip to remember and the friendships made will last a lifetime.
By Alannah Tivisini, Grace Mikleus, Ruby Hickey, Alyssa Marrone, Katherine Kotsiros, Ellie Dickinson, Ilaria Del Tito
For the latest careers bulletin please click on the link below...
For the latest Siena College Careers bulletin please click here.
Every Victorian child should have access to the world of learning opportunities that exist beyond the classroom
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Gaynor Robson-GarthPrincipal
'There is one body, but it has many parts. But all its many parts make up one body. It is the same with Christ. We were all baptized by one Holy Spirit and so we are formed into one body...
'There is one body, but it has many parts. But all its many parts make up one body. It is the same with Christ. We were all baptized by one Holy Spirit and so we are formed into one body. It didn't matter whether we were Jews or Gentiles, slaves or free people. We were all given the same Spirit to drink. So the body is not made up of just one part. It has many parts.' 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
I extend a warm welcome to the 2018 school year at Siena College. It was a great joy to experience the buzz of conversation and the warm greetings as students, staff and parents returned from the Christmas break. It was a special pleasure to welcome the Year 12s for their final year of secondary education and the incoming Year 7s and their families. We celebrated their place as parts of our 'One Body', the Siena Community, at our Opening Mass in St Dominic's Church. We will gather there again to wish them well when they graduate in 2023 as empowered young women.
Our College theme, One Body, Many Parts, is based on the Letters of St Paul to the Corinthians. The inspiration for the image on the 2018 theme banner is a sketch of St Catherine of Siena by artist, Henry Flanagan. It captures her vitality and sense of purpose. The 2018 theme banner depicts Catherine amongst the stars, her energy and determination as she moves forward.
We are all invited to 'be like Catherine' in our world today. The image on the banner can be interpreted in so many ways, our place in the universe, our place as members of a global community, our place in Australia, the part we play at Siena College and in our families and House Groups and teams. As parts of each of these 'bodies' we share both privileges and opportunities as well as responsibilities to the whole. Over the year, we will continue to reflect on the text and the image and explore its meaning for each of us in the different groups we are a part of.
It was lovely to return to refurbished facilities, a new home for Music and the Performing Arts in the West Wing, a new building facade and landscaping, and a more welcoming Undercroft and outdoor seating for the girls. All are welcome at the Twilight Fair on Wednesday, 28 February to listen to our staff and students make music together, picnic in the grounds, support the stalls and fundraising efforts of the Siena Parents' Association and tour the refurbished facilities.
I thank the Siena Parents' Association (SPA) for hosting the Year 12 breakfast and Year 7 Parents' evening at the start of the year. The hard work, energy and commitment of President Carmel Musco and all members of the SPA, continue to generate funds and provide enhanced facilities for the girls. Thanks to their amazing efforts in 2017, the College received a $30,000 donation, $5,000 of which was used to construct a timber deck at the rear of the school where we will place tables and outdoor umbrellas. In addition, the Association funded a new $7,000 electronic scoreboard for the gym and the cabinetry for a 'pop up' uniform shop in the refurbished undercroft. Fundraising is a challenging undertaking and the significant contribution from SPA reflects much planning and investment of time by volunteers.
I thank the Alumnae Association for the donation of two Aqua Bubblers located adjacent to the tennis courts outside the gym. The Alumnae Association also set up the Ursula McKenna Award and a $500 prize which is given annually to a past student in recognition of her achievements in the area of Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics. Dr Clare Fedele was the 2017 recipient for her work in promoting the role of women in these fields of endeavour. Both SPA and the Alumnae Association contribute much to the strong sense of community at our College and to the education of the young women at Siena.
It has been a busy start to the year with a transition program and a 'Dominican Day' for Year 7s, a leadership day for the SRC, a commemoration of Kevin Rudd's 2008 'Apology to the Stolen Generation', a launch of debating and public speaking, a range of justice and service projects, our Welcome Eucharist, GSV Sport and a Genazzano Swim Meet, to mention just a few.
Next week, at the first assembly for the year, we will welcome back and acknowledge the high achievers in the 2017 VCE. We are proud of their efforts and of the College's ranking once again in the 'Top Five' Victorian Catholic schools in the State and the top 10% of all schools. I wish you all a productive and enriching year.
I am pleased to announce that the Trustees of Dominican Education Australia have appointed Mr Sean McGing as the new Chair of the Siena College Board as of Monday, 12 February 2018. Sean and Nuala McGing are well known in the Siena community as the parents of three daughters, Aisling (Class of 2010), Fiona (Class of 2011), and Emer who will graduate from Siena College at the end of 2018.
Sean was a member of the Finance Committee from March 2006 to April 2013, and Chair of this Committee from March 2008 to April 2013. He joined the Siena College Board in February 2008 and has been the current and inaugural Chair of the Risk Committee since June 2010. Sean took on the role of Company Secretary of Siena College from February 2013 to September 2016.
Sue Fabian, Chair of Dominican Education Australia, announced Sean's appointment, indicating that the DEA Ltd Board is acutely aware of the great responsibility involved in appointing a person to chair such an experienced and professional group as the Siena College Board, and has carefully explored the possibilities. The Trustees are confident that Sean's professional and governance experience, his thorough understanding of the College, and his deep commitment to the Dominican Charism and the welfare of the College, its Principal, students, staff and community, will foster a continuation of the excellence in governance which Siena College has enjoyed for so many years.
I thank Sean on behalf of our community for his valued contribution and commitment to Siena College over the past thirteen years, and into the future.
A prayerful start to the College year
Last week, Year 12 gathered together for a liturgy based around our College theme, One Body, Many Parts, and some reflective exercises to focus their hearts and minds on the important year ahead. Our weekly Eucharists commenced on Thursday, 8 February with a faithful gathering of staff. These celebrations of the Eucharist are open to students, parents, family members and staff every Thursday morning, commencing at 8.00am in the College Chapel. This time of prayer is an integral part of community life in a Dominican school.
On Friday, 9 February Siena Year 7s participated in their Dominican Discovery Day. The aim was to become familiar with elements of our Dominican heritage, story, symbols and contemporary reality. Students enjoyed quiet contemplation, a tour of St Dominic's Priory and Church and a 'Dominican Dash', which saw students racing around our campus collecting letters to make up the name Saint Dominic de Guzman. The 153 students attended midday Eucharist with the St Dominic's Parish community and participated in a collective art activity across the afternoon
Thanks to Year 7 RE staff, Sr Julianna Drobik OP, the Dominican community at St. Dominic's and our caterers for their contributions on the day.
To mark the 10th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations our College took part in a House Group Liturgy. Led by our Fire Carrier and Social Justice Captains we recalled the significance of the day and prayed for harmony and reconciliation in our land. With alarming statistics released recently, indicating a rise in racism among Australians, it was a salutary reminder of the part each one of us can play in working toward a more just and hope-filled future for all.
The beginning of Lent was marked at Siena by prayer services in every House Group, led by student leaders. The prayer service comprised a Gospel Reading, prayers of the people, distribution of ashes blessed at St Dominic's and the launch of our 2018 Project Compassion campaign – For a Just Future. All students have been given a Project Compassion box which families may use to collect funds across Lent to support aid and development projects in Nepal, Cambodia, Jordan, Mozambique, the Philippines and Indigenous Australia. For further information about Caritas Australia – the official aid and development agency of the Catholic Church in Australia – check out Caritas' fantastic website: www.caritas.org.au.
Last night Year 7s, student leaders, staff and parents gathered at St Dominic's to ask God's blessing on the year ahead. We welcomed our enthusiastic Year 7s and commissioned our Years 8 to12 Siena leaders in a real spirit of joy and community. Heartfelt thanks to the singers, musicians, readers, procession people, Eucharistic Ministers and student leaders who shaped or led an element of the Eucharist. We are also grateful to Fr Peter Murnane OP for generously joining us to preside at this Eucharist.
Jen Levett
Deputy Principal Mission and Identity
An introduction to the 2018 Heads of Learning
Welcome back to the 2018 academic year and a warm welcome to all of our new students and families. May I introduce the Senior Learning Leaders who are responsible for learning in our College in 2018:
Christine Miller Head of Religious Education
Jemimah Walsh Head of Humanities
Tina Di Camillo Head of Languages
Simone Ryan Head of Learning Enhancement
Paul Failla Head of Mathematics
Marissa Joyce Head of English
Laine Rice Head of Health and Physical Education
Assimina Semertjis Head of Science
Claire Al-Noah Head of The Arts and Technology
Glenda Morris Head of Library
Michael Petrie Head of Senior Pathways
As part of the Heads of Learning team, we also have:
Michelle Robertson Director of Learning and Innovation
Donna Laughlin Leader of Pedagogy
Rosanna Merriweather Leader of Pedagogy
You are welcome to contact any of the Senior Learning Leaders (mentioned above) but as always, your first point of contact for curriculum related matters should be the subject teacher. It is essential that we continue to develop open and transparent communication and if possible, contact your daughter's subject teacher earlier rather than later, if you perceive there to be a concern.
All new parents and guardians will have received their login name and password for Siena Central. If a parent or guardian needs further assistance to log on to Siena Central via the website, please contact email@example.com.
We will send further information on how to access your daughter's class page to prepare you for next week's launch of the 2018 Class pages for parents and guardians.
Year 12 students require an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank) for entry into many undergraduate entry university programs in Australia. This year we will again run the Year 12 Learning Conversations. This program provides an opportunity for the student to share a learning conversation with a senior member of staff about their academic goals, strategies that may assist in their learning and finally develop a 2018 Action Plan with a focus on improvement. Year 12 students will also estimate an ATAR based on their Year 11 Semester Two Examination results. The Year 12 students will receive the relevant documents and an ATAR calculator program so that they can spend some time reflecting on their Year 11 achievements and prepare for their learning conversation. The focus is not so much on the estimated ATAR that they calculate but the way in which they can maximise their learning opportunities in 2018.
The Year 7 to 12 Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, 15 March and Wednesday, 21 March between 4.00pm and 7.30pm in the Latingata Morrom Centre (Gym). The Parent/Teacher Conferences are an important opportunity to develop a working and supportive relationship between subject teachers, parents and students. It is essential that the student attends the Parent/Teacher Conferences so that they are able to share their learning experience and participate in the conversation about their subject expectations. Parents and guardians will be able to download a copy of their daughter's Interim report prior to the Parent/Teacher Conference. Further information will be provided in a later newsletter issue.
Bernadette Donnelly
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching
I would like to extend a very warm welcome to all of our new Year 7 students and their families. We begin the year with 152 Year 7s who completed a two day Transition Program before all...
I would like to extend a very warm welcome to all of our new Year 7 students and their families. We begin the year with 152 Year 7s, who completed a two day Transition Program before all the other students returned to the College. This program included various activities to ensure that our new Year 7 students feel comfortable, confident and safe in their new learning environment, in order to help them maximise their learning opportunities at Siena throughout the school year.
Our Year 7s spent their first morning getting to know their House Group Teachers, who carefully introduced them to how things work at Siena. Using circle time activities, the girls began to get to know one another. In an effort to begin learning their way around the school, students participated in an orienteering activity and, at lunchtime, signed up for GSV sports with our Physical Education staff. The girls engaged in various brain breaks and visualisation tasks in order to recharge their focus throughout the day.
The second day of the Transition Program provided an opportunity for the girls to meet some of their Classroom Teachers, who spent time setting up classroom expectations for the year as well as providing lots of opportunities for the girls to get to know one another better.
In an effort to continually improve and refine our practice, I welcome any feedback from parents in regards to our Transition Program. Feedback may be emailed directly to firstname.lastname@example.com and will help to inform the planning of our Transition Program for next year.
Minna Denholm
Transition Coordinator and Cassia Assistant House Coordinator
Introducing an online platform providing ongoing guidance and strategies from leading experts
Over the course of the last two years, the Student Wellbeing Team has conducted a range of parent forums on topics such as the importance of mindfulness, sleep, food and nutrition, and recognising our character strengths to best support our families in raising healthy and resilient young women. The Student Wellbeing Team, however, believes that a more effective approach than school based seminars would be to give families access to wellbeing professionals throughout the school year on a digital platform.
SchoolTV has been designed to respond to the needs of schools to provide families with credible, independent and ongoing information on the challenges facing young people. It is a unique online platform providing ongoing guidance and realistic strategies from leading experts. SchoolTV is supported by organisations such as Headspace, Deakin University and the Alannah and Madeline Foundation.
SchoolTV addresses a range of student wellbeing topics that affect families. These include:
• Surviving Year 12
• School Transitions
• Exam Jitters
• Internet Addiction
• Social Media and Digital Reputation
• Cyberbullying
• Drug and Alcohol Use
• Depression
• Anxiety
SchoolTV will launch next week and an email will be sent to all families with details on how to access this directly from the College website and Siena Central. We encourage all families in the College community to view, use and interact with this invaluable resource.
Martin Gibbs
Head of Student Wellbeing Dianella and Pastoral Program Coordinator