The 2026 Debutante Ball was a memorable highlight of the school year, bringing together almost the entire Year 11 cohort for a truly special evening. After months of preparation and anticipation, students were able to celebrate a significant milestone and create memories that will last a lifetime. Everyone looked incredible, with the effort put into dresses, suits, hair, and makeup adding to the excitement and elegance of the occasion.
The night was filled with laughter, dancing, and countless photographs as friends captured memories and celebrated together. It provided a wonderful opportunity for students to spend time outside the classroom, strengthening existing friendships and forming new connections. The atmosphere throughout the evening was one of joy and celebration, shared by students, families, and teachers alike.
One of the most memorable aspects of the Deb was the sense of togetherness it fostered within the year level. From practising dances and posing for photos to enjoying conversations and celebrating achievements, the event highlighted the strong friendships and community spirit that make the Year 11 cohort so special. Following the formal celebrations, many students continued the festivities at the after-party, where the fun and laughter carried on late into the night and provided another opportunity to reflect on the unforgettable evening.
Overall, the 2026 Debutante Ball was a remarkable experience that will be remembered fondly by all who attended. On behalf of the Year 11 Debutantes, we would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the night possible. In particular, we extend our sincere gratitude to Ms Monagle and Mr Diamond for their support, encouragement, and dedication throughout the preparation process. Their time, effort, and commitment helped make the evening so special, and we are incredibly grateful for everything they did to create such a treasured part of our school journey. Minty Taylor, Year 11
Darren was appointed Principal of Sacred Heart College in January 2019. Darren has had almost 30 years experience in teaching and leadership across a number of Victorian Catholic secondary schools. These include eight years as Principal of Mercy Regional College, Camperdown; nine years as Deputy Principal and Director of Mission at Mount Lilydale Mercy College; seven years as a Chemistry, Religious Education and Science teacher as well as REC at Sacred Heart College, Geelong.
Darren has been committed to a lifetime of study and professional development. After completing his initial degree of Bachelor of Science and Graduate Diploma of Education at the University of Melbourne, he continued his study by completing a Graduate Diploma of Religious Education, a Masters of Religious Education and a Doctor of Education, all at Australian Catholic University. In 2018, Darren participated in the Enhancing Catholic School Identity programme in Leuven, Belgium.
Darren has a deep and passionate affiliation with the Mercy tradition and charism and believes that Mercy schools must be “…committed to holistic education; determined to ensure that each student flourishes academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and physically”.
The purpose of the Catholic school is to provide “… an authentic Christian education, where students are called to embrace the essence of the Gospels, to flourish as whole human persons” and “… to provide exemplary learning experiences for the students who attend”.
Darren was appointed Principal of Sacred Heart College in January 2019. Darren has had almost 30 years experience in teaching and leadership across a number of Victorian Catholic secondary schools. These include eight years as Principal of Mercy Regional College, Camperdown; nine years as Deputy Principal and Director of Mission at Mount Lilydale Mercy College; seven years as a Chemistry, Religious Education and Science teacher as well as REC at Sacred Heart College, Geelong.
Darren has been committed to a lifetime of study and professional development. After completing his initial degree of Bachelor of Science and Graduate Diploma of Education at the University of Melbourne, he continued his study by completing a Graduate Diploma of Religious Education, a Masters of Religious Education and a Doctor of Education, all at Australian Catholic University. In 2018, Darren participated in the Enhancing Catholic School Identity programme in Leuven, Belgium.
Darren has a deep and passionate affiliation with the Mercy tradition and charism and believes that Mercy schools must be “…committed to holistic education; determined to ensure that each student flourishes academically, spiritually, emotionally, socially and physically”.
The purpose of the Catholic school is to provide “… an authentic Christian education, where students are called to embrace the essence of the Gospels, to flourish as whole human persons” and “… to provide exemplary learning experiences for the students who attend”.