This term, our Year 8 students have taken the initiative to transform part of their learning environment into a more welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive space. Recognising the importance of wellbeing and a positive atmosphere, the cohort set out to create areas that support both wellbeing, community and connection.
A dedicated student committee worked collaboratively to develop ideas for a reading nook and a breakout wellbeing space. These areas were designed to offer students a calm and comfortable environment to unwind, reflect, or simply enjoy a quiet moment during the school day. They can also serve as a space for students to 'reset' before entering a classroom. From brainstorming concepts to sourcing materials, the students led the project from start to finish, demonstrating impressive creativity, teamwork, and initiative. They have further plans to add some student artwork around the space.
The final touches included student-chosen posters, each featuring messages that promote kindness, resilience, inclusion, and positivity—values that resonate strongly with the Year 8 cohort. The posters not only reflect the students’ commitment to fostering a supportive and respectful school culture but also highlight their thoughtful engagement with the needs of their peers.
This project stands as a fantastic example of student voice in action and showcases the strong sense of community that defines this year group. Congratulations to all the Year 8 students involved on a job well done!
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”.