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Prayer
For the small, everyday things of our common life together, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For the little details of love that erupt in the daily experiences of our community, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For the many gifts, talents and blessings that we each bring to share with those around us, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who stand in solidarity with the oppressed and the downtrodden, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who offer welcome to people seeking safety on our shores, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who work to build communities of peace, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who reach out with compassion to those in need of comfort, let our prayer be “Alleluia”’.
For those who offer love to the outcast and hope to the vulnerable, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who find a silver lining in the face of adversity, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who defend and protect the earth and all of its beauty, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
For those who choose love over hatred, and those who choose peace over conflict, let our prayer be “Alleluia”.
Amen
Alleluia: Christ is Risen
For the 50 days of the Easter season, our constant refrain is “Alleluia” - an ancient word of joyous faith and hope. With “Alleluia” as our prayer, we proclaim the good news that Christ is risen and that God’s love flows throughout all of creation. With “Alleluia” as our prayer, we allow our hearts to be opened to recognise the living expressions of God’s love in our world.
With “Alleluia” as our prayer, we renew our own commitment to serve as channels of God’s love for all the creatures of this earth, working as one community to create a world of justice, peace and beauty. May the words of Alleluia remain upon your own lips and in your own heart throughout the coming season of Easter.
Easter Liturgy Images
College Open Evening
It was a joy to open our College to the wider community last week for our annual Open Evening. Our many guests enjoyed the opportunities to meet our wonderful staff, and to explore the various learning spaces throughout the College. One young visitor was overheard exclaiming as they left the College: “That was the best night of my life!” Many of our guests commented on the warm hospitality offered by our student volunteers, and we hope that all students involved are very proud of their efforts on the night. As well as being a chance to showcase our school, the Open Evening invited us to express anew who we are as a community. When speaking with future families of the school, we offered the following summary of what an education at Sacred Heart College entails: A Catholic education, expressed through the charism of Mercy, is an education in love. Love for self, as an individual of unrepeatable importance to our shared world. Love for community. Love for learning and for personal mastery. Love for the vulnerable. Love for our common home.
Student Progress Interviews
Following a well-earned break for all students, Term 2 will begin with our first round of Student Progress Interviews. These interviews are a time to celebrate achievements, address concerns and plan for improvement and growth. For these reasons, it is encouraged that students themselves are present for the SPIs, wherever possible.
End of Term Arrangements
Members of the school community are asked to note the arrangements below for the conclusion of Term 1, and the commencement of Term 2:
- Thursday 2 April 2026 Term 1 concludes (2.30pm)
- Friday 3 April 2026 Good Friday
- Sunday 5 April 2026 Easter Sunday
- Monday 20 April 2026 Student Progress Interviews (9.00am – 3.00pm) No student classes
- Tuesday 21 April 2026 Term 2 commences for all students
We hope that all families enjoy time to rest and restore over the school holiday period. May the Easter blessings of hope and joy be with you, and may the song of Alleluia resonate in your hearts.
Bereavements: Your prayers are asked for the following families who are mourning the passing of a loved one recently. The Christmass family on the passing of Gwenda Christmass, grandmother of Ned Year 12. The Lewis family on the passing of Betty Brown, grandmother of Chloe Year 7, and the Agustsson family on the passing of Salvatore Spalato, grandfather of Erik Year 12. Our thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Sam Weir
Acting Principal
We were welcomed with beautiful weather in East Bendigo as we commenced our rescheduled Swim Carnival.
The event was full of colour, with our Year 12 students showcasing their creative costumes, while strong competition in the pool, volleyball, and novelty events added to the excitement. Overall, it was another great success. A big thank you to all staff for their support throughout the day.
Celebrating a Strong Start to the Year
As we reach the end of Term 1, it is an opportunity to reflect on what has been a vibrant and positive start to the year at Sacred Heart College. Across the term, students and staff have worked together to create a learning environment grounded in connection, growth and shared purpose.
Our students have embraced new challenges with enthusiasm, whether settling into new year levels, engaging in classroom learning, or participating in co-curricular opportunities. It has been particularly pleasing to see the way students have supported one another, demonstrating respect, inclusion and a strong sense of community in all aspects of College life.
Our staff are to be commended for their ongoing dedication and care. Their commitment to creating engaging learning experiences, while supporting the wellbeing of each student, continues to be a cornerstone of our College culture. The strong relationships formed between staff and students across the term have played a key role in ensuring a positive and settled start to the year.
I would like to extend particular thanks to our Year Level Leaders and Heads of School, who have worked tirelessly to support our students throughout the term. This has been especially true for those who are new to the College or new to the role of Year Level Leader. It has been a significant learning curve, and their commitment, professionalism and care for students has been outstanding. Alongside our experienced team members, they have contributed greatly to the strength and consistency of our pastoral care.
Macedon Ranges Youth Summit
Among the highlights of the term, I wanted to recognise the participation of nine of our students (Bethany Carter, Grace Sinclair, Rose Bloomfield, Cara Courtney, Ava Hager, Henry Hull, Alice Brown, Matilda Wills, Isabelle Desira and Matilda Matthews) in the Macedon Ranges Youth Summit. This was a valuable opportunity for students to engage in meaningful, facilitated discussions alongside other young people from across the region, focusing on issues that directly impact them. Students demonstrated confidence, insight and a genuine commitment to contributing to their community. They were then invited to present their perspectives via video link to sitting Council members, ensuring that youth voice was heard at a civic level. We congratulate these students on the thoughtful and articulate way they represented both themselves and our College.
Out of this session came information that Macedon Ranges Shire Council are creating a Youth Council for interested young people. There is further information about applications in in this Newsletter.
As we look ahead to Term 2, we do so with a strong sense of momentum. Thank you to our students, staff and families for the role each of you has played in making Term 1 such a successful and rewarding start to the year. We wish everyone a safe and restful Easter break.
Year 7 Girls Volleyball Team
We would like to thank our coaches Mila and Calista, for their incredible support throughout the day. They were always there to lift our spirits and help us improve. Thanks to their guidance, we made it to semifinals. Our team was amazing and ready for the next year.
Well done to:
Marnie – Very good at spiking and encouraging
Ava – Encouragement and hyping us all up
Maddy – Adapting and keeping the ball up
Amelia – Keeping the team together and getting ball
Summer- Good at serving and engouements
Hayley – Good at preserving and calling the ball
Elke – Calling her ball and making good positioning
Stella – Going for the ball and giving out awesome lollies
Year 7 Boys Volleyball Team
Today was a great day! Thank you to Mr Zanic for organising everything, and to the two teachers who came to support us. A special thanks to the girls, Calista and Mila from Year 9 who volunteered their time to coach us.
The boys’ team put in a lot of effort and had lots of fun. Unfortunately, we didn’t make the finals, but we really appreciate the girls’ team for cheering us on throughout the day. We cant wait to do it again next year. Year 7 Team
Intermediate and Senior Netball
Intermediate Girls B Team - Our school netball day was full of energy, teamwork, and lots of fun! Everyone gave their best effort on the court and showed great sportsmanship throughout the day. We played four games in total, winning two and losing two, which made for an exciting and competitive experience. It was a great opportunity to improve our skills, support each other, and enjoy time together as a team. Overall, it was a fantastic day that we will all remember! - Miley
Intermediate Girls A Team - Our Year 9/10 netball day was a big success, with our team winning every game. We beat Wallan 10–4 and Mount Ridley by 4 goals, and played strongly against Mickleham and Elevation, where Isla showed great sportsmanship. Everyone played their role well—Isla M led strongly in Centre, Isla W shot accurately in GA, and Isla E defended well in GD. Asha and Mila worked hard through the midcourt, Annabelle was reliable in GS as well as the mid court and Emma showed great versatility in GA/GS. Milla was impressive in both GD and GS with her courageous intercepts. Overall, it was a great effort from everyone and we can’t wait until the next round! Isla M and Isla W
Senior Boys Team - The Year 12 Boys Netball Team has made our school incredibly proud with their outstanding performance at the interschool tournament, finishing as champions in a cruisey 9-1 win against Kyneton Secondary College, after a series of impressive matches.
From the very first game, the team demonstrated exceptional teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. Their communication on the court and ability to adapt under pressure set them apart from the competition, culminating in a well-deserved victory in the final. A special mention must go to Sam Haslett and Finn Collins who were both standout players throughout the tournament. Everyone on the team played an essential role to the team’s success, whether it was William Mcleans intercepts, Valentine Smiths hustle or Lewis Bonds passing everybody played a role.
Congratulations to all members of the team for their commitment and effort, as well as our coach Ms Vandenham. This achievement is a testament to the hard work put in by everybody involved. Well done, boys! - Ben and Ruben
Senior Girls A Team - On Monday 30 April, the Senior A Girls Netball Team competed in three matches, securing two wins and one loss. The girls showed great determination and effort throughout the day, consistently supporting one another and maintaining a positive attitude on and off the court. We appreciate the strong competition and the experience gained. Thank you, and best of luck to the teams progressing to the next round. - Wynta
Senior Girls B Team - On Monday 30 March a group of Year 12s attended the Mickleham Senior Division Netball. Across the day we had varied success winning one game but unfortunately losing two. Our team built connections on the court across the day and played very well in the heat. Apart from not progressing to the next round, we are very proud of our performance, efforts and the improvements we made across the day. Charli
Year 8 Boys Volleyball
Well done to our Year 8 boys volleyball team on a fantastic effort in the recent schools tournament. Across every match, the boys showed determination, teamwork, and resilience. Their communication on the court improved with each game, and their willingness to support one another never wavered. It was clear to see their skills developing and their confidence growing as the tournament progressed.
Congratulations boys on a strong effort. You should be proud of what you achieved. Andrea Knight
NMR Swim Meet
Congratulations to all competitors at the NMR swim meet at WATERMARC in Greensborough on Thursday March 26.
Competition at this level is a lot harder than the Division meet. Overall, the school had a successful day with a number of placing.
Huge congratulations to Ava Hagar who made it through to the State Swim Championships at MSAC on April 23!
Results:
14 Girls Ava Hagar – 1st 50m Breastroke, 50m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke, 50m Butterfly: 2nd 200m Individual Medley, Freestyle Relay
14 Boys Harley Gaunt – 3rd 50 m Freestyle
16 Girls Abigail Cross – 50m Breastroke
17 Girls Natalia Scuteri – 50m Butterfly
14 Girls Freestyle Relay – 2nd
15 Boys Freestyle Relay – 2nd
16 Boys Freestyle Relay – 3rd
17 Girls Medley Relay 2nd, Freestyle Relay 3rd
NMR Senior Tennis
A fantastic day was enjoyed by everyone on Wednesday at the Boys and Girls Senior Tennis competition. Congratulations to the girls for their outstanding effort in finishing as runners-up. The Senior Boys, however, were victorious on the day and became the NMR champions! They will now progress to the State Competition in May. We are very proud of you all.
Throughout Lent, our College community came together to support Project Compassion, the annual appeal of Caritas Australia.
Project Compassion invites us to Unite Against Poverty, raising funds to alleviate poverty, promote justice, and uphold the dignity of vulnerable communities both globally and here in Australia with First Australian partners. Through this work, Caritas supports access to clean water, education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods, working alongside communities to create long-term change.
As a College community, we raised over $2,600, a wonderful collective effort.
Highlights included:
- Year 12 students raising over $500 through their Op Shop Formal as part of their Retreat
- Staff raising over $500 through the “Special Ks” challenge
- Year 7 students raising over $300 on their Reflection Day, walking laps with buckets of water in solidarity with communities without easy access to clean water
- The wider student body reaching our $1,500 goal, unlocking a casual clothes day to celebrate
This is a clear expression of our Mercy values in action. We see compassion in responding to the needs of others, justice in supporting fair and dignified opportunities, and service in the generosity shown across our community. We also see respect and hospitality in recognising the dignity of every person and standing alongside those most in need.
Thank you to all students, staff, and families who contributed so generously. We also acknowledge the leadership and organisation of Freya Egberts, our Mercy Justice Coordinator, along with Blake and Elsa, our Mercy Justice Student Leaders, whose work helped bring this together.
Together, we continue to live out what it means to be a Mercy community, trusting that from a good beginning, Mercy flourishes in the way we respond to others.
Sacred Heart College was proudly represented at the recent Riddell’s Creek Energy Expo, with our student sustainability leaders showcasing both their passion and leadership in inspiring the wider community.
Our students were outstanding ambassadors for the College, confidently engaging with members of the public and creating a vibrant, interactive space focused on sustainability and environmental action. Their enthusiasm, knowledge, and willingness to start meaningful conversations did not go unnoticed.
A highlight of the day was the ever popular “Shoot the Hoop” recycling game, where participants tested their knowledge by correctly sorting waste into the appropriate bins. This fun and energetic activity sparked great discussions about waste management and the importance of making responsible choices in our everyday lives.
Visitors also enjoyed getting hands-on by creating seed bombs, an activity that promoted biodiversity and encouraged people to think about how small actions can contribute to healthier ecosystems. It was wonderful to see participants of all ages getting involved and leaving with something they could use to make a positive impact at home.
In addition, our students led simple science experiments exploring alternative energy sources, helping to break down complex ideas into engaging and accessible learning experiences. These demonstrations opened up valuable conversations about renewable energy and the role we all play in creating a more sustainable future.
Throughout the day, our students demonstrated confidence, initiative, and a genuine commitment to caring for our common home. They embodied the Sacred Heart values of stewardship and community, showing that young people can be powerful agents of change.
We are incredibly proud of their efforts and grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an important community event.
In Term One, as part of the MACS curriculum trial that is taking place in Year 7 RE, our students have been engaging in a meaningful unit on Belonging which has included exploring how Catholic schools express and celebrate their identity. As part of this learning, students created vibrant and informative posters highlighting key aspects of Catholic school culture, including prayer, signs and symbols, and social justice.
Many posters focused on the importance of prayer. Other students explored Catholic signs and symbols, explaining their meanings and significance whilst others highlighted how Catholic schools put faith into action by examining organisations such as Caritas and McCauley Services for Women. The creativity and insight shown in students’ work reflected a deepening understanding of what it means to belong to a Catholic community.
Our posters are now proudly displayed in classrooms, serving as a reminder of the many ways Catholic identity is lived and celebrated each day.
Each year, Catholic schools from across the Archdiocese of Melbourne gather at St Patrick’s Cathedral for Mass of St Patrick for Schools. This is a significant moment in the life of Catholic education, bringing together students, staff and leaders to celebrate our shared faith and mission.
This year, thousands of students filled the Cathedral, with every seat taken and additional chairs lining the aisles. Schools were represented through banners carried in procession, as the sound of Irish bagpipes led the gathering into prayer. The scale of the Cathedral, its architecture and atmosphere, added to the sense of occasion and invited reflection.
The theme, “Christ beside me: Walking in the footsteps of St Patrick,” invited us to reflect on how Jesus is present with us in every part of our lives.
In his homily, Archbishop Peter A Comensoli reminded students that, like St Patrick, we are called to recognise that Christ is always with us, guiding us, strengthening us, and sending us out to bring peace, hope and faith to others.
Our College was represented by Gracie Cook and Alexander Price, our Junior College Captains and Benjamin Knight, the Junior Faith Leader, who joined with others in this shared celebration of what it means to belong to a Catholic school community.
Here is how Gracie, Alex, and Ben described their experience of the day:
This year's visit to St Patrick's School Mass was fantastic! We got to see a multitude of different students speak along with prayers conducted by Archbishop Comensoli. The architecture and size of St Patrick's Cathedral was amazing, and it was great to see the bagpipes, the orchestra from Avila College, and over 2,000 students from multiple Catholic schools across Victoria. We were so lucky to have been given the opportunity to visit, and we would like to thank Mr Travers and Mrs Knight for taking us there and making it all possible. We had an amazing day!
In preparation for the Chapel Centenary later this year, refurbishment works will begin during the Term 1 holidays.
This first stage will focus on cleaning internal surfaces (walls, windows and finishes), repainting, and stonework in the sanctuary. If time permits, work will also begin on the parquetry flooring. These works are an important step in caring for one of the most significant and sacred spaces in our College.
For nearly 100 years, the Chapel has been at the heart of our College faith life. It is a place where our community gathers for prayer and liturgy, celebrates key moments in the life of the College, and provides a quiet space for reflection, stillness, and encounter with God. Across generations, it has held the stories, joy, hopes, and sorrows of students, staff, and families.
The Chapel will be inaccessible for most of the year while these works are underway. During this time, prayer, liturgy, and reflection will continue in other spaces across the College.
These initial works mark the beginning of a broader program of renewal, connected to our 2026 theme, “From a Good Beginning, Mercy Flourishes.” As we approach the centenary of the Chapel, we take this opportunity to honour its history while renewing its place at the centre of our College’s faith life into the future.
Expression of Interest to Host Students from Ibaraki Nishi High School
After our successful Japan Study Tour in 2025, when we were warmly welcomed by our sister school students, staff and homestay families of Ibaraki Nishi High School, we are now very excited to welcome 20 students and teachers from Japan from Wednesday 29 July until Friday 7 August.
Therefore, we are seeking expressions of interest from any families of students currently studying Japanese at the College from years 7-12.
Hosting is a great opportunity for students to practice their Japanese language and learn a little more about the culture. It can also open up lasting friendships, as hosting may be reciprocated when our next SHCK Japan Study Tour takes place (for Year 10/11 students in 2027).
Very soon, an email will be sent to the relevant families of students currently studying Japanese, with more information and an Expression of Interest form. If you are interested in hosting a student, please look out for that e-mail and fill in the Google Form by the Monday 27 April.
Over the coming weeks, our College will be participating in the Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) survey.
This survey is part of an international research project used across Catholic schools and provides an opportunity to gather insights into how our school community experiences faith, values, and culture. It invites students, staff, and parents to share their perspectives, helping us to reflect on our current practice and plan for the future.
We warmly invite parents and carers to take part in the survey. Your voice is an important part of understanding who we are as a community and how we can continue to grow.
The survey:
- Takes approximately 35–40 minutes to complete
- Is anonymous
- Has no right or wrong answers. We are simply seeking your honest perspective
There is also an opportunity to go into a draw to win a $100 movie voucher.
If you are interested in participating, please register your interest via the linked form by Friday 10 April. Further details will then be shared with those who register.
The survey will need to be completed by Friday 24th April.
Thank you for your ongoing support of the College and for taking the time to contribute to this important process.
During Week 7, our Year 10 Geography students embarked on a fieldwork excursion to Point Lonsdale, deepening their understanding of coastal environments. The group visited the Marine Discovery Centre, where Alex, a Fisheries Victoria educator provided expert guidance. Students investigated coastal processes firsthand at 3 sites and gathered valuable evidence to support their fieldwork reports. A classic fish and chip lunch added to the experience, enjoyed by all after a morning of data gathering. Special thanks to Ms Cincotta for generously driving and supporting the excursion. It was a memorable and enriching day of hands-on geography beyond the classroom.
Year 9 Food Technology: Poke Bowl Design Brief
Over the term, Year 9 Food Technology students have been exploring healthy eating by researching ingredients and recipes for an independent "Poke Bowl" cook. Students had the opportunity to bring their research to life during a recent practical lesson.
While many students entered the room feeling the pressure of organising their ingredients and following a work plan, they quickly settled into their tasks. Once they focused on their techniques, the results were amazing! Each dish was beautifully presented, showcasing colourful, well-proportioned ingredients. Well done, Year 9!
Year 10 Food Studies: Victorian Seasonal Produce Challenge
The Year 10 Food Studies students have been investigating produce currently grown in Victoria and exploring how seasonal eating can help reduce food waste. Working collaboratively in pairs, students selected "hero" ingredients such as apples, berries, cucumbers, garlic, carrots, capsicum, and beef.
In theory lessons, students created vision boards and sourced recipes to highlight their chosen produce. They then prepared a dish of their choice during a practical lesson. It was impressive to see such effective teamwork, and the high-quality results truly spoke for themselves.
Year 11 Food Studies: The Trade of Food Commodities
This term, Year 11 Food Studies classes have journeyed from the era of hunter-gatherers and early agriculture to the global spread of food. We focused specifically on commodities exchanged through historic trade routes like the Silk Road.
To wrap up the unit, students cooked a recipe of their choice based on global staples such as chocolate, tea, coffee, spices, sugar, grains, and salt. Since our VCE curriculum doesn't often include "discretionary" (sweet) foods, this was a wonderful opportunity for students to prepare some classic treats like rocky road, biscuits, muffins, and slices.
It’s been a busy first term in the library. Open night saw families coming through the library and engaging in the many available activities. Humanities, English and Robotics were together so there were many things to see and do. There was certainly a buzz in the air as families explored our lovely library space.
Knitting club will begin next term and Dungeons and Dragons will continue to be of interest to many students. The library team is planning a number of other new and exciting events for next term so stay tuned!
At Sacred Heart, we value educating the whole student and preparing them for the diverse pathways that lie ahead. As part of this commitment, our Year 11 cohort recently attended a Careers Expo, where students were exposed to a wide range of opportunities—from pathways in the police force to careers in coding and beyond.
Students engaged positively with the experience, taking the opportunity to explore different industries, ask questions, and consider their future directions. They represented the College exceptionally well throughout the day, and we are very proud of their conduct and enthusiasm.
Below is some insight from one of our Year 11 SRC representatives, Joel Pehlman:
On March 19, we traveled to the Melbourne Showgrounds to partake in a careers expo. It was a very insightful day for everyone, and we all got to see something we all took an interest in. Some were competing for how many free samples they could get from pens, to lollies, to pamphlets, and coffees. There were many interesting lectures that we gained helpful information from, and we even got to see a dog! The Australian Defense force were there with an army truck which we were all given the opportunity to get in, and the police force, where some were able to try on vests. The expo had some universities to gain course information from, and there were many vocational courses there for others not wanting to go to university. There was a diverse range of career pathways to explore, and all offered comprehensive information about their day-to-day objectives. We would like to thank Ms Delaney for giving us the opportunity to go down to Melbourne for a change and all teachers who came down with us for the day, I'm certain we all learned something interesting.
Health Care Card Holders – Camps, Sport & Excursions Fund (CSEF)
Camp, Sport & Excursion Fund (CSEF) is a $400.00 payment provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families with the cost of camps, excursions and sporting funds. To be eligible you will need to hold a means tested concession card or you are a temporary foster parent. Should your application be successful the college will match the $400.00 funding.
Eligible parents receive an $800.00 Credit Per Student on their 2026 school fees, when the above funding and discounts are applied.
The 2026 Application Form is now available on the College Website or attached below - https://www.shckyneton.catholi...
April School Holiday Events - Major Universities and TAFE
Please see the PDF attached for a list of all major university and TAFE Select the links for more information and to register to attend.
Main Office Hours During the Term 1 Holidays
The Main Reception will be open:
Tuesday 7 April - 8:30am to 4:00pm
Friday 17 April - 8:30am to 4:00pm
Uniform Shop Hours
Tuesday 14 April 12:00pm to 4:30pm
Thursday 16 April 12:00pm to 4:30pm
Monday 20 April 9:00am to 12:00pm - Student Free Day
Term 2 - Normal trading hours resume Tuesday 21 April
Tuesday 12.30pm to 4.30pm
Thursday 10.30pm to 4.30pm
