Weekly Reflection

Magnificent Humanity in a Digital Age

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of our everyday lives. It is changing the way we learn, communicate and work, offering exciting possibilities alongside important ethical questions.

In his first encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas (Magnificent Humanity), Pope Leo XIV reminds us that while technology can be a powerful gift, it must always remain at the service of the human person.

This message resonates deeply within our Franciscan tradition. St Francis of Assisi saw the dignity of every person and recognised all creation as a gift from God. He understood that true greatness is found not in power or achievement, but in humility, compassion and relationships.

As AI continues to develop, Pope Leo challenges us to ask an important question: Does this technology help us become more human?

For our students, this means using AI wisely and responsibly. AI can support learning, inspire creativity and help solve complex problems, but it should never replace curiosity, critical thinking or genuine human connection.

It cannot replace the kindness of a friend, the encouragement of a teacher, or the compassion that comes from caring for another person.


As a Franciscan school, we are called to educate young people who are not only technologically capable but also morally grounded. We want our students to embrace innovation while remaining committed to truth, justice, service and respect for the dignity of every person.

Pope Leo reminds us that every generation must decide how it will use the gifts it has been given.

May we choose to use technology with wisdom, guided by the Gospel and inspired by the example of St Francis, so that all our knowledge and innovation contribute to a more peaceful, just and compassionate world.

As AI continues to develop, Pope Leo challenges us to ask an important question: Does this technology help us become more human?
Terri Curnow

Director of Faith and Mission

From the Principal


Last Thursday night, our Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching, Jennifer Frisardi, and I attended the graduation ceremony for our students who had completed the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Step-Up Program. 

This year's cohort completed units in Business, Nursing and Midwifery and Exercise Science. Our congratulations to Paeki, Terry, Sneha, Shameka, Reese, Sienna, Shishir, Arna, Apande and Mongboe.

It was wonderful to see our students mixing and mingling with such confidence with the new friends they had made while attending university. 

The experience has imparted valuable skills not only in academic study but in confidence and competence as these students prepare to move to the next stage of life after school. Congratulations to all those who participated.

ACU offers Year 11 students the opportunity to experience university life while still at school through the Step-Up Program.

It allows students to study two first-year university units, providing valuable insight into university expectations and helping students explore potential future study pathways.

The program is designed to give students a genuine university experience, including developing academic writing, research and referencing skills, while becoming familiar with university systems and support services. Students selected to study an on-campus program delivered during the winter and summer school holidays.

One of the many benefits of Uni Step-Up is that it is completely free - all tuition costs and learning resources are covered by ACU.

Students who successfully complete their units will receive university credit towards a related ACU degree, giving them a significant head start in their future studies.

In addition, students who successfully complete two units become eligible to receive an early offer into a mapped ACU course.

Uni Step-Up is an outstanding opportunity for motivated students to challenge themselves academically, gain confidence in a university learning environment, and begin building their pathway to higher education while still at school.

Students interested in participating are encouraged to speak with the Careers Team for more information and application details.

Thank you

Thank you to all parents and guardians, staff and students who have worked so hard to make Term 2 such a wonderful success.

As I look over our newsletters from the past two terms, I am filled with joy and hope by the many and varied opportunities that students have taken advantage of over the semester.

I wish everyone a safe and restful break and look forward to emerging from winter in Term 3.

Marlene Jorgensen

Principal

Looking Ahead - Melton Campus

Dates to remember
Wednesday 24 JuneSubject Expo - 4pm-8pm, Sheehan Stadium and Performing Arts Centre
Friday 26 JuneFinal Day of Term 2 - students dismissed at 2.30pm

Semester 1 Reports released

Monday 29 June - Friday 3 JulyMelton Campus office open 8am - 4pm
Monday 6 July - Friday 10 JulyMelton Campus office closed. (Cobblebank office open 8am - 4pm)
Monday 13 JulyTerm 3 begins for all students
Wednesday 15 JulyStudent Study at Home Day/Staff Faith Formation Day
Friday 17 July2027 Subject Selection Closes
Wednesday 22 JulyLawrence House Mass
Thursday 23 JulyCollege Production - Mamma Mia, Performing Arts Centre, Melton Campus, 7pm. Buy tickets
Friday 24 JulyCollege Production - Mamma Mia, Performing Arts Centre, Melton Campus, 7pm. Buy tickets
Saturday 25 JulyCollege Production - Mamma Mia, Performing Arts Centre, Melton Campus, 1pm and 6pm. Buy tickets

Looking Ahead - Cobblebank Campus

Dates to remember
Wednesday 24 JuneSubject Expo (4pm-8pm at Melton Campus) - compulsory for all current Year 9 and 10 students
Friday 26 JuneFinal day of Term 2 - students dismissed at 2.30pm

Semester 1 Reports released

Monday 13 JulyTerm 3 begins for all students
Monday 29 June - Friday 3 JulyCobblebank Campus office closed. (Melton Campus office open 8am - 4pm)
Monday 6 July - Friday 10 JulyCobblebank Campus office open 8am - 4pm
Wednesday 15 JulyStudent Study at Home Day/Staff Faith Formation Day
Friday 17 July2027 subject selection closes
Wednesday 22 JulyLawrence House Mass
Thursday 23 JulyCollege Production - Mamma Mia, Performing Arts Centre, Melton Campus, 7pm. Buy tickets
Friday 24 JulyCollege Production - Mamma Mia, Performing Arts Centre, Melton Campus, 7pm. Buy tickets
Saturday 25 JulyCollege Production - Mamma Mia, Performing Arts Centre, Melton Campus, 1pm and 6pm. Buy tickets

School Holiday Office Hours

The school holiday office hours for each campus are listed below:

Week 1 school holidays: Monday 29 June – Friday 3 July

Melton Campus office open 8am - 4pm

Cobblebank Campus office closed

Week 2 of school holidays: Monday 6 July – Friday 10 July

Melton Campus office closed

Cobblebank Campus office open 8am - 4pm

Student Study at Home Day - 15 July 2026

Please note that in Week 1 of Term 3, students at both campuses will have a Study at Home day on Wednesday 15 July.

There will be no classes at either campus as staff will be participating in their annual Faith Formation Day.

The front office at both campuses will be open.

Year 7 2028 Enrolments Due Next Term

All families with students currently in Grade 5 are reminded that applications for Year 7 2028 are due on Friday 14 August.

Families with current students at the College still need to submit an enrolment form to secure a place.

Click here to enrol now.

Subject Selection Expo and Information Evenings


Current Year 9, 10 and 11 students and families from both campuses are reminded to attend this week's 2027 Subject Selection Expo and year-level presentations. 

The evening will help students make informed choices regarding subject selection and pathways that best suit their interests, strengths, and career aspirations, giving them the greatest chance of success.

It is expected that all current Year 9, 10 and 11 students from both campuses attend the expo and information sessions with a parent/guardian at the Melton Campus as follows.

Subject Selection Expo

4pm – 8pm, Sheehan Stadium and the Performing Arts Centre (PAC) at Melton Campus. Please bring appropriate warm clothing as the stadium is not heated.

Information sessions – important booking details

Please register for your preferred session via the links below. Each session has limited capacity, so early registration is recommended.

Please note:

  • Bookings are essential.
  • There is a maximum of two tickets per family.
  • Only registered attendees will be admitted to the session in the PAC.
  • The same presentation and information will be provided at each of the sessions.

Year 10 2027 Information Sessions

Location: Performing Arts Centre (PAC), Melton Campus.

Please choose one of the following:

Session 1: 5pm - 5.30pm. Book your tickets here Year 10 2027 Information Session 1

Session 2: 7.15pm - 7.45pm. Book your tickets here Year 10 2027 Information Session 2

VCE and VCE VM 2027 Presentation (Year 11 and 12 2027)

Location: Performing Arts Centre (PAC), Melton Campus.

Please choose one of the following:

Session 1: 5.40pm - 6.20pm. Book your tickets here VCE & VCE VM 2027 Information Session 1

Session 2: 6.30pm - 7.10pm. Book your tickets here VCE & VCE VM 2027 Information Session 2

Parking

We are expecting a large number of visitors, and parking around the Melton campus is limited. We ask that you be mindful of our neighbours and any parking restrictions that may apply. Upon arrival at the Expo, families are asked to register their attendance through the QR codes available in the stadium or the PAC.

If you are unable to attend the information sessions, or need further assistance, please notify your child’s mentor teacher before the event.

Mamma Mia Tickets - New Date Added

An extra show has been added to our 2026 season of Mamma Mia and tickets for the Thursday 23 July show are now on sale!

Set to the soundtrack of ABBA’s greatest hits, this much-loved musical promises an evening of laughter, energy, and entertainment. Our students and staff have been working incredibly hard behind the scenes, and we can’t wait to share the results with our school community.

Join us from 23–25 July as our talented cast transports audiences to a sun-soaked Greek island, brought to life through unforgettable songs, vibrant performances, and the timeless music of ABBA.

Click here to book your tickets.

Kayla Stokes

Production Coordinator

Laudato Si’ – College Colours

Term 2 has been a vibrant and productive period at both campuses. Our students have continued to embrace opportunities for growth and achievement, demonstrating the values that are central to our College identity. 

Through a sustained focus on faith, learning, wellbeing, and community, students have strengthened their sense of belonging while continuing to develop as confident and engaged learners.

This term marked the launch of Laudato Si’ – College Colours, an initiative designed to recognise and celebrate students who consistently exemplify our College expectations, Positive Behaviour for Learning (PB4L) themes, and core wellbeing values of Empathy, Community and Endeavour.

It acknowledges students’ contributions to learning, wellbeing and community life through the accumulation of commendations. 

As students demonstrate these values over time, they progress through a series of levels: bronze, silver, gold, platinum and diamond. Each level recognises a student's ongoing commitment to living our College values and actively contributing to the life of the school.

Laudato Si’ – College Colours encourages students to engage positively in all aspects of the College while fostering personal growth, service to others and a strong sense of belonging within our community. The diamond level represents a sustained commitment over time and is typically achieved in Year 11 or Year 12, reflecting a student's dedication to consistently embodying our values.

It is exciting and celebrates the character, commitment and contributions of our students. 

We look forward to presenting our first Laudato Si’ badges and recognising those students at both campuses who have already begun to make a significant impact within our community.

Cheryl Bullen

Deputy Principal - Head of Melton Campus

Annual Winter Homelessness Appeal in Term 3

As we move into the colder months, we invite students, staff and families at both campuses to once again support our Term 3 Winter Homelessness Appeal, now in its fifth year.

This meaningful initiative helps provide warmth, dignity, and hope to members of our local Melton community who are experiencing homelessness.

During the holiday break, as you clean out cupboards and wardrobes, we encourage you to set aside any suitable items for donation. 

Please place your donations in a bag and bring them to the College at the beginning of Term 3, where they can be placed in the collection tubs in your child's House area. One point will be awarded to your child’s House per item.

Your generosity and support will help us make a positive difference for people doing it tough this winter.

What we are collecting

  • Second-hand winter clothing (clean and in good condition)
  • Non-perishable food items (pasta/noodles, soup and vegetable tins)
  • Hygiene products (toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, deodorant, sanitary items)
  • New socks, scarves, and beanies
  • Household items – (kitchenware, cups, plates, soft furnishings etc.)
SFCC Faith and Mission Action Team

SFCC Alumnus is Melton's Young Citizen of the Year


We congratulate SFCC alumnus Alanis Furtado, who was recently named the City of Melton’s Young Citizen of the Year at the council's Community Volunteer Achievement Awards (CVAA).

Alanis was recognised for her exceptional commitment to ensuring young voices are heard through the City of Melton Youth Advisory Committee and community initiatives focused on inclusion, wellbeing and opportunity.

She has advocated on issues including mental health, youth violence, homelessness and financial literacy, while fostering meaningful conversations through radio, podcasts and forums.

She also mentors primary students through the Melton Reading Club and supports youth empowerment by coordinating accessible workshops focused on inclusive learning supports.

During her time at SFCC, Alanis enthusiastically participated in Harmony Week throughout her middle and senior years. 

She played a key role in introducing the Anglo-Jive cultural dance performance, collaborating with fellow students to choreograph an energetic routine inspired by swing and rock-and-roll music. Her initiative and leadership contributed to an engaging performance that entertained the school community and established a tradition that has continued through subsequent cultural performances.

Alanis also participated in our Write a Book in a Day event annually and was actively involved in social justice activities throughout her time at the College. 

We are so proud of you Alanis, and we know you will go on to achieve many more great things in the future.

Students Attend Annual Melton Youth Forum


Our students joined more than 100 young people from nine local schools at Melton Council's annual Youth Forum to share their views and ideas on issues that matter to them and help develop solutions to shape the future of their community.

The top priorities discussed by students were youth violence, employment and education opportunities and ways to engage local young people. 

Students heard from an inspiring line-up of guest speakers, including representatives from Victoria Police, AI educator Wasi Abidi, professional basketballer Kuany Kuany, social media influencer AlwaysPilipili and SFCC alumni and Australian Idol finalist Jacinta Guirguis.

Below is what our students had to say about their experience.

My time at the youth forum was enlightening, inspiring, and encouraging. The range of speakers, staff, and students in the crowd, all sharing their ideas and being welcomed, made the event positive and empowering for young people. I loved how everyone had a voice there, and the event was promoting and supporting young people in making a positive change. I believe it will stick. Jade, Year 8

It was such a fun day experiencing different things and letting people hear our voices. I would definitely recommend it to others and go again. Awatea-Lilly, Year 9

It wasn’t good, it was amazing! Keni, Year 9

Kimiora Joyce

Pasifika Engagement Project Officer

Year 7 Cultural Identity Program

This semester, 23 students at Cobblebank Campus successfully completed the Year 7 Cultural Identity Program. 

The program was facilitated by Jamma from the Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY), who guided students through a range of engaging activities and discussions focused on culture, identity, belonging, and personal growth.

Throughout the program, students had the opportunity to reflect on their own cultural backgrounds, share their experiences, and develop a greater appreciation for the diversity within our school community.

We would like to thank Jamma and the CMY for their support and expertise in delivering this program. We are proud of the enthusiasm, participation, and growth demonstrated by the students and look forward to continuing the program next semester to strengthen cultural understanding and promote inclusion across our College.

Student reflections

“I like the way the program expressed different cultures, so I hope this happens next year for Year 8. This program really made me think about my culture.”

“I like how they teach us about many different cultures and traditions. I enjoyed learning about different traditions and cultures and want to see more of people’s cultural dances.”

“I really enjoyed this program, and I hope it continues.”

“This program is so good. They are so friendly and always have a smile on their face. You guys are wonderful. God bless you.”

“I learnt to show off my country and my cultural identity.”

Sangi Tuimuk

Cultural Engagement Project Officer - Cobblebank Campus

Cobblebank Student Excels in Maths Competition

A huge congratulations to Year 8 Cobblebank Campus student Ayaan, who earned a Distinction in the 2026 Australian Maths Trust Computational and Algorithmic Thinking (CAT) competition.

Ayaan took on this rigorous challenge as part of our High Ability Program. To give you an idea of just how impressive his achievement is, this outstanding result places Ayaan in the top 15% of students in his year level across the entire region.

The CAT competition isn't your typical math test. It’s a fast-paced, one-hour event crafted by leading educators and industry experts to push the limits of student problem-solving.

Students tap into pure logical and creative thinking, making it a fantastic way for them to uncover a hidden knack for computer programming.

Mastering a tough lateral-thinking challenge like this is no small feat, and we are incredibly proud of Ayaan for his dedication and success.

We also want to applaud all our Year 8 High Ability Program students who stepped up to test their skills this year.

It takes real grit to tackle problems this advanced, and every single participant has earned a well-deserved certificate to recognise their hard work and determination.

Jen Collinson

High Ability Practice Leader, Cobblebank Campus

SACCSS AFL Champions

Congratulations to our Melton Campus boys AFL team, who won the Division 2 flag in last week's SACCSS Intermediate AFL tournament!

The team, made up of students from Years 9 and 10, won three of their four games to meet Marymede Catholic College South Morang Campus in the grand final, winning a closely contested match 16-14.

Team captain Hendrix said students proudly represented the College on the day.

"It was a fantastic day filled with teamwork, sportsmanship, plenty of enthusiasm and guidance from coaches. Students demonstrated great skill, determination, and resilience throughout the matches, while supporting and encouraging one another on and off the field."

Well done to Year 9 student Adam, who was awarded the best player in the grand final.

Polynesian and Visaya Dance Groups Shine at Local Awards Event

We are so proud of our student Polynesian Dance Group and Visaya Dance Group who were invited to perform at the recent Melton Council Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. 

In preparation for the event, students dedicated their recess and lunchtimes throughout the term to rehearsing and refining their performance.

The evening provided an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their talents, culture, and commitment to the wider community. 

The ongoing partnership between SFCC Pasifika Engagement and Melton Council continues to strengthen, creating valuable opportunities for student involvement and community connection. 

The high level of student participation and engagement was a highlight of the event and reflects the positive impact of this collaboration.

Student reflections

It was a nice experience, especially showcasing my culture. Melton Council is supportive of our cultural groups and encourages our school to participate in many community events. Viliami, Year 11

It was a good experience for us to perform in a different setting. Tabcrop Park was awesome. The audience loved having us perform and my group did well. Cecilia Year 12

The people from Melton Young Communities were very helpful. We were very shy at first, but once we entered the venue, they made us feel welcome. The practices in the lead-up to the event were helpful. Emilyah, Year 12

Kimiora Joyce

Pasifika Engagement Project Officer

Students Perform at Melton Young Communities Spotlight on YOUth Showcase


Members of our Indian, Punjabi and Indigenous dance groups took centre stage at the Melton Young Communities Spotlight on YOUth Showcase held last Wednesday evening at the Melton Youth Centre.

The night celebrated young people in Melton, providing an opportunity to share musical performances, cultural dancing, and enjoy an evening with family and friends. 

Our students stole the show, and we congratulate all who came along on the night. We look forward to future events where we can showcase the talents and cultures of our amazing students.

"It was so much fun, we enjoyed watching the other performers and seeing the different cultures." Oziya, Year 12
Kimiora Joyce

Pasifika Engagement Project Officer

Premier's Reading Challenge Update

SFCC students participating in this year's Premiers' Reading Challenge have together read almost 300 books this semester and are on their way to finishing another 463!

It has been wonderful to see students exploring a wide variety of genres and authors while developing their reading habits and literacy skills. This year’s theme, Stories to Discover, Stories to Tell, has encouraged students to engage with a diverse range of fiction and non-fiction texts.

Students participating in the Challenge are encouraged to log in to the portal regularly and update their reading records to ensure all completed books are counted.

The SFCC Library Team would like to thank students for their enthusiasm and commitment to reading, and we look forward to seeing their progress continue throughout Term 3.

SFCC Library Team

Year 7 SACCSS Premier League Finals

Best of luck to our Year 7 Melton girls basketball team and Cobblebank boys volleyball team who will play St Monica's College this Thursday in their respective Division 1 grand final matches. 

Below are the results from last week's semi-final games.

Melton Year 7 Premier League Semi-Final results

Team

Score

Boys Basketball

MacKillop College 61 d SFCC 35

Girls Basketball

SFCC 39 d Salesian College 21

Boys Volleyball

Thomas Carr College 3 sets d SFCC 2 sets


Cobblebank Year 7 Premier League Semi-Final results

Team

Score

Boys Volleyball

SFCC COB 2 sets d SFCC MEL 0

Girls Volleyball

MacKillop College 2 sets d SFCC 1 set

SFCC Sports Team

Year 9 and 10 Outdoor Education


Year 9 and 10 Outdoor Education students recently put their outdoor living skills to the test by designing and building shelters. 

Working in teams, students then tested the waterproofing of their shelters and reflected on ways to improve their designs. 

The activity encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, resilience and practical outdoor skills while providing plenty of fun along the way!

Abby Grech

Teacher

Celebrating our Diversity - Refugee Week 2026

To celebrate Refugee Week, we invited students and staff from both campuses to share a migration story.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Refugee Week, and the theme is A Million Stories, acknowledging that one million refugees have been welcomed by Australia since World War II.

Refugee Week 2026 is a moment to reflect on that milestone and to celebrate the million stories behind it.


Melton Campus Student Leadership Coordinator (Senior) Jessica Read shared her grandfather, Noel Stringer's, migration story.

I was born in Westport County Mayo in Ireland in 1942. In 1945, post World War II, my father moved to England seeking work, and we joined him two years later to live in Edgebuster Birmingham. This was a very poor area, and we lived in a small four-room flat. After Mass one Sunday, my father read out an advertisement in the paper seeking migrants hoping for a better life in Australia. No one knew anything about Australia, but life in Edgebuster was ordinary, so we all agreed to move.

It took one year of paperwork to get approval and pay the 25 pounds for our tickets (10 pounds for each adult and 5 pounds for my eldest sister – my other sister and I were free). In January 1951, we were set to move. However, the medical people detected what they thought was a nasty spot on my mother’s lung, which slowed our trip for another year.

On 6 February 1952, we assembled at Tilbury docks in London and set sail on the S.S Ranchi. My parents each had a suitcase, and the three children shared one. Our only other possessions were in two chests, which had to be collected a month before we left and three months after we arrived.

The trip took six weeks and four days instead of the original five weeks, and we arrived in Melbourne in late March 1952. 

After we docked, we were sent via train to Albury to spend a week in an ex-military camp called Bonegilla. 

We were then allocated accommodation in the Brookyln Migrant Hostel located all the way back near North Altona. We had nothing but a lot of opportunity and hope. Australia was a wonderland to us, with its open paddocks and beautiful countryside. The next two generations of our family have stayed in the north-western region of Melbourne.”


A journey of hope and new beginnings - Melton Campus Social Justice Coordinator Trish Griffin


On 19 February 1964, my parents and two sisters, aged seven and four, embarked on a life-changing journey from Malta to Australia. 

Carrying only a few suitcases of clothing and a handful of treasured possessions, they boarded the MV Roma for a four-week voyage that took them through Italy, Egypt, the Suez Canal, Yemen, and Western Australia before finally arriving in Melbourne. 

The MV Roma was not a luxury liner, but a transport vessel, and conditions on board were cramped. 

Families were often separated, with my father housed with the men on one deck, while my mother stayed on another with her two daughters and many other women, caring for their young children.

At just 25 years of age, my parents were seeking a brighter future for their family. Australia was actively encouraging European migration to help grow the population and workforce, and stories of opportunity, security and stability inspired them to take the leap. Their original plan was simple: stay for two years and see what opportunities Australia might offer.

The early years were not easy. After arriving in Melbourne, my family travelled by bus to South Australia, where they lived with my aunt, uncle and their five children for three months in a very small three-bedroom home, while waiting for rental accommodation.

Leaving behind their homeland and extended family was difficult, with many moments of uncertainty. However, as my sisters settled into school and my parents began learning English, they realised they had made the right decision.

Over time, this migration journey became an important family story, one that reminds us of the courage, resilience and hope that shaped our family's future. 

Australia provided my parents with employment opportunities, stability and a chance to build a new life. Without their decision to migrate, my own life and identity would be very different today.

As we celebrate Refugee Week and the theme A Million Stories, I am proud to share one of the many migration stories that have helped shape the diverse and vibrant communities we are part of today.

Trish Griffin

Social Justice Coordinator - Melton Campus

Community Notices

Cyber Safety Project resources for families

School holidays are always a high-risk period for online safety and digital balance. As soon as the holiday bell rings, students experience a massive spike in unsupervised screen time.

Reducing online issues over the break results in fewer issues for schools to manage on the first day back. 

Our collection of free resources for families is designed to strengthen the partnership between school and home. 

Below are some you may find useful.

Useful Links

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

PAM – Parent Portal

Enrolment

SFCC Careers Tools

Facebook

Instagram

Policies

Uniform

Library

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