Acknowledgement of Country
From the Principal - Issue #20, 2024
Principal
The last fortnight has given us so many opportunities to gather with students, staff and families at the Year 6 Graduation Mass, SAC Spectacular, year level assemblies and the Primary Mass. At each of these events, I am reminded of the love and pride parents and guardians have for their children, and the desire in the eyes of every child to make their family proud. I am always very grateful for the supportive partnership that we share in supporting every student to flourish at SAC and our students remind us of the privilege it is to be an educator.
Celebrating the successes of our Year 6 cohort
Sem 2 Primary Mass and Awards Ceremony in St Francis Xavier's Cathedral
At Spectacular we celebrated the power of arts education to transform the hearts and minds of our students. The joy on children鈥檚 faces said at all, as they bounced across the stage of the Entertainment Centre last Friday night. Thanks to the many families and friends who came along 鈥� your presence is what makes the event truly spectacular!
the Power of Arts Education was evident at our 2024 sac Spectacular
In her Advent Reflection for , Sr Annette Schneider reminded us that the preparation and anticipation of the birth of Jesus is a gift to all of us amid the stress and busyness of our working lives. When we take a moment in each day to reflect on where we are called to kindness and compassion, then we can recognise that God鈥檚 spirit works in ways we may not anticipate.
I would like to extend my thanks to you, the families and friends of 吃瓜网, for the kindness and compassion that you extend to me, my Leadership Team and staff of the College. May the God of Mercy bring joy to you all this Christmas season.
Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal
Peace is a Gift that Keeps Giving
Mercy Light: Believing
Christmas. What images and feelings do this word conjure up for you? Street pageants in the city and suburbs, and crowded stores brimming with brightly dressed Santas? Fairy lights glowing like fireflies in front windows and gardens? Insomniac children, wide-eyed with anticipation on the great night, hoping to at least catch a glimpse of Santa, stealthily going about his business of filling oversized stockings? The counter-tops lined with cards and tinsel, the decorated tree in the corner of the room? And, of course, the sounds of Christmas: endless replays of traditional songs, and carols? All of these things signify a special time in our busy year where, if we don鈥檛 exactly stop, many people at least pause, to celebrate and express the message: 鈥淧eace on earth for all people!鈥�
We are all aware that our world needs peace. Each year, the Liturgy Committee, led by Faith and Mission Coordinator, Ms Elizabeth Boylan, identifies a liturgical theme for the 吃瓜网 community to celebrate. This year鈥檚 theme, 鈥�Called to Peace鈥�, is an invitation to pray that the peace of Christ will live in our hearts, that we will respond to God鈥檚 call to be instruments of God鈥檚 peace and that we will receive the blessing of God鈥檚 peace.
The thread of peace was woven through Masses and liturgies throughout 2024, culminating in a beautiful Advent Liturgy on the final day of the school year, marking its closure. Ms Boylan explains the importance of Christianity鈥檚 Advent wreath ritual, and the lighting of the wreath鈥檚 candles in weeks preceding Christmas.
鈥淭his week, we light the first of the four Advent candles to celebrate the beginning of a new liturgical year. The light of the candles reminds us that Jesus comes into the darkness of our lives to bring newness, life and hope. The first Advent candle represents hope. Hope is about believing in the possible despite evidence to the contrary. In the midst of adversity, we cling to hope.鈥�
Across three decades as a teacher at 吃瓜网, Ms Boylan has gifted hope to many students, particularly through sharing her love of literature as an English teacher, and, of course during her time overseeing aspects of Religious Education. Reflecting on the vision of Mercy Foundress, Catherine McAuley, Ms Boylan says, 鈥淲e see turmoil in our world which is crying out for peace where there is war, injustice and civil unrest. Catherine McAuley said that, 鈥�We should be like shining lamps to all around us.鈥� Advent offers us the space to reach out in solidarity and compassion with all those who are suffering due to war, famine, homelessness, displacement of persons and degradation of the earth. To be sources of hope for others and to sow seeds of Mercy in our world.鈥�
From Ms Boylan鈥檚 leadership of an Amnesty International Group in the early 2000s, to her advocacy for the International Campaign to Ban Landmines, volunteering with students during previous mission trips to Argentina 鈥� there鈥檚 no stone of Mercy unturned by Ms Boylan. Next year, she will enjoy a new beginning, stepping down from her role as Faith and Mission Coordinator, while continuing to be of service to the community through many projects and groups to which she belongs outside of SAC.
Looking back on her time at SAC, immersed in this Mercy spirit, Ms Boylan says, 鈥淚 am grateful to have had the good fortune to have spent 30 years of my career in a Mercy school. Teaching English and Religious Education has afforded me the opportunity to engage young people in learning about a whole range of social justice issues and supporting their social justice initiatives. Young people feel passionate about structural injustices in society and have the capacity to be strong advocates for the most vulnerable. The Sisters of Mercy are such wonderful role models for all of us. From the Sisters' example we learn that the most important thing we can do is listen to the most vulnerable, walk alongside them and give voice to their experience until they can speak for themselves. When the voiceless can speak for themselves, then we know that the dignity of which they have been stripped has been returned to them.鈥�
Ms Boylan has organised countless donation drives for Catherine House and Sister Janet Mead鈥檚 Adelaide Day Centre over the years. Speaking to the spirit of Advent and Christmas cheer, Ms Boylan says that, 鈥渟upporting our Mercy works is one of the ways in which the 吃瓜网 community is a source of hope. Many donations have been left in the school foyer this week to fill some of the 2500 Christmas hampers which will be delivered by the Adelaide Day Centre to families in need all over Adelaide. At 吃瓜网 we have been doing this successfully and must continue to do so, as it is the way in which faith and life are integrated for many young people today.鈥�
With the lighting of the first Advent candle to close 2024 as a community, we honour the completion of a year, and look with anticipation to new beginnings, however these manifest in the lives of students, families and staff. In coming weeks, as people brave the queues in shopping centres amid decorations of tinsel and festive jingles, we pray that in the spirit of Christmas, members of our community pause to consider those locally and worldwide who may not have a place of peace, or who do not feel peace within themselves, and we pray for all hearts to be open to giving and receiving the gift of peace. We wish everyone a safe, happy and blessed Christmas and New Year.
Ms Maddie Kelly
Marketing & Communications Team
A Lifelong Commitment to Teaching, Compassion and Mercy
From the Careers Department
Careers & VET Coordinator
One and All Youth Voyage
Congratulations to Year 11 students Aysa and Sophia who recently participated in a Youth Voyage upon the STV One and All Tall Ship. The program aims to bring together young people from different locations and backgrounds, to forge new friendships, participate in teamwork, learn life skills and be challenged by perceived boundaries. All crew members spend 5 days sailing, learn sail handling, navigation and ship husbandry, as well as taking shifts on board through a roster system. There鈥檚 a complete break from social media and personal devices, and the skills of looking, listening and communicating with fellow adventurers become central to the experience.
鈥淚t's actually hard to describe but I feel as though I鈥檝e gained a whole range of experiences and now, I have a massive amount of knowledge and information. We relied upon one another during the voyage and spent lots of time in groups. I鈥檓 looking forward to staying in touch with new people and we all became good friends. It was very challenging at times, especially when I was seasick at the beginning, but it was all part of the journey. If I could go again then I definitely would! I would recommend anyone to give it a go because it is life changing.鈥� Sophia
Aysa and Sophia are extremely grateful to Rotary SA who sponsored them to attend this wonderful opportunity. At the culmination of the voyage, each student gives a presentation to Rotary members:
鈥淟ast week Aysa spoke at Unley Rotary Club about her experiences on the Youth Voyage. It was a captivating talk, and we were so impressed with how Aysa had grown in confidence as a result of her experience. It was a great endorsement of the program and listening to young people like Aysa makes us want to continue our involvement with this amazing program.鈥� Rotary Members
The next voyage for students aged 15-18 years is 13-17 April 2025 and pre-applications through Rotary are now open. Further information can be found at the link below and you may also discuss with Mrs Stephenson in the Careers Centre if you are interested.
Congratulations to Year 11 students Sophia and Aysa (pictured below) who recently participated in a Youth Voyage upon the STV One and All Tall Ship
Headstart at the University of Adelaide
Congratulations to Year 12 student Poshika who has graduated from the University of Adelaide Headstart Program.
The University of Adelaide鈥檚 Headstart scholarship program gives high achieving students the opportunity to study at university while still in Year 12, and have these university studies count towards their SACE and Selection Rank. Headstart provides highly-motivated students with a challenge beyond the Year 12 curriculum and the chance to grow as individuals as they combine secondary school and university studies.
Poshika has successfully completed two subjects through the University of Adelaide while in Year 12. We recognise her commitment and commend her dedication.
Arch D Podcasting Awards Ceremony
Last week, high school podcasting students attended the Arch D Podcasting Awards Ceremony held at Sacred Heart alongside Ms Schonberger and Mr Cotton. Students were nominated for a variety of awards including Podcaster of the Year, Most Creative Podcast, Podcast Episode of the Year, and Podcast Artwork of the Year. Year 9 -10 students nominated included Molly, Myf, Lucy, Maddy, Emmanuella, Demi, Jemima, Yenuli, Mariya, Retha, Zahra, Alexis, Grace, Zayna and Bridget.
Congratulations to Year 9 student, Lucy, who won an award for the Most Creative Podcast alongside members from other schools as part of her efforts at the Podcasting Leaders Day. Another big congratulations to Molly, Myf, and Lucy (Year 9) who won an award for the Podcast of the Year!
We look forward to seeing them continue this podcasting journey next year.
Best wishes,
Ms Kiara Schonberger
Teacher
Celebrating 20 years of SAC Spectacular!
The excitement was palpable at the Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Friday, 29 November, as our students showcased their incredible talents. Enjoy some photos from the unforgettable night below.
Ready with Big Smiles Behind the Scenes!
From the Catherine McAuley Library
Teacher鈥慙ibrarian & Information Services
Coordinator
Another Year of Growth and Reading Adventures at the Catherine McAuley Library
It鈥檚 been another exciting, special and busy year in the Catherine McAuley Library. This is a much-loved part of our school, and we are so grateful for the opportunities that a fully resourced library like ours brings to our students, staff and community. This year has seen many physical changes in our space, and we are loving seeing our students enjoying the fresh look and extra room to share with each other. Most importantly, our library lent out just over 35,000 books and almost 600 eBooks and audiobooks this year. Part of the daily joy of our role in the school is seeing the overwhelmingly positive impact that a love of reading has on our students, both in their learning and for their well-being.听
Over the holidays, we encourage everyone to keep reading! There is a wide selection of eBooks and audiobooks available on the Wheelers platform for our students. These can be accessed via the library page on SEQTA.
The whole library team would like to extend their best wishes for the holidays. We are looking forward to hearing about all the books you鈥檝e read over the break, and we can鈥檛 wait to share more with you all next year!
Ms Ms Ali Ripberger
Teacher鈥慙ibrarian & Information Services Coordinator
Sporting Spotlight
Congratulations to Year 10 student Emma on receiving her Certificate of Merit as a finalist in the Secondary Individual Competitor category in Artistic Freeskating! This achievement recognises her outstanding sporting success throughout 2024, including gold medals at the Taipei Open Championships (Taiwan), the Oceania Championships (New Zealand) and the National Championships (Sydney) in Youth Artistic Freeskating.
There were some amazing young athletes there on the evening . What an incredible achievement, Emma! Well done!
The SAC Drama Department is Proud to Host the 2025 National Drama Conference 鈥� INVIGORATE!听
Drama Australia and Drama SA, in association with DreamBIG Children鈥檚 Festival, proudly present the Drama Australia National Conference 2025 at 吃瓜网 in May 2025.
With a program of engaging keynote addresses, performances, workshops and research papers, this national gathering aims to invigorate our extraordinary Drama community.
Taking place during the Big Family Weekend presented by DreamBIG Children鈥檚 Festival, it will unite us nationally, enabling us to discover innovations, practice and research. Empowering us to inspire each other, the experience will in turn fuel the creativity, artistry and wellbeing of Australia鈥檚 young people.
Hosted by 吃瓜网 in Tarndanya (Adelaide) on Kaurna Yerta (Country) South Australia across two days, join us to be INVIGORATED!
Mr Tom Coultas
Drama Coordinator
Celebrating Christmas with Tradition: Year 8 Students Explore the Story of Santons and French Culture!
Year 8 French students immersed themselves in French Christmas culture yesterday! These clay figures are symbol of Catholic resistance in France to a mandate handed down after the French Revolution; the principle of la茂cit茅, or separation of Church and State. Creating a cr猫che (or nativity scene) in their home during the Christmas season was a way of showing their continued faith in God and celebrating the Nativity privately. Les Santons continue to be an important part of French culture today, particularly in Provence. 听
Ms Anne-Marie Prior
Year 8 French Teacher
From the Music Department
Music Coordinator
A Jazzy Welcome: Small Jazz Combo Sets the Tone at the SA 2025 Australian of the Year Awards
The SA 2025 Australian of the Year Awards, held at the Adelaide Convention Centre in early November, began on a high note, with the SAC Small Jazz Combo entertaining guests as they arrived for the evening. Their repertoire featured a mix of classic jazz standards and contemporary pieces, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy, and providing a wonderful opportunity for this group to perform.
Above: Australian of the Year for South Australia - Photos by 漏 Salty Dingo 2024
A Night of Music: Year 7 Band Program and Year 4 Music Immersion Concerts
As the semester drew closer to the end, both the Year 7 Band Program and the Year 4 Music Immersion Concerts took centre stage in the McAuley Auditorium, showcasing the hard work and progress of students in both year levels.
Year 4 Music Immersion Concerts
The Year 4 Music Immersion program is designed to introduce younger students to the joys of music through hands-on experience with various instruments and has seen the students learning woodwind and brass instrument for the semester.
The Year 4 students took the stage with enthusiasm, performing a series of short pieces that highlighted their newfound skills. The concert featured a mix of small group performances, class items, a performance by the Primary Concert Band, and concluded with a full group number, getting everyone into the Christmas spirit with a rousing rendition of Jingle Bells.
Year 7 Band Program
Following the Year 4s, the spotlight shifted to the Year 7s who have also spent the semester learning a new instrument in small groups with a specialist instrumental tutor, and who came together to perform for their family and friends. Each of the six classes performed as an ensemble, followed by duet and small group performances. The concert also included a performance by the Middle School Concert Band, many of whom had started their instrument in Immersion Programs in the past. At the conclusion of the concert, all six classes performed together, for an energetic finish to the evening!
We congratulate all the students who performed and thank the Instrumental Tutors and SAC staff who joined them on the night. The Music Immersion Concerts are not only about performance but also about fostering a love for music and building confidence in young students. We eagerly anticipate the next opportunity to witness the growth and talent of our young musicians in 2025!
Ms Fiona Turner
Music Coordinator
馃幐馃幎&苍产蝉辫;叠别补迟蝉 from the 叠补濒肠辞苍测&苍产蝉辫;馃憦馃帐
Our talented Year 9 students took centre stage on Tuesday at lunchtime, sharing their passion for music with the school community!
A fantastic way to celebrate a year of creativity, harmony and musical fun. Here's to a fantastic year of music at SAC in 2024! 馃幎
National History Challenge 2025
We are proud to celebrate the incredible achievements of our students in the National History Challenge. This esteemed national competition inspires students to delve into historical inquiry, encouraging them to explore topics of personal interest while honing their research and analytical skills. The theme for this year, Crisis and Response, provided a compelling focus for their investigations. The challenge also fosters critical thinking, creativity, and communication, which are vital skills for young historians.
We would like to congratulate Year 12 students, Eleanor and Emma, and Year 10 student, Hanna, for being selected state finalists in the Australia and Asia, Using Primary Sources, and Australia's Wartime Experiences categories, respectively. Eleanor investigated how the impacts of the Australian Korean bilateral relationship influenced the process of Korean transnational adoption in Australia. Emma's entry used her family history as a starting point; she researched the effectiveness of the Kangaroo Island Soldier Settler Scheme in response to the crisis of World War Two. Hanna examined how Australia's response to WW2 contributed to changes in society and culture. All three students enjoyed the challenge and should be commended for their passion for history and commitment to excellence. Please join us in celebrating their accomplishments, and in thanking their teachers for supporting them in this endeavour.
Ms Elizabeth Heuzenroeder
HASS Coordinator | Educational Technologies Coordinator
Join us and walk 20kms to raise awareness of skin cancer!
Hi! We鈥檙e Eva and Lili and we have organised the 20kms for Sunny Days Walk to raise awareness of skin cancer!
Skin cancer is Australia鈥檚 most common cancer, with 2 in 3 people getting diagnosed with it in their lifetime. The majority of these cases are due to sun damage, including something as simple as not applying enough sunscreen. Unfortunately, anyone is at risk of developing skin cancer, although it becomes more common as you get older.
These statistics alone are reasons to why we have had the motivation to try and raise awareness and contribute to fighting along with the millions of Aussies who battle skin cancer.
Come and join us on Saturday 11 January 2025, as we walk alongside our friends and family to help support the cause!
to book your attendance and contact us for more information.
Thank you!
Eva and Lili (Year 9 Students)
Journey Through Advent with Us!
Embrace the joy of the Christmas season and the spirit of giving as a family through our Advent Calendar.
Your Golden Ticket Awaits!
Term 3, 2025, will bring the timeless classic, 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'
Have you ever imagined the delicious thrill of peeling back the wrapper of a chocolate bar to see a glimmer of gold? Well, here's your chance, because the 2025 吃瓜网 Production is your Golden Ticket! Yes, that's right, as Grandpa Joe in the Roald Dahl classic says, " I've heard tell that what you imagine sometimes comes true!" Get excited to visit to Willy Wonka's, because in Term 3 2025, SAC brings the timeless classic, 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' to The Arts Theatre stage. Auditions will be held early next year, with production rehearsals happening on Wednesdays after school. With holidays upon us, as Willy Wonka himself might say, "there's so much time and so little to do," you'll be able to brush up on some performance skills 鈥� while indulging in some sweet treats here and there 鈥� and get ready for audition announcements early in the school year!
