Assumption College Kilmore eNewsletter

Principal's Welcome

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome to Term 2 and I hope that the Easter period and term break has been a restful and rewarding one. As we prepare for the next term, I hope that your sons and daughters are ready to give their best efforts in all that they do.

Timor-Leste

In the first week of the holiday period, I was most privileged to travel to Timor-Leste with colleagues, Mr. Paul Reed (Director of Faith & Mission) and Mr. Peter Santamaria (English & RE teacher). During this time, we also collaborated with members of an Australian Marist Solidarity contingent including its CEO Rebecca Bromhead and staff from Marist schools in Bendigo, Brisbane, and Sale. This trip involved visits to several Marist schools and community centres in the villages Kulugia, Queliccai, Uailili, Katilosa, Uai Aca, and Abifala coupled with visits to the site of a new school being built in Lautem and ICFP, the teachers’ college in Baucau.

The trip was a chance to see what our Year 11students experience on the immersion trips held each year in September and also a chance to see the projects to which our annual fundraising efforts contribute. The Timorese people are so welcoming and hospitable despite the fact that they have very little. The experience of this week in Timor-Leste was a stark reminder of how lucky we are here in this country. It was also a lesson in being resilient in the face of extreme adversity and the importance of community.

I was quite humbled by the generosity of a people who experience poverty and hardship each and every day yet remained hope-filled by the love of those around them. They appreciate the value of an education and the opportunities it provides to grow and become something or someone more than who they already are. To that end, I encourage you to challenge your children to strive for their very best both in and out of the classroom; to respect the opportunity they have for growth and development and to work towards contributing as much as they can to the Assumption community.

Student Achievement

Throughout the year we are aware that many students undertake cultural, sporting, academic and spiritual or community pursuits. These pursuits outside of school hours are often a labour of love and spring from a willingness to display their talents and wares across and within a myriad of contexts.

I encourage you to share the achievements of your children so that we can share their successes with the broader Assumption community. While our social media presence is extremely active, we cannot be aware of everything that is happening in the community.

The more we can celebrate such success and achievement the more support we can offer your children.

Closing Remarks

During the break we celebrated the Risen Christ symbolizing the very notion of renewal and hope. It is this very narrative which offers us the opportunity to start again and seek to be better in all that we do and say. John’s Gospel reminds us of Jesus’ contention that “I came so that they may have life and have it to the full.” It is in our actions that we can support others in having life to the full. We can choose how we behave and so the challenge to our young people of Assumption is to be the best person they can be. We will challenge them to make the right choice, which is sometimes the tough choice, to be a good person; to others and to themselves.

With choices come the relevant consequences; that no one can make the choices in our lives for us and that we need to understand that the choices we make can have an impact not only on ourselves but also on others. In that vein, the choices we make in times of adversity can say much about what we value. Pope Francis perhaps puts it best when he says:

“We face so many challenges in life: poverty, distress, humiliation, the struggle for justice, persecutions, the difficulty of daily conversion, the effort to remain faithful to our call to holiness, and many others. But if we open the door to Jesus and allow him to be a part of our lives, if we share our joys and sorrows with him, then we will experience the peace and joy that only God, who is infinite love, can give.”

I often talk to students and staff about being the face of Christ and if we truly “open the door to Jesus and allow him to be a part of our lives” then those choices to which I refer will often lead to the right ones being made.

I look forward to working with you throughout the term.

"It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities."

J.K.Rowling (Albus Dumbledore)

Paul Finneran

Principal

Key Dates

Below are some key dates for Term 2 2024. For full calendared events please see PAM.

15 April - Term 2 Commences

19 April - Year 7 Vaccination

22 & 29 April - Subject Interviews

25 April - ANZAC Day

10 May - Mother's Day Breakfast

23 & 24 May - Junior Production

24 May - Career's Expo

21 June - Last Day of Term 2

Year 7 Vaccination Information - Friday April 19

From 6 February 2023, the routine two dose HPV vaccine schedule provided to young people aged 12-13 years through the National Immunisation Program (NIP) has become a single dose schedule using the same Gardasil®9 vaccine.

What is the HPV vaccine?

The Gardasil®9 vaccine protects against HPV infection, which is a common viral infection, usually affecting the genitals and spread through sexual contact. The vaccine is most effective when given before exposure to the virus, that is before a person becomes sexually active. More information about HPV and the HPV vaccine can be found on the Better Health Channel.

How has the HPV vaccine schedule changed?

From 6 February 2023, the recommended HPV vaccine schedule for most people has changed from two-doses to a single dose course using the same Gardasil®9 vaccine. There is no change to the amount of vaccine that is given in the single dose.

The schedule has not changed for immunocompromised people. A 3-dose schedule of HPV vaccine is recommended for people with severely immunocompromising conditions, regardless of their age when they started vaccination.

Why was this change made?

The change is based on advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI), who have considered and reviewed the latest international clinical evidence. ATAGI support the large volume of clinical findings that a single dose of HPV vaccine provides about the same protection as two doses of HPV vaccine.

What do you need to do?

Your council immunisation service will seek your consent for vaccinations delivered to students at school as usual.

If you would like to discuss the change or clarify any information about the HPV vaccine please contact your local council.

Further information visit the Better Health Channel

Better Health Channel

Showcasing Assumption College at our Annual Open Evening

On March 18, 2024, Assumption College opened its doors to prospective students and their families for its much-anticipated Open Evening. The event marked a resounding success, showcasing the College’s commitment to excellence in education and community engagement.

The evening commenced with a warm welcome from College leadership, setting the tone for an evening filled with discovery and inspiration. Attendees were invited to explore the College's diverse array of academic programs, from the Arts to STEM disciplines with our innovative myMAP curriculum at the forefront of the event. Staff members were on hand to provide insights into their respective fields of expertise and answer questions, offering a glimpse into the learning opportunities available at Assumption College.

One of the highlights of the Open Evening was the interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities scattered throughout the campus. Prospective students had the chance to engage in live science experiments, meet our agriculture animals, and immerse themselves in the arts through workshops. These learning opportunities allowed visitors to gain a firsthand understanding of the dynamic and innovative approach to education at Assumption College.

Students led the tours, sharing personal anecdotes and insights into campus life. Additionally, dedicated administrators were available to offer guidance on enrolments, financial aid, and career pathways, ensuring that every visitor received the support they needed to embark on their educational journey.

Beyond the academic and extracurricular offerings, the Open Evening served as a platform for fostering connections and building community. Prospective students had the opportunity to connect with current students, alumni, and fellow applicants, forging relationships that would extend far beyond the event itself. Parents and Guardians also engaged in meaningful discussions with College staff, gaining valuable insights into the College's mission, values, and commitment to student wellbeing.

The College transformed into a vibrant hub of athleticism and camaraderie as staff and students came together for an exhilarating Athletics Carnival.

The event, filled with excitement and competitive spirit, showcased the teamwork of participants across a variety of activities. From track and field events to team relays to tug of wars, the Athletics Carnival provided a platform for students to showcase their sportsmanship. Students rallied together, encouraging and supporting their teammates to give their best performance in every event.

The Athletics Carnival concluded with a nail-biting finish as Frayne and Mcauley competed fiercely for first place, with Frayne emerging the victorious house.

Congratulations to all participants for their outstanding performances, and we look forward to many more memorable sporting events in the future.

The College community came together to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our student athletes and their unwavering commitment to excellence in Cricket, Basketball, Tennis & Swimming.

The event, transformed the Neale Daniher Community & Sports Pavilion into a hub of excitement as students, coaches, staff, and families gathered to honour the accomplishments of our students. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with the anticipation of recognising the extraordinary talent and hard work demonstrated by our sports teams throughout the season.

From thrilling victories on the field to personal milestones of growth and perseverance, each award presented was a testament to the dedication and passion of our athletes. The Summer Sports Awards Night provided a platform to recognise not only individual achievements but also the collective efforts of our teams.

Congratulations to all our award recipients and best wishes for continued success in their athletic pursuits.

Basketball

Cricket

Tennis

Swimming Squad

Celebrating Excellence: Co-Curricular Colours & Summer First Captains Awards

As we drew to the end of Term 1, the College celebrated the recipients of the Co-Curricular Colours and Captain Awards via an online assembly.

The event served as a fitting tribute to the outstanding achievements and leadership exhibited by students in various extracurricular endeavours. From sports to performing arts, the event recognised excellence across a diverse range of activities that enrich the College experience. Captains of various Co-Curricular teams and organisations were recognised for their role in inspiring and guiding their peers, fostering a spirit of collaboration and teamwork that extends far beyond the classroom.

Congratulations to all the award recipients, and may their accomplishments serve as inspiration for students who wish to follow in their footsteps.

On Thursday, March 28, Assumption College embraced the Easter season with an Easter Vigil. The event brought together students and staff to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and embrace the promise of renewal and hope.

The Easter Vigil, a cherished tradition at Assumption College, served as a time of reflection and spiritual significance. Our College leaders led the vigil with readings and a recreation of Good Friday. The Easter Vigil was more than a religious observance; it was a reminder of the power of faith to unite and inspire.

Term 1 Social Justice Fundraiser Review

In Term 1, our Assumption College community rallied together in a remarkable display of compassion and solidarity through our social justice initiatives. Together, we raised over $7000 for Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion appeal, which is dedicated to ending poverty, promoting justice, and upholding dignity in local communities worldwide.

Throughout the term, our students actively organised and engaged in various fundraising activities, showcasing their dedication and creativity. From delectable pancakes, hot cross buns, choc chip cookies and toasties, to Marlhes grown and made green tomato chutney, our initiatives were diverse and inspiring.

Beyond monetary contributions, our students also gained invaluable insights into the power of collective action and subsidiarity in empowering people to work for a brighter future. We learned about the stories of Memory from Malawi, Ronita from the Philippines, and Leaia from Samoa, who have each been supported by the work of Caritas.

As we made a special effort to come closer to God during the season of Lent, our efforts for Project Compassion exemplified our school's ethos of compassion, empathy, and service to others. Next term we turn our attention to the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal, raising money and awareness for those in our community facing financial hardship, domestic violence, and homelessness.

Frozen Jr. - Our magical Junior Production

The stage is set, the curtains are drawn, and Assumption College’s Junior Production of "Frozen Jr." is in full swing!

Energy and enthusiasm are evident as cast and crew are already working hard to prepare for their performances in the College Theatrette on May 23rd and 24th.

Singing, dancing, creating props and set, our talented students are diving headfirst into the world of Elsa, Anna, and Olaf.

Stay tuned for updates as our young stars gear up to enchant audiences with their magical rendition of this beloved Disney tale.

Let's support and cheer on our aspiring actors as they embark on this thrilling journey to bring "Frozen Jr." to life on stage!

Tickets will be available from Monday 15 April at 9:00am!

Pathways Updates

It’s been a busy Term 1 with lot’s of students coming to see us for subject selection, career and pathways advice as well as running multiple excursions and incursions such as the Defence Women in STEM day and white card training. Keep an eye on your emails for more opportunities throughout the year.

Term 2 will be busy leading into subject selections, VET and VTAC applications in term 3. Get in early with your pathways appointments to avoid the rush at the end of the term.

Have you thought about studying a VET subject next year? You can research what courses are an offer here – applications are during Term 3 around subject selection time (more information will be released closer to the time).

See below for more Pathways contnent!

University Experience Days

Some universities are running experience days where both students and parents/carers can spend a day experiencing what life is like at uni. Make sure to register for the event.

La Trobe: Spend a day at La Trobe and see what life is like at the university, join in on workshops and activities in the areas of study that are of interest.

When: Friday 12^th April 9am – 2pm

Where: Bundoora Campus

Register link: Experience La Trobe - Melbourne Registration, Fri 12/04/2024 at 9:00 am | Eventbrite

UCAT

Anyone wanting to study direct entry into medicine or dentistry/oral health in 2025 will find most courses require you to sit the UCAT test in 2024.

What is the UCAT?

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is a computer-based test that helps universities select applicants with the most appropriate abilities and professional behaviours required for new doctors and dentists to succeed. It is used alongside other admissions processes such as interviews and academic qualifications. It is also an opportunity to stand out from other applicants and demonstrate aptitude for a demanding programme of study.

Bookings to sit the UCAT are open and close on Friday 17th May 2024. Click here to learn more about booking your test.

Some applicants may require a different test, so always refer to the websites of the universities to which you intend to apply for full details.

For a full list of courses in 2025 that require you to sit the UCAT please click here.

Universities offering undergraduate Medicine without a UCAT requirement:

James Cook University
Bond University
University of Sydney (double degree)

MedEntry

MedEntry will help you prepare for the UCAT, they provide a multitude of resources and help you prepare for all aspects of test.

MedEntry have partnerships with 2 government agencies to provide free UCAT/interview training for rural students in Victoria. Any Rural students can qualify.

The Victorian agency is RWAV : https://www.rwav.com.au/ or you can contact MEDENTRY for further information.

More information: https://www.medentry.edu.au/

CASPer Test

The CASPer test is required for anyone applying to study teaching.

It is an online, open-response situational judgment test (SJT) asking what you would do in certain situations and why. This helps determine behavioral tendencies of applicants pursuing people-centered professions.

More information and videos: https://acuityinsights.app/casper/

Conditional Entry

No doubt you’ve heard the term ‘early entry’ and you’re keen to apply for programs. Early entry enables universities to look at factors other than just the ATAR when making course offers.

It's important to know the following:

You still need to meet the entry requirements (ATAR & subject study scores) – it guarantees a place providing you meet these requirements so don’t slow down and take you foot off the accelerator!
Early entry programs are different at each university
There are different application methods, and different application dates
You can apply for multiple early entry programs

Each program takes different criteria into consideration. These could include:

A soft skills statement
Year 11 results
A recommendation from your school
A personal statement
History of community service/leadership

Some early entry programs are designed to give applicants ‘unconditional offers’. This usually means a course offer that is ATAR and study score free. Others have conditions such as meeting a guaranteed ATAR and meeting minimum study scores.

Further information:

ACU: ACU Guarantee

Federation Uni: Early offer program - Federation University Australia

La Trobe: Aspire Early Entry University Program | La Trobe University

RMIT: Early Offer program - RMIT University

Swinburne: Early Entry Program | Swinburne

VU: VU Guaranteed | Victoria University

Assumption College Careers Expo

Friday 24^th May will be our annual Assumption College Careers Expo. All students from years 9-12 will be attending throughout the day at schedule times (TBC). We have over 40 confirmed exhibitors from Universities, TAFEs and the Defence Force.

Parents/carers are welcome to attend (please check in at reception first then head down to the Gonz).

When: Friday 24^th May in the Gonz.

Time: 10am – 2pm

Defence Work Experience

Defence Work Experience team has some exciting opportunities, information and application process/links are found on their website - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience (nga.net.au)

1. Army Trade Familiarisation (Engineering, Electrical and Health) Victoria

A program aimed for students interested in pursuing Army Trades with Defence
Location: Bandiana (Victoria)
Placement Date: 22 May 2024
Application closes: 7 April 2024 11:30pm
Link to apply: Army Trade Familiarisation

2. STEM to the Rescue

Showcasing various STEM careers in Defence and Defence Industry
Location: Melbourne Metro (various locations)
Placement Dates: 17 – 21 June 2024
Application closes: 14 April 2024 11:30pm
Link to apply: STEM to the Rescue

3. STEM Immersion Week

Showcasing various STEM careers
Location: Fisherman’s Bend (Port Melbourne)
Placement Dates: 24-28 June 2024
Application closes: 28 April 2024 11:30pm
Link to apply: STEM Immersion Week

Victoria Police

Are you thinking about a career in the Police Force? There are 4 different roles available;

Police Officer
Protective Services Officer
Police Custody Officer
Victorian Public Servant

What will they be looking for? Life experience, employment and volunteering are high an the agenda along with personal attributes. Developing transferrable skills such as communication skills, teamwork, problem solving, conflict resolution and leadership. Fitness is also important and an understanding of other cultures, religions and languages is also regarded.

Information sessions: March 27^th and April 18^th

Police Careers Expo: April 13^th

Assumption College Careers Webpage

The Assumption College Careers webpage is a one-stop-shop for all things careers. We have newsletters, senior school information, post school and information on VET, VCE, VCE-VM, parent and student information and much more: https://www.assumptioncareers.com.au/

CALENDAR DATES

Open	UCAT registrations (Medicine & Dental/Oral Health courses in 2025)
20th March	Victoria Police: Online careers information session
April	Monash Science Precinct Tours – book here
3-11 April	Deakin Campus Tours \| Deakin
8th April	La Trobe Uni - Bendigo Campus Talk & Tours, Events, La Trobe University
8-12th April	Australian Institute of Music, Melbourne: Music Theatre workshops, Performance & Songwriting workshops, Course Information Evening Events \| The Australian Institute of Music (aim.edu.au)
9-18th April	Australian Catholic University Talk with Industry Series (acu.edu.au)
11th – 12th April	Monash Uni Campus Tours - Campus experience events - Discover Monash
11th April	Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE), Industry Experience Day, Melbourne. Industry Experience Day \| Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE)
12th April	La Trobe University, Melbourne campus, Experience Day. Experience La Trobe - Melbourne Registration, Fri 12/04/2024 at 9:00 am \| Eventbrite
12th April	Australian Catholic University – Discover Day, Ballarat campus. Education and Arts, Nursing and Paramedicine, Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy. Events \| Australian Catholic University (ACU)
12-24th April	Monash University - course information sessions: Business (12), Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences (18), Information Technology (24). Register here.
13-18th April	Victoria Police: Victoria Police Careers Expo, Melbourne (13), Careers Information Session – online (18). Register here.
16th April	La Trobe University: Aspire early entry, webinar on how to apply for the programs. Register here.
18th April	RMIT University, campus tours, Melbourne. Register here.
20th April	Nursing and Health Careers Expo, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Register here.
9-11th May	Swinburne University, A Day in the Life of a Swinburne Student: STEM & Aviation (9), Creative and Design (10). Criminology & Business (11). Register here.
11th May	Collarts, Open Day, Melbourne. Register here.
24th May	Assumption College Careers Expo 10am – 2pm. Parents/carers welcome, please check in at the office first then make your way to the Gonz.

Lancefield Junior Football Netball Club

The Lancefield Juniors are looking for passionate football players to join their team.

Enrolments Update

Year 7 Round 1 application cycle for 2025 is complete. Those wishing to be considered for enrolment in Year 7 in 2025 are welcome to apply and will be placed on our waitlist for review in Round 2.

Applications for Year 7 in 2026 are now open. Applications will close on Friday 16 August 2024. First-round offers will be issued in October 2024.

There remain limited positions across Years 8-12 for 2024, prospective families are encouraged to contact our team for a discussion.

Our online Enrolment Application Form as well as our Enrolment Policy and School Fees can be found on our College website, here.

Any questions regarding enrolment can be directed to our friendly team 0357835000 or registrar@assumption.vic.edu.au

Click here to Apply Now

Financial Assistance - CSEF

The Victorian State Government's Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) helps ensure no student will miss out on the opportunity to join educational activities. CSEF is provided to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities. If you hold a valid means-tested concession card or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible. New applicants should contact the school to obtain a CSEF application form or download it from HERE. You do not need to complete a new application if you have previously applied. You only need to re-apply if your child has enrolled at a new school or family circumstances have changed.

Reception and Student Services Update

Families are now invited to visit the Reception of the College, via Gate 5. Reception is now located at Shandon House and we welcome your attendance in our beautiful space.

The circular drive in front of Shandon House is available for vehicle access however we ask Families and Visitors to use our newly established carpark at the front of the driveway.

Student Services has been relocated near the Health Centre. Parents should report to Reception at Shandon House to collect their children.

A friendly reminder, that animals are not allowed on-site unless they are an authorised support companion.

Alumni Call Out for Shandon Calls!

Attention all alumni of Assumption College! We would love to hear from you and feature your story in the next edition of Shandon Calls.

If you have any updates or interesting experiences to share with the college community, please reach out to Kate Boulton, our Enrolments & Community Relations Officer, at:

Kate.Boulton@assumption.vic.edu.au

As a past student, you are an important part of the Assumption College community, and we value your contributions to our newsletter. Whether you have a success story to share, updates on your life after college, or just want to say hello, we want to hear from you.

Don't miss the opportunity to be featured in the next edition of Shandon Calls. Get in touch today! And if you want to catch up on the latest news and updates from Assumption College, check out the latest edition of the Shandon Calls by clicking the link below.

Assumption College News

Newsletter 12 April