ISSUE 13 | Week 8, Term 3 - Thursday 12 September 2024

PRINCIPAL'S WELCOME

Dear Families,

In recent weeks I have found myself inspired by two key groups in our College Community; our Year 10 and 11 students, and our parent body. 

Year 10 and 11 students are at that lovely time of year when they are planning for next year’s subjects and thinking about their future. Leadership opportunities are unfolding, and they seem to be moving through the College with gracious confidence. I spoke with girls and parents as they left after Subject Selection, forms clutched in their hands with the list finalised, anticipation and determination in their words as they shared future pathways of medicine, engineering and teaching. It was such a joy to hear their hopes, dreams and aspirations. I have met with the Senior Fete Ambassadors who are splendid in their visioning and actioning of a terrific 140 celebration at the Fete. I appreciated their energy and ideas, and enjoyed their good company as we discussed the great story of St Dominic’s Priory College right back to Bessie Baker and Mother Rose Columba.

I have been stopped by girls in the corridor asking me countless questions about the Leadership opportunities for 2025; how to complete their applications, and what should they apply for? Additionally - and broadly - it is the Year 10 and 11 girls who have stepped into leading the welcome of our 2025 Year 7 cohort. They stood at the gates, greeted parents and new girls, walked them to the Hall, and chatted to ease their nerves. They led a mentor activity and helped run the great St Dom’s Race. All the while, modelling those qualities we have come to appreciate and expect from St Dom’s girls; invested, thoughtful, articulate, friendly… the list goes on. I note that in the Newsletter this week, Year 9 student Alanna Kennedy has written a poem that reflects all that I have seen in our Year 10 and 11 students (and others too) these past few weeks. Congratulations girls, and thank you for all you do for our community.

In addition, I take the opportunity to acknowledge our parent community. What I have witnessed in the past few weeks also reflects the values of the College community, as experienced through our parent body. We had an outstanding turnout to parent-teacher Learning Conversations which, as we know, sends a clear message to our girls that we are in partnership, with your daughter at the centre. This term, I have found myself in conversation with parents from across all year levels. Primary families engaged with the OSHC or Showcases, and secondary families with subject selection. I am always grateful to parents, for feedback, and appreciate that at times we need to have honest conversations to strengthen our partnership. I am grateful to the parnets who have found their way to me to share their insights. So much good comes from these conversations.

Our Parents and Friends meeting led by Daniel Peric and Marni on Thursday 5 September, was another wonderful gathering of generous parents. We viewed the proposed new uniform, which will be shared with students in Week 10 for the final stamp of approval! The P&F this year have raised funds through various activities including; the sale of St Dom’s umbrellas, the Dulwich Bakery Fundraiser, and the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Stalls. All have been successful, with funds going to assist with the upgraded Memorial Garden; due to be opened in November. This same group of parents (along with many others) are great supporters of the College Auction and Fete all of which require significant work. Thank you. At the next meeting, we will elect our new executive and thank Daniel and Marni for their excellent contribution since 2020.  I am grateful to the Parents and Friends for their respectful, reflective, insightful and honest reflections. We are Dominicans and it is in dialogue that we reach synchronicity: ‘My idea plus your idea equals a better idea!'

In other news, there are few staffing changes…

• We farewell Ellen Daniels, 4G Class Teacher, who had her last day with us this week before beginning her Maternity Leave.  All the best to you, Ellen, for a safe and healthy delivery.  Belinda Baker will take over as co-class teacher of 4G, with Amy Parker.
• We farewell Belinda D'Cruz (College Finance Officer) and Matt Dubrich (ICT Services Leader) as their time at the College ends on Friday 27 September.  Belinda and Matt, thank you for your contributions to our College community. We wish you both well in your future endeavours.
  
• Andrew Coleman will be taking well-deserved Long Service Leave in Term 4.  His replacement will be confirmed very soon.  
• We wish Anastasia Markou, Year 7 Coordinator, well as she takes leave for the last two weeks to connect with family overseas. Jo Vanderpeer, a relief teacher known to the girls, will assume Anastasia's teaching load in Weeks 9 and 10 of the term. The Year 7 Class Teaching Team, consisting of Tom Dawson (7B), Tim Grant (7G), and Heather Day (7W), will be well supported by our Deputy Principal, Muriel Noujaim, during this time. Parents and students are encouraged to contact the Year 7 Class Teaching Team in the first instance, for any matters relating to Year 7.
• We look forward to welcoming Joshua Weller, IT Manager, to the College on Monday 16 September.

I hope that the final two weeks of the term are gentle and lighter mornings find you enjoying longer days with those you love.

Dr Helen Steele
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

R U OK? DAY

Today, Thursday 12 September, is R U OK? Day; a registered public health promotion that encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times.  As a national suicide prevention charity, R U OK? focuses on building the motivation, confidence and skills of the help-giver – the person who can have a meaningful conversation with someone who is struggling with life.  It encourages people to invest time in their personal relationships and build the capacity of their informal support networks – friends, family and colleagues - and to be alert to those around them. 

This week our Wellbeing Prefects and Year Level Coordinators have run a range of R U OK? activities to remind our community that there is no shame in seeking help. This is another of our many safeguarding initiatives, that help to build a culture of safety and care.

Below are some links to resources that have been cultivated for people of all ages and stages of life, to provide tips and tools on how to ask R U Ok?... any day.  

Children aged 5 and under

Primary-aged children

Secondary-aged teenagers

Young adults in University/TAFE

Community resources

in the Workplace

ANNUAL MUSIC CONCERT

ST DOMINIC'S PRIORY COLLEGE
ANNUAL MUSIC CONCERT

'140 Beats Per Minute'

COLLEGE HALL
**NEW DATE** Friday 18 October **NEW DATE**
6:45pm for a 7pm start

Tickets $10 at the door

PRAYER & LITURGY

EMBRACING VERITAS: GUIDING STUDENTS THROUGH A DIGITAL MAZE

The 140-year theme, ‘In the Light of Truth’, serves as a powerful reminder of our enduring commitment to truth. In today’s digital world, we are constantly bombarded with information—from social media, news outlets, and AI-generated content. While some sources offer facts and authenticity, others spread misinformation and half-truths, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish what is real from what is not. This digital maze often leaves us questioning authenticity and challenges our understanding of the world around us.

The Dominican motto of Veritas, meaning truth, invites us all—students, families, and staff—to be active seekers of truth. This means critically engaging with the information we encounter, questioning what we see and hear, and dialoguing with others to uncover or even rediscover what is true. This call to truth is not just a concept; it is embodied in the college crest that appears on our uniform, letterheads, and throughout the school grounds — a constant reminder of our shared commitment to live authentically in the light of truth.

At our college, embracing Veritas is more than just a motto; it’s a way of life that teaches our students to live authentically and with conviction. As a community, we aspire to equip our young people with the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to navigate today’s complex digital environment. A Dominican education instils in our students the courage to discern truth amidst noise, empowering them to make informed decisions grounded in integrity.

Guided by the words of Philippians 4:8—"Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things"—we aim to nurture minds and hearts that seek what is true, good, and just.

As we continue to celebrate 140 years of faith, learning, and a commitment to truth, we look forward to the future with a renewed dedication to fostering a culture where truth shines brightly. Together, let us guide our community to live boldly in the light of truth.

Joseph Catania
DIRECTOR OF FAITH & MISSION

BOOK WEEK

With the theme “Reading is Magic,” how could Book Week be anything but magical this year? Our students wholeheartedly embraced the theme and fully immersed themselves in the spirit of the week.

Our first day of Book Week was thrilling due to a magician’s performance for all students. The highlight of the show was the moment a beautiful bunny appeared out of the magician’s hat, which created a frenzy of delight and amazement.

Secondary students were also treated to a touch of magic during lunchtime, where they marvelled at mind-bending card tricks that left them both puzzled and entertained.

The primary students once again enjoyed the opportunity to dress up, with teachers also looking wonderful in creative and colourful costumes that brought the magic of books to life.

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The ‘Guess the Reader’ competition added an element of mystery to the week, as students and staff alike tried to identify which teachers were hidden behind the covers of their favourite books. The challenge was a hit with everyone, fostering a sense of community and a shared love for reading.

Primary students were also invited to respond in 90 words to a thought-provoking image, resulting in creative and clever responses. Additionally, each student received a bookmark featuring the beautiful, whimsical artwork that reflected the Book Week theme.

One of the most sought-after events of the week was the Lucky Dip. To participate, students were asked to respond to the sentence, ‘Reading is magic because’… Their heartfelt responses highlighted the joy and value they find in reading, as well as their deep affection for our library. It proved to be a win-win!

Another highlight of Book Week was the Year 6 Readers’ Cup grand final. Both Year 6 classes participated in four rounds of competition, with the winning team answering the most questions correctly. Congratulations to Sidak Hans, Jane George, and Anne Le for being our 2024 champions!

To reflect further on the purpose of Book Week, we are truly lucky with the quality and content of literature available for students which offers the opportunity to engage with excellent authors, rich language, contemporary themes and wonderful illustrations, all of which contribute to their magical journey through the world of reading.

I would like to thank Cate Zanetti, Rachel Bolt, Nat Cameron and Jennifer Truong who waved their magic wands to ensure that Book Week was indeed magical, creative and fun this year.

Sandra Mason
LIBRARY COORDINATOR

YEAR 9 REPORT

As Year 9 students prepare for what is to come in 2025, time has been spent carefully selecting subjects for Year 10. Over the past two weeks, teachers representing a variety of learning areas have presented information regarding their subjects, giving students an opportunity to ask questions about subject content and future pathways. In addition to these discussions, students have been encouraged to refer to our online Curriculum information for further detailed information.

On Friday of Week 6, the Year 9 cohort attended Reflection Day, which was held at the Bethany Centre in the Mary MacKillop Precinct. It was truly a day of reflection led by Joseph Catania where students were given the time to explore their identity, spirituality and place in the world. Featured here are photos of students very involved in one of the activities and a summary of the day by one of our students, Alanna Kennedy.

The Year 9 Reflection Day offered the cohort a chance to step back from the stresses of mid-term schoolwork and take time and contemplate whether we truly show our authentic selves in everyday life. It was a wonderful opportunity to work with peers that we don’t usually see in our classes, as well as to find out some exciting and interesting facts about each other that we wouldn’t have otherwise. Through fun and relaxing activities, as well as some deeper, more personal segments, it was valuable to learn about the importance of living a life of freedom, being able to express our genuine selves, and empowering one another to have the courage to remove the masks and personas that protect our vulnerabilities and be confidently, authentically, us.

Students are looking forward to the annual Year 9 Camp which takes place in Mylor at the Baptist Adventure Camp in Week 10. This camp is always a highlight in the life of our students. It is one that is fondly remembered by all senior students as they graduate from St Dominic’s.

This week I asked one of my Year 9 classes to complete an activity where they could reflect on what it means to be a student of St Dominic’s Priory College. I asked them to consider the values, traditions, and community aspects of the school and invited them to write a poem or paragraph, complete an illustration or lyrics of a song to present their ideas.  Below is an example of those responses.

Josie Revesz
YEAR 9 COORDINATOR

SHE IS
by Alanna Kennedy

Beneath the wisps of green, she stands
Tiny white peppercorn flowers crown her,
Tickling the edges of her pristine black bow.

Echoing footsteps through the chapel, she strides
Head held high, a brave smile gracing her lips;
Confident, inspired.

Surrounded by textbooks, she works
Cozy amongst library shelves, a pen in hand.
Studying for her future, infinite opportunities lie ahead.

Friendly waves and greetings as she skips down the hallways,
A place of belonging, a second home
A community, supportive and perpetual.

She is a follower of truth
She is a light for the world
She is loved
She is valued
She is a student of St Dominic’s Priory College.

CAREERS & VET UPDATE

It has been another very successful year of vocational training for our VET (Vocational Education and Training) students, with wonderful stories and insights shared following their vocational choices. Courses undertaken in 2024 include; Business, Hospitality, Fitness, Early Childhood Education, Animal Studies, Cyber Security, Fashion Design, Health and Beauty. Many of these courses involve Structured Work Placements, which allow students to develop their employability skills. Upon completion of a full Certificate III, students gain an industry-recognised qualification; which is an impressive achievement! VET is a great option for students in Years 10, 11 or 12, and applications are now open for 2025. Students can email me to make an appointment to discuss these options. Further information about VET can also be found on the SACE Board website CLICK HERE.

August saw students across year levels attending University Open Days. Once again, Universities offered both “virtual” sessions and on-campus presentations. This allowed many more students to gain valuable information about their career aspirations. We also welcomed a representative from Uni SA to our campus on Wednesday 4 September where they met with Year 12 students individually to explore career and study options. 

September is a pivotal point in the Year 12 calendar. As well as completing assessments, and preparing for exams, students are finalising their SATAC Applications to University and TAFE, and making decisions about post-school pathways.

USEFUL LINKS

• SATAC Website - https://satac.edu.au/
• SATAC Guide is available online here – SATAC Guide digital copy
• TAFE SA Website - https://www.tafesa.edu.au/

KEY DATES FOR YEAR 12s

(source: SATAC website)

Applications are also open for students who wish to apply to interstate universities. Students need to contact the relevant tertiary admissions centre for that state. See links below:

• Northern Territory (SATAC same as South Aust) - click here
• Queensland (QTAC) - click here
• New South Wales and Aust Capital Territory (UAC) - click here
  

• Victoria (VTAC) - click here
• Tasmania – apply directly to the University click here
• Western Australia (TISC) - click here

Louise Eustace
CAREERS & VET COORDINATOR

YEAR 2 NEWS

The Year 2 Class had a fun day on Friday 6 September! We started the morning by hosting a Father’s Day Mass in the Chapel. The students had worked very hard to practise their speaking parts, prayers and songs, and I was very proud of their reverence and efforts to make it a beautiful morning for their dads and other family members. Thank you to all who joined us.

Following Mass, we were off to the Adelaide Planetarium! The excursion was a much-awaited event and helped consolidate our learning about space in Science this term. The students were very engaged in listening to the Astronomy Educator as we watched a simulation of the night sky on the domed ceiling.  We certainly furthered our understanding of Earth’s place in the solar system, the constellations and planets, as well as learning about light pollution and indigenous astronomy. We left the Planetarium full of interesting facts and more questions to explore in class. A big thank you to our parent volunteers who came along, and well done Year 2 students on your focus and engagement on a very big day!

Jane Delloso
YEAR 2 CLASS TEACHER

GROWTH MINDSET

GRIT, GRITTIER GRITTIEST

“Grit is the tendency to sustain interest in and effort toward very long-term goals”
- (Duckworth et al., 2007)

Moving our mindset from fixed to a growth orientation can help us to develop grit as we face challenges or strive to reach our goals. Grit is about sustained, consistent effort toward a goal even when we struggle, falter, or temporarily fail.

Hear Angela Lee Duckworth talk about Grit and Resilience in her TED Talk https://positivepsychology.com/5-ways-develop-grit-resilience/

FETE AND AUCTION

Fete is now just SIX WEEKS away, and things are starting to come together. We encourage families to keep an eye on the Fete & Auction tab on School Stream and follow
the event on Facebook here, so that they do not miss news and updates. Please also be sure to spread the word to your network of friends and family, so that they can keep Sunday 27 October clear in their calendars and come along to join the fun!

PARENTS & FRIENDS

PARENTS & FRIENDS MEETING IN TERM 4

The next Parents and Friends Meeting will take place between 7:30pm - 9:00pm in the Adams Mayo Library:

Thursday 7 November (Week 4)

All parents and/or guardians are welcome.

REMINDER - SCHOOL STREAM ROLLOUT

Families are reminded to ensure they have downloaded and activated their access to the School Stream app, in order to continue receiving vital communications from the College. In order for our systems to recognise users as a parent/guardian of the College, we ask that you log in using either the EMAIL address or MOBILE PHONE number you have previously provided the school.  Login attempts via Facebook or Apple ID may not be accepted.   

To find out more about School Stream, and to download the app from either Apple Store or Google Play, visit: https://www.schoolstream.com.au/download/ and then follow the prompts.

PORT ADELAIDE TO ST DOMINIC'S PRIORY COLLEGE

Tickets for the private bus service between Port Adelaide and St Dominic's Priory College can be purchased from the College Office.  The prices are as follows:

• $2.40 for a Single Trip
• $20 for Ten Trips
• $180 for a Term Pass (available for purchase from Term 3).

This service is provided by Grants Coachlines before and after school, exclusively for the use of St Dominic's girls in Years 5-12 (and accompanied younger sisters).  For further information, please refer to the service flyer here.  

No tickets will be available to purchase from the driver.

YMCA OUT OF SCHOOL HOURS CARE (OSHC) ENROLLING NOW!!

Please CLICK HERE to enrol. For all enquiries, contact YMCA's Children’s Services Customer Support Team directly via 8200 2516 or oshc@ymcasa.org.au

SPORT NEWS

SATURDAY SPORT

Term 4 Sport nominations have now closed.  Consent2Go information has been sent out.  Please note: any students without consent or outstanding payment will not be permtted to play the first game. 

Practices and team selections will begin in Weeks 9 and 10 of this Term.  Students can keep an eye on the Daily Notices for more details.  

STATE SWIMMING CHAMPIONSHIPS   

We congratulate Rosie Welden (7G), who was invited to participate in the 12-13 year-old endurance events at the State Swimming Championships.  It follows that Rosie was one of only a few 12-year-olds that competed, with even fewer her age making finals and podiums.  Her results are as follows: 

800m freestyle: (Timed Final)         9:45.42 (25 second PB)   Ranking at 5th overall
400m freestyle: (Timed Final)         4:47.00  (almost 3 second PB) Ranking 4th overall
200m Butterfly:   (Heat & Final)      2:39.51 (6 second PB in final) Ranking 3rd overall Bronze State podium. 

Rosie will now compete in sprint events at the Junior Championship, to be held in two weeks.   

FISAF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Huge Congratulations to Amelie van Lierop (12B) and her team for winning in the International Junior Grande Category at the FISAF National Championships on the weekend of 27-30 August. 

The girls worked tirelessly in the year leading up to the competition, and it's so rewarding to see their hard work pay off with this outstanding result.  While they qualified to represent Australia in the World Championships, the 2024 event has unfortunately been cancelled due to safety concerns in the host country.

We are so proud of the team and their achievements.

SACPSSA TOUCH CARNIVAL

On Friday 6 September, Year 5 and 6 students attended the SACPSSA Touch Carnival. The aim of this carnival was participation, as well as learning the skills, rules, and strategies of Touch Football. The day was wet and muddy, however the students embraced the experience and had lots of fun.

WORLD NINJA LEAGUE - PREMIER SERIES AUSTRALIAN QUALIFIER

On Saturday 31 August, Isabel Burgoyne (4G) competed in the World Ninja League - Premier Series Australian Qualifier, held at The Compound, in Victoria.  This was an invite-only event for the top 25% of athletes in Australia. 

Isabel had two amazing runs; first in the Placement Course and then in the Challenge Course.  In the Kids Female Category, she cleared six obstacles with the fastest time; awarding her the gold medal for this event and qualifying her for the World Premier Series Finals, to be held in Bellingham, Washington this November.

The event was streamed on the WNL YouTube Channel, with commentary.  Below are the links to Isabel's runs:

PLACEMENT COURSE

CHALLENGE COURSE

COMMUNITY NOTICES

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS MUSIC FESTIVAL

Come along to celebrate and support our St Dominic’s Priory College musicians at the Catholic Schools Music Festival.  Our Year 6 Choir will be part of the 370-voice Festival Choir on opening night – Monday 23 September – and talented St Dominic’s students will feature amidst the support acts and comperes in both the Monday and Tuesday program.