ISSUE 11 | Week 2, Term 3 Wednesday 30 July 2025

PRINCIPAL'S WELCOME

Dear Families,

Welcome to Term 3.

I hope you enjoyed the three-week break with your daughters and that they have returned ready for all that we offer at St Dominic’s Priory College. I am sure you will enjoy this Newsletter as it brings news from across our community.  

We are pleased to welcome back our Year 5/6 Coordinator, Belinda Baker, together with:

• Emma Stanley, who will be stepping in as the Reception Teacher during Francine Saint's Long Service Leave.
• Brooke Simpson as the new Junior School Administration Officer.
• In Secondary Years, Naomi Uchida to the Technology teaching team, while Chris Short enjoys his Long Service Leave.
  

A heartfelt welcome is also extended to the newest members of our Junior School Community, the Little Doms.  

STUDENT AGENCY AND INFLUENCE

Thanks to the insight and initiative of our Year 10 students, the College has recently purchased two beautiful pieces of Aboriginal art from the APY Gallery on George Street. The idea came after a class excursion sparked thoughtful discussion and a heartfelt letter from the students. In their words:

“We would be investing in the preservation of culture, language and art programs of rural communities in the APY Lands. The purchase and display of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artwork serves as an outward expression of support for Indigenous traditions, people, and all things reconciliation… The display of Indigenous art around the campus would serve to remind us of acknowledging past wrongs and moving forward with empathy and compassion, conveniently reinforcing the National Reconciliation Week theme, Bridging Now to Next.”

Their voices remind us that reconciliation isn’t just about a week on the calendar—it’s about action, learning, and respect every day. We’re proud to display these artworks around the campus, not only as striking pieces of culture and storytelling but also as a sign of our shared commitment to truth, understanding, and walking together.

WEEK 10 - TERM BREAK FOR STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING FOR STAFF

While our students were enjoying a well-deserved break, the campus was buzzing with learning of a different kind! From Monday 30 June to Friday 4 July, all College staff took part in a full week of professional learning, collaboration, and preparation for Semester 2. Here are a few highlights:

• We began with storytelling and strategy and ended with a shared Dominican Formation Day alongside our friends from Cabra and St Mary’s.
• Wednesday’s workshop line-up was a favourite—with sessions on everything from podcasting and VR, to sewing, aquaponics, and supporting students with autism. Staff also enjoyed a beautiful soup lunch thanks to our Social Club!
• Guest speaker Adrian Cotterell challenged us to think about how AI is reshaping education and assessment.
• I shared “Herstory”—reflections from my Renewal Leave following in the footsteps of the College’s founding women.
• And of course, behind the scenes there was lots of preparation, planning, and curriculum work to ensure Semester 2 starts strong.

Thanks to all staff for your energy, professionalism, and openness to new learning.

This week ended at our Staff reflection day held at St Mary’s College. A day that included prayer, alumni reflections, and shared hope across our ministries, reinforcing our shared vision as schools of truth, service, prayer and study. A highlight to the day was attending one of several workshops on offer. These included: singing, walking, Fred’s Van baking, Puddle Jumpers and Art, along with many others. It was a fulfilling day with our colleagues across schools, and we are grateful to the work of Joseph Catania (our Director of Faith and Mission), Bronwyn Ridley (Director of Mission at St Mary's College), Deborah Lubatti (Acting Director of Mission at Cabra Dominican College), and Danielle Nicolas (Communications Coordinator at SDPC).

VERITAS

In recent weeks, some public conversations and news reports have drawn my attention, not for what was said, but for what was missing. Too often, we speak of others without remembering their full humanity. We forget that behind every headline, every mistake, and every accusation is a person, created in the image and likeness of God, deserving of dignity.

At St Dominic’s Priory College, our commitment to Veritas calls us not only to seek what is right, but to speak and act with justice and compassion. Dignity is not earned by perfection, popularity, or success. It is innate. It belongs to each person by virtue of their humanity, regardless of the wrong they may have done, or the judgment they may face.

We teach our students to see with more than just their eyes, to listen without rushing to condemn, and to lead with understanding. In a world where shame and outrage can be amplified, our Dominican tradition invites us to take a different path: one where compassion and truth walk hand in hand.

Let us continue to be a community that chooses dignity. A community where every person is treated with respect, even in difficult conversations. A community where our words are weighed, and our actions speak of kindness and conviction.

This is the kind of school and the kind of world we are shaping together.

Dr Helen Steele
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

As we return for another exciting term, I extend a warm welcome to every student and family, especially to those joining us for the first time this year. A very special greeting to our Little Doms girls, who began their very first day of school with us this term. Starting school is a significant milestone, and we are delighted to accompany our youngest learners as they start their educational journey at St Dominic’s Priory College. May this be the beginning of many joyful years ahead. Welcome to; Sofia Behar, Amber Canales, Atarah Fernando, Florrie Foti, Sofia Giourgas, Eve Hickey, Aura Naga Kankanamge, Chloe Peake, Banuli Perera, Mariella Samaan, Shanae Tindall, and Mila Yeoh.

I would also like to thank our Year 4 families who attended the Parent Information Gathering for Confirmation and First Holy Communion on Wednesday, 23 July, as well as our Year 9 families who participated in the Year 9 Parent Information Evening on Wednesday, 30 July. Your commitment to being actively involved in your daughter’s education and faith journey is at the heart of our community’s strength. By working together as partners in learning and wellbeing, we are ensuring your daughters have the support, encouragement, and opportunities needed to achieve success.

SUPPORTING OUR GIRLS: Insights from Recent Research

Recent articles, including Dr O’Grady’s research on girls’ wellbeing reported in the Student Wellbeing Hub, reminds me of the unique challenges and pressures faced by young women today, particularly in the digital age. As highlighted in a short journal article entitled “Expectations and abuse of girls begins early”, girls encounter higher rates of online bullying, body image concerns related to social media, and bias that can affect opportunities both academically and personally. The article emphasises the importance of school communities in helping girls feel seen, safe, and valued.  I have shared this research with our Wellbeing Team at the College for review and reflection.

Some key takeaways parents may find helpful are:

• Open Conversations: Engage with your daughters about their online experiences. Encourage them to share any concerns, and affirm their feelings.
• Balanced Opportunities: Encourage not only academic success but also creative and personal expression. Celebrate their achievements in all areas, from arts to STEM, ensuring they feel recognised beyond academic performance.
• Building Resilience and Belonging: As a school, we value cross-grade partnerships, bullying prevention initiatives, and respectful relationships programs. These create a climate that supports emotional wellbeing and fosters genuine connections.
• Parent Participation: Your involvement in information sessions, decision-making, and community events is vital. As the article notes, schools that include parents and appreciate their contributions see positive impacts on student wellbeing.

We are proud to say that St Dominic’s is in a strong position to support the wellbeing of our girls. Our programs are designed in line with best practices: promoting respectful relationships, prioritising inclusivity, and providing resources such as peer partnerships and counselling support. Just as importantly, we strive to ensure every girl is valued for who she is; celebrated for her effort, her compassion, and her unique contributions to our community.  To revisit the College's Wellbeing Framework, click here.

Thank you to all our families for your ongoing engagement, care, and partnership as we work together to nurture a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment for our girls.

Wishing everyone a wonderful start to Term 3.

Muriel Noujaim
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

GALA DAY INFORMATION

FRIDAY 8 AUGUST

We are delighted to announce that Gala Day 2025 will take place on Friday 8 August, the day following our St Dominic Feast Day celebration. As the College’s largest student-led event, Gala Day is a much-loved tradition that fosters a spirit of service, community, creativity, and fun, while raising awareness and vital funds for charities across South Australia.

First held in 1978, Gala Day has a proud history of bringing students together in meaningful and memorable ways.

All proceeds raised from Gala Day 2025 will support the following South Australian charities:
Ronald McDonald House, Mary Potter Foundation, Catherine House, Backpacks 4 SA Kids, Hutt Street Centre, The Village Co., and Treasure Boxes SA.

The 2025 Gala Day Theme is 
DREAM BIG  

This year’s theme, “Dream Big,” invites students to dress in costume to reflect their aspirations, creativity, and sense of fun. 

Students are permitted to wear themed costumes instead of their school uniform on the day and are encouraged to use low-cost or recycled materials. Prizes will be awarded for creativity, originality, and resourcefulness. 

Costumes also serve as the student’s “entry ticket” to the day’s entertainment, including the Fashion Parade and Talent Quest.

WHAT'S HAPPENING ON THE DAY

Reception – Year 3: Will enjoy a dedicated Gala Day program with supervised access to stalls and performances.
Years 4 – 12: Each class will run a Food, Drink, or Games Stall and are welcome to participate in the Fashion Parade and Talent Quest.
In the afternoon: Students will engage in a hands-on workshop led by a representative from their year-level charity.- Cash and Eftpos facilities will be available for purchasing of food and participating in games.

 CONTRIBUTIONS

Students are kindly asked to support their Year Level’s nominated charity by either:
- Donating $4, or
- Providing a donated item from the list of items shared by your daughter’s Year Level Coordinator via School Stream.

Please note that Gala Day remains a student and staff-only event.

Thank you for your ongoing support of the many events and initiatives that enrich our College community and extend our concern to those in need.

Mr Joseph Catania
DIRECTOR OF FAITH & MISSION

USING PARENTAL CONTROLS

A SMART STEP FOR SAFE & BALANCED SCREEN TIME

Parental controls offer helpful tools for keeping young people safe online and supporting healthy screen habits.
This article is a summary of guidelines by the eSafety Commissioner. For step-by-step guidance for any of the
information below, visit: esafety.gov.au/parents/issues-andadvice/parental-controls.

WHAT ARE PARENTAL CONTROLS? 

Parental controls are software tools that filter harmful content, manage screen time, and limit who children can communicate with online. They can be set across all devices a child uses, including those at homes of family or friends  

WHY THEY MATTER 

These tools help protect children from inappropriate content, control their online interactions, and enforce time limits, supporting digital safety and mental wellbeing.  

WHERE TO SET THEM UP 

• Home WiFi network: Many routers let you apply controls across all connected devices. 
• Individual devices: Each device your child uses—smartphone, tablet, laptop, or gaming console, should have its settings configured.  
• Apps and services: You can activate privacy and safety settings in social media, search engines, streaming platforms, and AI tools via eSafety’s detailed guides. 

TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE USE 

• Apply controls on all devices your child accesses, even when away from home  
• Review and update settings regularly to account for new apps or features.  
• Explain purpose to your child—framing them as tools for safety and balance, not punishment . 

MORE THAN JUST SOFTWARE: BEST PRACTICES AT HOME 

While technology helps, the most important element is active parental involvement. The eSafety resources stress that parental controls are not a substitute for open conversations about online activity and expectations.  

To complement settings: 

• Create a “family tech agreement” covering when and where devices can be used, and what apps or websites are appropriate. 

• Talk regularly with your child about how they use their devices, how it feels emotionally, and who they interact with online. 
• Explore apps and games together—show interest in what they do online and help them adjust their own privacy settings.

Joanne Villis 
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY ENRICHMENT 

2025 FETE NEWS

Preparations for the College Fete and Auction are well underway.  Thank you to everyone who attended the Fete Committee Meeting on Thursday 24 July.  The support of our families, students, and staff is key to making this community event a success.

POT PLANTING MORNING

Calling all green thumbs to attend a Pot Planting morning on Saturday 30 August; 9:00 - 12:00 noon, in the Year 12 Centre Driveway.

We are also in need of empty plastic grow pots.  Donations can be dropped off at the College Reception.  

JOIN A STALL TEAM TODAY

As students grow beyond the Priory gates, and new families join our fold, opportunities arise to form or join a Convening Team.  For 2025's event, the following stalls are in need of additional convenors or support:

The ROSE COMPETITION would also welcome interest from potential judges.

If you’d like to know more, attend the next meeting, help out, or join a team, please contact Fete Coordinator, Genesia McQuarrie at fete@stdominics.sa.edu.au 

2025 CLASS HAMPERS FOR AUCTION

The Fete Auction has been a valued tradition for families, with students in each class working together to create a themed hamper.  Themes and suggested donations are in the flyer below.  Please donate new, unused items - either for your class, or another Year Level's hamper.  Grey Tubs in classrooms will collect your contributions.   

Donations are due by the end of Week 6, on Friday 29 August.

WEEKLY APPEALS

Along with the Classroom Hampers, there will be additional appeals throughout the term, to help the following family-run stalls: CRAFTS, POT PLANTS, SWEETS, BOOKS, and CHOCOLATE WHEEL. These appeals will be communicated via the College's key communication channels; Student Daily Notices (SEQTA), event posts (Facebook), School Stream, and of course, this College Newsletter. 

For those on social media, please be sure to mark yourself as 'interested' or 'attending' to follow the Facebook Event Page updates HERE. 

WELCOME LITTLE DOMS

Despite a wet and windy start to Term 3 – and a few absences due to winter sniffles – we were thrilled to welcome our newest and youngest students, the Little Doms, to our school community in Week 1. Beginning school mid-year can be a big step, but our Little Doms class has taken it all in their stride!

With the support of our wonderful Year 6 helpers, the Little Doms have begun to settle beautifully into classroom routines. The older girls have done an outstanding job reading stories, playing games, and guiding our newest students through fun craft activities, creating a warm and welcoming start.

It’s been a big week of new learning – not just in the classroom but also navigating the wider school environment. From discovering new play areas and the school library to learning how to buy a snack at the canteen, there’s been lots to take in. A special shout-out goes to last year's Little Doms, now big Reception girls, who have taken on the important role of buddies during lunch and recess, showing kindness and care as they help the new Little Doms feel at home.

We are so proud of the way they have settled in - you'd never guess it's only been a week!

Mrs Clare Yeates
LITTLE DOMS CLASS TEACHER

“In PALS there’s a pizza and a flower shop” – Mila Yeoh and Aura Naga Kankanamge

“I like to chin it with my whiteboard” – Sofia Behar

“I like playing with Lydia” – Chloe Peake

“The playground is very big” - Florrie Foti

GROWTH MINDSET

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

GRIT, GRITTER, GRITTIEST

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.

Developing grit in children is essential as it enables them to persevere even when faced with challenges. It encourages them to see challenges as opportunities to learn rather than as setbacks. When children learn to stick with something over time, even when it is difficult, they develop resilience, confidence, and a sense of achievement that comes from seeing hard work pay off.

In a world that often values quick results, teaching our children the power of perseverance helps them build habits that will serve them well throughout life, whether learning a new skill, solving a challenging maths problem, or working towards their personal goals. By encouraging and modelling a growth mindset at home or school, we can help nurture this grit in children, supporting them to develop the determination and focus needed to pursue long-term goals with courage and consistency.

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

LANGUAGES UPDATE

EXCITING TIMES AHEAD FOR THE LANGUAGES FACULTY

Semester 2 promises to be a vibrant and engaging time for the Languages Faculty, with plenty of opportunities to celebrate language learning both in and beyond the classroom.

One of the highlights later this term will be our much-anticipated Languages Day, a joyful celebration of the different languages taught at the College and the rich cultural diversity of our school community. Students will have the chance to experience food, music, dance, and traditions from across the globe, as we shine a spotlight on the different cultures represented at our College.

In the classroom, students can look forward to dynamic, interactive lessons as we continue to bring language learning to life. Whether it is through role-play, authentic texts, cultural artefacts or creative projects, our focus remains on making language learning meaningful and fun.

There have already been many exciting moments in recent weeks. Our Vietnamese students visited the Migration Museum as part of their cultural studies, while the Year 7 French students marked the end of their unit on festivals with a croissant celebration. Meanwhile, our Year 11 Italian students completed their investigation task on a Made in Italy product but not before sampling a selection of Italian delicacies to help them get into the spirit!

Preparations are also well underway for the 2026 Italian Art Study Tour, with plans being finalised to ensure our girls are fully immersed in the beauty, creativity, and culture of Italy. More information will be made available to participating students and their families very soon.

Last but by no means least, we were delighted to welcome our new French teacher, Nadege Otina-Griffin, in Term 2. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for all things French, and I am sure her students have enjoyed getting to know her and learning under her guidance.

We look forward to the rich experiences still to come this semester!

Toni Riccio
LEARNING AREA LEADER - LANGUAGES

TECHNOLOGY REPORT

TERM 2 IN REVIEW

In Term 2, Year 8 students were immersed in a hands-on design journey using SketchUp, a fun and intuitive 3D modelling program that allows users to create detailed designs of real-world structures.  Students loved the opportunity to bring their ideas to life in a digital space.  They began by investigating playgrounds - both within our school and in their local communities - closely examining their strengths and weaknesses.  Using these insights, they then designed their own playgrounds in SketchUp, carefully considering functionality, creativity, and user experience.  The unit culminated in students evaluating both their final design and the process they followed.  A highlight for some was the opportunity to experience their playgrounds in virtual reality, adding an exciting and immersive dimension to their work.  It was an authentic and hands-on learning experience, allowing students to see how digital design tools can be used to solve real-world problems.

Meanwhile, Year 9 students ventured into the world of surrealism through photography.  Inspired by their research into surrealist artists and movements, they created original photographic works that reflect their personal interests, creative thinking, and technical skills.  The results were both thought-provoking and visually stunning.

THE TERM AHEAD

In Term 3, students will embark upon new and exciting learning journeys.  Year 7 will begin their robotics unit, where they'll explore the fundamentals of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and programming.  Year 8 will step into the world of graphic design, using PhotoShop to develop their visual communication skills and creativity.  Year 9 will continue in their chosen technology electives, engaging in a range of specialised topics tailored to each course. Year 10 students in the Innovations and Future Thinking class will begin by exploring key concepts such as machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP), model training, and AI ethics and bias.  They will then apply this understanding to critically analyse and evaluate real-world AI projects. 

We look forward to seeing the creativity, problem-solving, and innovation that will emerge in the term ahead.

Mrs Lana Weller
LEARNING AREA LEADER - TECHNOLOGY

PARENT NOTICES

ARE YOU ON SCHOOL STREAM?

We kindly request that at least one parent/guardian in each household enable notifications and access the app regularly, so that their family does not miss receiving vital communications from the College.   

For our systems to recognise you as a parent/guardian of the college, we ask that your account be created using the email address or mobile phone number you provided to the school. Login attempts via Facebook or Apple ID will not link you to messages sent to your daughter's Class.   

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.To refamiliarise yourself with what platforms the College requires families to access, and why, please refer to the College Communication Policy. 

TERM 3 KEY DATES FOR THE DIARY 

• Thursday 7 August: Parents & Friends Meeting from 7pm in The Space
  
• Friday 8 August: Gala Day (details above)
• Monday 11 - Friday 15 August: National Science Week
  
• Monday 18 - Friday 22 August: Book Week
• Friday 22 August: School Closure Day (St Dominic's Day Holiday)
• Thursday 4 September: Parents & Friends Meeting from 7pm in The Space
• ***NEW DATE*** Wednesday 10 September: Fete Community Launch from 6pm in the College Hall 
• Thursday 11 September: Learning Conversations from 1:50pm - 6:30pm. (Students dismissed at 1:00pm)
• Monday 22 September: Languages Day
• Friday 26 September: Last Day of Term 3. Students will be dismissed at the NORMAL dismissal time

TUCKSHOP VOLUNTEERS

We are calling for volunteers with adequate clearances to help in the Tuckshop from 10am until 2pm, on a couple of days per term. If you are available to lend a hand, we would greatly appreciate your support.  Duties include serving (no exp. needed), some stock filling/rotation, and packing lunch orders. 

Should you have any questions about volunteering or would like to register your availability, please contact Tuckshop Manager, Michelle Macri, on 8331 5108 or mmacri@stdominics.sa.edu.au.

Thank you for your continued support.

TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

No matter what age you are, it is never too late to take steps towards better health and feeling great.  Even small changes can make a big difference to how you feel.

TOP FIVE WAYS TO BETTER HEALTH

The five biggest changes you can make to lead a healthier, happier and longer life are:

1. Quit smoking
2. Be physically active everyday
3. Eat health foods
4. Limit alcohol
5. Get enough sleep.

MAKE YOUR HEALTHY CHANGE NOW

To make healthy changes for you and your family, SA Health have tips to help you make positive changes.

• Access your health risks – smoking, nutrition, weight, alcohol, physical activity and drugs)
• Healthy eating and being active - LiveLighter
• Healthy mind tips for looking after your mental wellbeing.

To make healthy changes for you and your family, SA Health have tips to help you make positive changes.

Visit SA Health website (CLICK HERE) for more tips about healthy living.

SPORT NEWS

SACSSGSA SPORT

Term 3 Winter Sport (Netball, Badminton and Soccer) continues.  As always, we ask that the students commit to both training and games. If a student is unable to attend for any reason, they must let Mrs Pratt know in advance via email.  

PINK ROUND will take place on Saturday 2 August. We encourage players, officials, supervisors, and spectators to
wear some PINK to raise Breast Cancer awareness, generate discussion encouraging breast screening, and show support for the 20,000+ women and men diagnosed with Breast Cancer in Australia every year.

All fixtures are live and may have changes. Please bookmark and refer to this link weekly for fixtures and results. https://sacssgsa.cesa.catholic.edu.au/sports 

Girls can also check the Sports Notice Board in the Gym or the Daily Notices for upcoming games. 

It is important that you collect your daughter(s) at the end of the game/practice promptly. Staff are taking time away from their own families to supervise these games/practices and it is unacceptable to ask staff to wait around for girls to be picked up. 

Please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs Lyndall Pratt at the school if you have any questions about the Saturday Sport Program. 

Mrs Lyndall Pratt
SPORTS COORDINATOR

SACSSGSA SWIMMING

Congratulations to all girls who represented the College at the SACGSSA swimming meet at Marion in Term 2. Our small team did well, with most girls swimming the maximum number of races possible.  

CROSS COUNTRY

Congratulations to the eight girls who competed at this event. It was a mild winter's day at Oakbank Racecourse. Six girls completed the 3km run and two girls completed the 4km run. All enjoyed plenty of hot food and drinks after the event. 

YEAR 9/10 STATEWIDE VOLLEYBALL

Congratulations to the girls who were selected and then competed in the Year 9/10 Statewide Volleyball competition. These girls played against Kildare and Seymour in their pool and were undefeated, finishing in first place.  

The girls then went on to the State Final Day where they finished undefeated in the minor rounds against Hallett Cove and Brighton. In a close semi-final, they defeated Reynella East before moving into the grand final against reigning winners, Heathfield. The girls won the first set; however, they were unable to hang on, winning the Silver Medal in the Division 1 Grand Final.  Congratulations to Coach Vicki Dent and her amazing team. 

SACPSSA NETBALL CARNIVAL

On Friday 27 June, students from Years 3, 4, and 5 participated in a Netball Schools Carnival held at the Netball SA Stadium.  This event brought together teams from Catholic Schools across Adelaide for a day of friendly competition and sportsmanship.

Throughout the day, each team played six matches, focusing on participation and enjoyment rather than competition.  The atmosphere was filled with school spirit, teamwork, and camaraderie, as students showcased their skills and supported one another. 

A special thank you to the parent team managers and Year 9 students who volunteered as umpires, ensuring the event ran smoothly and safely.  Their dedication and support were invaluable in making the day a success.

This carnival provided a wonderful opportunity for our students to engage in physical activity, build friendships, and put into practice the Netball skills learned in Physical Education lessons, in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Mrs Michelle Richter
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTS

COMMUNITY NOTICES