Finding Strength in Surrender: Navigating the Uncontrollable

As we embark on the journey of Term 2, the theme of control weighs heavy on our hearts, reminding us of the profound lessons we learned in the face of uncertainty and loss. The passing of our beloved Principal, Robert Brennan, in Term 1 left a lasting mark on our school community, challenging us to confront the reality that there are certain aspects of life beyond our control.

This event served as a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the futility of attempting to control that which is ultimately beyond our grasp. In the midst of our grief and sorrow, we were compelled to confront the uncomfortable truth that there are moments when we must relinquish control and surrender to the will of something greater than ourselves.

I believe control is a concept that is deeply intertwined with the human experience — a desire to shape our destinies, to influence outcomes, and to carve a path forward amidst the chaos of existence. Yet, as we grapple with the complexities of life, we come to realise that there are forces at play beyond our comprehension, beyond our influence, and beyond our control.

As we navigate the bustling events of this term, including the Year 12 Retreat, Exams, Subject Selection, the Mother's Day Mass and many more, let us approach each with a spirit of surrender and resilience. May we find peace in knowing that even amidst the uncontrollable, we are guided by divine providence.

I believe it is important to remind our students of the importance of managing what is within their control. While there are aspects of life beyond our influence, students have the power to shape their experiences by focusing on how they treat one another, managing their time effectively, and making conscientious choices in the classroom.

In the lead up to Term 2 Exams, students can take charge of their academic success by implementing effective study habits, seeking assistance when needed, and maintaining a positive mindset. By managing their time wisely and prioritising their studies, students can alleviate stress and approach exams with confidence and readiness.

Students also have the opportunity to foster a supportive and inclusive school community by treating each other with kindness and empathy. By embracing diversity, practicing empathy, and standing up against injustice, students can contribute to a culture of acceptance and understanding within our school.

In the classroom, students can exercise control over their behaviour by making choices that reflect respect, integrity, and accountability. By demonstrating attentiveness, participation, and cooperation, students create an environment conducive to learning and growth for themselves and their peers.

As educators and mentors, we should encourage our students to focus on what they can control, empowering them to take ownership of their actions, attitudes, and aspirations. By instilling a sense of agency and responsibility, we equip our students with the tools they need to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with resilience and grace.

As we move into Term 2, let us remember the lessons we learned in the wake of Principal Brennan's passing. Let us embrace the reality that there are aspects of life beyond our control, and find comfort in the knowledge that we are not alone on this journey. May we find strength in surrender, courage in adversity, and peace in knowing that we are held in the palm of God's hand.

In contemplating the theme of control, my thoughts turn to the wisdom found in Proverbs 16:9, which states, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." This verse speaks to the tension between our desire for control and the reality that ultimately, it is divine providence that guides our paths. It reminds us of the importance of surrendering our plans and trusting in God's greater purpose.

As Acting Principal, I am committed to guiding our school community through this change with compassion, courage, and unwavering dedication. In the wake of Rob's passing, I am humbled by the opportunity to lead and inspired by the resilience and strength of our students, staff, and families. As we navigate the term ahead, my foremost priority remains the wellbeing of our students, ensuring that they feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive. Together, let us honour the legacy of Principal Brennan by fostering a school environment that nurtures not only academic excellence but also the holistic growth and flourishing of each individual in our care. With faith as our anchor and love as our guide, I am confident that we will navigate the challenges of the term ahead and emerge stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever before.

God Bless.

- Mrs Laura Ruddick

This year has flown by and our first term is already over!

There was a lot happening in Term 1, and Term 2 will build on that at our Sacred Heart Campus. There have been quite a few excursions happening at Sacred Heart, with the VCE VM class attending the Grand Prix as one of the most recent excursions. Here the students get to learn outside of the classroom and bring those learnings back into the their subjects. The school musical for 2024, ‘The Wizard of Oz’ has been cast and rehearsals are underway. There are many SH students from years 10-12 involved in this and we look forward to seeing all the hard work pay off later in the year in the final production. In the sporting arena there have been students out at SACC’s events and both the teachers and students put in many hours of training in preparation for these competitions. We had the athletics day on Friday 22^nd of March where many students were able to be involved in many track and fields events. Congratulations to all those who participated and to all who cheered them on.

In Term 1 we also farewelled our loved and respected Principal, Mr Robert Brennan, after a short illness. His funeral was a beautiful celebration of his life which was very special and extraordinary. I was very proud of the number of Sacred Heart students, both past and present, that attended and the guard of honour was very fitting and beautiful to see. We miss his presence at Caroline Chisolm and continue to pray for his family.

There are lots of events happening in Term 2 and we look forward to seeing parents and students at these days.

We have the Mother’s Day Mass and Breakfast on Friday 10^th May, Open Day Sunday 19th May, Parent Teacher Subject Conferences Wednesday 15^th May and of course Sacred Heart Day celebrations at the end of Term 2.

I look forward to all that lies ahead in Term 2 for the staff, students and families of Sacred Heart.

Molly Coyne

Director of Sacred Heart Campus

As we begin the term afresh, I would like to thank all of the St John’s students for the calm and productive way they have started the term. Over the last week I have been making it a priority to observe the wonderful connections the staff and students are blessed with as they enter 204 Churchill Avenue. From greeting students as the come in to begin their day, watching the boys interact, laugh and have with their peers and of course all of the learning, questioning, debating and researching that happens in our classrooms. The positive connections are happening everywhere as we begin Term 2!

I wish all students and staff a safe and productive Term 2 and I hope you enjoy the below reflections from a few of our Year 7 students on how they have transitioned into secondary school.

Take care,

Luke 

Marley Von-Gurung
My transition into Year 7 has been an amazing experience. Before I went to Caroline Chisholm Catholic College, I imagined high school as a terrifying place, full of stress, bullying and homework. But as I stepped through the doors with teachers happily greeting me on day one, I realised it was not as bad as I thought. I saw quite a few nervous faces around the school, but even more people who were excited and outgoing, ready to start a new chapter of their lives at the school. During the day with my new class, we quickly started talking and introducing ourselves to each other and before we knew it, the whole class acted like we had known each other our whole lives. Whether it was joining a club or leadership role or saying hi to my friends at the bus stop, all these new experiences have made school just that much more fun and enjoyable for me

Eirik Heimdal-Reed
When I had talked about the transition with my friends, I acted like it was nothing, I thought it would be easy and that if my friends are fine, I will be fine. But as the first day drew closer and closer the more I stressed about if the kids would like me, if my teachers would like me, if my school uniform looks okay. But when I arrived on the first day everything was fine, great actually. I found that others had the same anxious face as mine, but it seemed as though friendliness was infectious there but best of all, it wasn’t the nightmare I dreaded it to be. From the moment I left the school after that day I knew that I would enjoy my years here.

Braxton Nguyen
Transitioning into Year 7 for me, and I’m sure for many other students, has been a wonderful experience. Year 7 (and highschool in general) has presented a plethora of opportunities for me. Despite having to leave all my old friends, I’ve met so many people and made new friends. I think the College’s facilities and infrastructure help to greatly improve the student experience; easy navigation and operation means that students don’t have to stress as much. Even from the start, learning our timetable, how our classes work and how the College works was effortless and straightforward. In the case that we do have trouble, the College has plenty of support available. 

As we embark on our learning journey for this term, I welcome you all back to your second home- Christ the King. It is exciting to see CTK bustling with your energy - welcome to Term 2!

Each day is a new, fresh page. Challenge yourself to set goals which push the boundaries of your knowledge. This will make you a better person and a better learner than last term. You can start by looking for the little things that make a big impact.

Persevere to achieve them.

Make this term a start to a great learning story. Approach your studies with curiosity, determination, and growth mindset. I challenge you to push yourself to explore beyond your comfort zone and embrace the opportunities for growth and learning that come your way - we have many here at CCCC. Remember, each day is a blank page waiting to be filled with your unique experiences and achievements. You are the writer of your own story.

“Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for with ardour and diligence.” Abigail Adams

Mrs Jas Kaur, Acting Director of Campus

Congratulations and well done to CTK stars who took part in 2024 Autumn School Holiday Program Melbourne Victory Football Club (MVFC)

Tuning Into Teens event:

Maribyrnong City Council is running a six-week coaching program for educating parents and carers of young people to help their teens develop emotional intelligence.

Tuesday 23rd April
ANZAC Day service at school for all students

Thursday 25th April
ANZAC Day public holiday, school closed

Friday 10th May
Mothers Day Mass and Breakfast. All students and staff, and the significant women in their lives, are invited to attend a Mothers Day Mass and Breakfast at our CTK campus. 
Please register here: https://events.humanitix.com/m...

Sunday 19th May
College Open Day, 11.00am - 2.00pm
If any staff or students would like to participate, please contact A.Morse@cccc.vic.edu.au

Thursday 23rd May
Senior Pathways Course Selection Evening

Australian Catholic University Step Up Program

Congratulations to our students who completed the ACU Step up program. Completing 2 university level units is an outstanding result.

This result means that those students will receive an unconditional offer from ACU, and not need to apply via the standard VTAC application, as they receive an offer directly via the program.

Congratulations again to the following students!

• Loord Sabah
• Elisabetta Bua
• Mary Javelona
• Isabelle Macasero
• Cindy Truong
• Lucas Chau

School Cross Country

Students completed our School Cross Country event on the 18th, with some fantastic results all round.

Congratulations to our winners:

13 Years
Juliette Johnson
Arthur Cowie

14 Years
Eve Inglis
Fletcher Bodman

Intermediate
Leanne Ellis
Lucas Ash

Senior
George Wood-Burgess

College Musical Rehearsals

Rehearsals for the College's annual musical have continued, with our dedicated students attending practice even over the holidays!

Senior Media Classes Excursion to ACMI

As Term 1 was coming to a close, our senior media classes embarked on an unforgettable journey to ACMI at Melbourne’s Federation Square to attend 'Top Screen 2024'. Amidst the buzzing atmosphere, they immersed themselves in 14 exceptional VCE Media films displayed on the grand screen. Witnessing the creativity and talent of their Victorian peers was truly inspiring for our students, igniting their own passion for media production. This experience at 'Top Screen 2024' undoubtedly left an indelible mark on our budding filmmakers, paving the way for their future endeavours in the world of media.

The Promise of Easter

We pray in the light of the Easter promise, that love conquers death, that life is eternal, and that Jesus lives.

May the glory and the promise of this joyous time of year bring us peace and and those we hold most dear.

May the unknown of the new term ahead be filled with anticipation and excitement, much like those who heard of Jesus’ resurrection and were filled with hope for what lay ahead.

And may Jesus Christ, our Risen Saviour, always be there by our side to bless us most abundantly and be our loving guide. Amen.