Not just the World Game

Last Sunday’s World Cup win by the Australian football (soccer) team provided a moment of sporting unity and joy for our nation. Even Pope Leo reached into his kit bag to provide a sporting analogy, one that links the ‘world game’ to our 2026 Aquinas theme ‘One Body in Christ’ and its biblical origins in St Paul’s ‘Many Parts, One Body’ (1 Cor 12):

“Soccer reminds us of something we must not forget: life is not a race to show off on our own, but a path we learn to walk together. Anyone who does not know how to pass the ball, even if they have talent, has not yet understood the game. Anyone who does not know how to live with and for others has not yet understood life.”

The Socceroos victory was not just an example of this sporting teamwork, but also a prime lesson in the value of multicultural Australia: of how we ‘live with and for others’. The first goal scored in Australia’s game against Türkiye was by Nestory Irankunda, a Burundian refugee whose family fled to Tanzania due to the civil war. Having arrived in Australia when he was 3 months old, Irankunda became the youngest Australian ever to score at a World Cup. His story is far from unique in the team, though: six of those Socceroos have African heritage, with others from Guinea, South Sudan, Uganda and Zimbabwe. The 26 men in the Socceroos squad have their origins in at least 15 different cultural backgrounds: truly many parts working together as one body.

Activities Week

Just as our Year 9 students did during their STRIVE experiences a few weeks ago, we encourage all students to step out of their comfort zones to truly enter into each experience of Activities Week. I look forward to joining each year level in one of their experiences at some stage as each student moves beyond their comfort zone to find new ways to Be My Best Self.

• Year 7 - Connect Week, including: Year 7 Retreat, Languages Day, STEM, Healesville Sanctuary & Melbourne Museum
• Year 8 - CONNECT8, including: Challenge walk, Sustainability Day, Inquiry Day & Edendale Farm
• Year 9 - My Melbourne & My Vic
• Year 10 - Work Experience
• Year 11 - Kakadu Trip / City Experience - Werribee Zoo
• Year 12 - Big Day out university experiences & Year 12 retreat

I wish all students, staff and families a relaxing and rejuvenating mid-year break from 26 June.

David Broadbent

Principal

Student Selection update

As soon as we return for term 3 we begin subject selection. Subject Selection is for all students in Years 8,9,10 and 11. This year the final date for submission is August 10.
Aquinas conducts a subject selection procedure that includes the following:

Once term 3 commences Subject Selection will begin. It is an opportunity for future thinking and important decisions to be made.

Michael Box
Deputy Principal of Learning

Celebrating NAIDOC Week

NAIDOC Week is a time for all Australians to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples while recognising the importance of connection, respect and reconciliation.

This year's theme, 50 Years of Deadly, marks 50 years of NAIDOC Week as a national week-long celebration, recognising five decades of strength, resilience, culture and community leadership. While NAIDOC's origins date back much further to the Aboriginal rights movement, this milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on progress while continuing to learn from the world's oldest living cultures.

Families play an important role in helping children and young people build understanding, appreciation and respect for First Nations peoples and perspectives. This Special Report offers practical ideas and resources to help families celebrate NAIDOC Week together and continue meaningful conversations at home.


Here is the link to this topic http://aquinas.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-celebrating-naidoc-week

Jess Alger

Deputy Principal

With the final week dedicated to activities week across the school, a brief overview of experiences are occurring in the senior years:

Year 10 students will participate in Careers Experience. Deliberately focused on careers rather than work, as it is an opportunity to gain valuable insights into a wide range of professions. The timing of this program is particularly beneficial, occurring immediately before the subject selection process in Term 3. By engaging with a variety of industries and careers, students are encouraged to reflect on their interests, strengths and aspirations. Providing an additional element to informed decision-making, helping students make thoughtful subject selections that align with their future learning and pathway directions.

Year 11 activities are centred on adventure, exploration and building social connections. Students have the opportunity to choose between two exciting camp experiences.

One group of students participate in City Camp, a highly active program featuring day trips to Werribee Zoo and the city. They will experience Melbourne as a tourist, where they will enjoy a range of day and attractions - from IMAX to axe throwing, creating lasting memories with their peers.

The second group travels to the Northern Territory, experiencing the natural beauty of Kakadu and the breathtaking sunsets of Uluru . Students will engage in meaningful cultural experiences, walk through magnificent landscapes, sleep under the stars and enjoy swimming in stunning hot springs.

The Kakadu travellers will leave in two waves, the first set off Saturday morning and the second on Sunday. We wish them all safe journeys, wonderful experiences and favourable weather as they depart.

Year 12 students will engage in a purposeful week focused on strengthening academic skills and fostering social connections. For VCE students the week begins with Success Integrated sessions, including study skills development and a practice English exam. Students will also attend a tertiary institution of their choice, exploring potential post-school pathways ahead of Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) applications opening on August 3. These visits include campus tours and information sessions about courses and student life.

VCE VM students will have the ability to reschedule their working placement to balance their commitments and attend the Year 12 Retreat. The Retreat is located at the Philip Island Adventure Park. The 3 days together as a cohort is a significant milestone and the final extended camp experience. The Retreat program combines a range of outdoor experiences with opportunities for spiritual growth, personal reflection and meaningful connection with peers. It provides students with time to celebrate their journey together, reflect on their years at the College and create lasting memories as they approach the conclusion of their secondary schooling, preparing for the transition to life beyond Aquinas.

Rachel Crawley

Director of Senior Years

As we near the end of the first Semester, it is important to acknowledge and celebrate the positive way our students have embraced the transition to the new vertical pastoral system.

Change can bring both challenges and opportunities and our students have demonstrated remarkable adaptability throughout this process. They have approached new routines, relationships and expectations with maturity and resilience; showing a willingness to step outside their comfort zones and engage positively with the changes around them.

It has been particularly pleasing to see students taking initiative and developing their problem-solving skills as they navigate this new structure. Many students have actively sought solutions, supported their peers and demonstrated independence in managing their learning and wellbeing.

Regular attendance at mentor sessions has enabled students to build strong relationships with their mentor teachers. Through these interactions, students have also begun to develop important organisational strategies.

Over the break, we encourage all students to take time to reflect on their achievements, challenges and growth over the first half of the year.

We look forward to welcoming students back for Semester Two with a renewed sense of purpose and a positive mindset. By considering their goals and putting effective strategies in place, students will be well positioned to continue building on the strong foundations established this Semester.

We congratulate all students on their efforts and wish them a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break when it arrives.

Sam Storey
Director of Middle Years

Tinnies for Vinnies: Campaign success

Our Term 2 Tinnies for Vinnies appeal has officially come to a close, and it was a fantastic show of support from the Aquinas community!

When we started this drive, we asked the Aquinas Community to put our Catholic values into real, practical action to support local families facing the cost-of-living squeeze.

To say you answered the call is an understatement. As a school, we have donated well over a thousand products to the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Every single packet of pasta, canned meal, and toiletry item collected in our mentor classes has now been organised for delivery to the local Vinnies support centers where they will go on to further help people in need.

While our house rivalry added a bit of fun and friendly competition to the final weeks, the true victory is how through our actions, we have shown that as a community, we can make a difference. Whether it was a single tin or a whole bag of groceries, we have demonstrated our Catholic values of love and respect.

Thank you once again to all of our students, staff, and families for your generosity.

Nam Nguyen
Social Justice & Outreach Coordinator

The School Advisory Council (SAC) has recently participated in the successful accreditation process through the Council of International Schools (CIS). This was a testament to the commitment of the College staff, students, families and leadership team to continuous improvement and educational excellence. The process affirmed the strength of the Aquinas mission, culture of learning and unwavering commitment to supporting the development of the worldly view of every young person.

Equally encouraging has been the continued implementation of Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) initiative, helping to strengthen a sense of mutual respect, responsibility and belonging across the College.

In the coming months, the School Advisory Council Chair will also participate in the formative review of the Principal with the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, which reflects on the achievements and looks to the future growth of the College.

As always, we welcome any feedback to the Council at any time.

Professor Andrew Conway

Chairperson - School Advisory Council

English Learning Area Update

As Semester 1 comes to a close, I would like to congratulate all students on their efforts throughout what has been a busy and rewarding semester of learning in English.

Over the past few weeks, students across Years 9–12 have completed semester examinations and major assessment tasks. For our Year 9 students, this marked their first experience of a formal English examination, while students in Years 10 and 11 continued developing the skills and confidence that will support them in future senior studies. Our Year 12 students also recently completed their first full English practice examination, an important milestone in their preparation for the VCE English examination later this year.

While assessments provide an opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning, their value extends far beyond a final result. They require students to prepare, persevere, think critically and perform independently under pressure. The willingness of our students to embrace these challenges reflects the culture of high expectations we continue to build within the English Learning Area. We were incredibly proud of the maturity, resilience and commitment shown by students throughout the assessment period.

Building a Reading Culture

As we look ahead to Semester 2, one of the most important things students can do to support their learning in English is simple: read.

At Aquinas, we want students to see reading as more than just something they do for English class. Reading builds vocabulary, strengthens writing, improves comprehension and develops critical thinking. Just as importantly, it helps students build empathy, curiosity and a deeper understanding of the world around them.

For students in Years 7–9, our Progress Reading Program (PRP) continues to play an important role in developing these habits. The program supports students in establishing regular reading routines while also providing choice and student voice. Rather than every student reading the same text, students are encouraged to explore books that genuinely interest them, helping to foster a lifelong love of reading and a stronger sense of ownership over their learning.

One of the greatest misconceptions about reading is that it only "counts" if students are reading a classic novel. Reading is reading. Whether it is fantasy, sport biographies, graphic novels, historical fiction, true crime, science writing or contemporary young adult fiction, every book helps students grow as readers and learners.

Families play an important role in supporting these habits. Some of the most powerful conversations happen through simple questions such as:

• What are you reading at the moment?
• What is happening in the book?
• Would you recommend it?
• What has surprised you so far?

Even better, consider reading alongside your child. Sharing recommendations, discussing books, or simply allowing your child to see you reading for enjoyment sends a powerful message about the value we place on literacy.

At Aquinas, we strive to develop young people who are curious, reflective and engaged in their learning. In many ways, reading is where these qualities are developed. The students who experience the greatest growth in English are not always those who start as the strongest readers. More often, they are the students who read consistently, stay curious and are willing to challenge themselves with new ideas, perspectives and stories.

Looking Ahead to Semester 2

Many students will begin Semester 2 with new class texts. We encourage families to support students in obtaining these texts early and, where possible, beginning their reading before classes resume.

Year 7: Crow Country- Kate Constable 

Year 8: A Monster Calls- Patrick Ness 

Year 9: 12 Angry Men- Reginald Rose

Year 10: The Dry- Jane Harper

Year 11: The Longest Memory- Fred D’Agular

Year 12: We Have Always Lived in the Castle- Shirley Jackson

Starting the semester with familiarity and confidence in these texts can make a significant difference to student engagement and success.

Thank you to all students, families and staff for their support throughout Semester 1. We wish everyone a safe and restful break and look forward to another successful semester of learning, reading and growth in the English Learning Area.

Sam Warren

English Learning Area Leader

Aquinas Career News can be found HERE. Topics this week include:

• Dates to Diarise in Term 2
• What can I do with an Arts Degree?
• Studying Psychology at La Trobe University
• Deakin University - Guaranteed ATARs for 2027 Entry
• Studying Psychology at Monash University
• Exercise Science & Sport Degrees in Victoria in 2026
• Snapshot of Monash University in 2026
• Snapshot of Monash University – Peninsula in 2026
• Upcoming Events

Vanessa Ramsay

Careers Counsellor

Getting ready for Work Experience!

A number of our Year 10 students completed their White Card training yesterday in preparation for next week's Work Experience placement.

The White Card is the construction industry workplace safety qualification required for anyone entering a construction site. For students undertaking placements with tradespeople, completing this training is an important step before heading into the workplace.

We can't wait to see our students put their skills into practice and gain valuable real-world experience in their chosen placements next week. Best of luck to all involved.

On my work experience I was fortunate enough to be able to go to Puckapunyal Military base, the headquarters of the schools of Artillery, Armour, Transport and Logistics. I went through this experience along with another 27 students from all over the state, I very much enjoyed learning about all the possible pathways and jobs in the Military that I could one day achieve. I highly enjoyed Physical Training as well as the food. It was amazing and I thank the kitchen staff for that.

If you are considering attending this work experience program I would highly recommend it, although be wary a lot of the time you will not be allowed your phone due to secrecy. 

Adam S - Year  10

Click on the poster to be taken directly to TryBooking to book your tickets. Don't miss out, tickets are selling fast!

Welcome to Rydell High in 1959, where the fashion is fierce, the cars are fast, and the music is unforgettable! Experience the ultimate high school romance when tough-guy T-Bird Danny Zuko runs into sweet new girl Sandy Dumbrowski after their perfect summer fling. Can they survive the pressures of the Pink Ladies and the T-Birds, or will they have to change everything to be together?

Dive into the drama, the dance-offs, and the iconic energy of the musical that defined a generation! Featuring hit songs like 'Summer Nights', 'Greased Lightnin', and the explosive finale 'You're The One That I Want!' Don't miss the show where conformity is out, and rock 'n' roll is forever!

The annual House Cross Country was a fantastic afternoon, with all Year 7–9 students and Year 10 EISM athletes taking part. Thankfully, the rain held off, allowing students to enjoy the event and give their best effort on the course. There was plenty of enthusiasm, house spirit, and encouragement throughout the afternoon, creating a great atmosphere for all involved. Many students delivered outstanding performances, showcasing their determination and endurance. Congratulations to Rice House, who were crowned overall champions for the event. Well done to all students for their participation and effort. The final results were:

1st Place – Rice: 364 points

  Chisholm: 353 points

 Dominic: 341 points

  McCormack: 331 points

MacKillop: 314 points

Mannix: 312 points

A special congratulations to our individual placegetters for their outstanding performances. These students, along with others who demonstrated strong results, will now turn their attention to training for the EISM Cross Country Carnival in Term 3.

Renee Johns and Erin Richards

Sports Coordinators

Music Camp 2026 brought together students from all of our core ensembles for an unforgettable experience of music, learning and friendship.

Across several action-packed days, students immersed themselves in rehearsals and workshops, developing their skills and working together to create an incredible sound. Beyond the music, there was plenty of fun to be had, with activities including the giant swing, laser tag and candle-making.

Music Camp is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with fellow musicians, strengthen ensemble bonds and build friendships that extend well beyond the rehearsal room.

We are excited to introduce a new large screen in the ARC, providing another innovative tool to support teaching and learning across the College. The screen offers a dynamic way for staff to present content and engage students through videos, presentations, interactive activities and collaborative learning experiences.

Its large display makes it easier for students to view content clearly, encouraging participation and enhancing classroom discussions. The screen is also fully mobile, allowing it to be used in a variety of learning spaces throughout the ARC to suit different teaching needs.

We look forward to seeing the many ways this new resource will enrich student learning and engagement.

PE Pants available in all sizes!

Spartan uniform shop have advised the College that all sizes are currently in stock for both styles of College PE Pants. 

Please note that these are the only PE pants approved for wear as part of the College sports uniform.

Families wishing to purchase PE pants can visit the uniform shop while stock is available.

Please call into Spartan or jump online to order PE Pants now. 

Spartan School World  

Online ordering is also available here.

1/210–214 Canterbury Road
Bayswater North
(03) 9070 8284

Email: hello@spartanschoolworld.com.au

Monday to Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm
First Saturday of the month 9.00am - 12.00pm