Latest News

Riverland Music Tour Visit from CBC Adelaide

This week, we were delighted to welcome Christian Brothers College, Adelaide (CBC) as part of their Riverland music tour. Our students were treated to outstanding live performances by CBC’s Guitar Ensemble, Big Band and Rock Band, each group showcasing exceptional talent, teamwork and musicianship.

The performances were a source of inspiration and engagement for our students, offering a powerful reminder of how music can connect people, spark curiosity and open minds to new ideas.

As leading music education advocate Dr Anita Collins explains, learning and playing music is one of the most beneficial activities for the brain. It enhances memory, focus, problem-solving and emotional wellbeing, all while encouraging creativity and joy. In her words, “Music education isn’t a ‘nice to have’ – it’s essential for developing young minds.”

Thank you to CBC Adelaide for sharing your passion, inspiring our students and bringing the joy of music to our College.

To learn more about the benefits of music education, watch Dr Collins' TED-Ed talk!

Miss Niamh Graney, Music Teacher

Year 7–9 Netball Team Shines at Interschool Carnival

This week, our Year 7 to 9 netball team travelled to the Barossa to compete in the interschool netball carnival. The team played four games and finished the day with three impressive wins.

Match Results
Game 1: Lost to Faith Lutheran (13–20)
Game 2: Defeated Maitland Lutheran (26–12)
Game 3: Defeated St Ignatius College (23–9)
Game 4: Defeated St Joseph’s School (27–8)

The team showed excellent communication, strong defence and consistent effort throughout the day. Despite tough competition, the players remained positive and encouraged one another in every game.

Thank you to Miss Curtis and Mrs Van Dyk for their support in training, coaching and umpiring, both in the lead up to and on the day.

Interschool 9-a-side Football

On Friday of Week 9, 59 students from Years 7 to 9 represented the College at the Interschool 9-a-side Football carnival held in Waikerie. We fielded six teams, with many students stepping out of their comfort zones and playing football for the first time.

A standout moment from the day was the Year 9 boys team making it through to the Grand Final against Berri Regional. The match was a hard-fought contest, with our team narrowly missing out by a couple of goals.

Stella O'Bryan was acknowledged for her consistent effort and leadership throughout the day, receiving the Good Sports Award.

Thank you to Mr Goodman for his organisation in the lead up to the event, and to Mr Prokopec, Mrs Vater, Mr Anspach, Mrs Empedocles, Miss Gibbons, Mr Marks and Mr Sampson for their support in coaching and umpiring on the day.

Year 7 Art

Year 7 students from 7A and 7C recently showcased their Element Cube artworks in a gallery walk. Each student created a cube featuring the six elements of visual art: line, shape, colour, texture, space, and value. The gallery walk allowed students to observe and appreciate their peers’ work while reflecting on their own creative choices. The classroom was transformed into a vibrant display of colour, creativity, and expression. It was a fantastic display of the skills and concepts learned throughout the unit.

Miss Haylee Poulish, Art Teacher

Year 8 Food Technology: Exploring Global Cuisines

This term, our Year 8 students explored food from around the world as part of their cooking unit. They learned about different cultures and the important role food plays in traditions and daily life.

Each group selected a country to research before preparing a traditional dish using authentic ingredients and cooking techniques from that culture.

From Italian pasta to Japanese sushi and Mexican tacos, students gained hands-on experience experimenting with new flavours and developing their kitchen skills. It was a fun and engaging way to learn about global cultures through food.

Miss Mikayla Curtis, Food Technology Teacher

Year 9 Girls Attend Young Women in STEM Excursion

Recently, a group of Year 9 girls participated in the Young Women in STEM excursion at The University of Adelaide, where they explored the fields of architecture, engineering and mathematics through a series of engaging, hands-on workshops.

Cranes and Cantilevers
Students took on the role of civil engineers and construction managers, designing and building their own cantilever cranes. After testing each for strength, durability and stability, only the strongest design remained standing.

Build Your Own Motor
Using everyday materials, students constructed functioning electric motors, gaining insight into the work of electrical and mechanical engineers and how these fields contribute to advances in health, defence and sustainability.

Deltahedra
In this mathematical challenge, students explored the fascinating world of deltahedra—geometric shapes that continue to intrigue researchers. They gathered data, made conjectures and formed logical arguments, mirroring the work of real mathematicians.

The day was a fantastic opportunity for students to discover the diversity of STEM careers and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you to The University of Adelaide for hosting such an inspiring and empowering event.

Mrs Natalie Meuret, Science Teacher 

Year 9A Food Technology – Mystery Ingredient Challenge

In an engaging double lesson, Year 9A Food Technology students worked in pairs and each received a unique set of four mystery ingredients, combining sweet and savoury items. Multiple ingredient sets were placed around the kitchen to ensure every pair had a distinct challenge.

Students were tasked with finding or creating a recipe that incorporated all four ingredients, using additional pantry or fridge items as needed. The activity emphasised teamwork, planning and problem-solving as students cooked, plated and enjoyed their dishes within the allotted time.

The results were both inventive and delicious, ranging from deluxe burgers, fried rice and breakfast wraps to English muffins with creative fillings, sweet tarts, savoury pies, scrolls, slices, pasta dishes and more.

Well done to Year 9A for demonstrating creativity, adaptability and strong culinary skills throughout the challenge.

Miss Mikayla Curtis, Food Technology Teacher

Exploring Chemical Reactions in Year 9 Science

Year 9 Science students have been diving into the fascinating world of chemical reactions, learning how to identify the signs that a reaction has occurred.

Through a series of hands-on experiments, students observed light and heat being released, gas production, colour changes and the formation of new substances known as precipitates.

It has been a highly engaging and interactive way to see chemistry in action and bring classroom learning to life.

Mrs Natalie Meuret, Science Teacher

A Taste of High Tea at Hotel Renmark

As part of their High Tea unit, Year 9A students visited the Temperance Restaurant at Hotel Renmark for an authentic high tea experience.

Following their own high tea creations in class, students had the opportunity to observe how this tradition is presented in a professional setting. They analysed the menu, style and presentation of dishes, comparing portion sizes, food types and decorative details with their classroom efforts.

Executive Chef Anthony Cresp spoke with students about his role and the craft of designing a high tea menu. Students enjoyed hot chocolates and a selection of sweet and savoury items, including finger sandwiches, pastries, muffins, tarts and petit fours. Many students embraced the chance to try new flavours and textures.

We sincerely thank Anthony, Megan and the Hotel Renmark team for their warm hospitality and for providing our students with a memorable and inspiring culinary experience.

Miss Mikayla Curtis, Food Technology Teacher

Year 10 Child Studies Students Lead STEM Activities at Barmera Kindergarten

Our Year 10 Child Studies students recently had the opportunity to visit Barmera Kindergarten to deliver a range of hands-on STEM activities as part of their Group Action Plan and Practical Project.

In preparation, students studied how play supports early learning and designed age-appropriate toys and activities to promote development in children aged one to four years.

Activities included lemon volcanoes, lava lamps, slime, scented playdough, pom-pom launchers and paper cup phones. Each was created to spark curiosity and encourage learning through play.

The kindergarten children were fully engaged throughout the sessions, and our students demonstrated confidence and care in leading the activities. It was a rewarding experience for everyone involved. We thank Barmera Kindergarten for their warm welcome and support.

Mrs Amber Burgess, Child Studies Teacher

Faith in Action at Calvary St Catherine's

Throughout the term, Year 10 Religious Education students visited residents at Calvary St Catherine’s Retirement Community over three sessions as part of their Faith in Action unit.

Through games, activities and conversations, students had the chance to form meaningful connections while practising empathy, respect and active listening. These visits provided more than just enjoyment—they were an opportunity for students to live out discipleship by following the example of Jesus through kindness, companionship and care for others.

We are proud of the way our students embraced the experience with openness and a genuine willingness to learn and serve.

Mr John Lyons, RE Teacher

Year 10 Food and Hospitality – Café Creations

Our Year 10 Food and Hospitality students have been exploring the world of café cuisine, developing skills to design menus that are both delicious and practical.

As part of their project, students researched a variety of sweet and savoury items suitable for a café setting. They considered factors such as taste, cost and appeal to their target audience. Each student created detailed recipe cards that included ingredients, measurements, step-by-step instructions and a cost breakdown for their chosen dishes.

To bring their ideas to life, students selected one recipe to prepare during a double lesson. They submitted food orders in advance, planned their cooking process and presented their final dishes for the group to enjoy.

Some of the café-worthy creations included caramel slice, chocolate chip cookies, loaded Biscoff cookies, scones with jam and cream, peppermint slice, spiced chicken wraps and hearty chicken and vegetable pies.

Well done to our Year 10 students for showcasing creativity, organisation and real-world food skills in action.

Mrs Amber Burgess, Food and Hospitality Teacher

Stage 2 Outdoor Ed Bushwalking Camp​

Year 11 students recently completed their Bushwalking Journey for Stage 2 outdoor Education in Deep Creek Conservation Park. The group covered close to 30km on their three-day expedition across undulating and challenging terrain from sandy beaches to rocky climbs. The group used teamwork , tolerance and tenacity each day to keep group morale high, support each other and form new connections. 

Thank you to Mr. Smith and Miss Fenwick for their leadership, support and guidance.

Mr Luke Cotter, Outdoor Education Teacher

Year 11 Chemistry Students Compete in RACI Titration Competition

Our Year 11 Chemistry students Riley B, Aaron, Ael, Yvette and Noorkomal recently participated in the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI) Titration Competition.

This prestigious national event challenges students to carry out a series of precise chemical analyses to determine the concentration of an unknown solution of oxalic acid. Accuracy is crucial, with the most precise teams earning a place in the state finals.

A special mention goes to Year 10 student Mila, who stepped in to support the team in the absence of another member. Despite having never used the titration equipment before, Mila handled it with a high level of precision, demonstrating impressive focus and adaptability.

We are thrilled to announce that both teams have progressed to the state finals!

• Riley, Noorkmal and Aaron achieved a combined percentage error of just 1.07%.
• Ael, Mila and Yvette achieved a combined percentage error of 1.72%.
• The top performing student was Aaron, with an outstanding individual error of only 0.14%.

Well done to all involved. We are proud of your determination, precision, and teamwork.

Mrs Sarah McGorman, Chemistry Teacher 

We warmly invite all members of our College community to come along, support our students and cheer them on as they participate in a range of track and field events. It promises to be a fantastic day filled with energy and enthusiasm.

A site map and a full event program, including event times and past records, are available for download:

Site Map
Event Program

Parent and Carer Volunteers Needed
We are seeking support from parents and carers to help on the day. Roles that are required to be filled include:

• Girls Shotput (measuring, recording results etc)

• Girls Long Jump (measuring, recording results etc)

• Girls Triple Jump (measuring, recording results etc)

• Canteen (food preparation, serving, cleaning etc)

As well as those listed above, if you are able to help out with any other event or age group listed in the program, please let the College know.

For more information about the Athletics Carnival, please contact James Goodman, School Sports Coordinator.

To express interest in volunteering, please contact Emma Warner, Education Support Officer as soon as possible to ensure that the appropriate paperwork is completed prior to the event.

We look forward to seeing you there as we come together to support our students and celebrate their efforts and achievements.

Purpose of the Groups

These groups are designed to:
✔️ Strengthen community connections
✔️ Build a sense of belonging
✔️ Create real-world opportunities for students through school-family-industry collaboration

Group Focus Areas
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Parent Engagement Group – Helping shape a welcoming, connected school community through events, celebrations, and social opportunities.
🏢 Industry & Community Partnership Group – Building partnerships to support student pathways, careers, guest speakers, excursions, and more.

Each group will name their team and work flexibly around members’ availability. You can participate regularly or just when you’re able - every contribution matters!

Volunteer Requirements
To join in, volunteers must complete:

• Our Volunteer Handbook & Personal Information Form
• RRHAN-EC online training
• Working with Children Check

Support is available for each step - don’t worry, we’ll guide you through it! Please contact Emma Warner to obtain the documentation required.

Current Opportunities
🌿 Cultural Garden Project – Help plant with Year 7 students (grant received, planting date TBC)
🎬 Outdoor Cinema Event with St Joseph’s Renmark – Volunteer support needed for canteen & coffee service (date of event TBC)

If you'd like to get involved:
👉 Please fill out the expression of interest form here: https://forms.office.com/r/KsJcS1erGu and let us know your preferred group(s) and availability.

If you have questions or know someone else who’d like to be involved, feel free to contact me.

Thanks again – I'm looking forward to collaborating with you all!

Emma Warner, Education Support Officer
Send me an email at this link

Global Success in Languages and Mathematics!

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students in two major international competitions: the 2025 Education Perfect Languages Championship and the Education Perfect International Maths Competition. These events bring together students from across the globe to challenge themselves, demonstrate their knowledge, and showcase a love for learning.

Languages Championship Success
In the global celebration of language learning, our students achieved remarkable results:

• 11th overall in South Australia (out of 68 schools)
• 315th globally (out of 1,804 schools)
• 1st in SA in the 101–250 students category (out of 17 schools)
• 47th globally in the 101–250 students category (out of 416 schools)
• 7th overall in Arabic (out of 479 schools)

Special shout-out to our top achievers:

• Emerald Award – Jana M (Arabic): 9,349 questions answered, 5,002 points – placing in the top 1.5% worldwide!
• Credit Awards – Imogen N, Ishmeet K, Tahlia S, and Noah J (German) for their outstanding efforts.

These fantastic results are a testament to our students’ passion, perseverance, and enthusiasm for language learning.

Maths Championship Achievements
In this global celebration of problem-solving and mathematical thinking, our College achieved incredible success:

• 1st overall in South Australia (out of 47 schools)
• 17th globally (out of 1,373 schools)
• 8th in Australia (out of 939 schools)
• 3rd globally in the 101–250 students category (out of 250 schools)
• 2nd in Australia in the 101–250 students category (out of 163 schools)
• 1st in South Australia in the 101–250 students category (out of 9 schools)

Congratulations to our top scorers:
Emerald Awards (3,500+ points)

• Armaan K – 137th globally (4,951 pts)
• Tejdeep S – 144th globally (4,700 pts)
• Gurshaan L – 209th globally (3,600 pts)

Silver Awards (1,500+ points)

• Sebastian C – 489th globally (1,712 pts)
• Jana M – 554th globally (1,512 pts)

We are so proud of all the students who participated, challenged themselves, and gave it their best. These results reflect not only their academic talent but also their determination and commitment to learning. Well done, everyone!

Mrs Julia Chukwuani, German Teacher and Mrs Jean Booysen, Maths Teacher

Netball Knockout Competitions Showcase Skill and Spirit

On Monday, two of our College netball teams represented St Francis of Assisi College in the School Sport SA Knockout Netball Competitions, demonstrating great sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork.

Mrs Trudgian accompanied our Years 10–12 boys team as they faced off against strong competition from Faith, Trinity, St Ignatius, and Maitland. While the team didn’t secure a win, they showed outstanding growth and resilience throughout the day. Every player should be proud of the effort and improvement they displayed.

Meanwhile, Miss Graney led our Year 7/8 girls team to Karoonda for their round of the competition. The girls opened with a hard-fought win against Keith, narrowly claiming victory by three goals. They followed this with an impressive 49–2 performance against St Joseph’s Murray Bridge. Their final game against River Mallee was a tense contest, with scores tied at three-quarter time. Digging deep in the final minutes, the team secured a thrilling 1-point win, earning themselves a place in the next round.

Despite cold and windy conditions, both teams played with grit and enthusiasm. A big thank you to Miss Fenwick for her umpiring and to Miss Graney and Mrs Trudgian for their excellent coaching and support.

Congratulations to all players on a fantastic day of netball!

Year 7 HPE

Our Year 7 students during Health and Physical Education have been developing their technical and tactical skills in tag rugby through focused drills and structured gameplay. Lessons have been refining passing accuracy, spatial awareness, and effective tagging techniques. Students have also learned key tactical concepts like creating space and supporting teammates. Their enthusiasm and teamwork have shown great progress each week!

Miss Haylee Poulish, HPE Teacher

Year 7 Visual art

Within year 7 Visual art students have been exploring the elements of art through hands-on experimentation and creative tasks. They’ve been using different materials and techniques to understand line, shape, colour, value, space and texture. Reflecting on their work has been a key part of the process, helping students evaluate their work and artistic choices. This has encouraged both personal expression and deeper learning of visual art concepts. This has led to some fantastic and unique outcomes that showcase each student's creativity and growth throughout the term!

Miss Haylee Poulish, HPE Teacher

Year 7 Science “Precious Plants” incursion

Our Year 7 Science students recently participated in a meaningful “Precious Plants” incursion, hosted by Cindy from the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board. Cindy captivated the students with an engaging talk about local threatened flora and fauna species, sparking curiosity and a sense of responsibility for our unique environment.

Following the presentation, each student was gifted an Eremophila plant - one of Australia’s beautiful native species. Students carefully wrapped their plant with a special label and wrote a heartfelt card, preparing it as a gift for a “precious person” in their life. This thoughtful activity encouraged students to reflect on the value of native plants and the importance of conservation, while also allowing them to share this learning experience with someone they care about.

We thank Cindy for her inspiring visit, and the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board for supporting this enriching educational opportunity.

Miss Anita Modlinski, Mrs Neven Daoud and Mr Luke Cotter, Year 7 Science Teachers

Year 8 HPE

The year 8 students have been engaged in a SEPEP unit, starting with five weeks of soccer then five weeks of basketball. The unit is a student-led approach, allowing students to develop their teamwork, leadership, communication, and collaboration skills throughout the term. Teams take turns at leading the lesson having roles including coaches, referees, equipment manager, scorer and statistician. It's been great to see their confidence and teamwork develop throughout each week!

Miss Haylee Poulish, HPE Teacher

Year 8 Bring the Middle Ages to Life

On Friday Week 7 at lunchtime, our Year 8 students transformed the 10-12 building into a vibrant Medieval Fair, showcasing their learning from their recent HASS unit on life in Medieval Europe.

As a culmination of their studies, students worked in groups to research and present on a variety of topics, including clothing and fashion, entertainment and music, food, Gothic architecture, medical treatments and hygiene, crime and punishment and literature.

Each group designed an engaging and interactive display to bring their topic to life. Students and staff were invited to enjoy a range of activities such as a photo booth, a knight combat zone, tastings of Medieval-style food, handmade soaps, traditional games and more.

It was wonderful to see so many students and staff engaging with the displays, asking questions and learning from our budding historians.

Congratulations to all of our Year 8 students on their creativity and enthusiasm and thank you to Miss Curtis and Mrs Van Dyk for guiding and supporting this fantastic event.

Year 9 Explore the Magic of Chemical Reactions

Our Year 9 students have been diving into the fascinating world of chemical reactions, learning how to identify the signs that a reaction has occurred. Through hands-on experiments, they observed exciting changes - light being produced, heat released, gas bubbling, unexpected colour shifts, and the formation of new substances called precipitates. It’s been a vibrant and engaging way to bring science to life in the classroom!

Mrs Jean Booysen, Science Teacher

Delightful Dishes and Elegant Service: 9A Hosts High Tea

On Monday Week 8, our 9A Food Technology students showcased the practical component of their High Tea assessment - and what an impressive effort it was!

After researching suitable recipes, students prepared a delicious variety of sweet and savoury bite-sized treats, including scones, finger sandwiches, mini pavlovas, cupcakes, pinwheels, truffles, mousse, and more. The room was beautifully styled with tiered platters, tea cups and saucers, creating an inviting and elegant High Tea atmosphere.

A special thank you to the Renmark Lions Club for their generous donation of crockery, which helped bring the event to life in true High Tea fashion.

Beyond the cooking itself, students demonstrated valuable skills in planning, organisation, teamwork, presentation and time management. Their creativity, attention to detail and hospitality were on full display.

Well done to 9A on a successful and memorable event!

Miss Mikayla Curtis, Food Technology Teacher

Year 10 Students Get a Taste of Tradition with Jam and Scones

Our Year 10 Food and Hospitality students enjoyed a hands-on culinary experience recently, learning the techniques behind making jam and scones from scratch.

Using frozen mixed berries, students began by mastering the jam-making process - carefully cooking, bottling, and sealing their creations to achieve the perfect set. They then turned their attention to baking fresh scones, focusing on technique, timing and texture to ensure a light and fluffy result.

To accompany their scones, students also prepared fresh whipped cream, with the option to sweeten it into a classic Chantilly cream.

The activity concluded with a beautifully presented tasting session, where students topped their homemade scones with their own jam and cream - a sweet and satisfying reward for their efforts.

Well done to our budding chefs on a delicious and skillful session!

Mrs Amber Burgess, Food and Hospitality Teacher

Year 10 Child Studies Students Bring STEM Learning to Life at Barmera Kindy

Our Year 10 Child Studies students recently had the wonderful opportunity to visit Barmera Kindergarten, where they engaged young learners in a series of fun and meaningful hands-on STEM activities as part of their Group Action Plan and Practical Project.

In the lead-up to the visit, students worked in groups to research children’s development and the importance of play in supporting early learning. With a specific focus on how STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can promote growth in children aged 12 months to 4 years, each group designed and developed an age-appropriate learning product, toy, or activity to target a specific area of development.

During the excursion, our students confidently delivered their activities, capturing the attention and imagination of the kindy children through a range of exciting, play-based experiments. Activities included making slime, matching scents with scented playdough, creating colourful lemon volcanoes, building paper cup phones, launching pom poms, designing homemade lava lamps, and exploring sensory balls. Each activity allowed the children to explore key scientific concepts such as cause and effect, chemical reactions, and sensory stimulation - all in an age-appropriate and engaging way.

The visit was a fantastic success, filled with curiosity, laughter, and learning. It also provided a valuable opportunity for our Year 10 students to strengthen their leadership, communication, and mentoring skills, while seeing their classroom learning brought to life in a real-world context.

Well done to all involved for their creativity, care, and professionalism. We also extend our thanks to Barmera Kindergarten for warmly welcoming us and supporting such a rewarding learning experience.

Mrs Amber Burgess, Child Studies Teacher

Year 11 Students Gain Valuable Insights into Road Safety

Last week, our Year 11 students attended a powerful presentation from the Metropolitan Fire Service (MFS) as part of their Road Awareness Program. The session delivered important messages about making safe and responsible choices on and around the road.

Topics covered during the presentation included the importance of good attitudes, smart decision-making and safe behaviours. Students explored the dangers associated with excessive speeds, distractions and driving under the influence, as well as the need to be responsible passengers and pedestrians.

The presentation also encouraged students to consider the responsibilities that come with becoming a driver. A key moment in the session was hearing a first-hand account of the trauma experienced by all parties involved in both fatal and non-fatal road crashes.

The session prompted deep reflection and discussion among students and served as an important reminder of the role they each play in keeping themselves and others safe on the road. We thank the MFS for sharing such a meaningful and impactful message with our school community.

Mr Luke Cotter, Leader of Wellbeing

We encourage students to seek sponsorship donations from family, friends, and local businesses by using the Sponsor Form handed out in Home Group recently. A copy is attached for your reference.

Students can also donate non-perishable items (e.g. soup cans, soup packets, spaghetti, baked beans, pasta, rice etc.) for the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. These need to be brought into their Home Group before Friday 27th June.  

We invite family, friends, and sponsors to attend our Walk-a-thon to support our students to complete their goal. You are welcome to walk with your child(ren). Before the event, the canteen will be open from 1:15pm with hot and cold drinks prepared by student baristas at our Coffee Café for sale (cash/EFTPOS available). Students will also have the option to pre-order a Hot Dog for lunch (please see order form attached). Orders are due back by Monday 16th June.

Thank you for your support! Please contact the College if you have any further queries.

Walkathon Flyer
Walkathon Sponsorship Form
Can Drive and Donations of Warm Clothing Flyer
Hot Dog Lunch Pre-Order Form
Coffee Cafe Menu

The event was buzzing with energy as students, families, and community members came together to explore a wide range of future opportunities. We were thrilled with the strong attendance and positive engagement throughout the evening.

A standout moment was the engaging live podcast session with Kerrie from The Podcast Station, offering students real-world insights and inspiration. Another highlight was the hands-on medical simulation led by local Dr McLeod of Renmark Medical Clinic, giving students a unique and practical glimpse into the healthcare field.

Thank you to all our stallholders, guest speakers, supporters and the Renmark Lions Club (for their delicious hot donuts and sausages) who helped make the night such a memorable and valuable experience for our students.

Riverland Cross Country Success!

On Friday Week 5, a team of our students proudly represented the College at the Riverland Cross Country event, held at the scenic Martins Bend in Berri. It was a fantastic day of competition, camaraderie, and community spirit, with students from across the region coming together to challenge themselves on the course.

We commend all participants for their perseverance and team spirit throughout the day. Our students competed with determination and resilience, achieving some impressive results:

Individual Achievements:
🥇 Jack O’Bryan – 1st place, U15 Boys
🥈 Samuel Walker – 2nd place, U14 Boys
🥉 Louis Brown – 3rd place, U15 Boys
🥉 Sarah White – 3rd place, U14 Girls

Team Results:
🏆 U14 Boys – Pennant Winners
🥈 U15 Boys – Runners Up
🥉 U16 Boys – Runners Up

We are incredibly proud of all our runners - your effort, sportsmanship, and commitment were outstanding.

A heartfelt thank you to Riverland School Sport, the event organisers, and the many volunteers who made the day possible. Our students thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and we congratulate all placegetters, pennant winners, and runners-up from across the region.

Well done, team!

Cross Country Competitors Represent SFOAC at Oakbank

Earlier this week, a group of our students travelled with Miss Poulish and Mr Goodman to Oakbank to compete in the Cross Country Championships, going head-to-head with students from across South Australia.

It was a cold but fantastic day of athleticism, determination, and school spirit, with our students pushing themselves to compete on a challenging course against some of the best runners in the state.

We are incredibly proud of the way these students represented St Francis of Assisi College, both in their results and in their sportsmanship.

Results from the day:
🏃‍♀️ Millie – 41st out of 113
🏃 Sebastian – 18th out of 128
🏃 Samuel – 26th out of 128
🏃 Logan – 136th out of 170
🏃 Matthew – 166th out of 170
🏃‍♀️ Isla – 50th out of 155
🏃‍♀️ Ninke – 83rd out of 155

Congratulations to all of our runners – your effort, perseverance and pride in representing our College community is truly commendable.

Check out some highlights from the day in the photos below!

Year 9/10 Boys Knockout Football Competition

On Wednesday last week, the school competed in the Year 9/10 KOC boys' football in Eudunda. The boys were to play Balaklava and a combined Burra/Eudunda/Riverton team.

The first game was against Balaklava, who had some strong players. We started the game well and kicked to an early lead at halftime. We came out firing in the third quarter and dominated most of the play however, we failed to convert that on the scoreboard and kicked 1 goal 7. In a tight final quarter, we again couldn't quite get the reward for our hard work, and Balaklava managed to take advantage of their opportunities and kicked straight to get the win by 1 point.

In the second game, we threw the magnets around, giving everyone the opportunity to play in positions they may not have played before. The boys played well throughout the game and always held a handy lead. By the final quarter, playing two games in a row started to take its toll, but we managed to fight it out and record the win.

Well done to all students who participated and made the effort to represent the school, whether they play football or not, everyone put in a great effort. Special thanks to Mr. Marks for field umpiring both games, Mr. Goodman for organising the event and Mr Anspach for coaching the team.

Results:
Game 1: SFoAC vs Balaklava
Final Score:
SFoAC – 9.8.62
Balaklava – 10.4.64
Best Players: Izac L, Will L-W, Jack O-B

Game 2: SFoAC vs Eudunda
Final Score:
SFoAC – 9.11.65
Eudunda – 5.7.37
Best Players: Hamish P, Harry L, Leeroy S

Stage 1 Outdoor Education Mountain Bike Camp

Year 10 stduents have spent the last few weeks preparing for their 3-day Mountain Bike expedition to Calperum Station. As their first expedition-style camp, students were guided through managing risks, packing adequate nutritional meals and ensuring their clothing was warm yet was lightweight. Over the course of the 3-days, students clocked up close to 100km on their bikes and are commended for their resilience, spirit and teamwork. As the expedition progressed, staff handed over the leadership reigns to the students who took on roles as Route leaders, front marker and back markers.

A huge thanks to Ivan Smith for his knowledge and expertise as well as being our support vehicle driver. His knowledge bank and engagement with the students was priceless and provided the class with many history lessons about the significance of the areas we visited. We also thank Mr Prokopec and Miss Gibbons for their support and assistance in numerous areas including bike maintenance, wellbeing support and being great role models for the class. As well to Mr. Prentice as a pre-service teacher providing many insightful comments to guide stduents through tricky situations and to support students with experiencing a successful camp both leading into and on.

A summary of the three days can be read below:

Day 1: College to Windmill Bend, Calperum
Our Stage 1 students kicked off their Mountain Bike Camp with a solid first day, riding from the college out to Windmill Bend at Calperum Station. Despite a chilly night under the stars, the group showed resilience and teamwork as they adapted to the demands of long-distance riding and camping in the great outdoors. They faced a few challenges along the way, but pushed through with grit and determination – supporting each other every pedal of the way. A campfire and dinner was exactly what the group needed at the end of the day.
Day 2: Calperum Loop
We started the morning with a session from Calperum Station educator, Lucy who provided a history of tyhe station to the stduents and fielded their questions. As we got riding, the students took the lead as they navigated a loop around Calperum Station. With maps in hand and route plans set, they showed fantastic initiative and leadership as they guided the group through diverse environments (including some very sandy stretches!).
We’re proud of how they have embraced the experience, learning practical skills and building confidence with every kilometre.
Day 3: Calperum to College
The group packed up efficiently this morning before taking off on our journey home. Although tired, sore and having to persist through some challenging sand and corrugations, the leaders kept the group together and willed each other on. As we approached the final 2 kilometres before reaching the College, our resilient, strong and inspiring teacher suffered a breakdown (of the knees) which unfortunately forced him to the support vehicle. An early arrival back to the College allowed the students plenty of time to clean bikes, sort through tents and reorganise the Outdoor Ed Shed learning valuable skills including resilience, responsibility and accountability. After a long camp, they did a great job of persisting through these important jobs.

Outstanding Global Success in the Education Perfect International Maths Competition!

We are thrilled to share the exceptional achievements of our students in the 2025 Education Perfect International Maths Competition - a global event that sees schools and students taking part in a celebration of mathematical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance.

Our school performed incredibly well, earning recognition both nationally and internationally:

• 1st overall in South Australia out of 47 schools
• 17th globally out of 1,373 participating schools
• 8th in Australia out of 939 schools
• 3rd globally in the 101–250 students category (out of 250 schools)
• 2nd in Australia in the 101–250 students category (out of 163 schools)
• 1st in South Australia in the 101–250 students category (out of 9 schools)

These results are a testament to the dedication, focus, and enthusiasm our students brought to the challenge. Several individuals stood out for their incredible efforts, earning top-tier awards:

Emerald Awards (3,500+ points):
🌟 Armaan K – Ranked 137th globally, with 4,951 points
🌟 Tejdeep S – 144th globally, with 4,700 points
🌟 Gurshaan L – 209th globally, with 3,600 points

Silver Awards (1,500+ points):
⭐ Sebastian C – 489th globally, with 1,712 points
⭐ Jana M – 554th globally, with 1,512 points

We congratulate all students who participated in the competition and celebrate the extraordinary efforts of our award recipients. Their achievements have placed our college on the global stage and are a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work and a love of learning.

Well done, everyone!

Language Learners Shine on the Global Stage - Education Perfect Languages Championship 2025

Our students have once again made us incredibly proud in the 2025 Education Perfect Languages Championship, an international celebration of language learning that schools and students take part from across the globe.

St Francis of Assisi College achieved some remarkable results:

• 11th overall in South Australia out of 68 schools
• 315th overall globally out of 1,804 schools
• 1st in SA in the 101–250 students category (out of 17 schools)
• 47th globally in the 101–250 students category (out of 416 schools)
• 7th overall in Arabic out of 479 schools

A number of our students earned individual accolades for their outstanding efforts:

🌟 Emerald Award
Jana M (Arabic) – Answered an incredible 9,349 questions, earned 5,002 points, and placed in the top 1.5% of competitors worldwide!

⭐ Credit Awards (Top 20% Globally)
Imogen N (German) – 1,687 questions | 950 points
Ishmeet K (German) – 2,162 questions | 528 points
Tahlia S (German) – 1,227 questions | 681 points
Noah J (German) – 1,260 questions | 732 points

These achievements reflect not only academic excellence but also a deep enthusiasm for languages and intercultural learning. We celebrate all participants for their fantastic contributions and for proudly representing our college on the world stage.

Bravo to all involved!

Shila Shares Traditional Dance with Year 11 Students

This week, we were honoured to welcome Shila, a local Aboriginal woman, to St Francis of Assisi College. Shila led our Year 11 students in a powerful workshop exploring traditional Aboriginal dance. Set to the song "The Children Came Back" by Briggs, Dewayne Everettsmith and Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, the dance allowed students to connect deeply with themes of culture and connection to Country.

Through movement and storytelling, students expressed ties to our local river, native animals, and the deep spiritual ties between people and place. It was a meaningful and memorable experience that deepened cultural understanding and respect.

As we mark National Reconciliation Week, this workshop was a timely reminder of the importance of listening, learning, and walking together towards a more united future.

See our Facebook page to watch the video of Shila and our students exploring traditional Aboriginal dance.
 

A Special Moment in Local History – Twentyfirst Street Bridge Opening

Last Friday, two of our students, Ruby and Lilly, had the honour of representing St Francis of Assisi College at the official opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Twentyfirst Street Bridge, hosted by the Renmark Paringa Council.

Their involvement in this significant community milestone was a proud moment not only for them but for the entire College. We are grateful to the Council for inviting our students to be part of such a meaningful occasion. It’s an event that Ruby and Lilly - and all who attended - will no doubt look back on as a special memory in the history of our local area.

Year 9s Debate the Most Impactful Textile Invention

As part of their History unit on the Industrial Revolution, our Year 9 students explored four key textile inventions that transformed Britain’s textile industry: the flying shuttle, spinning jenny, water frame, and Crompton’s mule.

Students first worked individually to state their personal opinion on an invention. They then collaborated in small groups to debate which invention had the greatest influence on the growth and impact of the industry.

It was fantastic to see the level of critical thinking, teamwork, and persuasive argumentation as students made their case. A valuable learning experience that brought the past to life!

Mrs Isabella Trudgian, Teacher

Year 9/10 Knockout Cup Volleyball – A Showcase of Skill and Sportsmanship

In Week 3, our talented Year 9/10 Volleyball squads travelled to Adelaide to compete in the Knockout Cup, facing off against a range of schools from both metropolitan and regional areas.

Throughout the competition, our students demonstrated outstanding determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Their commitment to supporting one another, maintaining a positive attitude, and striving for excellence in every game was a credit to themselves and to our College.

We extend our congratulations to all players for their efforts and achievements. A sincere thank you also goes to Mrs Vater and Mr Goodman for their invaluable guidance and support in preparing the teams and accompanying them throughout the tournament.

High Performance Academy – Fueling Success Through Nutrition

As part of their ongoing development in sports performance, students in our High Performance Academy Football and Netball squads recently took their learning from the court and field into the kitchen. The focus of the session was on sports nutrition, with an emphasis on the importance of a high-protein, nutrient-rich breakfast to support muscle recovery and athletic performance.

Students explored the role of food in fuelling their bodies for training and enhancing overall wellbeing. Putting theory into practice, they prepared and cooked their own nutritious breakfasts, with menu options including:

• Vegetable-packed omelettes
• Poached eggs with avocado on sourdough toast
• Bacon and egg muffins with added vegetables
• Scrambled eggs

The students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and skill, and were rewarded with a delicious, well-deserved breakfast to cap off a valuable and engaging learning experience.

Cross Country 2025

Last Thursday afternoon, the College was alive with excitement as students participated in our annual Cross Country event. With perfect autumn weather setting the scene, students embraced the challenge and camaraderie that the day brings each year.

Participants had the option to tackle the traditional course, which wound through the school grounds and along the scenic trails of Bookmark Creek. Alternatively, those looking for a more light-hearted experience joined the Fun Run on the oval - complete with backwards walking, skipping, and even blindfolded laps that added plenty of laughter to the afternoon.

The event was a wonderful display of school spirit, physical effort, and creative flair. Congratulations to all students who took part - whether competing for house points or simply enjoying the fun - and a big thank you to staff and volunteers who made the day such a success.

Results are in:

Congratulations to Samuel DePalma – Selected for State Football Representation

We are proud to congratulate Samuel DePalma on his outstanding achievement in being selected to represent School Sport SA at the upcoming School Sport Australia 15 Years & Under Australian Football Championship.

This is a remarkable accomplishment and a testament to Samuel’s hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. His commitment to both his training and personal growth has earned him this well-deserved opportunity to compete at a national level.

Well done, Samuel! The entire St Francis of Assisi College community is cheering you on and wishing you every success as you take the field.

Our first expo will feature a fantastic lineup of exhibitors, including local and state-based organisations from sectors such as education and training, health and community services, defence, environmental science, small business, and more. Whether students are considering university, TAFE, apprenticeships, employment, or starting their own business, there will be something to inspire everyone.

Here’s a sneak peek at who’s attending:

• TAFE SA – South Australia’s leading vocational education provider, with a local campus in Berri.
• Australian Institute of Social Relations – Offering face-to-face courses in Community Services.
• AELT – Specialising in Early Childhood Education and Care, with training linked to a local childcare centre.
• Flinders University – Highlighting local and state-wide study opportunities.
• Aquinas College – A residential option for university students.
• Murray River & Fleurieu Study Hub – Local support for post-secondary study and career planning.
• MAS National – Apprenticeship and traineeship experts based in Renmark.
• IntoJobs – Providing support for aspiring small business owners through the Self-Employment Assistance Program.
• SA Ambulance Service (SAAS) – Presenting career and volunteer pathways in emergency services.
• Connect Allied Health – Showcasing careers in speech pathology, physio, OT, and more.
• Australian Defence Force (ADF) – With over 300 career options across the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
• Calperum Station – Promoting careers in environmental science, education, and land management.
• Janette Fulham Photography – Sharing insight into professional and commercial photography.
• Aim Higher (CBS Inc.) – Supporting career planning for students with disabilities.
• BaseOur Riverland – NDIS provider offering personal support, life skills, and mentoring roles.
• JMA Engineering – Highlighting local career opportunities in engineering and project management.
• Costa Group – One of Australia’s largest citrus producers with a strong local workforce.
• SAPOL – Promoting policing careers and pathways.
• Sureway – Supporting young people with training and job-readiness programs.
• Novita – Offering a wide range of disability support careers across all ages.

The Careers Expo is an event for all students to attend, helping them make informed decisions about subject choices, study options, and future pathways. We encourage students and families to take full advantage of the exhibitors' knowledge and experience during the expo.

We are excited to confirm that we will have 2 interactive workshops being run at our careers expo.

• Workshop 1: 5:15pm-5:45pm How to start a podcast presented by Kerrie Lush from My Podcast Station
• Workshop 2: 6:15pm-6:45pm Medical Simulation- What to do when someone had an allegic reaction presented by James McLeod from Renmark Medical Centre

These workshops are going to be hands on where some people will get to participate. All students and parents are welcome to attend these workshops and be involved.

There will also be a VR headset simulation set up where you can have a look at different careers.

Hot donuts and Sausages will be available to purchase from the Lions Club of Renmark.

Industry and Community Partnership Group

The aim of this group is to focus on developing sustained community and industry partnerships to create pathways for our students. By joining this group, you will be part of an effort to:

• Help students understand the skills most sought after by local businesses and industries, offering them opportunities to develop those skills in a real-world setting.
• Ensure that both the College and our students are actively contributing to the growth and success of the Riverland region.
• Establish sustainable connections between the school and local businesses, providing vocational pathways for our students.

We believe these partnerships will significantly enhance the education and career opportunities available to our students.

Parent Engagement Group

Our focus for this group is to develop a positive and welcoming school community. The Parent Engagement Group will create opportunities for:

• Parents and families to meet and connect socially with one another.
• Parents to meaningfully engage with their child’s education and have a voice in school activities and initiatives.

We want to create an environment where all families feel involved and supported as part of our school community.

Your Involvement

We welcome all parents and caregivers to engage with these groups in a way that works best for you. Whether you are able to attend regular meetings, participate when you can, or offer help on an occasional basis, your involvement will make a difference.

Meeting Invitation

We would like to extend an invitation to all interested parents, caregivers and families to attend an initial meeting to learn more about the work of these groups and hear about the 2025 priorities. The meeting will also serve as an opportunity to register your interest in becoming involved (if you haven't already).

Date: Wednesday 11th June (Week 7)
Time: 5.30-6.30pm
Location: Study Hub, 10-12 Building, St Francis of Assisi College
RSVP: Please email emma.warner@assisi.catholic.edu.au with your RSVP or any questions you may have

We look forward to seeing you there and working together to create a thriving community for our students.

📢 You're Invited!
As we approach the end of a wonderful term at St Francis of Assisi College, we warmly invite parents, caregivers, and our entire college community to join us for our End of Term Assembly!
📅 Wednesday 9th April
⏰ 9-9.30am
📍 Multi-Purpose Room
This special gathering is a chance to celebrate our students' achievements, reflect on the term gone by, and come together as a school community in gratitude and joy. We look forward to sharing this moment with you all!
We hope to see you there! 🌟

The event brought together students, parents, and educators for a night of fun, food, and great conversation. Families enjoyed a delicious spread of pizzas, making for a perfect, relaxed setting to catch up with friends and meet the educators who play such an important role in our students’ lives. A big thank you to Domino's Pizza for providing us with a generous deal and preparing over 80 pizzas for the event!

The night was a wonderful chance for everyone to build connections and strengthen the school community. A big thank you to everyone who came along and helped make the evening a success. Your presence made it all the more special, and we look forward to more events like this in the future. Here's to more evenings filled with food, fun, and building lasting relationships within our school family!

Industry and Community Partnership Group 

The aim of this group is to focus on developing sustained community and industry partnerships to create pathways for our students. By joining this group, you will be part of an effort to: 

• Help students understand the skills most sought after by local businesses and industries, offering them opportunities to develop those skills in a real-world setting. 
• Ensure that both the College and our students are actively contributing to the growth and success of the Riverland region. 
• Establish sustainable connections between the school and local businesses, providing vocational pathways for our students. 

We believe these partnerships will significantly enhance the education and career opportunities available to our students. 

Parent Engagement Group 

Our focus for this group is to develop a positive and welcoming school community. The Parent Engagement Group will create opportunities for: 

• Parents and families to meet and connect socially with one another. 
• Parents to meaningfully engage with their child’s education and have a voice in school activities and initiatives. 

We want to create an environment where all families feel involved and supported as part of our school community. 

Your Involvement 

We welcome all parents and caregivers to engage with these groups in a way that works best for you. Whether you are able to attend regular meetings, participate when you can, or offer help on an occasional basis, your involvement will make a difference. 

Expressions of Interest and Meeting Invitation 

We would like to extend an invitation to all interested parents, caregivers and families to register their Expressions of Interest for either one or both of these groups. EOI's can be submitted by emailing Emma Warner. Please provide your name, email address and group/s you are interested in being involved in.

In Term 2, we will provide further communication to invite interested parents, caregivers and families to attend an initial meeting to learn more about the work of these groups and hear about the 2025 priorities. The meeting will also serve as an opportunity to register your interest in becoming involved. 

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please contact Emma Warner at the College via email emma.warner@assisi.catholic.edu.au or phone 8595 4500.

Dear Parents and Carers,
We wish to inform you that due to the extreme heat forecasted, we were left with no option but to postpone our Swimming Carnival, that was scheduled originally for Friday 14th March. The safety and wellbeing of our students and staff is our top priority, and rescheduling the event is the safest course of action.
Due to the pool closing soon due to end of the swim season, the Swimming Carnival will now be held on Friday October 24, Week 2 of Term 4, with further details to be provided closer to the date. This outcome ensures all students can enjoy the event safely and engage fully in the experiences of the day.

2026 Enrolments Now Open for New Students!

Great news for those looking to join our school community! Enrolments for new students for the 2026 school year are now officially open. If you're excited to start your high school journey with us, now is the perfect time to secure your place.

St. Francis of Assisi College offers a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for students in Years 7 to 12. Committed to academic excellence, the college provides a broad curriculum, including opportunities in technology, sustainability, and the arts, all grounded in Catholic values. With a focus on wellbeing, community, and personal development, the college fosters a supportive atmosphere where students are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually, and socially. Through a range of extracurricular activities, including sport and experiential learning, St. Francis of Assisi College ensures that every student is well-equipped for future success.

If you have any questions or need assistance, or if you are ready to enrol your child, please contact Claire Smith, Executive Administrator for all the information you need. Claire can be contacted via email or phone 8595 4500.

At the end of last year we launched a College podcast "Our Common Home". Students worked tirelessly with staff to research, create, record, edit and launch our very own podcast.

We aim to connect our community through personal stories and inform people of current events and achievements. We will discuss topics that are important to our students and to the wider community.

Two episodes have been launched so far that includes interviews with our Principal - Nathan Hayes and our Rowing Program Coordinator - Stephanie Turnbull. 

Make sure to tune in to support Our Common Home by streaming on Spotify!

At St Francis of Assisi College, wellbeing isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life.

Guided by our College values and the principles of Laudato Si, we have a genuine and deep commitment to nurturing the whole person—spirit, mind, and body—centred around care for each other, our local and broader community, and importantly, care for ourselves.

Here are some ways we integrate comprehensive wellbeing practices into every aspect of school life to support students, staff, and their families to be at their best:

A Holistic Approach to Student Wellbeing

We place the individual student at the heart of our wellbeing strategy, implementing many initiatives aimed at strengthening student resilience, confidence and general wellbeing:

• Pastoral Care Groups: Regular check-ins with teachers and peers ensure students feel seen and supported.
• Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness sessions help students build focus and manage stress, encouraging a calm, balanced approach to learning.
• Faith-based, Values-Based Education: Inspired by the teachings of St Francis, we instil values like compassion, humility, and stewardship through reflective practices and community service projects.
• Supportive Staff: Our experienced internal ‘circle of support’ includes a dedicated Leader of Wellbeing, a Student Counsellor and House Group Teachers. All our staff members are committed to delivering personalised student wellbeing support.
• Positive Education: We incorporate the principles of ‘positive education’ to inform the way we support wellbeing in day-to-day interactions, our pastoral care programs and curriculum. This ensures a consistent, school wide approach to wellbeing. 
• Leadership Opportunities: We provide leadership opportunities from Year 7 onwards. Our Student Leadership Council is made up of four representatives from each year level. The student leaders ensure every student has a voice.
• Independent Wellbeing Management: All students receive a personal study diary sourced from the Institute of Positive Education which supports them to independently manage their time, events, homework, and assessments. Parents are encouraged to check their child’s diary on a regular basis.
• Wellbeing Week: Our annual Wellbeing Week promotes the physical, mental, and emotional health of students, staff, and the broader community.  A range of activities across the week encourage self-care and resilience including meditation, music, nature walks, art, yoga, sport, card games, cooking, workouts and talks from local health professionals.  
• Transition support: We provide personalised transition support and immersion opportunities for Year 5 and 6 students from local schools to engage in a range of specialist subjects and experience College life ahead of their transition.

Wellbeing Partnerships

We have engaged in multiple partnerships to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, physical health and a sense of belonging:

• Life Buoyancy Institute (LBI) Foundation: Since 2021, we have partnered with SA-based LBI which delivers local mental health, wellbeing and growth outcomes. We have four staff members who are trained and accredited IMPACT Coaches through LBI including our Leader of Wellbeing and Counsellor. All College staff have completed the IMPACT Foundations accreditation and have engaged in training on a variety of topics related to student wellbeing.
• LifeChanger Foundation: The Foundation develops inspiring mentors within communities and delivers holistic self-development workshops for teens. Our Year 10 students are trained annually as workshop mentors and support Year 7 students in their LifeChanger workshops that focus on goal setting, problem solving, resilience and gratitude. Together they explore their emotions, how they project those emotions and practical strategies to help regulate their feelings.
• Pastoral Care Programs: We have a range of partners for research-backed resources related to sleep, managing social media use, building healthy relationships, improving physical wellbeing and reducing anxiety. These partners also provide webinars each term to our parents.

Supporting Staff Wellbeing

We equally prioritise the wellbeing of educators and staff. Recognising that happy, healthy staff are crucial for a thriving school environment, we have implemented:

• Professional Development: Workshops on mental health, self-care, and work-life balance empower staff to manage the demands of their roles.
• Peer Support Networks: A collaborative and supportive workplace culture ensures staff can lean on each other for advice and encouragement.

Connecting with Families and the Wider Community

We extend our commitment to wellbeing beyond the school gates, creating strong ties with families and the local community:

• Parent Workshops: Regular sessions offer tips on supporting children’s mental health and fostering positive relationships at home.
• Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local health providers and cultural groups provide students and families access to additional resources and support.
• Celebrating Togetherness: Events like the annual Wellbeing Week and Family Nights bring the entire school community together for fun, learning, and connection.
• Inspirational speakers: In Term 2 2024, we enjoyed a visit from Mike and Ben from Real Life Resilience who are affectionately known as Legless & Blind, with Mike losing both of his legs at age 18 and Ben losing 98% of his eyesight overnight at age 16. Through powerful storytelling and humour, they shared their experiences and tools to help our students connect, build resilience and prioritise individual and community wellbeing.

The Role of Nature in Wellbeing

Inspired by St Francis’s deep connection to nature, we emphasise outdoor education and environmental stewardship.

• Outdoor Learning Spaces: Classes are frequently held in the school’s gardens, creating a serene setting that enhances creativity and engagement.
• Eco-Initiatives: Students take part in sustainability projects such as tree planting, recycling drives, and caring for the school’s vegetable garden.
• Nature Walks and Reflection: Regular walks in the nearby Riverland environment provide opportunities for quiet reflection and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Measuring Wellbeing

Regular surveys and data analysis ensure we are meeting the needs of the community and continually evolve our strategies to address emerging needs:

• Classroom Pulse Check-in Survey: Each year, all students in Catholic schools in South Australia participate in an online survey aimed at ‘checking in’ with students and measuring how they are feeling about their experience in school, their identity as a person and a learner and their sense of belonging, safety, and friendships, to identify any potential social, emotional, or learning needs that they may have which we can then act on swiftly.
• Mood Checks: We gather data on the moods and feelings of our students to gain insight into students’ current emotions, energy levels, general happiness, levels of participation and engagement and what affects their moods as they go about their day-to-day activities.

Resilience and wellbeing are essential for both academic and social development. Our wellbeing practices exemplify our dedication to creating a vibrant, compassionate, and inclusive community. By prioritising the mental, emotional, and spiritual health of students, staff, and families, we are fostering a generation equipped to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and grace.

Our College was one of two Catholic Schools in South Australia to bring home National Wakakirri Awards. The other award winner was Whitefriars Catholic School located at Woodville Park.

Wakakirri is Australia’s largest performing arts event for schools with 180 schools from across the country taking part in 2024. Participating schools are inspired by the Wakakirri ethos ‘great stories inspire change’ to create and perform story-dances that reflect students’ thoughts, ideas and aspirations. This year’s theme was ‘Belonging’ and the event was performed at the Norwood Concert Hall across a number of days in August and September. 

Our students’ performance focussed on the understanding that each student has their own narrative, and experiencing the challenges of adolescence is like a rite of passage to becoming a young adult. Although there are challenges, there are also many positives, supported by one's ability to embrace and accept themselves, and their strengths, and finding comfort in people they feel safe with, and trust.

Congratulations to all involved! This is an incredible achievement and we are so proud. Thank you to the amazing Kiesha Barber and supporting staff for making it happen. 

See all the amazing 2024 Wakakiri Festival winners here!

On Thursday 24 October our Senior and Junior Squad took part in their Term 4 Day Camp.

The focus was on preparing for the upcoming Waikerie Regatta on Saturday October 26. We were faced with some windy conditions but students proved to be growing in skill and confidence, still completing all the three sessions as planned.

Another great day on the water improving our skills and working as a team. Best of luck to our crews on Saturday! From Stephanie Turnbull, Rowing Program Coordinator and Rowing Coach.

September marked another great milestone in the short history of our college.

We proudly hosted the official blessing and opening of ‘Stage 2’ of our college growth – celebrating our recently completed Connection Centre, a senior learning centre for our Years 10-12 students, senior science laboratories and kitchen garden.

Over 250 students, staff, families, and guests came together for the event which included a Blessing Liturgy led by Bishop Karol Kulczycki, SDS Bishop of Port Pirie Diocese.

We also welcomed Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director of Catholic Education SA, Nichii Mardon, Director Catholic Education Port Pirie Diocese and John Neate, Chairperson South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools.

The ceremony began with an acknowledgement of country and smoking ceremony conducted by Sam Mitchell, a local Aboriginal representative. This traditional practice was held to bless the new buildings and to foster a strong, united community.

After Bishop Karol blessed the new buildings, Principal Nathan Hayes and student leaders led our visitors on a college tour.

Nathan said the celebration marked another significant milestone for our college community.

“These additions consolidate our commitment to providing an excellent Catholic education for our students as they progress through their senior education years,” said Nathan.

Our fantastic new spaces were intentionally designed and built to support students in Years 10-12 as they continue their learning journey.

The new senior learning centre features classrooms, informal flexible learning spaces, student kitchens, a wellbeing area and senior study hub. Two additional senior science labs will support the curriculum requirements of SACE Physics, Chemistry and Biology.

Located adjacent to the Food Tech kitchen, the kitchen garden area will enable our students to plant and grow their own vegetables, fruit and herbs to cook with during lessons.

Nathan added that the celebration was “an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of the many people who have contributed to the vibrant Catholic school community we have become.”

“We thank all who have contributed to designing and building these facilities - Swanbury Penglase architects, Mossop Construction and Interiors, Catholic Education South Australia Planning and Development team, tradespeople and Renmark Paringa Council who have become valued partners within this community.”

Nichii Mardon, Diocesan Director Catholic Education, Diocese of Port Pirie said St Francis of Assisi College has already made an indelible mark through what takes place within our buildings.

“Everyone has a place here and everyone contributes to the unique, vibrant community that has established itself quickly as a cornerstone, providing access to high quality, secondary Catholic education across the Riverland,” said Nichii.

We opened in 2022 with Years 7 and 8 as the first ever Catholic secondary college for the Riverland, proudly building on Catholic education in the Riverland which has been in existence for more than a century.

At the time of opening, we became the Diocese of Port Pirie’s first new Catholic school in over 20 years - and its first new Catholic secondary school in 59 years.

The official opening for ‘Stage 1’ of our college was celebrated in March 2022 after a year-long build process. The first of three planned phases, Stage 1 included our specialist middle years learning centre, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) and arts centre, design and technology workshop, our administration centre, and some covered and outdoor learning and play spaces.

Now currently in our third year of operation with students in Years 7-10, we will continue to grow into 2025 as we welcome our first cohort of Year 11 students into our brand-new facilities.

We now look forward to Stage 3 of our planned development which will include a single court stadium with some performing arts facilities, additional parking, and expansion to the oval.

There are exciting times ahead as we continue to grow our community for current and future generations at St Francis of Assisi College!

During Week 10 of Term 3  we held our annual Showcase of Learning.

Parents and families were invited to come together and celebrate highlights of student learning, with the centre piece being the Year 8 students $20 Boss Market.

The real-world application of these initiatives led to high levels of engagement for the students, and allowed them to express their creativity, and critical thinking skills required to think like a business owner. 

It was terrific to see the high number of parents and families who attended the evening, sharing a meal organized by our Community and Industry Engagement School Board Sub-committee. 

On the last day of Term 3 2024 we celebrated the Feast Day of our Patron Saint, St. Francis of Assisi, with our very first ‘Assisi Day’.

We began with a Whole School Liturgy, reflecting on the legacy of St. Francis. Following this, we took a whole school photo and then broke into year-level groups for various activities. These included recycled artwork, protein ball making, a petting zoo with therapy animals, team-building activities, a nature walk, and a disco room.

Students created natural mandalas for their home groups, which will be framed to commemorate our inaugural Assisi Day. 

Our school community came together to form a human cross. See the amazing drone footage here.