College Principal

‘Catholic schools exist not merely to instruct the young in faith and Christian morality, but to form them entirely so that they may become what Christianity requires them to be. …It means integration: the bringing together of intellect, conscience, character, and faith into a coherent human person. Leo XIV inherits and deepens this tradition. He writes that Catholic school must be a place where questions are not silenced, and doubt not banished, but accompanied. Formation is not the imposition of answers but the cultivation of a searching, integrated human person.‘
Patrick O’Regan, Archbishop of Adelaide,
Address to Trustees and Governors of Catholic Schools, Archdiocese of Adelaide, 2 June 2026.

These last few weeks have seen our students shine in their Catholic Dominican education – one that encourages questioning, listening and contemplation in respectful dialogue with others. This openness to learning that integrates intellect, conscience, character and faith enables our children and adolescents to see themselves as active contributors to human flourishing. Their ideas matter. Their values matter. Their voices matter. And collectively they can make a positive impact in the world. 

Last week saw Primary students stretch themselves in learning with incursions that explored Mathematical problem-solving and Aboriginal perspectives, deepened critical thinking through Ethics Olympiad and STEM Day, whilst showcasing students’ ability to articulate their own ideas with clarity with the Public Speaking Finals and the Finals of IPSHA Debating. The real reward was in watching the response of student peers, teachers and families in affirming each of the speakers – not for any one particular viewpoint – but in recognition of the courage and confidence it takes for a young person to take to a platform and engage with sharing one’s voice, trusting that it will be listened to with openness and respect. 

This week Year 6 students have enjoyed a visit to our national capital, Canberra, where policies are debated and laws are passed. In a world where young people often hear political commentary that appears to polarise rather than seek understanding, or divide rather than unite for a common good, it is important that their learning in community, at school and at home integrates intellect and values grounded in a faith that recognises God’s love for all creation. Their experience is also giving them time in Tallong, a place we hope nurtures the spirit with its natural beauty and familiar warmth as a second home to which students return time again in their journey through Santa. It is this breadth of experience we hope contributes to the formation of the whole human person, immersed in thinking, in relationships, in their world and prayerfully aware they are accompanied by a God who calls them to the fullness of living a purposeful life.

On the secondary campus, Year 10 Commerce students demonstrated their entrepreneurial skills marketing their goods with $3500 profit going to Kopanang whilst Year 12 students have enthralled us in the showcasing of their Major Works. These independent practical, performance or research projects offer students the intellectual and creative freedom to explore personal interests, challenge ideas and design solutions. Students’ works were impressive for the rigour with which they explored complex intellectual frameworks, philosophy, social or historical commentary. Whether expressed through Dance, Drama, Visual Art, Textiles, Design and Technology or the writing of a historical investigation or literary text, students articulated their own personal voice following a process of questioning, reframing and expanding their cognitive thinking to speak as a person with a social conscience. Beyond the classroom, we have seen these same young women of the Class of 2026 lead their student peers in advocating for the poor and marginalised through lunchtime House Salamanca projects, Winter Sleep Out, Homeroom R U OK Day conversations or in leading their music ensembles and sporting teams. This 2026 cohort leaves a legacy of generosity in sharing their minds and hearts.

Students often seek opportunities to engage in discourse about matters that impact the world in which they live. Locally, attention has been drawn to Strathfield Council’s decision to remove wording of Acknowledgement of Country from its boundary markers prompting calls for consultation with Indigenous people and the wider community. This week’s incident of a man accused of verbally abusing a teenage student wearing a hijab whilst riding on a bus route in the Strathfield precinct has evoked the empathy of many of our students who equally expect a safe and respectful passage to school. Weekly, our students and families provide sandwiches and snack packs for those whose budgets do not afford regular meals, whilst senior students have the opportunity to volunteer for St Vincent de Paul Night Patrol or Mathew Talbot Hostel, discovering that human connections are what matter most. 

At Santa, students have the opportunity to opt in to student-led or co-curricular groups to explore respectful avenues for civic engagement or social justice action. Whilst our teaching and learning environments are grounded in gospel values of compassion and love for all persons, our mandated curriculum is delivered in the Dominican tradition of disputatio in which learners are invited to listen carefully to diverse views to understand those views more fully with a goal of communion of people in a shared pursuit of truth rather than winning an argument. In integrating the provocation of intellectual curiosity with a commitment to ethical principles and moral integrity, our education seeks to form the whole human person. And we are not alone.  A recent Student Flourishing in Australian Christian Schools research project [Iselin, D.J. (2026) Christian Schools Australia. Canberra, ACT] surveyed over 22,000 high school students across 57 Christian schools. The report highlights the importance of learning engagement, spiritual formation, service-learning, volunteering and civic and social engagement in student flourishing, and points to the importance of schools as relational and formative communities. 

Last week, a few of us had the privilege of attending the Dominican Education Australia Symposium in Adelaide. The theme was ‘Faithful to the Mission, Bold for the Future‘, inviting us to renew our commitment to Dominic’s preaching of the Gospel and challenging us to be bold in educating with confidence, creativity and hope in an ever-changing and digitalised world so that human flourishing remains central. The highlight of the symposium was the inclusion of student voice. Whilst it was wonderful to have students from the three Adelaide schools participate in panel discussions, we were so very proud to have taken our Santa Sabina students’ voices with us via video. The DEA Chair commended our students (including both Primary and Secondary students) on the authenticity of their insights and creativity of their delivery. When pondering upon what artefacts might represent their time of schooling, they speculated Frank Greens and messy handwriting, but when challenged to consider their hopes for learning one student provided a succinct insight ‘AI is nothing without us, we don’t want to be nothing without AI’ arguing for the need for deep thinking and contemplation. 

As the Class of 2026 looks to their final week of schooling and we look forward to celebrating their graduation as a College community alongside them, I share some of their own voice captured in their Graduate Survey. Whilst the time will come when we offer deserved commendation to their HSC and IB academic performances, now is the time to applaud what they have identified themselves as their most consistently valued take-aways from Santa. 

• 98% developed meaningful friendships and relationships
• 96% understand the importance of listening to different viewpoints
• 96% feel Santa Sabina encouraged them to treat people with dignity and compassion
• 94% feel confident communicating with different people
• 91% understand the importance of service to others
• 90% feel Santa Sabina encouraged them to challenge themselves academically
• 90% feel capable of making a positive contribution to their communities.

Such surveys offer rich insight into students’ experience and direction for our future. Importantly these comments offer testimony to the value of nurturing a community, for it is in students’ encounters with others that they grow and are well ready for the world beyond. When students can lead, question, achieve and belong without limitation, we see the power of education as a transformation for social cohesion and progress. 

I take the opportunity on behalf of the College to thank this year’s 2026 Student Leadership Team, led by Captains Edith and Calliope, for their generosity and joy in leading this community. They have served others from a place of authenticity and hope that true relationships are nurtured in a spirit of invitation to share one’s gifts, and by doing so their leadership has a powerful ripple effect.

Too quickly our students become ex-students, but forever they will be members of this Santa Sabina community. This Saturday, I look forward to reconnecting with alumnae from four decades – Classes of 1986, 1996, 2006, 2026 – at the Back to the Boulevarde Reunion. Whilst I do not stretch to 1986, I was here for the other three class groups and will definitely get my year books out in readiness to place faces to stories. In speaking with Year 12 students and listening to the affection they hold for one another and the community, I have urged them to keep connected and be sure to return to reunions and to share their continued story with students of the future. The late Dr Jane Goodall’s lifework showed the interconnectedness of humans with their world as she fought against apathy with a vision of hope through action. We can find inspiration in her life and words: ‘You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make?’. I am confident just from my short time in coming to know the Class of 2026 that these young women will not sit simply as memories in the pages of memorabilia but rather use their voices on the stages, in the boardrooms, in the laboratories and in parliamentary chambers of our shared futures, and those voices will be voices of hope as advocates for justice, peace and love. I look forward to celebrating five decades of Santa scholars as women whose lives make a difference in our world as well as championing the education we shape here every day that supports our boys and girls to flourish as human beings.  

Mrs Elizabeth Brooks
College Principal

Deputy Principal Mission and Pastoral Care

Prayer, Community, Service and Study in Action

The Dominican tradition calls us to live lives grounded in the four pillars of Prayer, Community, Service and Study. Across recent weeks at Santa Sabina College, these pillars have been evident in the many ways our students, staff and families have come together to learn, lead, reflect and serve. As we celebrate these moments, we are reminded that our mission is not simply something we speak about, but something we live each day.

Prayer

Prayer invites us to pause, reflect and listen deeply for God’s presence in our lives. This spirit of reflection was evident in the recent commissioning of our 2026-2027 Student Leadership Team. During a beautiful celebration steeped in commitments phrased as prayer, our incoming leaders pledged themselves to leadership using the servant model of Jesus as their inspiration. The ceremony reminded us that leadership in the Dominican tradition is first and foremost a response to God’s call to serve others with humility, courage and compassion. 

Prayer also continues to be woven throughout the daily life of the College, helping students develop the habits of contemplation and discernment that enable them to seek truth and live with purpose. In the busy and often distracted world ofour students, these moments of stillness remain essential to forming  young people who are thoughtful, grounded and attentive to the needs of others.

Community

One of the great gifts of a Santa Sabina education is belonging to a community that values connection, inclusion and mutual respect. 

Our commitment to community was also reflected in the many opportunities students have had to collaborate beyond the classroom. Year 8 students recently participated in their Outdoor Education Experience in the Hawkesbury Valley, building resilience, teamwork and stronger relationships with one another. These experiences remind students that growth often occurs when we step outside our comfort zones and learn to rely on and support each other. 

The College community was further enriched through the visit of internationally respected musician Dr Ji Hyun Kim from Albion College in Michigan, USA. Through workshops, rehearsals and masterclasses, students experienced the joy of learning alongside a global expert while also strengthening the culture of excellence and encouragement that characterises our Music Department. 

Service

Service remains at the heart of the Gospel and at the heart of Dominican education. It is through service that compassion becomes action and learning becomes a force for positive change.

This was beautifully demonstrated during the annual St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleepout, which saw a record number of students choosing to spend a night outdoors in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness. Students also assembled the College’s largest collection of snack packs for the Vinnies Night Patrol Vans with the help of donations from students of Years 5-12 and staff. These tangible acts of generosity provided students with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of justice and human dignity while contributing meaningfully to the wider community. 

Our Salamanca House Projects were seen in full flight this week with sausage sizzles, cake stalls, jersey days and other fundraising and awareness-raising activities to support a range of services and good causes.

Through experiences such as these, our students learn that service is not an occasional activity but a way of being in the world, one that seeks to recognise the dignity of every person and respond with generosity and love.

Study

For Dominicans, study is a sacred pursuit. It is not simply the acquisition of knowledge but a search for truth that enables us to better understand the world and our role within it.

This commitment to intellectual curiosity was evident in the outstanding achievements of our VEX IQ Robotics teams, who recently earned four major awards and a third-place overall finish at a highly competitive robotics competition. Their success reflects not only technical expertise but also creativity, collaboration and perseverance. 

In our Primary years, students have been discovering that learning extends beyond academic knowledge. Through their study of the story of Pinocchio in Italian, students explored culture, language and important values such as truthfulness, kindness and bravery. This integration of learning and character formation reflects the holistic nature of a Santa Sabina education. 

Living Our Dominican Mission

As we reflect on these recent events, we see the four pillars alive in countless ways across our College. Together, these pillars continue to shape young people who are thoughtful, courageous and committed to making a positive difference in the world. In every classroom, liturgy, service initiative and co-curricular experience, we see evidence of a community faithfully living the Dominican mission and striving to build a world grounded in Veritas, truth and love.

Mrs Melanie van der Meer
Deputy Principal Mission and Pastoral Care

Head of Primary P-6

As we near the end of Term 3, this newsletter celebrates the many ways our community has come together this term to learn, create, compete and, most importantly, look after one another. Community is at the heart of everything we do, and it is built in the small, everyday moments: the respect we show in how we speak, play, work and learn alongside one another. Our richness lies in our diversity, and our strength lies in the shared values that unite us despite our differences. As you read through this term’s highlights, I hope you see not only what our students have achieved, but the care, kindness and connection that made it possible. I would like to take this opportunity to thank parents for your partnership and support of the school.

“‘he Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and rich in mercy.‘
Psalm 145:8

R U OK? DAY

On R U OK? Day, Del Monte and Gioia House students took part in a range of activities designed to spark meaningful conversations about connection and support. It is a timely reminder that a single question, asked sincerely, can be the first step in helping someone who’s struggling.

This is a message worth carrying home too. Checking in with your own children doesn’t require the perfect words — a few small things can make a real difference:

• Choose a relaxed, low-pressure moment, as many honest conversations happen side by side, in the car, on a walk, or during a shared activity, rather than face to face.
• Ask open, specific questions instead of ‘What was the best and hardest part of today?’ to invite more than a one-word answer.
• Listen without rushing to fix — let your child talk and reflect back what you hear (‘that sounds tough’) rather than jumping straight to advice.
• It’s okay if the answer is ‘no’ or a shrug. What matters most is that they know you noticed and that you’re someone they can come back to.

Gioia House STEM Day

STEM Day at Gioia House last week was a wonderful showcase of creativity, critical thinking and collaboration in action. Students worked in teams through the design thinking process, taking on the roles of architects, engineers and urban planners to reimagine Strathfield as a more sustainable community. Students combined hands-on design with digital technology to bring their ideas to life, culminating in a shared model of Future Strathfield and a fun finale programming Sphero BOLT+ and Dash robots to complete community-based missions. Thank you to Mr Wang for leading such a successful program, and to all the teachers for supporting students as they built and refined their projects throughout the day.

Gioia House Ethics Olympiad

Last week, two Gioia House teams competed against schools from Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand and across Australia in the Junior Ethics Olympiad. Facing tough ethical dilemmas under pressure, our students met the challenge with clear thinking, genuine curiosity and a willingness to really listen to one another.

The Lavender Team took home the Gold Medal, with judges praising the strength of their reasoning and how they worked together to build their case. The Magenta Team was right behind the third place. Across both teams, students were recognised for the depth of their analysis and the maturity they brought to every response. These results reflect months of weekly training and commitment. Congratulations to the following students on their hard work and outstanding achievement:

Lavender Team – Gold Medalists
Jessica Princi 
Laura Touma
Lina D’Arrigio 
Mia Bogovic 
Scarlett Ghossein

Magenta Team – Judges’ Honourable Mention 
Alira Djordjevic
Charli Merhi 
Charlotte Smolcic 
Isabella Lahood 
Jennifer Stanton 
Laura Ordakji 
Olivia Bijjani 

Public Speaking

The K-6 Public Speaking program culminated in the Celebration of Speech, held at both the Del Monte campus for Years 1-4 students. The Gioia House finalists competed against St Patrick’s students in a friendly competition, which has become a tradition that continues to strengthen the bond between our schools. We were once again impressed by the quality of the speeches students wrote in class and delivered with confidence. We congratulate all our students for embracing the opportunity to grow as confident communicators.

We also congratulate the Gioia House and Del Monte finalists and overall winners of 2026 Public Speaking:

Year 1 – Sophie Metledge
Year 2 – Abbie Thompson
Year 3 – Alice Kim-Higgins
Year 4 – Sabrina Commisso
Gioia House – Winner – Mia Bogovic, Highly commended – Margaux Anderson

WriteOn COMPETITION

Congratulations to Joanna Wong, who was awarded a Silver Award in Stage 2 of this year’s WriteOn competition last week. This is a wonderful achievement given the competition was fiercer than ever, with 1,027 entries submitted from 977 schools across NSW. Joanna’s piece was selected as one of just 55 winning entries, a true testament to her talent and hard work. She proudly represented the College at the award ceremony at the State Library of NSW, receiving her award from Mr Greg Warren MP, and had the added privilege of meeting Dr Paul Cahill, Executive Director of NESA, and Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon, the State Librarian, who shared with delight that her own daughter is a Santa Sabina graduate. Congratulations, Joanna, on this outstanding achievement!

Student achievements – ICAS Test results

Congratulations to all students who participated in the 2026 ICAS Assessments, and a special commendation to our award recipients for their outstanding achievements.

MBH and Prep Athletics Carnival

Book Week and author visit

Please view Mr Moses’ article in this week’s Veritas Voice for more.

Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews – Friday 25 September 9:00am–5:00pm

By now, you would have received the booking link for our forthcoming Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews. We look forward to welcoming families and sharing your child’s learning progress this term. Most importantly, these interviews give your child a valuable platform to build agency, giving them the opportunity to speak to their strengths and identify areas of focus in their learning.

Road Safety reminder

We have seen an increased presence of police and rangers on Carrington Avenue recently. We also have noticed a genuine improvement in behaviour. Thank you to the many families who consistently model safe and courteous road behaviour. Your care sets a wonderful example for our children and helps staff during morning and afternoon duties. Please continue to set a good example for our students and help keep everyone safe. Thank you.

Online Safety

We encourage families to stay vigilant and continue monitoring their children’s device use and online activities during the holidays, especially apps with online game and chat functions. Please reinforce respectful communication while messaging or emailing friends. Please check the eSafety Commissioner website for advice on keeping your children safe online.

Term 3 concludes on Thursday 24 September.

Term 4 commences on Tuesday 13 October. Students are required to return in full summer uniform. Please refer to the uniform guidelines in your child’s school diary to ensure they are dressed appropriately from the first day of term.

As we come to the end of Term 3, we give thanks for the gift of learning, friendship and community. We wish all our families a safe, restful, and joy-filled holiday break.

Mrs Stella Azizian
Head of Primary P-6

Calendar events

Important dates for Del Monte and Important dates for Gioia House:

For detailed information about upcoming college events, please refer to the communications sent directly to families via email.

• Wednesday 16 – Friday 18 September – Canberra/Year 6 Outdoor Education Experience
• Thursday 24 September – Term 3 concludes P-6
• Friday 25 September – PTS Interviews P-6

IMPORTANT DATES TERM 4 

Tuesday 13 October – Term 4 commences – students return
Thursday 15 October – DM Assembly 
Wednesday 21 October – Sydney Catholic Schools Stage 3 Volleyball Gala Day 
Wednesday 21 October – Twilight Discovery Tour
Tuesday 27 October – Sydney Catholic Schools Conference 2 Oztag Championship
Thursday 29 October – DM Assembly
Friday 30 October – Colour Fun Day
Wednesday 4 November – Year 5 2027 Parent Information Night
Friday 6 November – Year 5 Experience Day
Thursday 12 November – DM Assembly
Thursday 12 November – Co-curricular Awards
Saturday 14 November – Year 6 Dinner
Tuesday 24 November – Dominican Awards and Year 4 Graduation
Thursday 26 November – College Speech Night
Friday 27 November – K-2 Splash and Dash Carnival
Monday 30 November – Advent Carols
Tuesday 1 December – Year 4 Big Day In
Wednesday 2 December – K-4 Thanksgiving Mass and Year 4 Dancing on the Plot
Wednesday 2 December – Gioia House Thanksgiving Liturgy and Picnic

Director of Community Relations and Strategic Engagement

Father’s Day

Our Father’s Day Mass and breakfast was a memorable celebration of the fathers, grandfathers and father figures within our school community. Held in the sunshine, the event provided a wonderful opportunity for families to come together in gratitude and fellowship. We sincerely thank the Parents and Friends’ Association for their generous support in providing a hot breakfast for the many attendees.

Ms Yvette Graniero
Director of Community Relations and Strategic Engagement

Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning

HSC Showcase Evening

Last Thursday evening, we were delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Year 12 students at our HSC Showcase.

It was wonderful to see students sharing their exceptional work and performances across a range of HSC courses, including Visual Arts, Design and Technology, English Extension 2, History Extension and the Drama Individual Project and Group Performances.

The evening was a testament to the talent, dedication and perseverance of our students, as well as the expertise, commitment and support provided by their teachers throughout their HSC journey. The quality of the work on display reflected countless hours of creativity, critical thinking and refinement.

Our students, their families, and staff were justifiably proud of the remarkable achievements showcased on the night.

Year 12 HSC and IB Diploma

As our Year 12 HSC and IB Diploma students enter the final stages of their secondary schooling, we are committed to providing the academic, wellbeing and pastoral support they need during this important period.

During the non-term break, students have access to VO with subject-specific resources. ATOMI for HSC and InThinking for IB are our online learning platforms which provide curriculum-aligned video lessons, revision resources and exam preparation tools to support independent study. In addition, students are encouraged to participate in the Western Sydney University’s HSC Study Sessions, running from 28 September to 7 October. These free online sessions offer expert subject revision, examination strategies and opportunities to strengthen understanding across a range of key HSC courses. 

HSC Drama Success: OnSTAGE Nominations

Congratulations to our HSC Drama students on their OnSTAGE nominations. Emily Chase received a nomination for her Individual Project Monologue, while Emily Chase, Charlize Cencigh and Allegra Gibson were nominated for their Group Performance. We are incredibly proud and congratulate them on this outstanding achievement.

Ms Jacqueline Pugh
Deputy Principal Teaching and Learning

Director of Outdoor Education, Tallong Campus

Winter Academy outdoor education program builds confidence, skills and lasting friendships

Students returned from this year’s pilot Winter Academy with unforgettable memories, new skills and a strong sense of achievement after participating in a range of outdoor adventure activities.

One of the most memorable experiences was the canoeing expedition, which many students described as a highlight of the program. Paddling along picturesque waterways, students enjoyed the challenge of learning new canoeing techniques while taking in breathtaking scenery, including stunning sunrises, river views and an abundance of native wildlife such as kangaroos, wombats and birdlife. So popular was the experience that many students wished the expedition had lasted even longer.

Beyond the adventure itself, the program provided valuable opportunities for students to build friendships and strengthen connections with their peers. Working together through shared challenges fostered teamwork, communication and a strong sense of community.

Students also developed practical outdoor skills, including navigation, camping and perseverance. Many reflected positively on being pushed beyond their comfort zones, gaining confidence and discovering capabilities they did not know they had.

Another standout feature of the Winter Academy was the caving program. Students consistently rated caving as one of their favourite activities, with the challenging B4-5 cave proving particularly memorable. Navigating the cave system required determination, problem-solving and perseverance, helping students build confidence while overcoming both physical and mental challenges.

The adventure continued with abseiling and hiking, which provided additional excitement and opportunities for personal growth. Students valued the chance to test themselves in a supportive environment while enjoying the natural beauty of the outdoors.

A key factor in the success of the program was the encouragement provided by staff and cave guides. Their support, expertise and focus on safety enabled students to challenge themselves with confidence and achieve goals they may not have thought possible.

Importantly, students appreciated the inclusive nature of the experience. Activities were designed to cater for a variety of comfort levels, allowing every participant to challenge themselves at their own pace without feeling pressured.

The Winter Academy demonstrated the value of outdoor education, providing students with meaningful opportunities to develop independence, resilience and teamwork while creating memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait for 2027!

Mr Kendal Hann
Director of Outdoor Education and Tallong Campus

Director of Mary Bailey House and OOSH

Out of School Hours Care (OOSH)

Vacation Care commences on Friday 25 September and will operate until Monday 12 October and the OOSH team has been hard at work creating a program that’s full of new and engaging, lively and creative experiences.

To tap into footy fever, Vacation Care will commence with Jersey Day when children are invited to wear their favourite team’s jersey and gear. Then in the first week, there are three incursions – Murphy Sports, Buildtopia and Next Level VR – and an excursion to Mind Games Alive! at Chippendale.

In Week 2, new experiences are planned – two incursions that include Glowmania and the Dinosaur Encounter and an excursion to Luna Park to see the Dream Circus.

As children need days of leisure, an excursion to Charles Heath Reserve in Five Dock is planned as is a Pizza Party and Pyjama Day.

The OOSH team is very excited about the new experiences and can’t wait to experience them with children. If your child is looking to do something different these school holidays and connect and have fun with friends, then why not book them in.

Primary Years and Gioia House students are all welcome to attend Vacation Care. Children just need to be enrolled in OOSH before attending. To enrol and learn more about OOSH and vacation care, contact our OOSH Coordinator Frances Windon at ooshmail@ssc.nsw.edu.au

Ms Jackie Baxter
Director of Mary Bailey House and OOSH

Music in the Senior School (Curriculum)

Year 7

Year 7 have now completed their Keyboard Performance Assessments, demonstrating growing confidence in melody, harmony and performance etiquette.

They will now begin preparing their Music of a Culture presentation, researching a culture of their choice and exploring how musical traditions express identity, storytelling and connection to place. Students will investigate instruments, musical elements, performance practices and cultural significance as they develop their presentations.

Year 8 

Year 8 are finalising their Film Music compositions, adding foley effects and refining their leitmotifs to enhance character, mood and narrative. Their creativity and attention to detail have been wonderful to see.

As they complete their compositions, students will now begin preparing a presentation on a film genre of their choice. They will explore the effectiveness of the genre’s musical features, discuss key characteristics, and share observations about how music shapes storytelling, atmosphere and audience response.

Their thoughtful analysis and imaginative musical ideas continue to shine each week.

Elective Music excursion to The Lion King 

Students in our Elective Music classes enjoyed an engaging and memorable experience in their excursion to The Lion King musical on 16 September that showcased the power of music in storytelling. For Year 9 students studying Theatre Music, the production provided an authentic example of how music, vocals, and orchestration work alongside action and dialogue to enhance character, mood, and dramatic impact. For Year 10 students studying Music for Multimedia, the performance highlighted how music supports visual elements, narrative, and audience engagement, demonstrating the important relationship between sound and on-stage production. Students were captivated by the outstanding performances, vibrant costumes, creative staging, and powerful live music, making the excursion both highly enjoyable and directly relevant to their current areas of study.

Year 9 

Year 9 have now completed their aural exam, where they were examined on both Music for Theatre and Music for Small Ensembles. Students demonstrated strong listening skills, musical understanding and thoughtful engagement with the concepts studied this term.

They have also completed their presentation on Music for Small Ensembles, exploring ensemble roles, communication, balance and the unique musical characteristics of chamber groups. Their maturity and insight were evident throughout their presentations.

As they move forward, Year 9 will now begin turning their focus to their Performance Assessment Task happening next term, building confidence, musical independence and stage readiness.

Year 10

Year 10 are progressing beautifully with their Elective Project, working with independence, creativity and thoughtful musical inquiry. Students have selected a piece of their own choosing, which they are now analysing in depth — exploring its musical features, themes, structure and stylistic characteristics.

From this analysis, students will begin developing new musical ideas inspired by the original work, transforming and reimagining these themes through composition in a new chosen style. This encourages creativity, stylistic awareness and a deeper understanding of how musical ideas evolve.

As part of the project, students will also compile a process video documenting their research, analysis, creative development and final composition. This multimedia submission will showcase their thinking, exploration and artistry.

In addition to their project work, Year 10 will be performing in a class concert, giving them the opportunity to refine musical interpretation, tone, ensemble awareness and performance confidence in a supportive environment.

We look forward to seeing their final video submissions and hearing their performances next term.

Year 11 HSC & IB 

Year 11 IB students are in a focused and productive stage of their learning as they finalise their Exploring Music in Context (EMIC) Performance Adaptation. They are refining their musical ideas with care, ensuring that their adaptation clearly demonstrates stylistic understanding, thoughtful interpretation and a strong connection to their chosen context.

Alongside this, students are tidying and strengthening their earlier portfolio submissions, reviewing their research, annotations and musical observations to ensure clarity, cohesion and academic rigour. This reflective process is an important part of IB Music, helping students deepen their understanding of how context shapes musical meaning.

Their curiosity, independence and commitment to high‑quality work continue to shine as they move toward the completion of their EMIC portfolio.

Year 11 HSC Music students have now completed their Preliminary written examinations, demonstrating thoughtful engagement with listening skills, score analysis and musical understanding across both courses.

Music 1 students focused on listening skills and the Concepts of Music, showing growing confidence in identifying musical features, describing how they are used, and applying their knowledge to unfamiliar excerpts. Their developing aural awareness and ability to communicate musical ideas with clarity were evident throughout the exam.

Music 2 students demonstrated strong analytical skills in their written paper, drawing on their understanding of repertoire from 1600–1900. They explored stylistic characteristics across the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods, discussing musical techniques, structural features and historical performance practices with increasing maturity.

As they move forward, both courses are now preparing for their Performance Assessments.

• Music 1 students are refining tone, technique and expressive communication as they prepare a polished program that showcases their strengths.
• Music 2 students are developing stylistically informed interpretations of works from 1600–1900, focusing on phrasing, articulation, balance and historical context.

Their commitment, curiosity and developing musical independence continue to shine as they enter this next stage of their learning.

Year 12 HSC 

Year 12 have had an exceptionally busy and rewarding few weeks, demonstrating maturity, resilience and artistry across all components of their HSC Music course.

Their final school recital was heartfelt and beautifully presented, showcasing not only their musical skill but also the deep connection they have formed with their repertoire and with one another. It was a moving celebration of their musical journey throughout their school years.

Students have also completed their HSC external performance examinations:

• Music 1 Performance – Tuesday 8 September
• Music 2 & Extension Performance – Friday 11 September

Across all courses, students performed with confidence, musical insight and expressive communication. Their preparation, discipline and determination have been evident throughout the entire process.

As we move into the final phase of the HSC, we are incredibly proud of their achievements and the way they have supported one another. We wish all Year 12 students every success as they approach their remaining written examinations and conclude their senior studies.

Message from the Director of Music

Archbishop’s Award for Student Excellence

Congratulations to Celina Nguyen who has received a 2026 Archbishop’s Award for Student Excellence. Celina’s inspirational contributions to her parish, College and the wider community include leadership in liturgical celebrations and church initiatives, performing in our Symphony Orchestra, outreach participation and active membership of College Action Teams.

Citation

Celina Nguyen demonstrates faith-filled participation in the life of her parish, school and wider community. A member of St Felix de Valois Catholic Parish, Bankstown, she has served as an altar server for eight years and regularly assists as a reader at Mass. She is a violinist in her parish Eucharistic Youth Choir and contributes to youth group initiatives, including planning community events and participating in the Mary MacKillop Teens’ Group and Antioch retreats.

At Santa Sabina College, Celina is involved in the orchestra and performs at liturgical celebrations as a creative expression of her faith. Since Year 7, she has served as a Spirituality Day Leader at the College and has been a member of the Student Voice Action Team, Social Justice Action Team and the Principal’s Advisory Board.  Celina also participates in Night Patrol and volunteers for Catholic Care, where she prepares and distributes food and engages with vulnerable members of the community. She authentically lives her life steeped in Gospel values and joyfully bears witness to God’s love through her actions and words. She is a commendable leader and an inspiration in both her school and parish community.

We also acknowledge with gratitude Celina’s other outreach activities:

• Girl Up Club – Public Relations Officer – 2025  
• St Joachim’s Homework Help – 2023-2025
• Liverpool Catholic Club Skateability volunteer – 2023-2025
• Organised and participated in private fundraising events to support homeless people in Vietnam 
• Organised a fundraising bin for the Reverend Bill Crews Foundation (for IB CAS). 

Ms Carla Beshara
7-12 Mission Coordinator & Religious Education Teacher

Many thanks to Giovanni Portelli for these wonderful photos!

Vinnies Sleepout

Our recent annual St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleepout was a tremendous success, with more students participating than ever before and demonstrating a genuine commitment to serving others in the community.

Years 11 and 12 students spent a night ‘sleeping rough’ on school grounds to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness. Throughout the evening, students also prepared a record number of snack packs using donated items collected through House groups. These packs will be distributed through the Vinnies Night Patrol Vans, providing practical support to those doing it tough.

What stood out most was the enthusiasm and empathy shown by the students. With a record number choosing to take part in the overnight experience, students engaged thoughtfully with the purpose of the event and reflected on the realities of homelessness. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zones demonstrated a growing awareness of the importance of compassion, dignity and service.

We thank all students, staff and families who contributed donations and support to this worthwhile initiative. Together, they have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others and embodied our commitment to serving the community with generosity and care.

Ms Julia El Azzi
Student Leadership Coordinator
Assistant Head of Yetinga House
Religious Education and English Teacher

Book Week 2026!

Learning in the Library

As always, Book Week presents a wonderful opportunity to celebrate not only reading but coming together as a whole school community to mark the occasion.

CBCA Shadow Judging

As part of this year’s CBCA Shadow Judging program, a group of Year 10 students – Olivia Lee, Josephine Chui, Zahra Assassa, Harriet Hoogland, Mabel Clarke, Willow Harris and Hayley Chan – spent 10 weeks reading and evaluating the CBCA shortlisted titles in the Older Readers category. This was in the lead up to Book Week with the intention of choosing a Santa Sabina-nominated winning title before the CBCA announced their chosen winner on Friday 21 August.

Meeting regularly with the Teacher Librarians, students considered each book against the official CBCA judging criteria and engaged in thoughtful discussions about literary quality, themes and reader impact. The shortlist provided students with an excellent opportunity to explore shortlisted Australian young adult literature published this year.

After deliberation, our judges selected This Stays Between Us by Margot McGovern as the Santa Sabina winner. Interestingly, their choice aligned with the national Shadow Judges’ selection.

Congratulations and thanks to our Shadow Judges for their commitment, insight and enthusiasm throughout the program.

Book Week celebrations

Book Week started in earnest on Monday 24 August with some lunchtime fun in the library where we hosted book trivia. Our students had a great time competing against the teacher team, even though the teacher team won!

On Tuesday we invited students to participate in ‘Drabble,’ an engaging creative writing opportunity. They were challenged to write 100 words in 10 minutes linked to the ‘Symphony of Stories’ theme, all while listening to a live music performance by our student musicians.

Wednesday was also an important day with students participating in the much loved ‘Write a Book in a Day,’ an annual event challenging two groups of students to write a whole book from 8:30am to 6:00pm, while supporting The Kids Cancer Project. The two works were spectacularly creative! They can be found under WABIAD 2026 on the Veritas Online library page. We are proud to announce that the generous family and friends of both teams donated almost $2500.00 for such an amazing cause. There is still an opportunity to donate here for seniors, and here for Years 7 and 8.

Throughout the week, students and staff were also invited to participate in the ‘Teacher’s Favourite Books’ competition, where teachers shared their favourite novel and author this year along with their favourite literary character. The information was then displayed in the library and participants had the week to observe what their teachers enjoyed reading before completing a quiz the following week. Well done to our participants and, of course, our winners of the event.  And naturally, Book Week would not be Book Week without the inclusion of our Book Week Character Parade! The event was a wonderful celebration of books and reading, allowing staff and students to dress up as their favourite book character while having fun and promoting a sense of community spirit. The parade raised over $570 that will go towards books for The Solomons.

While we couldn’t quite line up her visit to coincide with Book Week, it was wonderful to have renowned children’s author Ashleigh Barton visit Gioia House soon afterwards. Ashleigh visited us on Tuesday 15 September to talk about her new book Eighty-Nine Questions After, a novel exploring the power of curiosity, friendship and courage. Ashleigh’s talk reminded us that books encourage readers to explore unfamiliar experiences, develop empathy and better understand ourselves and others. Her visit was also a reminder that stories do more than entertain. They help us ask meaningful questions about the world we live in.

Once again, we thank our students and staff for their support and enthusiasm behind Book Week. And we are already looking forward to Book Week 2027 which is themed, ‘Catch the Reading Bug!’

Gifted Education update

Perfectionism

Santa Sabina had the privilege of hosting a guest speaker, Eileen Seah, who presented the Perfectionism Paradox: working with Perfectionistic Students. 

The Gifted and Talented Secondary Teachers Association (GATSTA), of which Santa Sabina is a member, holds professional learning for teachers every term. As host school for Term 3 we welcomed over 70 educators from across NSW who came to listen to Eileen’s clinical insights.  

Eileen defines perfectionism as: ‘a striving for and setting of exceedingly high standards of performance, with overly critical evaluations of oneself; in which a perfectionists’ self-worth is often contingent on the pursuit and achievement of these unrelenting standards.’  

She draws the distinction between striving for excellence, which is healthy and striving for perfection, which is impossible.

Perfectionism in students can manifest as anxiety, burnout and avoidance behaviours, and is something families and teachers should be on the look out for. It can include setting high standards, being hypercritical of oneself, and interestingly, being critical of others.

The antidote to perfectionism is self-compassion. We should aim to  teach our students to be kind to themselves in the face of disappointments.

Some strategies to alleviate perfectionism in students might include

1. Focusing on feedback rather than grade attainment when assessments are returned
2. Helping students reframe narratives around their self worth with less emphasis on success and being perfect
3. Encouraging down-time within a busy schedule of schooling, co-curricular activities and tutoring/homework/study. 

Parents and teachers play an important role in identifying when a student may be struggling with perfectionism. If you have any concerns, reach out to our College counselling team. Early support can help develop healthier coping strategies and maintain a balanced approach to their academic and personal goals. 

Socratic summit

In late August we were able to send 10 Year 10 students to Newingtown College to participate in the Socratic Summit. This had a very similar structure to the Meeting of the Minds excursion that was attended by Years 7 and 8 students earlier in the term. The girls engaged in some real-world philosophical thinking and were able to discuss important issues with students from diverse backgrounds. 

Mr Matthew Mountford
Dean of Gifted Education

Bringing democracy to life in HSIE

Year 9 Commerce students gained a practical understanding of Australia’s democratic system and the importance of active citizenship. By participating in a simulated election, students experienced the processes of voting, counting preferences and analysing election outcomes, helping them develop a deeper appreciation of how governments are elected and how citizens can influence decision-making in society. This experiential learning technique is particularly valuable because it moves beyond theory, allowing students to actively engage with democratic processes and develop critical thinking, decision-making and citizenship skills in an authentic context. Thank you to Vikki Cummins for this engaging student lesson which enhanced students’ understanding of political participation while fostering confidence, engagement and a sense of responsibility as future voters and informed members of the community.

Ms Brigida Zagora
Head of HISE (Humanities and Social Sciences)

Teacher Reflection

In order to learn how the preferential voting system works in Australia we conducted a class election where students actively participated by forming a single-issue political party, presenting persuasive arguments to the class to vote for their party. Students cast their votes and the ballots were counted. Students were engaged in this authentic learning experience, demonstrating both the first-past-the-post and preferential voting system.

Ms Vikki Cummins
HSIE Teacher

Student Reflections

From today’s class election, I better understand the Australian democratic process, and how different voting systems work. It was fun seeing how the votes were counted. This made the lesson interesting.
Verona Di Santo
Year 9

I really enjoyed this hands-on political activity because it helped me understand how voting works, practise teamwork and public speaking, and experience how to vote, which made learning about Australia’s democracy interesting.
Soumaya Raad
Year 9

Year 10 Commerce Market Day – celebrating enterprise and community spirit

The Market Day proved to be a tremendous success in showcasing Commerce learning. Year 10 Commerce students worked collaboratively to produce products for sale within an authentic real-world learning experience in planning, promoting and operating their own businesses. A wide range of creative products and services were enjoyed by the Santa Sabina College community.

The HSIE Faculty is delighted to announce that, on behalf of the Year 10 Commerce students, a donation of the profits of $3443.40 has been made to the Dominican Sisters’ Kopanang Community Trust. This generous contribution reflects the students’ hard work, entrepreneurial spirit and Santa Sabina commitment to supporting the wider community.

Thank you to the Year 10 Commerce teachers, Ms Kylie Ma, Ms Shirley Chan and Mr Richard Crittenden whose guidance and encouragement helped students successfully apply their classroom learning in a practical business setting. Special thanks also to Mr Crittenden for his extensive behind-the-scenes organisation, which ensured the smooth operation of this successful HSIE Faculty event.

The day was a wonderful celebration of enterprise, teamwork and community spirit, and all students involved should be proud of their achievements.

Ms Brigida Zagora
Head of HISE (Humanities and Social Sciences)

Student Reflections

Market Day was a really fun experience for our group, and running the Bouquet Bar ended up being one of the highlights of the day. We sold handmade pipe‑cleaner flowers and let people build their own bouquets, which proved super popular with students and teachers. The whole process taught us a lot about teamwork, staying organised, and the effort that goes into running a small business. Overall, we were proud of what we created and how well we were all able to work together.
Olivia Toia
Year 10

Commerce Market Day taught us the importance of teamwork, effective and thorough planning, and quick problem solving. This was an opportunity for us to develop our business skills and put them into practice by running a stall. Each group was asked to create a product, promote it and sell it on the day. Our group sold customisable Altoid Tins which combined everyday pocket necessities with trending products. All funds raised go to support the women of Kopanang in South Africa. As a cohort, we found this to be a valuable experience and are grateful for the opportunity.
Christiane Nikolaou and Una Quinn
Year 10

Assistant Head of Gioia House

Gioia House Action Girls

This week, we proudly recognised a group of outstanding Year 5 and Year 6 students who received an Action Girl Award and badge for consistently demonstrating the qualities that strengthen our school community. These students have shown respectful behaviour in the classroom, a strong commitment to their learning and a genuine dedication to being kind and inclusive towards others.

Their actions, from supporting classmates, showing empathy, participating positively in group work and modelling responsible choices, reflect the values we aim to nurture in all Gioia House students. Alongside their achievements at school, these students have also engaged in outreach opportunities, contributing to initiatives that help others beyond our school. They have shown that small actions can make a big difference.

We congratulate our Action Girls for being role models. Their efforts inspire others and help build a school environment where every student feels valued and included.

Congratulations to the following Action Girls:

Year 5:
Anabella Gomez
Zoe Law
Frankie Leaver
Makenzie Wong

Year 6:
Amelia Baltinos
Soopia Chang
Niamh Quinn
Nina Rizk

St Patrick’s and Gioia House Public Speaking Competition

This term, all Gioia House students have worked hard to develop their public speaking skills. Every student wrote and prepared a thoughtful speech, practising clarity, confidence and audience engagement as part of our oral language and communication English program. From this impressive effort, a group of students were selected to represent our school at the Interschool Public Speaking Competition at St Patrick’s College.

Our students delivered both prepared speeches and impromptu responses, showcasing quick thinking, strong expression and well‑structured ideas. Teachers and our adjudicator, Ms Jane Sulis, were genuinely impressed by the quality of their presentations and the maturity they displayed.

This friendly competition was a wonderful opportunity for students to challenge themselves, celebrate their hard work and connect with peers from St Patrick’s College. We are incredibly proud of all students for their dedication, and we congratulate them on representing our College with confidence and enthusiasm.

R U OK? DAY

During Gioia House Community Time this week, students took part in a meaningful R U OK? Day session designed to strengthen connection and wellbeing across our school. Working in their House groups with their buddies, students enjoyed a Conversation Bingo activity that encouraged real check‑ins, thoughtful questions and supportive conversations. It was wonderful to see students engaging so positively and showing genuine care for one another.

After their conversations, students collaborated to create a bright and uplifting R U OK? mural. Each group contributed messages that remind us of ways we can support each other and look after our own wellbeing. The mural now stands as a visual reminder that small conversations can make a big difference, and that our school community is stronger when we look out for one another.

Ms Marisa Maks
Assistant Head of Gioia House

Music at Gioia House (Curricular)

Gioia House Instrumental 

Our Gioia House musicians continue to shine as they move into Week 9 with focus, enthusiasm and a wonderful sense of teamwork.

Mini Maestros in both Year 5 and Year 6 are steadily working towards their Term 4 performances.

• Year 5 Mini Maestros are polishing selected works from Essential Elements, strengthening ensemble skills, rhythmic confidence, and collaborative music‑making.
• Year 6 Mini Maestros are rehearsing pieces from Essential Elements alongside A Shaker Hymn, developing blend, balance, and musical independence as they prepare for their final Term 4 performance.

Our Gioia House Strings are looking forward to their combined Breakfast Concert with Sinfonietta, now scheduled for Monday 21 September. Together, they will form an orchestra of almost 200 performers, presenting Festival Fanfare by Kathryn Griesinger – an uplifting and energetic work that celebrates their growing confidence and ensemble cohesion.

Gioia House Choir

The Gioia House Choir is singing beautifully as they prepare for a busy and exciting performance season.

Students are continuing their Term 4 repertoire: Lakeside Lullaby and I Found Something I Was Searching For by Pink Zebra, focusing on tone production, breath support and expressive phrasing. As we move further into the term, the choir will also begin preparing repertoire for their Thanksgiving Mass, shaping warm tone, unified vowel sounds, and clear diction to support meaningful liturgical singing.

Their commitment, teamwork, and joy in music‑making continue to shine each week.

Message from the Director of Music

What’s happening in Year 6

 Final IPSHA Debate

 Our final debate of the season was a wonderful celebration of our students’ hard work and growth. Throughout the year, students developed their public speaking, critical thinking and teamwork skills through training sessions and competitive debates. They worked collaboratively, supported one another and approached each challenge with enthusiasm and determination. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and the confidence they have gained along the way. Congratulations to all students on a successful debating season and for representing our school so positively.

Ms Ann Milicic
Year 6 Teacher and Debating Coordinator

Space: what’s out there?

Year 6 is currently investigating the vastness of space by identifying key astronomical features such as stars, galaxies, nebulae and black holes. They have conducted research on technologies that have allowed humans to study and explore space (e.g. telescopes, probes and satellites) and investigated how these advancements have expanded our knowledge and improved life on Earth. 

In a recent Lab session, the girls constructed their own rockets in preparation for launching. They used a high pressure bicycle hand pump to create enough air pressure to fuel the launch, before launching the rockets into SPACE (the air)!

Ms Marisa Maks, Mr Eamonn Dunphy, Ms Ann Milicic, Ms Georgia Wheatley, Ms Rebecca Seidman
Year 6 teachers

What’s happening in Year 5

This term, our Year 5 students have been diving into the fascinating world of climate and weather. As part of their Science Lab lessons, they have designed and built their own barometer to measure air pressure and a homemade anemometer to track wind speed.

To put their creations to the test, students conducted a daily wind speed experiment. Each day, they measured the wind speed using their anemometers and compared their results with online wind statistics showing real‑time wind speed and direction. This helped them understand how weather data is collected, why measurements can vary, and how scientists use multiple tools to build accurate forecasts.

The students have loved seeing their homemade instruments in action and discovering that science becomes even more exciting when you can hold it in your hands.

Coding and Robotics

The Gioia House girls have been actively coding, creating and problem solving as part of the Coding and Robotics co‑curricular program. Using LEGO SPIKE, the girls have been designing and constructing their own imaginative builds before programming them to move and respond to commands.

Ms Tiffany Anderson, Ms Wendy Anetter, Ms Alison Di Caccio, Ms Jane Sulis, Ms Monique Taylor and Ms Stephanie Yiorkis
Year 5 Teachers

Learning Across the Curriculum

Year 5 English, HSIE and Science & Technology Project

Throughout this term, Year 5 students have been exploring Bright New World: Building a Better Planet as their mentor text in English. This engaging hybrid text combines the purposes of entertaining, persuading and informing, providing students with opportunities to analyse how authors use different text features and language techniques to communicate ideas effectively.

As their culminating assessment task, students are designing and creating their own multimodal websites. These websites will incorporate all three text purposes, allowing students to demonstrate their understanding of informative, persuasive and imaginative writing while also developing their digital literacy skills.

Each student has selected an Australian national park to research in depth. Through their investigations, students are gathering information about the park’s unique natural features, environmental threats and conservation. This project also provides meaningful connections to learning in HSIE and Science and Technology. Students are exploring environmental events that have affected their chosen national park, such as bushfires, floods, droughts or severe storms, and examining how climate and weather patterns have influenced these events and the surrounding environment.

By combining English, Geography, Science and Technologies, students are developing their research, critical thinking and communication skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting Australia’s diverse natural environments. We look forward to sharing their innovative websites and showcasing the creativity, knowledge and problem-solving skills they have developed throughout this exciting project.

Ms Stephanie Yiorkas
Year 5 Teacher and Curriculum Leader

Assistant Head of Primary P-4 and Gifted Education Coordinator P-6

Pastoral Update

R U OK? DAY

Last Friday, students added a splash of yellow to their uniforms to celebrate R U OK? Day and highlight the importance of checking in on the wellbeing of others. As a Dominican community, we are encouraged to show care through simple acts of kindness, listening and friendship. As St Catherine of Siena reminded us, ‘Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.‘ Through compassion and genuine connection, our students help create a community where everyone feels seen, valued and supported.

One of the most meaningful ways we can support children’s wellbeing at home is by setting aside a few minutes each day for a calm, distraction-free conversation. These moments help children feel heard and can provide opportunities to share worries before they grow into bigger concerns. While it can be tempting to jump straight into problem-solving, one of the greatest gifts we can offer is our attention, listening with empathy, reassurance and understanding.

Recently, I overheard a conversation between a Year 3 student and their Prep buddy. The Year 3 student asked a simple yet powerful question: ‘What was the best part of your day today?‘ This interaction was a wonderful reminder that the questions we ask our children not only strengthen our connection with them, but also model how they can show care and interest in others.

Our children learn from the conversations they experience every day. By taking a few moments to check in with them, we are doing more than supporting their wellbeing in the moment. We are also teaching them the importance of empathy, connection and genuine care for those around them. Those small daily conversations can have a lasting impact and help to build a supportive community. 

Resilience, friendship and compassion

Following our focus on R U OK? Day and the importance of looking out for one another, we now shift our attention to resilience, friendship and compassion; a theme designed to support students through the fatigue, heightened emotions and occasional friendship challenges that can naturally arise at the end of a busy and productive term.

Through classroom discussions and reflection, students will explore how resilience grows when we persevere through challenges, adapt when things do not go to plan and lean on the support of those around us. In the spirit of our Dominican values, we encourage students to approach themselves and others with patience, empathy and compassion, recognising that strong friendships and a caring community not only help us navigate life’s ups and downs but also build the resilience to face them with confidence.

Gifted Education update

ABC News in my neighbourhood

Congratulations to Joyce Wong (Year 1) on being named a winner in the ABC Education News in My Neighbourhood Competition for Term 2, 2026. This is a wonderful achievement and a testament to Joyce’s creativity, curiosity and communication skills.

We are incredibly proud of Joyce’s accomplishment and look forward to seeing her winning entry published on the ABC Education website. Well done, Joyce, on this outstanding success!

Maths Quest, Explorer, Games and Olympiad

Last week, students completed their final Maths Explorer, Maths Games and Maths Olympiad papers, bringing this year’s programs to a close. We commend all participants for their persistence, enthusiasm and growth throughout the year. These challenging competitions encouraged students to stretch their mathematical thinking, collaborate with peers and develop valuable problem-solving, reasoning and communication skills. We are proud of the confidence and resilience students have demonstrated as they embraced each challenge and celebrated their learning along the way.

Ms Lauren Petroni
Assistant Head of Primary P-4 and Gifted Education Coordinator P-6

Curriculum update

The end of Term 3 has arrived much sooner than expected. It has been a wonderful term of teaching and learning, filled with memorable experiences including our Book Week celebrations, Public Speaking Program, Year 3 incursion, Year 1 excursion and many other enriching opportunities along the way.

Last Thursday, we celebrated the culmination of our Public Speaking Program, which was beautifully opened with an Acknowledgement of Country presented by Kindergarten. Congratulations to all of our Public Speaking finalists from Years 1 to 4. It has been truly rewarding to witness the growth and progression of public speaking skills across the grades.

We would also like to congratulate every student who participated in the program from Week 4 through to Week 8. The courage, persistence and willingness to take risks demonstrated by our students throughout the process were commendable. We especially congratulate Sophie, Abbie, Alice and Sabrina for being the finalists in their respective grades.

Over the next two weeks, teachers will be finalising units of work and preparing students for a successful start to Term 4. During parent-teacher interviews, families will have the opportunity to discuss their child’s progress and learning goals for the remainder of the year. Teachers will share samples of work that showcase and celebrate the growth students have made since Semester 1. We look forward to sharing these achievements with you and encourage you to bring along any questions you may have.

We wish all of our families a safe, restful, and enjoyable break.

Ms Kate Bakhos
Curriculum Leader P-4

Music at Del Monte and MBH (Curriculum)

The Laudare Singers performed My Front Teeth at the Public Speaking Finals on Thursday. They were on show the whole time, performing beautifully and listening respectfully, demonstrating their awareness of ‘concert’ behaviour.

In class, Year 4 have been collaborating in composition. Throughout the term they have been learning to compose, notate, rehearse and perform their collaborative compositions.

We are exploring the elements of music in creative ways. Year 3 have been composing space sentences and then using paddle pop sticks to write rhythm notation matching their space words.

Message from the Director of Music

Religious Education in Del Monte

Father’s Day Celebration

On 3 September, we were delighted to welcome many fathers, grandfathers and special father figures to our school for our Father’s Day celebrations.

The morning began with a special Father’s Day Breakfast, providing families with an opportunity to gather and enjoy time together as a community. Following breakfast, we celebrated a beautiful Father’s Day Mass, where we gave thanks for the love, guidance and support that fathers and father figures provide in our lives.

A highlight of the morning was hearing from Albert Metledge and his daughters, Marie, Evi and Sophie who shared their reflections and insights about fatherhood and family life. Their words provided a meaningful reminder of the important role fathers and father figures play in nurturing, supporting and guiding their children.

We thank all those who were able to join us and help make the morning so special. A sincere thank you also to our staff and students for their preparation and participation in both the breakfast and Mass.

As a school community, we continue to pray for and celebrate all fathers, grandfathers, carers and role models who nurture, guide and support our children each day. Their presence and influence are a treasured gift in the lives of our students.

Crazy Sock Day

The Social Justice Team would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all students, families and staff who supported our Crazy Sock Day. It was wonderful to see so many colourful and creative socks around the school!

Your generous donations will help support those in need and make a positive difference in the lives of others. We are grateful for the enthusiasm and kindness shown by our school community and thank everyone for helping make the day such a success.

The Social Justice Team

As we come to the end of another busy term, I would like to thank our students, families and staff for their continued support, partnership and commitment to our school community. I wish everyone a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break, filled with time to relax, reconnect with loved ones and create special memories.

God bless

Ms Tina Nicotina
Religious Education Coordinator (P–6)

Year 4 Prayer and Mission Team: celebrating the Season of Creation

Our Year 4 Prayer and Mission Team recently led a whole-school prayer to mark the beginning of the Season of Creation, a special time in the Church calendar when Christians around the world are invited to pray, reflect and take action to care for God’s creation.

The World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation is celebrated each year on 1 September and begins the Season of Creation, which continues until 4 October, the Feast of St Francis of Assisi. The 2026 theme, ‘Living Water’, reminds us that water is a precious gift from God and an essential source of life for all living things.

During the prayer celebration, students reflected on the beauty of God’s creation and how we can be responsible stewards of our common home. The Prayer and Mission Team encouraged everyone to think about simple actions that can make a difference, such as saving water, reducing waste, recycling, caring for local wildlife and giving thanks to God for the gift of creation.

Caring for creation at home

Families can help care for our common home by:

• turning off the tap while brushing teeth and keeping showers short
• switching off lights and devices when they are not being used
• using reusable drink bottles and lunch containers
• reducing food waste and recycling correctly
• planting flowers, herbs or vegetables at home
• walking, riding a bike or using public transport when possible
• taking time to thank God for the gift of creation through prayer.

A family challenge

This week, as a family, consider one simple action you can take to care for our common home. It might be a shorter-shower challenge, a lights-off hour, planting something together or having a no-food-waste day.

A prayer for creation

Dear God,
Thank you for our wonderful world.
Thank you for the bright sun, the tall trees, the blue oceans, and all the animals.
Help us to be good helpers who take care of the plants, water, and creatures.
Show us how to keep the Earth clean and beautiful.
Amen.

The Year 4 Prayer and Mission Team thanks all students and staff for participating so thoughtfully in our prayer celebration and encourages everyone to continue caring for God’s creation through small everyday actions. Together, we can make a positive difference in caring for our common home and protecting God’s gifts for future generations.

Ms Tina Nicotina and the Year 4 Prayer and Mission Team
Religious Education Coordinator P-6

Year 3

On Thursday 10 September, Year 3 students participated in an engaging Aboriginal incursion that immersed them in rich cultural learning and hands-on activities. The experience encouraged students to think critically about the effects of British Colonisation in Australia while deepening their understanding of how Aboriginal peoples lived before the arrival of Europeans.

Students began the day by exploring traditional watercraft, learning how First Nations peoples designed and used canoes for travel, hunting and survival on waterways. They then applied this knowledge by building their own mini canoe. This was followed by a shelter making session, where students discovered how Aboriginal peoples used natural materials from Country to meet their needs. A live didgeridoo performance became one of the standout moments of the day. Students learned about the instrument’s cultural significance and its traditional role in ceremony and celebration.This led into a storytelling session, where students explored Aboriginal perspectives, connection to Country and the passing down of knowledge through generations.

Students developed a deeper appreciation of their place within the local community and strengthened their ability to explain how significant individuals, groups and events have shaped the area over time. 

Ms Kelly Garcia and Ms Louise Harris
Year 3 Teachers

Year 2

Year 2 Science: a butterfly’s amazing journey

This term, our Year 2 students have been learning about living things and exploring how they grow, change and respond to the world around them. A special highlight of our learning was watching a real caterpillar transform into a butterfly.

The students eagerly embraced their role as young scientists, making daily observations and recording changes to the chrysalis. They carefully noticed differences in its colour, shape and structure, using their observations to predict and explain what was happening during this fascinating process.

After a week of patient watching and wondering, the chrysalis finally opened to reveal a beautiful butterfly. The excitement in the classroom was unforgettable! Students then had the privilege of releasing the butterfly into the Del Monte Garden, where it could continue its journey in nature.

To celebrate and consolidate their learning, students created models of the butterfly life cycle, showcasing their understanding of each stage of development. It was a wonderful hands-on experience that inspired curiosity, encouraged scientific thinking and deepened their appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

Ms Cara Brigham, Ms Christina Mazis, Ms Tina Nicotina, Ms Catherine McGrath
Year 2 Teachers

Year 1

Year 1 HSIE: Ancient China and Ancient Egypt 

This term, Year 1 has been learning about Ancient China and Ancient Egypt in HSIE. Students have explored ancient myths and legends, inventions, lifestyle and social conventions. They were fascinated to learn that many ancient Chinese and Egyptian inventions, such as paper, ink and printing, are still in use today. Students were also very interested to learn about the enormous pyramids built by the ancient Egyptians, and the Great Wall of China, which are still standing today. This unit has been very engaging for the children. Their assembly presentation and visit to the Chau Chak Wing museum were the perfect way to complete their learning. The children are looking forward to creating artefacts in Term 4 to represent their learning.

Ms Margie Attard, Ms Calista Camarda and Ms Lorette Quinlan and Ms Grace Azzi 
Year 1 Teachers

Kindergarten

Acknowledgement of Country

Respecting the Traditional Custodians of the land is something our Kindergarten students practise daily as part of our Morning Meeting. This term they had the chance to share that respect, delivering the Acknowledgement of Country at our Del Monte Public Speaking finals. 

With calm, confident and reverent voices, they acknowledged the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our school stands and paid respects to Elders past, present and emerging. They led the school in our Kindergarten actions to accompany the Acknowledgement and took pride in seeing the older students copying them. 

When asked what the Acknowledgement of Country means to them, they shared:

‘It respects the Country’
Lucy
KM

‘We have to pay our respects.’
Ashton
KS

‘It is to respect the land and the Aboriginal Peoples.’
William
KN

Ms Ella Reilly, Ms Erin Horne and Ms Brooke Napper
Kindergarten Teachers

Prep

What’s been happening in Prep?

Our Prep students have been busy learning, exploring and creating through a range of exciting experiences.

In Science, we explored the question,‘What does fizzy mean?‘ The children enthusiastically shared their ideas before taking part in our Fizzy Colours experiment. Using bicarb soda, vinegar, dishwashing liquid, food colouring and droppers, they created colourful bubbling reactions and observed what happened when the ingredients were combined. There were lots of smiles, excitement and wonder as the children explored, experimented and learned through hands-on discovery.

Our youngest athletes also had a wonderful time participating in their very first Athletics Carnival. It was a joy to see the children enthusiastically take part in the events, demonstrate great sportsmanship and cheer on their friends throughout the day. The carnival was filled with fun, teamwork and many proud moments.

We are so proud of the curiosity, enthusiasm and joyful approach to learning that our Prep students bring to each day. As they enter their final term of Prep, we look forward to watching them continue to grow in confidence, independence and their love of learning, and sharing more of their adventures with you.

Ms Rebecca Saba and Ms Monique Evans
Prep Teachers

Premier’s Reading Challenge Reminder

PRC finishes this Friday!

The NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge (PRC) is almost at an end for 2026. All reading records must be completed and submitted by Friday 18 September. We will ensure that records for any K-2 students who have not yet completed them are submitted.

Congratulations to all students who have taken part this year. Your commitment to reading and exploring new books is something to be very proud of. Every book you read helps to build your imagination, knowledge, vocabulary and confidence as a reader.

If you are unsure whether your reading record has been completed, please speak to your classroom teacher or visit the library as soon as possible.

A big thank you to our students, families, and teachers for supporting the Premier’s Reading Challenge this year. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our readers very soon!

Happy Reading!

Mrs Patricia Doonan
Del Monte Library

Celebrating First Holy Communion

On Saturday 12 September 2026, several of our Year 3 students joined other young members of the parish community at St Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church, Croydon, to celebrate the special sacrament of First Holy Communion.

During this sacred celebration, children received the Eucharist for the first time, marking an important milestone in their faith journey. Surrounded by their families, parish community and friends, the candidates participated reverently in the liturgy as they received Holy Communion and deepened their relationship with Jesus.

First Holy Communion is a significant step in the sacramental life of the Church. Through prayer, preparation and support from their families and teachers, the children have grown in their understanding of God’s love and the gift of the Eucharist.

As a school community, we congratulate our Year 3 students on this special occasion and thank their families, catechists and the parish of St Joseph’s Maronite Catholic Church for supporting them in their faith formation. We pray that they continue to grow in faith, hope and love as active members of the Church community.

Next week, a number of our Year 3 students from St Martha’s Parish will celebrate their First Holy Communion. We keep these children and their families in our prayers as they prepare to receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time. May this special occasion be a source of joy, faith, and blessing for them and their loved ones.

‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry.”‘
(John 6:35)

Congratulations to all the children who celebrated their First Holy Communion. May God continue to bless them and their families

Ms Tina Nicotina
Religious Education P – 6

Director of Music P-12

As Term 3 draws to a close, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the students, staff, tutors and families who have contributed so enthusiastically to the life of Music at Santa Sabina this term. From rehearsals, assemblies, performances and examinations to liturgies and special Graduation events – our students have continued to demonstrate their usual (and remarkable) commitment to artist and collaborative excellence!  

Term 4 has wonderful music already in the pipeline – with our program set to celebrate new music and well-loved works alike – and we can’t wait to throw wide the doors to our community for all the culminating performances of 2026.

A special congratulations must go to our Year 12 Music students, who recently presented outstanding performances in our Open Recital series, before completing their final HSC practical examinations last week. We are immensely proud of the professionalism, resilience and musicianship they displayed as they performed before the visiting NESA examination panel – and wish every Year 12 all the best with the final aspects of coursework.  

We thank our entire Music community for another great school term, and look forward to sharing an exciting season of performances and musical growth in Term 4 as we bring home this action-packed year.

Amy Richardson
Director of Music P-12

Strings Breakfast Showcase – Monday 21 September

Santa Sabina’s curricular instrumental music program continues to be recognised for its educational rigour, sequential P-12 design and strong student outcomes.

To this end, our annual Strings Breakfast Showcase offers our community a unique opportunity to witness this learning continuum in action. The event highlights the progression from our Del Monte string students through the thriving Sinfonietta Strings (now with around 100 members) – and ultimately one day into our advanced Chamber Orchestra!

Particularly special is the opportunity for our senior musicians to mentor and perform alongside younger students as they seek to put elementary learning in context and inspire them for the journey to come.

On Monday morning, parents are asked to drop students off at 7:00am before enjoying a coffee from the onsite van, and the free pastries that will be served prior to the student presentation commencing at 7:45am.  All welcome!

Australian Boys Choir Concert – Friday 25 September, 4:00pm

On the final day of Term 3, Santa Sabina College is delighted to be able to host the Australian Boys Choir in concert as part of their national tour. 

The visit represents a significant opportunity for our singers to collaborate with one of Australia’s most respected youth vocal ensembles. Throughout the afternoon (in Periods 5 & 6), members of our Chamber Choir and College Choir will participate in a workshop with choral specialist Nick Dinopoulos, before joining our guests in a free public performance from 4:00pm in the Chapel. We hope you will join us in welcoming these special guests.

Open Recital Series – Friday 18 September

Our Open Recital Series provides students who are learning a musical instrument with the opportunity to share their growth and developing artistry in a supportive and authentic performance environment. These Friday afternoon soirees foster some of the most valuable components of a musician’s formative education; with confidence and a host of other extra-musical benefits 

We look forward to welcoming families to the second last recital of the year this coming Friday 18 September. The final recital for 2026 will take place on Friday 6 November with some places still available to additional performers if interested.  Reach out to your Private Tutor and the Music Office if you would like to secure this opportunity to challenge yourself and grow in your performance craft.

Looking ahead to Term 4

Students are already preparing for a substantial Term 4 performance season while continuing to contribute to major College events, including the Speech Night, final Masses and numerous community celebrations. These performances reflect the central role Music plays within College life and as always, they provide authentic opportunities for service, leadership, collaboration and artistry. 

Though formal communication will follow for each event, please ensure you Save the Date! for the culminating music events for 2026 – including Celebration of Music on Sunday 1 November (Verbrugghen Hall) and Advent Carols on 30 November (Santa Sabina Chapel). 

Wishing our whole community a safe and refreshing break.

Amy Richardson
Director of Music P–12

Director of Sport and Co-curricular

As we approach the end of another outstanding season, it is with immense pride that I reflect on the remarkable achievements of our students across Sport and Co-curricular programs. The continued growth of participation, the success of our representative teams and the commitment shown by our students embody the spirit of excellence that defines our College community.

This term alone, we recorded an impressive 422 registrations across our Sport and Co-curricular programs. While several sporting activities have reached capacity and now operate with waitlists, our clubs continue to provide exciting opportunities for students to explore new interests, develop skills and build meaningful connections.

A season of success

Our students have excelled across a wide range of competitions and activities, achieving outstanding results at local, regional, state, national and international levels.

IGSA Weekly Sport

Our Hockey, Basketball, and Football teams have represented the College with distinction throughout the season. We are proud that 55% of our teams were ranked within the top four, with our Hockey team SAN01, Basketball SAN02 and Football SAN01 team all progressing to the semi-finals.

A big shout out to SAN01 Hockey for making it to the IGSA Term 3 Grand final after a thrilling semifinal (won 2-1) against SCEGGS Darlinghurst.

Netball Excellence

Our IWNA Netball program continues to thrive, delivering exceptional results:

• Two Premierships (SSC16 and SSC24)
• Three Minor Premierships (one Senior and two Junior)
• Six teams reaching semi-finals

We also congratulate Isabella Kelly, Amelie McKee, Olivia Pisani, and Arianna Harris, whose appointments as C-Badge umpires for Grand Finals are a testament to their dedication and leadership within the sport.

Please see Ms Gocher’s article below for all details as we come to the end of the season.

Athletics

Congratulations to Amelie McKee, Freya Ingwersen, and Charlotte Rudd, who qualified to represent CGSSSA at the NSWCCC Athletics Championships.

Tennis

Our CGSSSA Tennis team (Elyssa Jeitani, Olivia Wu, Clara Smolcic, Ashley Duigenan and Georgia Ghossein) achieved an outstanding second-place finish at NSWCCC, earning a wildcard entry to the NSW High School Championships. We are also excited by the launch of our new Representative Tennis Squad, which has attracted strong interest with 14 students registered.

Volleyball

Volleyball has enjoyed a highly successful season, including:

• Year 10 Schools Cup Gold Medalists
• Year 9 Schools Cup Runners-Up
• Year 9 Intermediate Division Champions
• Year 8 SAN05 Junior Division Champions

Representative Dance Program

Our dancers have continued to shine across multiple competitions, earning numerous first, second and third-place results, along with several Highly Commended awards.

Highlights include:

• Senior Contemporary: 1st Place at Extreme Dance and Dance Spec
• Hip Hop Black: 1st Place at CGSSSA Championships
• Primary Hip Hop: 1st Place at Dance Spec and the Sydney Eisteddfod at the Sydney Opera House.

These achievements reflect the dedication, discipline and creativity of our talented performers and coaching staff.

Students achieving on the national and international stage

Individual student achievements continue to be a source of great pride for our College community.

• Jenisha Lama claimed the Year 7 Girls Scratch and Nett titles at the Jack Newton Shield and finished 8th overall.
• Faith Ata was selected in the Rugby Australia Next Generation Under 16 National Squad.
• Freya Ingwersen is competing at the AusCycling Junior and Masters National Championships.
• Chloe and Willow Lai will represent the College at the Aeroschools National Championships this September.

We also celebrate an extraordinary international achievement by Mina, Chloe and Willow, who recently represented Australia in Aero Dance at the World Junior Championships in Spain.

Competing against some of the world’s best athletes, the girls performed exceptionally well, earning a Silver Medal in the Junior Team category by placing second overall. They also qualified for the finals with another junior group, where they secured an impressive 7th place finish in the world.

Their dedication, perseverance and commitment to excellence are truly inspiring. On behalf of the entire College community, congratulations to Mina, Chloe and Willow for representing both Australia and our College with such distinction. We are incredibly proud of your achievements on the world stage.

Looking ahead

Beyond sport, our Debating and Public Speaking students are currently preparing for the upcoming IGSA Festival of Speech in October, continuing to develop their confidence, communication and leadership skills.

As participation across all programs continues to grow, so too does the depth of talent, character and enthusiasm within our student body.

A heartfelt thank you

As Director of Sport & Activities, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who contributes to the success of our programs.

To our students, thank you for embracing every opportunity with courage, commitment, and passion. Your willingness to challenge yourselves, support one another and represent the College with pride is what makes our community so special.

To our parents and families, thank you for your unwavering support. From early morning training sessions and weekend fixtures to encouragement from the sidelines, your partnership is invaluable and greatly appreciated.

To our dedicated coaches and staff, thank you for the countless hours invested in developing our students, not only as athletes and performers, but as young people of character. Your expertise, mentorship and care play a vital role in every success we celebrate.

A special acknowledgment must be given to the exceptional team in the Sport & Activities Department. Much of their work happens behind the scenes, yet their commitment, professionalism and attention to detail ensure that every registration, competition, excursion, training session and event runs smoothly. I am incredibly grateful for their passion, dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence.

Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mrs Brooks, College Principal, for her ongoing support of our Sport and Co-curricular programs. Her regular attendance at fixtures, genuine interest in student achievement and unwavering encouragement of our teams mean a great deal to our students, staff and families. Her presence reinforces the importance of participation, teamwork and striving for excellence in all aspects of College life.

Together, we continue to build a culture where students are encouraged to pursue their passions, challenge themselves and represent the College with pride. I look forward to celebrating many more successes in the months ahead.

Ms Luiz Ramalho
Director of Sport & Activities P–12

Primary Sport

NSWPSSA Football Championships

Congratulations to Antonia Srdanovic (Year 6) who attended the NSWPSSA Football Championships in Tuggerah last week. Antonia was part of the NSW Catholic Schools Mackillop team, playing as Goal Keeper. Antonia and the team performed exceptionally, making it all the way to the Grand Final and only conceding one goal all tournament. The team finished runners up of the tournament earning a silver medal.

Sydney Catholic Schools Athletics Championships

On Friday 28 August, the following students competed at the Sydney Catholic Schools Athletics Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre.

Grace Calcagno – 1500m
Sebastian Portelli – Discus
Sabrina Commisso – Discus
Grace Ordakji – 100m
Stefania Lazanja – 100m, 200m

Congratulations to Stefania Lazanja who finished 5th Overall!

Sydney Catholic Schools Oztag Championships

Congratulations to the following students who have been selected into the Representative Oztag team who will compete at the Sydney Catholic Schools Oztag Championships on Tuesday 27 October.

Coming up in Term 4
Wednesday 21 October – Sydney Catholic Schools Year 5 and 6 Volleyball Gala Day
Tuesday 27 October – Sydney Catholic Schools Oztag Championships
Friday 27 November  – K-2 Splash and Dash Swimming Carnival

Mr Ryan Dunlop
PE and Co-Curricular Coordinator (P-4) Primary Sports Coordinator (P-6)

Winter Netball Review 

While our second winter season at IWNA has come to an end, there are many people that I’d like to thank before we tackle our second spring season.

Firstly, a big shout out to our amazing coaches. We were privileged to have 13 Ex-students return to coach alongside our four staff members and 14 current students who assisted the coaches of our junior teams.  Together, we produced five grand finalists with two premierships and three minor premierships. 

I’d also like to acknowledge that three of our umpires were awarded their National C badges this year, bringing our total to six.  We also have one association badged umpire and seven newly badged club umpires and five umpires continuing their development in the program.

Both coaching and umpiring programs continue to grow and it is wonderful to see such strong connections being made amongst all of our participants.

Congratulations to all the recipients of the Coaches Awards this year, this is a wonderful achievement acknowledging the player’s hard work, commitment and sportsmanship throughout the season.

Our Junior presentation was held on Wednesday 2 September, where we celebrated our teams achievements, played games and announced award winners. 

The Junior Presentation photo slideshow and gallery can be found on the netball page in VO.

While the winter competition has officially wrapped up, I’m pleased to report that we have nine teams entered in the spring competition with IWNA. If you missed the opportunity to sign up, we do have one or two vacancies in some age groups, so please reach out.

Finally, I’d like to thank you for your participation and continued support of the Santa Sabina netball program. We do hope you enjoyed the season and we look forward to seeing you back on court in 2027, if not before.

If you have any feedback, positive or otherwise, please send email to j.gocher@ssc.nsw.edu.au as we are always looking at ways to improve the program.

Ms Joanne Gocher
Netball Coordinator

Artwork by Year 3 student Charlotte, SSC25

Team photos from the last few rounds can be found on the Team Photo tile on the netball page in VO.

Mr Luiz Ramalho
Director of Sport and Co-curricular Activities P-12

2026 Representative Dance Program – season wrap up! 

What a season it has been for our SSC Representative Dance teams!

We are incredibly proud of the dedication, commitment and passion our dancers have shown throughout the season. Early morning rehearsals and countless hours of training led to our representative dancers stepping onto the competition stage with confidence and every dancer should be so proud of what they have achieved. Below are the results from each of our teams throughout this season. 

Senior Contemporary

1st Place — Extreme Dance Competition & Dance Spec

Highly Commended — Sydney Eisteddfod, Platinum Dance Competition & Hills Dance Spectacular

Hip Hop Black

1^st Place — CGSSSA Dance Championships

3rd Place — Platinum Dance Competition

Highly Commended — Sydney Eisteddfod & Dance Spec

Jazz Black

Highly Commended — Platinum Dance Competition

Jazz Red

Highly Commended — Extreme Dance Competition & Hills Dance Spectacular

Hip Hop Red

2nd Place — Extreme Dance Competition & Platinum Dance Competition
3rd Place — Dance Spec & Hills Dance Spectacular

Primary Black Jazz

3rd Place — Extreme Dance Competition & Platinum Dance Competition
Highly Commended — Hills Dance Spectacular

Primary Hip Hop

1st Place — Dance Spec & Sydney Eisteddfod at the Opera House
2nd Place — Platinum Dance Competition & Hills Dance Spectacular

To finish off an incredible season, our dancers, coaches and families came together for our Awards Breakfast to celebrate everything our dancers have achieved throughout the year.

Congratulations to our Dancers of the Year, one dancer from each team who has demonstrated outstanding commitment, growth and dedication throughout the season:

Infants – Jade Jabbour
Primary White – Chloe Zhang
Primary Black Jazz -–Eloise Crisafulli
Primary Hip Hop – Khaleesi Staveris
Senior Contemporary – KassandraBarrios
Jazz Black – Amelia Hone
Hip Hop Black – Tara Sanhueza

A very special congratulations also goes to Ruby Stirling and Mya Karam, who were presented with our Dedication to Dance Awards. Both Ruby and Mya are Year 12 students who have been part of our Representative Dance Program since they were in Del Monte. Their commitment, loyalty and love for dance over the years is something truly special and we couldn’t think of two more deserving dancers to receive this recognition.

A huge thank you to our incredible coaches, teachers and families who make this program possible. And to our dancers, thank you for bringing your energy, passion and love of dance to every rehearsal and performance. Whether you came home with a trophy or simply walked away a little more confident than when you started, your hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed.

We can’t wait to see what 2027 brings!

Sarah Daher
Dance Coordinator

Uniform Shop holiday trading hours

The Santa Sabina College Uniform Shop will close for the school holidays on Friday 25 September at 4:00pm 2026 and will re-open on Monday 12 October 2026 at 9:00am.

Extended Term 4 Trading Hours

Monday 12 October
9:00am – 3:00pm

Tuesday 13 October                                  
8:00am – 5:00 pm

Normal hours resume Wednesday 14 October:

Monday                                              
8:00am – 4:00pm
Tuesday                                              
1:00pm – 5:00pm
Wednesday                                       
8:00am – 4:00pm
Thursday                                            
1:00pm – 5:00pm
Friday                                                  
8:00am – 4:00pm
Online Store
Enjoy the convenience of online shopping. Orders will be filled out when the store is next open.

From the P&F Association

As we come to another term end, it’s a lovely time to look back on the past few weeks – a busy and rewarding stretch for our kids, families, and the wider school community. A big thank you to everyone who contributed this term, whether at events or behind the scenes – it all makes such a difference. We can’t wait to keep that momentum going into next term!

Father’s Day Stalls & Breakfast

It is always so special seeing the children come through the Father’s Day Stall! With big eyes and even bigger excitement, our students got to shop the stall all by themselves, carefully picking out the perfect gift for their dad or father figure. From novelty socks to ‘World’s Best Dad’ mugs, there was some seriously thoughtful (and hilarious) gift-picking going on — and the pride on their faces was priceless.

Thank you to everyone who donated their time, helped set up the stall and guided our little shoppers through their big decisions. Watching the kids take charge of choosing a gift all on their own is one of the sweetest parts of this tradition!

Father’s Day Breakfast

Then we kicked off Father’s Day properly, with our school buzzing with the smell of bacon and eggs as dads, grandads and special guests rolled in for a well-earned breakfast alongside their children. We had over 600 people attend the event!

A massive thank you to our incredible volunteers, who were up bright and early cracking eggs, frying bacon, and making sure everyone left with a full belly and a smile. You are the true legends behind every successful event and this one was no exception — the whole morning ran like clockwork thanks to you!

We’d also like to take this opportunity to once again thank Primo for donating the bacon for our breakfast. It is our community that makes our events such a success and we are so grateful for their continued support. Following the breakfast, we were able to donate our leftover eggs and bacon to Matthew Talbot, who received them that weekend. Due to the increased cost of both eggs and bacon, they had been unable to offer a hot breakfast for some time, so this was a lovely surprise for them on Sunday 6 September.

Save the date!  30 October 2026 🌈

Get your runners ready — our next big event is the Colour Fun Run, and it’s set to be an explosion of colour, energy and fun for our Prep to Year 6 students!

This year, we’re running for a great cause — all funds raised will go towards installing air conditioning in our school halls, so our kids (and teachers!) can stay cool during assemblies, events and everything in between. More details coming soon, but start stretching those legs now!

Wishing you all a restful break and some well-earned time to unwind. Term 4 will arrive before we know it, bringing with it the joyful (and busy!) season ahead.

Jumana Commisso
P&F President

Past events

Year 4 Dinner

It was wonderful to see some of our Year 4 families come together for a relaxed evening of good food, great conversation and plenty of laughs at Canada Bay Club.

These catch-ups are a lovely opportunity for parents and children to connect outside the school gates and enjoy some quality time together.

A big thank you to everyone who made the effort to come along.

Year 10 Family Gathering

A lovely evening was enjoyed at Leichhardt Bowling Club by our Year 10 girls and their families. We look forward to seeing more families at our next gathering in Term 4. 

Upcoming Events

Sustainable Threads

We will be running the next Sustainable Threads stall next Friday 25 October. This is the last day of the Term and when Parent Teacher sessions are being held. 

Session times: 9:00am – 10:30am & 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Location: Del Monte Hall

If you have any uniform items you would like to donate prior to this date please ensure they meet the below criteria and drop them into the office. 

We are always looking for volunteers to assist with the Stall. If you would like to help out please email Kathleen Magri at secretary@ssc.nsw.edu.au

Year Group Gatherings

Mass for HSC and IB students at St Joan of Arc

Junior engineers opportunity