OLMCBI 209

OLMC
Heidelberg
News

Edition 9 | 26 June 2026
Joanna De Bono
Deputy Principal - Learning and Innovation

As we reach the end of Term 2, we reflect on a semester rich in learning, growth, and opportunity. The term has been filled with a wide range of academic, co-curricular, and community experiences that have enriched the lives of our students and contributed to the vibrant culture of OLMC. From classroom achievements to sporting, cultural and service activities, students have embraced the many opportunities available to them with enthusiasm and commitment.

Our theme this year, ‘Whatever you do, do it with all your heart’ – Colossians 3:23a reminds us that learning and participation are about more than achievement alone. It calls each student to approach every opportunity — in the classroom, on the sporting field, on stage, or in service to others — with commitment, courage, and a generous heart.

In the spirit of Catherine McAuley, the Year 12 student leaders have been working very hard with students at all year levels to raise money to support McAuley for Women and Children. Domestic Violence and Homelessness for women continues to be one of our society’s biggest challenges. Something Catherine McAuley was acutely aware of in her time. McAuley for Women and Children provides services and a safe space and place for women and children in situations of domestic violence.

Last week we celebrated Dare2Donate and leading up to the final day our Year 12 leaders organised a ‘Spirit Week’. To all those who contributed to the success of the week and contributed so significantly to something so much greater than our work, thank you for living Mercy in our school. Every $500 raised by the school helps to buy laptops to keep vulnerable children engaged in their education. The incredible amount raised will enable sixteen laptops to be purchased and continue the strong commitment to empower young people through education.

This term has once again been marked by students embracing opportunities with enthusiasm and commitment across a wide range of individual and team pursuits. It has been particularly encouraging to see our Year 7 students so eagerly involved in clubs, sporting teams, and music programs as they establish themselves within the life of the College.

Our GSV sporting teams have continued to achieve strong results, reflecting both dedication and teamwork. Students involved in Music and the Performing Arts have enjoyed outstanding experiences, most notably through the highly successful Senior production, as well as a variety of other music performance opportunities. Our Social Justice team has led a number of meaningful initiatives throughout the term, inspiring students to support and advocate for others within our community and beyond. In addition, our Science students have achieved success through their participation in a range of STEM programs and competitions, demonstrating curiosity, creativity, and innovation.

Our Year 7 Music students performed in their first concert of the year, sharing their talents with family, friends, and members of the school community. The evening provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the gifts, dedication, and progress of our young musicians. Students were supported by their instrumental music teachers, Jo-Anne Mileto, Madelena Broadbent, Jane Murone and Rachel Cimino.

Throughout Semester Two, students in Years 7 to 12 will begin making important decisions about their learning pathway for 2027. As part of this process, they will be encouraged to reflect on their strengths, interests and talents, while also considering their future aspirations and goals. A range of opportunities will be provided for both students and families to access information, guidance and support throughout this period. I strongly encourage all students and parents to take full advantage of these opportunities to ensure informed and confident choices for the year ahead.

As we head into a well-earned break, I hope all students are able to rest, recharge, and return ready for another full and exciting Semester Two.

Shane Taylor
Head of Faith and Mission

Last week students and staff came together to raise awareness of the life-giving ministry of McAuley for Women and Children and to fundraise for this great work of Mercy. OLMC’s Spirit Week, which concludes with the Dare2Donate parade, is a truly blessed part of our community’s support of McAuley for Women and Children.

McAuley for Women and Children is a Mercy ministry that provides safe accommodation, practical support and hope for women and children experiencing family violence and homelessness. Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, McAuley for Women and Children walks alongside those facing some of life's greatest challenges, helping them rebuild safety, dignity and independence. Through housing, support services and advocacy, McAuley for Women and Children continues the Mercy tradition of responding to those most in need with compassion, courage and respect.

Last Thursday 18 June past and present staff, Sisters of Mercy, volunteers and friends of McAuley for Women and Children gathered to celebrate 40 years since its establishment by the Sisters of Mercy in 1986 (formerly known as Regina Coeli and, twenty years later, combined with Mercy Care to form McAuley for Women and Children as it is known today).

You might like to read about these McAuley for Women and Children facilities that honour the founding Sisters of Mercy: Wilma’s Place (Sr Wilma Geary RSM) and Heywood House (Sr Sheila Heywood RSM).

If you are able to support this life-giving work, please donate here.


Prayer

Loving God,

We give thanks for the work of McAuley For Women and Children and for all who offer care, protection and hope to those experiencing violence, homelessness and hardship.

Open our hearts to see the dignity of every person.
Help us to listen with compassion, act with justice and respond with mercy.
May we never turn away from those who are vulnerable, but instead be people who offer welcome, understanding and practical support.

Bless the women and children who seek safety and a new beginning.
Grant them strength, healing and hope for the future.

As members of the Mercy community, may we continue the mission of Catherine McAuley, bringing light where there is fear, hope where there is uncertainty, and love where it is needed most.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

We loved supporting the Dare2Donate week at our sausage sizzle, with music from OLMC's rock band. Staff cooked during the day and the Social Justice Club served a huge crowd at lunch.

The Horizon class prepared delicious treats to run their stalls this term, raising money for our Exodus Dinner program. The $400 they raised will easily cover two of our fortnightly dinners.

The Social Justice Club was also involved in Reconciliation Week activities such as The Long Walk from Aquinas College.

Staff and Student - Thankyou

Our reading, dinner and bread run programs could not run without staff giving up their afternoons and evenings to support students in this vital work. Thank you, to those who have supported our students to walk in Mercy this semester.

A big thankyou to the students of our Social Justice Club for attending meetings, running fundraiser stalls and participating in conferences and camps, and our Exodus and reading programs: you have given hours of your time over the semester, and brought much courage, compassion, justice, and joy to others.

Anita Galli
Social Justice Coordinator

Andrew Gibson
Director of Learning and Teaching

Over the last two weeks, students in Year 10 have been involved in our Pathways program. This has involved students undertaking Morrisby testing, finding out more about the subjects on offer in the Senior years, as well as visiting Swinburne University for a tertiary experience.

As part of subject selection, the following information evenings are scheduled.

Date

Year level focus

Tuesday 23 June

Year 10 2026 into Year 11 2027 – Parents and Guardians only. A recording of the presentation is available on PAM

Thursday 16 July

Year 9 2026 into Year 10 2027 – Parents, guardians and students.

Tuesday 21 July

Year 8 2026 into Year 9 2027 – Parents, guardians and students

A fantastic resource for subject selection are the Course Guides. The OLMC Course Guide 2027 for Senior Programs is currently available on SIMON and PAM. The Year 9 Course Guide 2027 will be available early next term.

Further information regarding subject selection evenings is emailed to parents and guardians a fortnight prior to the event.

The Year 7s have recently completed their semester long Electrolife unit. Over the past few weeks, they have been preparing magazines for their electorate to showcase what they have learnt about it over the semester. To help them with their research, some students contacted the member of parliament for their electorate. Below is a summary from some students who wrote about their experience with this task.

This semester in Humanities we have learnt about liveability factors in electorates in Australia. Across the year level everyone has been assigned an Australian federal electorate. We were given Durack in WA. For a more personal and detailed approach, we directly contacted Melissa Price, the MP for Durack. For our Assessment for this term, we are making a magazine for our electorate with a BOLTSS map, information on Melissa, the environment in Durack, the community and liveability factors. Melissa’s response helped us with our assignment as her email included valuable information to help us with our queries on some of the top civil issues in Durack, such as housing affordability and homelessness and her future plans for Durack. This assessment has given us great freedom, and we have all sincerely enjoyed it.
Ava K, Willa R and Liv L 7A

Jemmah Ind
Humanities Learning Leader

Our Year 7 Rosetta students have now completed two terms of literacy support. The subject takes its name from the Rosetta Stone, reflecting our goal of helping students unlock the power of words through reading, writing, discussion, and reflection.

Throughout the semester, students have developed literacy strategies including summarising, inference, vocabulary development, and reading comprehension. They have also participated in a range of language-focused activities designed to build confidence and communication skills.

Our culminating project, Women Who Dared, invited students to research a woman of significance and create a published biography book cover and blurb. Using brainstorming, drafting, editing, and publishing skills, students explored the lives of women who made important contributions in fields including ones in the posters below.

Students also reflected on the challenges these women faced, the impact they made, and the legacy they left behind. Through written and visual justifications, students explained their design choices and made connections between these inspiring stories and their own lives.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was hearing students discuss their own role models and the qualities they admire in family members, friends, and community figures. These conversations encouraged students to reflect on our school values of joy, compassion, justice, and courage, and to consider how these qualities can inspire leadership and positive action in their own lives.

We invite members of the school community to visit the Women Who Dared Gallery Walk in the Learning Commons and celebrate the thoughtful work of our students.

Thank you and happy holidays!


Vanessa Paciocco
Learning Diversity Leader and English Teacher

Our Year 7 Instrumental Music Performance Night held last Wednesday was a wonderful celebration of learning, growth and musical achievement.

Year 7 students who have been learning an instrument at OLMC this semester took to the stage to perform for an appreciative audience of family and friends. Whether performing as a soloist or as part of an ensemble, every student demonstrated dedication, perseverance and a willingness to challenge themselves in a public performance setting.

The evening featured a diverse range of repertoire, showcasing the many musical styles and skills our students have developed throughout the semester. Each performance reflected the hard work students have invested in their lessons and practice, and we were incredibly proud of the high standard achieved across the evening.

A highlight of the night was seeing our young musicians perform with confidence and courage. Performing in front of an audience can be a daunting experience, and every student should be congratulated for stepping onto the stage and sharing their music with others.

We would also like to thank our parents and families for their ongoing encouragement and support. Your commitment plays an important role in each student's musical journey and contributes greatly to their success.

Congratulations to all performers on an outstanding evening. We look forward to seeing these students perform again at the end of the year and witnessing the continued growth and improvement they achieve throughout the remainder of their musical studies.

Jo-Anne Mileto
Instrumental Music Coordinator

Our Year 8 Students recently completed a chemical sciences unit on classifying matter and were tasked with creating a promotional campaign for an element on the periodic table. As well as presenting their assigned element to their peers in a scientific showcase, students completed a research fact sheet, designed an infographic poster and created eye-catching models which are currently displayed in our science display cabinets. The following is a selection of student descriptions of their creative models:

My model is of a meteorite. This model represents my element iron because iron is commonly found in meteorites.
I constructed my model of a meteorite by wrapping aluminium foil around a handful of rocks from my garden. I then spray-painted the aluminium foil using black spray paint, but I also ensured that some silver parts were still visible. The grey, shiny parts of my model represent iron.
I was inspired to make a model of a meteorite as iron is the most naturally found magnetic element. It is the interaction between the magnetic forces in meteorites and on Earth that causes their attraction to each other. This occurs because over 80% of Earth's inner and outer cores are made up of iron. Therefore, this causes meteorites to constantly travel towards and strike Earth.
Layla H 8H


For my model of helium, I chose to create an MRI scanner although looking back it definitely wasn’t the easiest model to make. I chose to work on helium because it has many important practical uses - apart from party balloons of course! Helium is used for rocket fuel, AI and medical imaging and these are just a few examples.
So, how does helium really work in MRI scanners? Helium is crucial to medicine because it is the only element that can get cold enough without freezing solid at -269 degrees Celsius. The liquid helium wraps around the magnets inside the MRI machine cooling the unit and allowing the machine to generate images of body parts. Essentially, without helium, MRI scanners could not exist affecting modern medical diagnostics and treatment.
Charlotte N 8G


My model represents the element mercury using a tuna fish. I drew a tuna and added pieces of tin foil inside it to show the mercury that can build up in fish living in polluted oceans. I chose this idea because tuna is one of the most common examples used when discussing mercury contamination and its effects on both marine life and human health. The shiny foil represents mercury's silvery, metallic appearance and helps make the model visually interesting. To construct my model, I sketched and coloured the fish before attaching the foil to represent the mercury inside it. This model highlights the connection between the element mercury and real-world environmental issues.
Inaya B 8H


My model represents the element Copper (Cu). I created a giant penny because copper has been historically used in coins, including pennies, and is one of the most recognisable uses of copper. I wanted to show how copper is used and that it has an important role in daily life as well as playing an important role in evolution.
To create my model, I used cardboard cut into a circle and stuck together with even more glue with more cardboard in between. I cut out details and used a hot glue to stick onto the base of the coin. After assembling I painted it copper colour. Creating this model helped me understand the many uses of copper in daily life.
Mia C 8H


The element I was assigned to promote was sodium (Na) and I decided to make a streetlamp. Many streetlamps emit a yellow — orange glow, this is because they are sodium vapor lamps! Sodium vapor lamps make perfect streetlamps because they are cheap to manufacture and their light cuts through rain and fog. My model is made of a wooden bead, a chopstick, a few toothpicks, and some airdry clay!
Mae C 8H


My element model features a lead apron. Lead is a toxic metal but can be used for radioactive protection. This surprised me so I explored further and came across lead aprons. I constructed my lead apron by using a paper bag, outlining a vest and straps and finished by painting it blue. It is a simple creation demonstrating one of the many uses for lead.
Seraphima B 8D


My element model represents a 3D scan of the brain, where the red blood cells are labelled with Chromium. Chromium is used in very controlled amounts to track red blood cells lifespan, mass and volume. Through the scan, you can see where larger amounts of blood cells are. I used cardboard and plastic film to create the box, and air-dry clay and paint for the brain.
Grace W 8C


My element was Aluminium, so my model was a sheet of foil which has a common correlation when you think of my element. I chose aluminium foil because it is not just a model but an everyday example of the element itself. It demonstrates the physical properties highlighted on my poster—such as its shine and malleability—making the chemistry tangible.
Kate Y 8F

Assimina Semertjis
Science Learning Leader

‘Artist Within’ is an extension program for Year 8 students at OLMC who have demonstrated strong achievement and positive work habits in Art. In previous years, students have worked alongside practising artists across a variety of creative disciplines, including ceramics, sculpture, painting, drawing and mosaic art.

This year, the program focused on upcycling and sustainable design through a workshop led by ‘Into Carry’, a creative collective that transforms discarded materials into functional and stylish products. Students designed and created their own tote bags, personalised with embroidered patches, and hand-stitched card wallets using repurposed materials.

The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for students to explore their personal style, develop practical sewing and embroidery skills, and gain a deeper understanding of how creativity can contribute to more sustainable ways of living. It was inspiring to see students combine artistic expression with environmental awareness in such a meaningful and engaging way!

Mark Jenkinson
Design, Art and Technology Learning Leader

Year 10 Enterprise and Innovation students recently showcased their entrepreneurial skills as part of their $20 Boss Market Day assessment. With just $20 in start-up capital each, students established their own small businesses and sold a range of products during Market Day last week. Fourteen student-run businesses competed with one another in the Marion Centre, creating a vibrant and exciting marketplace.

Throughout the assessment, students completed every stage of running a business—from budgeting, costings and market research to designing prototypes, testing recipes, creating marketing materials, and developing a comprehensive Business Plan.

Market Day was a tremendous success, with students demonstrating creativity, teamwork and enterprise. The stalls featured a variety of products, including delicious sweet treats, reflecting the students' enthusiasm, problem-solving skills and innovation.

The following awards were given to businesses:

  • Most Profit: Mini Munch, run by Augustina K, Allegra B and Addison F, with a profit of $217.
  • Most Innovative Product:
    • Loaded Churros (Sofia H, Lily D, Amelia G)
    • Citrus Crunch (Jess K, Valeria I, Madeline D, Piyumi D)
  • Best Store Presentation:
    • Cocoa Crumble Chipmunks (Evie C, Coco H, Katie H, Olivia C)
    • Brownie and Churro Bar (Raavi M, Chloe M, Ariana P)

The Market Day experience provided a valuable hands-on insight into the world of business and entrepreneurship. All proceeds from the event will be donated to McAuley For Women and Children.

Denise Chan
Enterprise and Innovation Teacher

What an amazing term of sporting opportunities for students at OLMC! Our girls have been heavily involved in a variety of weekly GSV Sports, Championship Sports, CGSAV AFL, OLMC Aerobics, and OLMC Gymnastics.

HOUSE ATHLETICS

We started the term off with a bang hosting our annual House Athletics Carnival on Tuesday 5 May. The OLMC community gathered at Tom Kelly Athletics Track in Doncaster for a fantastic 2026 House Athletics Carnival, we want to extend a massive thank you to all the staff and students who made the day such a success.

A number of people are involved in an event of this scale, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who worked behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly.

To our students, you brought such incredible colour, enthusiasm, and joy to the track, whether you were competing in the events, joining in the novelty races, or cheering loudly from the stands, your contribution was amazing.

A big congratulations to McAuley House for being crowned the School Champions once again, as well as to our individual Year Level Champions and Runners-Up for their amazing performances. Well done to everyone who participated in this year's House Athletics Carnival!

Year Level Champion and Runners Up:

Year Level

Year 7

Year 8

Year 9

Year 10

Year 11

Year 12

Champion

Livi B

Sienna PM

Liora R

Emily W

Emily M

Taya C

Runners Up

Kayleigh D

Zoe G

Natalie M

Ruby B

Amelia W

Hanna W

School Results:

Result

Junior School

(Years 7 and 8)

Middle School

(Years 9 and 10)

Senior School

(Years 11 and 12)

1st

McAuley

Carmel

McAuley

2nd

Carmel

Mercy

Loreto

3rd

Mercy

Loreto

Mercy

4th

Loreto

McAuley

Carmel

Overall Results:

Result

House

Points

1st

McAuley

1499

2nd

Mercy

1436

3rd

Carmel

1295

4th

Loreto

1222


CROSS COUNTRY

It was a great day out at Cruden Farm in Langwarrin on Wednesday 20 May for our Cross Country squad. We had 28 OLMC students participating in Division 2 of the Championship Event. While OLMC finished seventh overall, we proudly won the Junior Aggregate competition!

Well done to all those who placed in the top 10 for their events!

EVENT - JUNIOR A Division 2

3rd Place: Livi B Time: 11:49.9

6th Place: Inaya B Time: 12:28.7

EVENT - JUNIOR B Division 2

3rd Place: Ivy T Time: 13:36.1

4th Place: Georgia G Time: 13:44.9

EVENT - INTERMEDIATE A Division 2

1st Place: Olivia C Time: 15:51.1

2nd Place: Phoebe C Time: 16:15.9

7th Place: Holly C Time: 17:36.9

EVENT - SENIOR A Division 2

2nd Place: Lucy C Time: 15:29.4

Well done to all students who participated in Cross Country this term.


CATHOLIC GIRLS SPORT ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA (CGSAV) AFL

We had three teams participate in the CGSAV tournament in June. While our Junior team had a tough day on the field, both our Intermediate and Senior teams fought hard to make it through to their respective Grand Finals.

The Seniors came away with the ultimate win, while the Intermediates finished as proud runners-up after a hard-fought match. Congratulations to Talia K, who was awarded the CGSAV Best Player in the Senior Grand Final!

We wish our Senior AFL Team the best of luck as they progress to compete in the prestigious Herald Sun Shield this coming August.

REPRESENTATIVE GSV SELECTIONS FOR TERM 3

We are thrilled to announce that GSV has selected three of our very own OLMC students to represent the association in this year’s GSV Representative Netball, Soccer, and Cross Country teams!

This is an incredible achievement, and we want to extend a massive congratulations and the best of luck to:

  • Kartika K, Year 11 (GSV Representative Netball Team)
  • Katie H, Year 10 (GSV Representative Soccer Team)
  • Lucy C, Year 11 (GSV Representative Cross Country Team)

We wish the girls all the best as they prepare to compete later in the year. What a fantastic effort!

SUCCESS AT STATE ALL SCHOOLS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

  • Livi B, Year 7 competed at the recent Athletics Victoria, State All Schools Cross Country Championship Event at Bundoora Park. Livi finished 11th in her age group which means she has qualified to run for Victoria at the National Cross Country Championship in Ballarat in August.

Congratulations to Livi, we wish her well.


GSV WEEKLY SPORTS

We want to give a special thanks to all the students who were involved and committed to a GSV Sport this Term. This term OLMC held Netball for Junior, Intermediate and Senior levels, as well as Hockey and AFL for Juniors.

We have had a very successful semester in sport particularly with our netball teams. Congratulations to teams in our Senior and Junior squads for making it into finals this year, what an incredible achievement.

In Junior netball, an amazing 6 out of the 10 teams made finals (Teams A, B, C, D and I). Whilst the teams may have not finished with the result they wanted on the day, they did a fantastic job in representing OLMC.

Our Senior A and B teams both made the finals. While unfortunately, the B team was knocked out early, the A team progressed through with a one point semi-final win before securing an impressive win in the grand final. This premiership has earned them a place at the State Championships next term.

We congratulate all students who competed in GSV Weekly Sport. See our finishing positions below on respective GSV Sport ladders:

TEAMS

LADDER POSITION

JUNIORS

NETBALL:

TEAM A

2nd

TEAM B

1st - Junior A Zone Winner

TEAM C

1st - Junior B Zone Winner

TEAM D

1st - Junior C Zone Winner

TEAM E

3rd

TEAM F

2nd

TEAM G

3rd

TEAM H

2nd

TEAM I

1st - Junior F Zone Winner

TEAM J

3rd

AFL:

TEAM A

3rd

INTERMEDIATES

NETBALL:

TEAM A

6th

TEAM B

8th

TEAM C

4th

TEAM D

6th

TEAM E

7th

SENIORS

NETBALL:

TEAM A

4th - Premier Netball Senior A

TEAM B

3rd

Thank you to all the staff, coaches, and students involved in OLMC Sport for Term 2.

Trevor Robertson
Sports Coordinator

Caitlin Rafter
Sport Administration Assistant

With all the many sporting opportunities that Term two provided, you would think what more can we do!

Over the past three weeks, our Sport Captains have been running a Year 7 and 8 lunchtime netball competition, and it has been a fantastic success!

A great deal of effort and planning went into organising the competition, from creating teams and fixtures to supervising games each week. The Sport Captains were also assisted by the Netball Captains, whose support helped ensure the competition ran smoothly and provided an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Throughout the competition, students demonstrated excellent teamwork, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm. It was fantastic to see so many students participating, building new friendships, and enjoying some friendly competition during their lunch breaks.

Congratulations to Team 3, who were crowned the overall winners of the competition after three weeks of exciting matches.

A huge thank you to the Sport Captains for their hard work and dedication in making this event such a success and well done to all students who participated. We look forward to seeing more students involved in future lunchtime sporting competitions.

Trevor Robertson
Sports Coordinator

Megan Edwards
Head of Student Wellbeing

On Monday 22 June, we held our Term 2 Whole School Assembly. This gathering allows us to shine a light on the many activities our students have participated in across Semester 1. It is a way of acknowledging the many students who are doing their best to fulfil this year’s scriptural theme: ‘Whatever you do, do it with all your heart.’ Colossians 3:23a. Stopping to gather together to recognise these achievements is a way we connect to our College value of joy and is an important element of being a vibrant college community.

In the assembly, we were able to acknowledge the team of students who make up our SRC. The following students were given their leadership badges for their commitment to the College:

Hannah K (College Captain)

Aprila D (College Captain)

Carina B (Year 12)

Aarchi K (Year 12)

Romi L (Year 11)

Isabella L (Year 11)

Caitlin S (Year 10)

Evie C (Year 10)

Chiara M (Year 9)

Stephanie S (Year 9)

Kita D (Year 8)

Charlotte N (Year 8)

Two Year 7 students will join the team in Semester 2.

During the assembly, we were also able to make a presentation to Hayley Marriott, Fundraising and Engagement Lead at McAuley for Women and Children, with the funds that were raised from this year’s Dare2Donate campaign. This fundraising tradition began in 2014 and each year various fun activities are run in the last week of Term 2 so that we can direct our efforts to support this valuable service. On Friday, our teachers bravely stepped up and fulfilled their dares, with Barnaby Joyce and ‘Kath & Kim’ a few of the characters who made a special appearance. Thank you to Jessica Battersby, our Student Leadership Coordinator and the hard-working Year 12 Student Leadership Team for coordinating these events for the College community.

Megan Edwards
Head of Student Wellbeing

At OLMC, we believe that a positive school culture grows from the everyday choices we make—especially in the way we speak, act, and connect with each other. As a Real Schools partner, we’re committed to building a community where respect and values aren’t just talked about but lived out in every interaction.

This year, our Middle Leaders have taken a simple but powerful step: greeting students at the gates each morning. This isn’t just a friendly hello—it’s an opportunity to use affective language, setting the tone for the day with warmth and clarity. By acknowledging students’ readiness and uniform with genuine, specific feedback, we show that we notice and value their efforts.

We’re also using the ‘Learn’ Instructional Model to guide our teaching and behaviour expectations. Positive priming is a key part of this approach. Instead of focusing on what not to do, we highlight the behaviours we want to see - helping students picture what success can look like.

When addressing behaviour that does not meet our expectations, our restorative practice approach means that an affective interaction takes place. These interactions have three areas of focus: what has happened in the past, how students and staff might feel in the present, and what needs to be done for the future. For more information about affective Interactions, please see the article below:

These small, consistent actions add up. They are designed to help students feel seen and supported, encourage personal responsibility, and strengthen the sense of belonging that makes OLMC the community it is.

Megan Edwards
Head of Student Wellbeing

eSafety, police and researchers see reports of online sexual abuse increasing each year. A recent Australian study found that 1 in 13 children under 18 had experienced sexual images of them being shared without consent (this is image-based abuse). A recent media campaign has encouraged parents and carers to have conversations with children and young people about this issue. For support on how best to chat to your young person, please make use of the many resources that are compiled on the eSafety website, a link to which can be found here eSafety Resources for Parents and Carers.

eSafety also run a series of online webinars that may also be helpful. These can be found here: eSafety Parent and Carers Webinars.

Megan Edwards
Head of Student Wellbeing

Parent Connections are running a ‘Tuning into Teens’ Program designed to support parents and carers who would like to:

  • Improve communication with their teen
  • Reduce conflict at home
  • Build stronger family connections
  • Better understand teenage emotions and behaviour
  • Learn practical tools and strategies that actually work

Please see flyer attached.

Every year, all schools in Australia participate in the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD). The NCCD process requires schools to identify information already available in the school about supports provided to students with disability. These relate to legislative requirements under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Disability Standards for Education 2005, in line with the NCCD guidelines (2019).

Information provided about students to the Australian Government for the NCCD includes:

  • year of schooling
  • category of disability: physical, cognitive, sensory or social/emotional
  • level of adjustment provided: support provided within quality differentiated teaching practice, supplementary, substantial or extensive.

This information assists schools to:

  • formally recognise the supports and adjustments provided to students with disability in schools
  • consider how they can strengthen the support of students with disability in schools
  • develop shared practices so that they can review their learning programs in order to improve educational outcomes for students with disability.

The NCCD provides state and federal governments with the information they need to plan more broadly for the support of students with disability.

The NCCD will have no direct impact on your child and your child will not be involved in any testing process. The school will provide data to the Australian Government in such a way that no individual student will be able to be identified – the privacy and confidentiality of all students is ensured. All information is protected by privacy laws that regulate the collection, storage and disclosure of personal information. To find out more about these matters, please refer to the Australian Government Department of Education Privacy Policy.

Please visit: Fact Sheet for Parents, Guardians and Carers for a FAQ sheet with more information about the NCCD. You can also obtain further information about the NCCD on the NCCD Portal.

Catherine Burke
Learning Diversity Coordinator

The OLMC Parents Association invite you to the

OLMC Back to School Trivia Night – Book here: https://www.trybooking.com/DNLZF

Grab your friends, brush up on your general knowledge, dress up in your back to school best and get ready for a fun-filled night of trivia, laughs and friendly competition!

Hosted by the OLMC Parents Association, this adults-only event is the perfect chance to connect with the OLMC community and enjoy a great night out.

Book a full table of 10 and create your dream trivia team or purchase individual tickets on available tables.

Gather your cleverest friends and book early, this is one school night you won't want to miss!

EVENT INFO

  • WHEN Friday 31 July 2026, doors open 6:30pm for a 7:00pm start. Conclusion 9:00pm
  • TICKETS $25 per person, tables of 10 available
  • FOOD Bring your own OR purchase a Little Naples pizza ($25 each) info for purchasing will be sent before the event
  • DRINKS Please note that this is not a BYO function. Beer, wine and soft drinks will be available to purchase at bar prices throughout the event
  • PRIZES Door Prizes and Best Dress Table
  • BOOK HERE: https://www.trybooking.com/DNLZF


Apply Online

Apply now for Year 7 2028

Applications for Year 7 2028 at OLMC Heidelberg close Friday 14 August 2026. Apply online now.

Apply now

Applications for the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) 2026 are now open and remain open until the end of Term 2 - Friday 26 June 2026.

Parents/Legal Guardians holding a Concession Card and being successfully validated with Centrelink will be entitled to a payment of $400 per year for each Secondary School student.

Parents, please refer to the 2026 Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF) Application Form attached.

Please complete this application and return it as soon as possible to Visitor Reception at OLMC along with a photocopy of your relevant Concession Card.

Follow the official Our Lady of Mercy College accounts on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. We’ll be sharing regular news, student achievements and stories from around the College.

OLMC College Tours

Bookings for 2026 Tours are now open.

Prospective families are invited on a tour of the OLMC facilities followed by an information session with Principal Judith Weir, Transition Coordinator Rowena Thomson and two students.

BOOK NOW