Weekly Newsletter #45 - 26 Feb 2025
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Reflection - Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent - What is Lent?
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From the Executive Director
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DOBCEL Board member school visits
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Next Principal of Emmanuel College Warrnambool
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Celebrating International Women's Day
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Showcasing our Catholic schools in Action
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Spirit of Catholic Education Awards 2025 - Nominations NOW OPEN!
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THCT605: Enhancing Catholic Identity: Introducing the Leuven Project
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People and Development Updates
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Wellbeing Updates
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Catholic Identity and Mission Updates
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Learning and Teaching Updates
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Career Opportunities in the Diocesan Education Community
Reflection - Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent - What is Lent?

Please click here to view today's reflection about Lent.
From the Executive Director

Last week, we had the privilege of gathering at the Diocesan Leadership Gathering in Horsham. It was a great event, where school leaders from across the Diocese came together to discuss our 2035 strategy. The day was filled with opportunities for collaboration, where we shared highlights from our schools and reflected on our hopes for the future of Catholic education. One of the key highlights of the event was hearing from panellists who are participating in mentorship programs led by renowned educators Andy Hargreaves and David Hopkins. Their insights on leadership and educational innovation provided valuable perspectives that we can all apply in our work with students and staff.
Additionally, we were treated to some thought-provoking insights from Pasi Sahlberg, who shared compelling statistics about the key drivers of educational success. His research underscored the importance of collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to continuous improvement as essential components of achieving educational excellence.
Today, the DOBCEL Board is meeting at St James Parish School, Sebastopol. We’ve had the opportunity to tour the school and will enjoy morning tea with staff later this morning. These visits are integral to our work, providing us with the chance to connect with local communities and hear directly from school leaders about their successes and challenges.
In 2025, the Board will continue to visit schools throughout the Diocese. We’ve scheduled visits to Robinvale, Daylesford, Horsham, Port Fairy, and Ballarat, where we’ll meet with school leaders, parish priests, SAC chairs, and local ministers. These visits are complemented by dinners with local education stakeholders, providing a valuable space for discussion and relationship-building.
It’s also important to highlight that Eugene Dalton has joined our Board this year. Eugene’s first meeting is today, and we’re excited to welcome him. He brings a wealth of experience, having recently served as Chair of the Learning & Teaching Consultative Committee, and his background as a long standing principal and CEB staff member will be invaluable.
Lastly, I’d like to draw your attention to some recent data from the Victorian Catholic Education Authority (VCEA). According to new figures released on government spending in education, non-government schools in Victoria saved taxpayers over $3.5 billion in 2022-23. These figures highlight the significant contribution of Catholic schools, where parents play an integral role in offsetting the funding gap, ensuring the continued growth and success of our schools. I’ve included a link to the full PDF for those who wish to include this in their school newsletters.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication to Catholic education and for the incredible work you all do within your schools. I look forward to continuing to work together to shape the future of education in our Diocese.
With best wishes,
Tom Sexton, Executive Director
DOBCEL Board member school visits
Our DOBCEL Board members are committed to regularly visiting schools to gain a better understanding of their unique communities and needs. Throughout the year, the Board will visit schools across the region, where we’ll engage with school leaders, parish representatives, local committees, and community members. These visits will also include dinners with key educational stakeholders, creating valuable opportunities for discussion and relationship-building.
Big thanks to the Principals and school leaders who have hosted us for meetings and tours so far!







Next Principal of Emmanuel College Warrnambool

Mercy Education Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Rachel McGennisken as the next Principal of Emmanuel College Warrnambool, commencing in Term 2, 2025.
With over 25 years of experience in Catholic education, Rachel brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success across Victorian Catholic Schools to Emmanuel College. Currently the Deputy Principal at Trinity College Colac, Rachel has led improvement and innovative initiatives to enhance student engagement and drive academic success since 2022.
Prior to joining Trinity College, Rachel served as Assistant Principal: Teaching and Learning at St Bridgid’s College Horsham, and as a Senior Education Officer at the Catholic Education Office Ballarat, where she led the development, implementation, and research for the Improving Literacy in the Secondary Years (ILSY) program.
With a clear mission to see all members of the school community succeed, Rachel is committed to ensuring Emmanuel College is a place where innovation drives excellence, learning is transformative, and the Mercy spirit of compassion, justice, courage, respect, hospitality, and service continues to thrive.
We look forward to the positive impact Rachel will have on the Emmanuel College community as the seventh principal in its proud history.
We extend our gratitude to Peter Morgan for his outstanding leadership and service to the Emmanuel College community. His vision and dedication during his 12-year tenure has strengthened the school’s position in the community and beyond.
Celebrating International Women's Day

It’s fantastic to see so much energy and enthusiasm across the Catholic Education sector in support of International Women's Day (IWD)! This year, we’re embracing the theme "Accelerate Action," and there are some great events lined up to celebrate. We also encourage you and your teams to wear purple next Friday 7 March (day before IWD) in recognition of the day.

Damascus College in Ballarat will be hosting a vibrant IWD breakfast, featuring an inspiring panel discussion. Attendees will hear from incredible speakers, including Carly Myers (OAM), Gender & Disability Advisor at Women's Health Grampians; Deborah Clark, Koorie Education Coordinator at the Department of Education Victoria; and Dee Angelina Micevski, Gender Equality in Sport Lead at Women’s Health Grampians. Click here to view the flyer.

Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to hear from Professor Elizabeth Labone, VCEA CEO, as she joins a lineup of amazing female thought leaders at an engaging webinar hosted by the Victorian Academy of Teaching and Leadership to celebrate this special day. Register for the webinar here.
If your school is planning an event or wants to share the excitement on social media, please remember to use this year's hashtags: #IWD2025 and #AccelerateAction. Every activity counts, and that’s what makes IWD such an inclusive celebration. Let’s make our voices heard and take action together.
Click here to view the FREE IWD Resources and Toolkit.
Click here to view the Educational Resources on our website. A Converge International article about IWD can be found here.
Showcasing our Catholic schools in Action
OLHC Teacher, Jodi Toering, Has Been Listed in the CBCA Book of the Year Awards Notables, Twice!
We are blessed to have incredibly talented teachers in our DOBCEL schools including Jodi Toering at OLHC Our Lady Help of Christians School, Wendouree.
The Children’s Book Council of Australia had their ‘Night of the Notables’ last night and Jodi’s book Night Watch has been listed not once, but twice in the 2025 Book of the Year Awards Notables, featuring in both the Early Childhood and Picture Book categories. Jodi has also released a new picture storybook, Rain on the Rock! Fantastic work Jodie.
Click here for the CBCA Book of the Year Awards 2025 notables.





Spirit of Catholic Education Awards 2025 - Nominations NOW OPEN!
Join Us in Honouring Excellence in Catholic Education!
DOBCEL is proud to continue to sponsor an award process aimed at continuing to recognise the outstanding service and leadership within Catholic education throughout our Diocesan school communities, and the Catholic Education Office.
In 2025, the refreshed awards align with the DOBCEL Strategy 2035 strategic priorities, which are positioned to support the DOBCEL vision “as partners in Catholic Education and open to God’s presence, we pursue fullness of life for all.”
Everyone is encouraged to get involved and nominate their colleagues!
Please click here to view detailed 2025 Spirit of Catholic Education Awards information.
THCT605: Enhancing Catholic Identity: Introducing the Leuven Project

We're hoping to capture any last-minute interest for 'THCT605: Enhancing Catholic Identity: Introducing the Leuven Project.
Please click here to register for this session.
People and Development Updates
Deputy and Assistant Principal and Senior Leader Network meeting - Thursday 27 March 2:30-3:30pm
The first Deputy and Assistant Principal and Senior Leader Network meeting will be held on Thursday 27 March from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM.
DOBCEL Executive Director, Tom Sexton will present on the DOBCEL Strategy 2035, building on the insights shared during the 2024 strategy presentation. This session will provide valuable next steps and updates on the strategy.
For further information on this session please contact Janet Claassen or Fiona Murphy.
To register for the session please click here.
Leadership Development - Program Offerings for Term 1
Throughout 2025 a number of leadership development opportunities will run to support the implementation of the DOBCEL strategy 2035 and the development of our leaders.
During term one, the following opportunities are offered.
Feedback - Facilitated by BTS Sparks
| Date, time & location | March 6, Sovereign Park Motor Inn, Ballarat 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM |
| Program overview | Feedback plays a crucial role in the development of collaboration skills. The focus of this program is shifting mindsets from –
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| Target Audience | This program is designed for current people leaders – eg: Early Career Principals, Deputy or Assistant Principals, members of school leadership teams and is also suitable for aspiring people leaders and CEB staff. |
| Booking Link | https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1342196 |
| Cost | $275 |
For further information please click here.
(Minimum participant numbers apply for the program to run)
Collaboration - Facilitated by BTS Sparks
| Date, time & location | March 6, Sovereign Park Motor Inn, Ballarat 9:00 – 12:30pm |
| Program overview | The focus of this program is to deeply understand what collaboration means and how to bring the best version of yourself to collaborate. It focuses on shifting mindsets from –
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| Target Audience | This program is designed for current people leaders – eg: Early Career Principals, Deputy or Assistant Principals, members of school leadership teams and is also suitable for aspiring people leaders and CEB staff. |
| Booking Link | https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1342190 |
| Cost | $275 |
(Minimum participant numbers apply for the program to run)
For further information please click here.
Click here to view the full list of leadership development opportunities for 2025.
If you have any questions related to Leadership Development opportunities please contact Fiona Murphy.
Employee Relations - Training Opportunity
The ER Team is running 4 workshop this year (1 each Term) on the following areas, room is limited to 20 pax, so registration is required.
Know Your Agreement – Leave Entitlements
A two hour session designed to provide a clear overview of the different type of key leave arrangements under the CEMEA, with the aim of helping Principals, senior leadership and Managers understand their rights, roles and obligations of all parties when considering leave applications and entitlements.
Managing Employee Performance
A session that will provide essential information and guidance to help navigate the complexity of dealing with performance issues in the workplace to ensure you meet your obligations in line with the CEMEA and general employment law.
Please click on one of the following links below to register your interest. We look forward to seeing you on the day.
| Know Your Agreement: Leave Entitlements - Term 1 - VC | 26-Mar-25 | 10:30am-12:30pm | ONLINE | https://www.trybooking.com/CZMJR |
| Know Your Agreement: Leave Entitlements - Term 3 - VC | 28-Aug-25 | 10:30am-12:30pm | ONLINE | https://www.trybooking.com/CZMWO |
| Managing Employee Performance - Term 2 - VC | 18-Jun-25 | 10:30am-12:30pm | ONLINE | https://www.trybooking.com/CZNNM |
| Managing Employee Performance - Term 4 - VC | 26-Nov-25 | 10:30am-12:30pm | ONLINE | https://www.trybooking.com/CZNNS |
Wellbeing Updates
Strengthening Our Response: Collaborative Professional Learning - Understanding and Responding to Harmful Child Sexualised Behaviour in Primary Schools

Jacqui Righetti (DOBCEL Manager: Child Safety), Lyndell White (Centre Against Sexual Assault), Michaella Sinclair (Centre Against Sexual Assault), Leading Senior Constable Clare Kane (Proactive Policing Unit Victoria Police), Brooke Nester (Education Officer Wellbeing).
In alignment with Catholic Education Ballarat’s unwavering commitment to the Child Safe Standards and Mandatory Reporting obligations, this professional learning opportunity brought together expertise from multiple sectors to enhance our collective capacity to safeguard children and young people.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of students is a shared responsibility, requiring deep understanding, coordinated efforts, and evidence-based strategies. By working together, we can strengthen school-based approaches to identifying, managing, and responding in ways that uphold student safety and dignity.
For further information see PROTECT – 4 Critical Actions for Student Sexual Offending and Identify and Responding to student sexual offending or contact Jacqui Righetti Manager: Child Safety jrighetti@dobcel.catholic.edu.au.
MARAM Training for Nominated Staff in Schools
MARAM is the evidence-based family violence Multi-Agency Risk Assessment and Management (MARAM) framework that almost 400,000 workers in Victoria align with to support their family violence practice. It was implemented in 2021 along with the Child Information Sharing Scheme and the Family Violence Information Sharing Scheme; together, these three interrelated reforms support schools and services in reducing family violence and promoting child wellbeing and safety.
Schools and services must share information and undertake their MARAM responsibilities alongside other services to protect children and young people from experiencing the harm caused by family violence. The training includes activities that will support MARAM nominated staff to screen for family violence, plan for safety, make referrals and reports, and provide ongoing support.
Registration via the link below to enroll for face to face training in Ballarat on the 27th of March or Warrnambool on the 28th March. Alternatively online sessions are being held twice a week until June.
Catholic Identity and Mission Updates

Pilgrims for Hope Music Collection for Parishes & Schools
A new collection of music written especially for the Jubilee Year of Hope by Australian composers is out now!
There are 10 titles in the collection which is suitable for a variety of liturgical, prayer and school settings.
The Collection is available as a physical music book at this link: bit.ly/4asqmn8
All other editions, including the music book, professional recordings, and lyric slides are available for immediate download at www.willowpublishing.com.au
Additional information is also available on the website.


Staff Resources for Lent 2025
The following list of resources may be useful for staff prayer and reflection this coming Lent.
Lent commences on Ash Wednesday, which this year, is 5 March. Consider your local context and needs when accessing and using these resources and make appropriate adjustments as needed.
Lent Resource - Archdiocesan Ministries (Brisbane)
https://summit.melbournecatholic.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Proclaim_LentenResource_2025-1.pdf (Melbourne)
The Ignatian Workout for Lent: An Online Retreat with Tim Muldoon
(Ignation Spirituality Retreat)
Learning and Teaching Updates
GENERAL NEWS

English as an Additional Language
The EAL Grapevine
Please click this link to read the Term 1 EAL Grapevine.
This issue includes:
- Online EAL tutoring
- Professional learning opportunities.
- The Migrant Story: Nepal.
- Useful resources.

PAT News
ACER is pleased to offer a series of webinars targeted to schools using, or about to use, the PAT Progressive Achievement suite online.
Webinars Term 1:
PAT Interviews: exploring the context of PAT in a school setting Wednesday, 26 February 4pm
Understanding PAT workshop: designed to deepen knowledge of PAT and analysis of student data Wednesday 26 March 9am - 3pm
Click here to find out more information and to register for the PAT sessions

Early Career Teachers - Professional Learning 2025
The Early Career Teacher Program is a three-year integrated program designed to support early career teacher induction into the Ballarat Diocese and the teaching profession within the particular context of working in the ministry of Catholic education. The program reflects the partnership between DOBCEL and schools, who, together, support the professional growth of early career teachers. Elements of the program presented through these dedicated days will complement formation opportunities initiated by the school community.
Early Career Teacher program days will take place on the following dates throughout 2025. To encourage participation and decrease travel time for people in the north, program days in terms one and two will be repeated in two locations.
If you know an early career teacher, please share these dates with them!
Please note early career teachers who have been granted permission to teach are also welcome to attend.
2025 dates for your diary
First Year ECT Program
| Central Location | Northern Location Session will go ahead subject to numbers | Cost | Mode of delivery | |
Term 1 Location Booking link | Tuesday March 11 9am-3pm Ballarat -Glowrey Room – St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall https://www.trybooking.com/CYLBI | Monday March 17 9am-3pm Mildura or Robinvale (TBC subject to registrations) https://www.trybooking.com/CYLCH | $80 | Face to Face |
Term 2 Location | Monday May 19 9am-3pm Ballarat -Glowrey Room – St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall | Wednesday May 21 9am-3pm Mildura or Robinvale TBC (subject to registrations) | $80 | Face to Face |
Term 3 Location | Formation Retreat - August 13/14 Halls Gap | Formation Retreat - August 13/14 Halls Gap | TBC | Face to Face |
| Term 4 | ECT Check-ins Weeks 3 & 4 20/10 – 1/11 | ECT Check-ins Weeks 3 & 4 20/10 – 1/11 | N/A | Online |
Second & Third Year ECT Program
| Central Location | Northern Location Session will go ahead subject to numbers | Cost | Mode of delivery | |
Term 1 Location Booking link | Thursday, March 20 9am-3pm Ballarat -Glowrey Room – St Patrick’s Cathedral Hall https://www.trybooking.com/CYLDB | Tuesday, March 18 9am-3pm Mildura or Robinvale (TBC subject to registrations) https://www.trybooking.com/CYLCK | $80 | Face to Face |
Term 2 Location | Thursday June 12 Online check-in (1 hour) 3:45-4:45pm | Thursday June 12 Online check-in (1 hour) 3:45-4:45pm | $80 | Online |
Term 3 Location | Formation Retreat - August 13/14 Halls Gap | Formation Retreat - August 13/14 Halls Gap | TBC | Face to Face |
| Term 4 | ECT Check-ins Weeks 3 & 4 20/10 – 1/11 | ECT Check-ins Weeks 3 & 4 20/10 – 1/11 | N/A | Online |
If you have any queries about the program, please contact Julie Cooper jcooper@dobcel.catholic.edu.au or Sarah Hanley shanley@dobcel.catholic.edu.au

VIT Effective Mentoring Program
Calling mentor teachers!
The Effective Mentoring Program (EMP) is a free professional learning program developed and delivered in partnership with the Department of Education and VIT.
This two-day program equips participants with mentoring skills to support beginning teachers and guide them through the provisional to full registration process.
Any teacher who wishes to become a mentor for a PRT moving to full registration can participate in a VIT-approved mentoring program.

For further information and registrations, please click here.
Children & Youth Cultural Gathering: Close the Gap Day
Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative are hosting a cultural day on Thursday March 30 for Yr 1-9 First Nations students from Ballarat and district. All Ballarat schools are encouraged to promote this event.
More information and register here: https://forms.office.com/r/Tiq1mvXB7p

FIRE Carrier Program
Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education
The FIRE Carrier Program is a way that schools can show their outward commitment to authentic reconciliation and their support of self-determination in education for First Nations students and their families. All members of a school community are encouraged to share reconciliation with others under the lead of the Commissioned Staff and Student FIRE Carriers.
Each school creates a School Covenant that emphasises the ethos and faith belief of Catholic schools and the social justice responses they are committed to make as part of their Catholic identity. The school covenant focuses on the three core values of Spirituality; Cultural Recognition and Awareness; and Practical Recognition and Justice. Schools commit to actions that meet each of these values. This is a living document that is referred to throughout the year and has the input from the school community including staff and students. First Nations students and families are also invited to contribute if they would like to part of the program.
The FIRE Carrier Program provides a framework for addressing School Compliance including Child Safe Standards and the VCEA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Action Plan. It is a great opportunity for student leadership, voice and action for social justice.
We look forward to your school becoming a FIRE Carrier School in the future!
For more information about the FIRE Carrier Program send an email to firecarrier@openingthedoors.org.au
You can visit our New FIRE Carrier School Information folder containing our Information Booklet, PowerPoint presentation, Fee Schedule and Expression of Commitment Form ready to share the FIRE Carrier Program with your school leadership, staff and students.

Opening the Doors Foundation
Financial Grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students
The Opening the Doors Foundation provides grants to families to assist with the extra costs incurred in the schooling of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander primary or secondary school students. The 2025 Grant Round is now open, with a closing date of 14 March 2025. For students to commence the 2025 school year with the necessary items, the ideal time to apply is now or before the start of Term 1.
Please note that due to a substantial increase in applications, the Foundation’s Trustees have had to modify the eligibility criteria. The updated criteria and guidelines are outlined on both the Opening the Doors Foundation website and the Opening the Doors Foundation Application. Please contact the Foundation (details listed below), Helen Christensen (0467 415 768) or Jeanette Morris (0408 360 098) for further information.
Pertinent information:
Website: Opening the Doors Foundation; Foundation Application Criteria and Guidelines
App link: Opening the Doors Foundation Application
Phone: 0401 487 414 or 1300 236 356
Email: applications@openingthedoors.org.au
Closing date: 14 March 2025 (applications will not be accepted after this date)
PRIMARY NEWS
English Bites
English Version 2.0 Familiarisation
Schools in the Ballarat Diocese will engage in familiarisation in 2025 and move to implementation in 2026.
CEB will offer a series of three invitational online workshops to assist schools to understand and implement the changes to English Version 2.0 curriculum. Please note that Flare Guided Schools have this work built into their PL syllabus but are very welcome to engage.

Please use this link to register your attendance for session 1.
If you have any queries with regard to these sessions, please contact:
Sarah McKnight: SMcKnight@dobcel.catholic.edu.au 0427 406 918
Belinda Chiswell: BChiswell@dobcel.catholic.edu.au 0484 641 997
Joe Ewing: JEwing@dobcel.catholic.edu.au 0429 985 460
Flare Phase B Professional Learning Day One
Tuesday 11 March, 9am – 3pm Online via the Flare Website Zoom Link.
All Phase B schools are required to register for this event as soon as possible.
Phase C and Lighthouse school leaders are encouraged to register teachers who are new to Guided Literacy Improvement in 2025.
Educators from Self-Guided Literacy Improvement schools are welcome to join this event if they wish and must also register beforehand.
Registrations can be made via the Flare calendar.
This PL event will focus on:
- Integrating Literacy and the knowledge curriculum
- The Flare Integrated Lit-HAS Scope & Sequence
- Knowledge and Comprehension
- The ‘Pulling it all Together’ hour of the Flare Literacy Block
- Literacy Planning
Please contact Holly Southwell if you have any questions: hsouthwell@dobcel.catholic.edu.au
Choosing a Systematic, Synthetic Phonics Program (SSP)
Expression of Interest
⭐ We are seeking expressions of interest from those that are considering selecting a phonics program for implementation this year as part of the FLARE – Primary Literacy Strategy including both our guided and self-guided schools⭐
Many schools may already have a phonics program in place, while others may be selecting one for implementation this year. With a wide range of phonics programs available, it is important to note that not all are recognised as Systematic, Synthetic Phonics (SSP) in alignment with the Science of Reading.
If your school is interested in exploring widely used phonics programs across the Ballarat Diocese, please complete this Expression of Interest (EOI) form by Wednesday 5 March.
Based on the responses received, an online forum is proposed to provide schools with further information on these programs. The goal is to support schools in their discernment and change management processes when selecting an SSP program.
For further information, please reach out to your local Education Officer – Learning & Teaching.

Primary Leaders of Learning Meeting Schedule 2025
Our Primary Leaders of Learning network aims to provide a platform for open dialogue, sharing of evidence-based teaching practices, and collaboration among primary school leaders.
By coming together, we can leverage our collective knowledge of learning and experiences to enhance the quality of education we provide to our students.
PLOL Meeting Dates 2025 and Agenda Items for Term 1
Please register your intentions to attend the Term 1 PLOL meeting here.
Term 1: Wednesday 5th March 1:30 – 3pm
Agenda Items:
Educational leadership
Curriculum updates
Reporting to Mathematics V2.0
Term 2: Wednesday 28th May 1:30 – 3pm
Term 3: Wednesday 27th August 1:30 – 3pm
Term 4: Wednesday 22nd October 1:30 – 3pm

Pictured are TCL Language Leaders L - R: Morgan Knaggs, Our Lady Help of Christians Wendouree, Tim Gilbert, Siena PS Lucas, Lauren Gould, DOBCEL Languages Education Officer and Chelsea Brennan, St Brigid’s Ballan.
Teachers as Co-Learners (TCL) Language Leader training – ‘Building literacy communities’
TCL Language Leaders from the Ballarat Diocese and Melbourne Archdiocese met in Melbourne on Friday 21st February. The theme of the day was ‘building literacy communities’ and Language Leaders participated in sessions on literacy and assessment practices in TCL, how to support staff through coaching and shared examples of TCL best-practice to inform the development of school goals. Keynote presenter, Dr Sarah Ohi from Deakin University, discussed the findings of a recent research project about TCL schools, focused on languages and literacy learning, which highlighted the benefits of the program.
The research found that the co-learner model provides a positive and valuable learning experience, encourages risk-taking and collaboration, increases retention of language and students’ ability to make literacy connections between languages. The findings will be included in an upcoming chapter of English, Language(s), Education: Australian Schooling and the Multilingual Project (forthcoming 2025). Editors: A/Prof. Marianne Turner (Monash University) and Prof. Em. Bill Green. Routledge, Taylor and Francis.

Mathematics Professional Learning for 2025
Engaging Primary Students In Their Mathematical Learning presented by Michael Minas
The first session with Michael was held on Tuesday 11 February. This was a very engaging and practical session.
Participants’ Reflections
I thoroughly enjoyed Michael’s session. Our discussion highlighted the importance of student engagement and the need to ensure that students feel both supported and challenged in their learning. Michael’s insights reinforced how fostering a dynamic and stimulating environment helps students develop deeper understanding and confidence. It was a valuable session that left me reflecting on the impact of meaningful engagement in mathematics. Mel Kupper (St Patrick's Nhill)
Michael's definition of engagement, and his quote from Peter Liljedahl connecting problem-solving and thinking resonated with me. His session was engaging and practical, demonstrating the importance and effectiveness of authentic problems that enable students to 'choose and use calculation strategies, communicating their solutions within a modelling context' (V.2 Mathematics Curriculum.) I really loved the way Michael helped me work through an error without drawing much attention to it and demonstrating the benefits of having supports like 100 charts readily available. I've already shared his possible 'maths lesson structure' with our teachers and am looking forward to the next session - March 25. Thea Hubble (St Patrick’s Primary Ballarat)
Having read this feedback if you would like to participate it is not too late to register through this link.
This will be your final opportunity to register.
Registrations will close FRIDAY 28th February.
Access to the recording from session 1 is available to all participants for 30 days. You will also have access to the folder of resources.
If you have any questions, please contact
Sarah McKnight smcknight@dobcel.catholic.edu.au OR
Teresa Hadden thadden@dobcel.catholic.edu.au

Teaching Mathematics to Foundation Students with Michael Ymer
Ballarat: 25 March
This day will be full of activities that teachers can readily take back and trial with their students.
Content for the day will include:
- Teachers enjoying teaching mathematics, children enjoying learning mathematics.
- A sensible approach to covering all the content in the new Victorian Curriculum Version 2.0.
- Managing mixed abilities so all students experience success.
- Resourcing the mathematics classroom.
- Integrating number with other strands to support a meaningful learning environment.
For more information and registration details click here
F-6 Mathematics Curriculum V2.0
Where are you currently on the Roadmap in preparation for the implementation of Mathematics V2.0 in 2025? Reflect on what you have in place and cross reference your progress against the 2025 Implementation Roadmap document.
Voices from the field sharing their journey about preparing to implement Mathematics V2.0
For more assistance, please contact:
Sarah McKnight smcknight@dobel.catholic.edu.au
OR
Teresa Hadden: thadden@dobcel.catholic.edu.au
SECONDARY NEWS

VCE English Catholic Network (VECN)
We have launched the DOBCEL VECN Project for 2025. Formerly a VCE English improvement project run by MACS, the VECN has found a new home at DOBECL and is now supporting 30 secondary schools across the state with access for every DOBCEL school who is part of the ECP Project.
The project consultant is Kirstin Bourne, and she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience of VCE English to schools in the network. VECN is hosted on Canvas and provides resources and recordings to support teachers in their planning and teaching as well as in understanding the curriculum and examination requirements. We have streamed videos supporting VCE texts that can be used directly with students as well as adaptable resources and live Q&A forums for teachers to respond to recordings and build a network of shared practice.
Our first online seminar was with schools discussing the new Study Design and how they were approaching the teaching and planning for Unit 3. It was great to hear leaders and teachers really thinking about the practicalities of curriculum implementation.
Combined with the English Curriculum Project (ECP), DOBCEL are now supporting English teachers from 7-12 across two dynamic networks.
As part of the ECP subscription, participating schools access to the VCE English Catholic Network at no extra charge.
Further details and dates can be found here.
The ECP and VECN Canvas sites can be accessed here.
For further details, please contact Julia Petrov, Learning and Teaching Education Officer (Secondary) on jpetrov@dobcel.catholic.edu.au or 0432 499 683.
Career Opportunities in the Diocesan Education Community
Catholic Education Ballarat Vacancy
- Education Officer: Positive Behaviour Specialist – Ballarat or Horsham office – fixed term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 9 March)
Principal Vacancy
- Sacred Heart Primary School, Casterton (closes 23 March)
School Vacancies
- Casual Relief Teachers – St Brigid’s School, Ballan (closes 28 February)
- Classroom Teacher – St Francis Xavier School, Ballarat East – fixed term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 28 February)
- Learning Support Officer – St Aloysius’ School, Redan – fixed term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 6 March)
- Classroom Teacher - terms 2-4 (Maternity Leave Position) – St Joseph’s School, Coleraine – fixed term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 7 March)
- Classroom Teacher – St Malachy’s, Edenhope – fixed term position at 1.0 FTE (closes 7 March)
- Dance Teacher – St Joseph’s College, Mildura – ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closes 14 March)
- Administration Officer – St Francis Xavier School, Ballarat East – fixed term position at 0.6 FTE (closes 14 March)
- Arts (Visual & Performing) Teacher – St Joseph’s School, Warrnambool – fixed term position at 0.4 FTE (closes 14 March)
