Catholic Education Ballarat eNewsletter

Reflection: The Feast of The Most Holy Trinity

Next Sunday, 15th June is The Feast of The Most Holy Trinity. The following reflection by Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, invites Christians into a deeper experience of the Trinity through a conscious and embodied practice of The Sign of the Cross.

First place your right hand on your forehead and say, “In the name of the Father.” It’s funny because the Trinity is precisely that which we can’t understand and yet we begin with this attempt to understand by touching our forehead. Then make a vertical line down your body to your gut or belly, and say, “and the Son.” Jesus the Christ is the one who makes visible this eternal invisibility. That’s what we believe: that this invisible God became visible in the person of Jesus.

After you draw the vertical line down your body, something you can experience a little bit in your head, a little bit in your heart, and maybe mostly in your gut, then draw a horizontal line across, and say, “and the Holy Spirit.” Because the Holy Spirit is precisely that connection, that communion, that relationship, that flow of life and love that has created the whole universe. We never dared to give any personal form to the Holy Spirit because we knew it was talking about relationship itself. Instead, we have used many images—the dove, fire, wind, flowing water—all dynamic images of interaction, of relationship, of connection.

Let me put it this way: Whenever you feel connected, you’re in the Holy Spirit. Whenever you disconnect yourself through anger, judgment, hatred, cruelty in any form, you’re not in the Holy Spirit. You’re operating outside of that in which you were created.

Let the sign of the cross be a body prayer for the rest of your life. We can’t understand it, we can only allow it. We can only allow that flow, that communion, that energy, that dynamism, that vitality, that love. We’ll know when we’re there and I hope we can recognize when we’re not there. That’s how we’ll know when we’re living in the Trinity or acting as a separate you and me, standing on the side of life, instead of living it.

From: https://cac.org/daily-meditations/trinity-weekly-summary-2023-06-10/

Invitation to Prayer

God For Us, we call You Father,

God Alongside Us, we call You Jesus,

God Within Us, we call You Holy Spirit.

You are the Eternal Mystery That enables, enfolds, and enlivens all things,

Even us, and even me.

Every name falls short of your Goodness and Greatness.

We can only see who You are in what is.

We ask for such perfect seeing.

As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be.

Amen.

- Richard Rohr, OFM

From the Executive Director

Tomorrow, members of our Catholic education community will join with others from across Mildura and beyond in remembering Denis Ryan, a man whose courage, integrity and unwavering commitment to justice made a profound and lasting impact. Denis passed away on Tuesday last week at the age of 93.

In the 1970s, while serving as a police officer in Mildura, Denis worked to investigate and expose the abuse of children within institutions. His efforts were met with resistance, and despite gathering substantial evidence, his investigation was ultimately shut down. Denis resigned in protest, a decision that cost him his position and pension. It wasn’t until 2018, more than four decades later, that he received formal apologies and compensation from Victoria Police and the Victorian Government.

His determination to speak out and act in defence of vulnerable children has inspired many, and his legacy stands as a powerful reminder of the vigilance, courage and moral clarity we must continue to uphold in our ongoing commitment to child safety. In recognition of his extraordinary contribution, a floral wreath will be offered at his funeral on behalf of DOBCEL – a gesture of our deepest sympathy to his loved ones and our gratitude for his life of service.

This week also saw the DOBCEL Board meet in Daylesford. Prior to the meeting, Board Directors and Executive members had the opportunity to visit several schools, accompanied by student leaders. It was a wonderful chance to connect with the school communities of St Brigid’s Ballan, St Patrick’s Gordon, St Mary’s Clarkes Hill, St Patrick’s Stawell, St Mary’s Ararat and Marian College Ararat.

The formal meeting agenda included updates on Strategy 2035, policy development, operational reports, approval of DOBCEL’s Annual Financial Statements, presentation on GEN AI and a review and discussion on the ACU 2024 Australian School Leader Occupational Health & Wellbeing Survey – all part of our ongoing work to ensure strong governance and the successful implementation of our DOBCEL Strategy 2035.

Finally, tomorrow at 10am I look forward to coming together for our Diocesan Leadership Gathering via video conference. These opportunities to connect across roles, schools and regions continue to be vital as we reflect on our shared mission and navigate the evolving challenges and opportunities ahead.

Thank you for the leadership you offer in your schools and communities each day. Your work makes a difference, and in our collective efforts, we shape a system grounded in faith, learning and a shared vision for the future.

With best wishes,

Tom Sexton, Executive Director

Showcasing our Catholic Schools in Action

St James' Parish School - Sebastopol, Celebrating International Day of Play...Today!

Today, children and adults across the globe are celebrating the International Day of Play – a day that honours the power, importance, and joy of play in children’s lives.

At St James, we began our celebration with a meaningful Acknowledgement of Country and liturgy. These beautiful words grounded us in the spirit of the day:

“Children have played here for tens of thousands of years. Singing under the canopy of the forests, imitating the bird’s call. Chasing a possum skin ball around a grassy plain. Dancing with friends, bare foot on the living earth. Nestled in the elbow of a great gum waiting to be found. Or jumping across the riverbank, holding balance on the moss-covered stones.”

As we know, play is at the heart of how children learn. It is through play that children explore ideas, build resilience, strengthen relationships, and develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Play provides a safe space to test boundaries, solve problems, and express creativity.

Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, we recognise that children express themselves through what is known as the 100 Languages of Play - a concept that honours the many ways children think, communicate, and create. These “languages” informed our choice of activities and included movement, storytelling, drawing, role-play, dance, art, music, construction, questions, and silence. Each form of play is a unique expression of a child’s curiosity, imagination, and emotion.

Throughout our day in celebrating the 100 Languages of Play here at St James’, we affirm that there is no single way to learn or be heard. When we provide space for all these languages, we honour the diverse voices, strengths, and stories of every child in our community.

In today’s rapidly changing world, play remains one of the most powerful ways for children to understand their environment, discover who they are, and prepare for the future with confidence and creativity.

St James’ continues to celebrate and champion the right to play - today and every day.

Bouncing for Isla – Emmaus Celebrates Bounce 4 Batten

On Friday 6 June, Emmaus Catholic Primary School came together to acknowledge and celebrate Bounce 4 Batten, for Isla Hunter, the beloved younger sister of students Paddy (Kanamo) and Harry (Mok-borreeyn), who lives with Batten Disease, a rare and terminal illness.

From the start to the end of the school day, students from each learning community took turns bouncing on mini trampolines to raise awareness and show support for Isla and others affected by the disease. The whole school wore touches of teal and blue, the colours of Bounce 4 Batten, as a sign of unity and care.

As a DOBCEL school, Emmaus continues to embody the spirit of compassion, hope, and community. Our thoughts and prayers remain with Isla, the Hunter family, and all those impacted by Batten Disease.

Last Friday may have been freezing, but the spirit at St Alipius Parish School was warm, joyful and full of energy!

The Year 5 and 6 students proudly represented the school at the Eureka Netball Tournament, showing great sportsmanship, respect, and fairness – a wonderful display of Catholic values in action.

The Year 1/2 students were all smiles as they welcomed members of the Western Bulldogs AFLW team. They learnt what a “falcon” is and explored how friendship and teamwork are at the heart of footy.

Back at school, the Years 1–3 students took part in their own version of The Floor, turning a fun and energetic activity into rich learning around vocabulary and key concepts.

Days like this remind us of what makes Catholic education so special – a strong sense of community, joy in learning, and living out Gospel values in every moment.

Teamwork and Triumph at Selkirk Stadium

On Friday 6 June, three senior netball teams from St. Thomas More Catholic Primary School, Alfredton proudly represented their school at Selkirk Stadium, showing exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship throughout the day.

All teams played with heart and integrity – a true reflection of the values nurtured through Catholic education. A special congratulations to the boys’ team, who won their division and will now go on to compete at the Greater Western Region Netball Championship in a fortnight’s time. What a fantastic achievement!

Sincere thanks to the staff and parents who generously gave their time to coach, umpire, and support the students on the day. Your involvement brings our school community to life.

Well done, St. Thomas More – your efforts continue to highlight the strength of faith, commitment, and community in action.

2025 Australian Catholic Education Conference

The Countdown Is On!

We're counting down to the 2025 Australian Catholic Education Conference, from 20–22 August at the Cairns Convention Centre! With the theme ‘Hope, Anchored in Faith’, the conference will explore Catholic education through the pillars of Faith, Excellence, and Access.

The program features inspiring keynote speakers, including Sr Nathalie Becquart, Prof Dylan Wiliam, Dr Steve Constantino, Dr Simon Breakspear, and Dr Jordana Hunter, with Philippa McDonald as MC. Sessions will cover Catholic identity, teaching, leadership, community engagement, and resourcing. We look forward to welcoming you to this national celebration of Catholic education and leadership!

Watch the video message from Executive Director, National Catholic Education Commission Jacinta Collins, Bishop of Cairns, Joseph Caddy AM and Executive Director, Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns Durm O’Riordan.

Click here to register!

Empowering Voices: Supporting Our Early Career Teachers

Last week, we were delighted to welcome our 2nd & 3rd Year Early Career Teachers from the North to a rich day of professional learning, Our Stories Matter – Empowering Voices.

The session featured a diverse range of presentations, including:

Universal Design for Learning
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives
Classroom behaviour strategies
The power of dialogue through a Catholic lens
Guidance on the Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) full registration process

A strong emphasis on teacher wellbeing was also woven throughout the day.

In addition to the learning, the event offered valuable opportunities for networking and deepened participants' awareness of the ongoing support available through Catholic Education Ballarat.

Catholic Identity and Mission Updates

IN THE SPIRIT OF LAUDATO SI' - FORMING ECOLOGICAL LEADERS IN SCHOOLS
In our upcoming professional learning session, we ask, 'How can educators inspire ecological leadership rooted in faith and justice?' This online session for AC+ subscribers explores how to form leaders who care for our common home, drawing on the vision of Laudato Si’.

Speakers
Sue Martin is a passionate education and engagement manager delivering ecological and spiritual solutions that connect people to place, currently working as an Ecology officer at Australian Jesuits. Experienced across government, schools and NRM, she lives by the Jesuit motto ‘faith doing justice’ and leads locally as chair of Cattai Hills Environment Network and vice president of NSW’s Environmental Education Association.
Alice Carwardine works in the mission and formation team for the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers Oceania Province. She previously worked as the Catholic Earthcare Coordinator for Caritas Australia. She enjoys spending time running professional development and retreats for staff, as well as workshops and retreats for students on the topics of Laudato Si' and integral ecology.

Join us Tuesday 17 June, 4.30–5.30pm AEST.

Book here.

MYSTICISM: PROFESSIONAL LEARNING RECORDING AND RESOURCES

The Australian Catholics Education Hub offers a range of resources to support educators to help students connect with God and wonder at the good news of Jesus' divinity. Catholicism is not just a system of thought – it’s a sacramental, mystical tradition that speaks to the heart and the head. We hope you find this recent Professional learning session recording and accompanying notes helpful to inspire wonder, nurture encounter and, open up the fullness of faith, for your students.

In the Spirit of Laudato Si' - forming ecological leaders in schools

Mysticism: Professional learning recording and resources

Catholic Theological College Online Information Session - Monday 16 June

Catholic Theological College is running an online information session on Monday 16 June at 7pm (AEST).

In this session participants meet the course advisors and learn about study options at CTC, including the wide range of courses and units that be undertaken online and/or face-to-face.

Please click here to view the flyer and registration information.

World Refugee Day 2025 - Finding Freedom: Diversity in Community

Each year on 20 June, the world celebrates World Refugee Day (WRD). WRD is designated by the United Nations to honour refugees who have been forced to flee their homes and to promote solidarity with them for a “world where refugees are welcomed.” Pope Francis encourages us to welcome, promote, accompany, and integrate those who knock on our doors. The Pope invites us to pray with him that “states will strive to ensure humane conditions for refugees and to facilitate integration processes.” The Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Office (ACMRO) has created online resources to help celebrate WRD 2025 at https://acmro.catholic.org.au/wrd

Aboriginal Stations of the Cross for loan to organisations, parishes and schools

One of the treasures of Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria (ACMV), commissioned in 2017, the Aboriginal Stations of the Cross were created by John Dunn, an Olkola/Djabaguy man from Far North Queensland. The banners are available year-round for loan to organisations, schools and parishes. These profound banners are perfect for group prayer, spiritual reflection and formation opportunities. For enquiries, contact Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria: acmv@cam.org.au.

Wellbeing Updates

Central Highlands New RR Schools Induction

The Central Highlands Respectful Relationships team will be hosting a half-day induction session for Catholic and Independent schools on Wednesday, 25 June from 9.30am - 12.30pm. Location Mackillop and Glowery Room 3 Lyons St South Ballarat. Attendees will have the option of attending face to face or online (via webex).

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the Respectful Relationships curriculum, covering the "what, why and how" of the RR initiative. It will support participants to understand more about what drives Family Violence, how it can be prevented and how this relates to the Respectful Relationships initiative in schools.

Schools are encouraged to attend as an RR team. Please share this forms link to each person planning to attend so we have accurate details for all participants.

SchoolTV invites parents, carers, grandparents, educators and school leaders to attend an exclusive webinar supporting primary and secondary students.

WEBINAR: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part II)
DATE: Wednesday, 18 June 2025
TIME: 7:30 pm

This exclusive session with two of Australia's leading experts in youth wellbeing and cybersafety, Susan McLean and Dr Michael Carr-Gregg is a one-off event and will not be available to replay later.

Register using this link or via the QR code below.

Learning and Teaching Updates

GENERAL NEWS

Early Career Teachers - Professional Learning TERM 2 2025

2nd/3rd Year ECTs, REMINDER: ONLINE TOMORROW

Thursday 12 June (3:30pm to 4:30pm)

This 1-hour session will include:

Strategies for navigating challenging conversations
A variety of helpful resources
Opportunities to workshop real-life scenarios with your peers in breakout rooms

If you haven't already registered, here is the booking link:

Booking link https://www.trybooking.com/DASVK

OR join us using the following Microsoft Teams Meeting link

If you have any queries about the program, please contact Julie Cooper jcooper@dobcel.catholic.edu.au or Fiona Murphy fmurphy@dobcel.catholic.edu.au

PRIMARY NEWS

PRIMARY LEADERS OF LEARNING – Session #2 Recording

Thank you to those who attended Session #2!

Below, you'll find all links for the most recent session (Wednesday 28 May)

📽️Session #2 Recording

📝Presentation Slide deck PDF

🎯Intention Setting Slides (feel free to make a copy for your use if you'd prefer)

🔗Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) Poster

🌐EEF - Effective Professional Development Website

💬Session #2 Feedback (leads to link to PL certificate)

If you'd like to chat through your goal or anything further after viewing the recording, you're most welcome to connect with one of the presenters or your local Education Officer: Learning & Teaching.. We’d love to touch base and support you further on your leadership journey.

Please feel free to register ahead for PLoL Sessions 3 + 4

Term 3 PLoL - Wednesday 27 August

https://www.trybooking.com/CZCUU

Term 4 PLoL - Wednesday 22 October

https://www.trybooking.com/CZCUX

For further information please reach out to:

Samantha Meerbach ✉️ smeerbach@dobcel.catholic.edu.au | 📱0417 511 118

Sarah McKnight ✉️ smcknight@dobcel.catholic.edu.au | 📱0427 406 918

Joe Ewing ✉️ jewing@dobcel.catholic.edu.au | 📱0429 985 460

Belinda Chiswell ✉️ bchiswell@dobcel.catholic.edu.au | 📱0484 641 997

Story Shelf is now LIVE!

Story Shelf website is now live and ready for your school to access ahead of Term 3!

It’s easy, free, and 13 schools (and counting!) are ready to connect and exchange texts!

Lumen Christi, Delacombe and St Alipius, Ballarat East have already kicked things off!

“Such a great initiative and such a practical, common-sense way to save schools money and increase resources for students. It will definitely help with our student engagement.”
- Tristan, St Alipius, Ballarat East

IMAGE: Students at St Alipius, Ballarat East enjoying **Us Bob Walawurru** *borrowed from Lumen Christi, Delacombe.*

Story Shelf is a user-friendly website and is NOW LIVE!

Via the website, schools are now able to:
- Browse selection of books that are available
- Connect with other schools
- Arrange their own book exchanges
Perfect timing to help plan for Term 3!

Click here to access Story Shelf - (and be sure to bookmark the page!)

It's not too late to get involved!

Just take a very quick minute to fill in the form below. We’ll follow up with next steps!

🔗 REGISTER YOUR SCHOOL'S INTEREST HERE

For further details please reach out to

Belinda Chiswell – Education Officer: Learning & Teaching

✉️ bchiswell@dobcel.catholic.edu.au | 📱0484 641 997

SECONDARY NEWS

VCE English Catholic Network

Kirstin has provided a general resource for teaching your Unit 4 text (video, PowerPoint and handout) and you can find it on the VECN Canvas site here. Canva Login required.

Next week on Thursday, 19 June we have live sessions to discuss all things text (general questions, text specific questions) on. As always, we have two time slots that you can sign up for.

19 June, 3:45pm - 4:30pm https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ZnjEuijDSGOc8TI01u-XEw

19 June, 7:30pm - 8:15pm https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/zXZAd9YnRP-1HzRiWB0EOw

Meet Our Nexus Implementation Partner: Reflex Technology Group

We’re pleased to introduce Reflex Technology Group (RTG) as our implementation partner for the Nexus program. With a strong track record of delivering technology solutions that improve school outcomes, RTG brings both experience and insight to this transformative project.

Nexus is a major initiative designed to unify key operational platforms across our schools. At its core, the project focuses on aligning technology with educational needs - enhancing efficiency, reducing duplication, and providing a more seamless experience for school staff and administrators.

RTG’s Role

RTG plays a central role in delivering Nexus. They are responsible for coordinating with DOBCEL teams and our technology partners - Aurion, Professional Advantage, and PageUp - to ensure each system is implemented in a way that reflects the real-world needs of our schools.

This includes:

Scoping and designing solutions based on user requirements
Facilitating collaboration across multiple stakeholders
Anticipating and addressing integration challenges early
Ensuring systems are reliable, intuitive, and ready for launch

With RTG’s support, Nexus is well-positioned to deliver long-term value across our network. Their commitment to collaboration and a people-first approach ensures that technology will enhance—not complicate—everyday work in our schools.

For more updates on Nexus and its rollout, stay tuned for future communications.

Career Opportunities in the Diocesan Education Community

Catholic Education Ballarat Vacancy

Speech Pathologist – fixed-term at 0.5 FTE (closes 15 June)

Principal Vacancy

Principal – St Brendan’s, Coragulac at 1.0 FTE (closes 15 June)
Principal – St Patrick’s, Port Fairy at 1.0 FTE (closes 15 June)
Principal – St Joseph’s, Coleraine – ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closing 1 July 2025)
Principal – St Joseph’s, Penshurst – ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closing 1 July)

School Vacancies

ICT Specialist Teacher 2025, Term 3 & 4 – St Francis Xavier, Ballarat East – fixed term at 1.0 FTE (closes 11 June)
Learning Support Officer – Emmaus, Mount Clear – fixed term at 0.73 FTE (closes 11 June)
Assistant Principal Learning & Teaching – Damascus College, Mt Clear – fixed term (with ongoing teaching position) at 1.0 FTE (closes 13 June)
Specialist Teacher – Physical Education – St John’s School, Dennington – fixed-term 0.47 FTE (closes 13 June)
Mathematics Teacher – St Mary MacKillop, Swan Hill – ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closes 13 June)
Science Teacher - St Mary MacKillop, Swan Hill - ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closes 13 June)
English Teacher - St Mary MacKillop, Swan Hill - ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closes 13 June)
Classroom Teachers – St Joseph’s College, Mildura – ongoing positions at 1.0 FTE (closes 19 June)
Science Teacher – Damascus College, Mt Clear – fixed term, full or part-time (closes 23 June)
Generalist Teacher – St Paul’s Primary School, Mildura – fixed-term at 0.48 FTE (closes 27 June)
Business Manager – St Brigid’s College, Horsham – ongoing position at 1.0FTE (closes 4 July)
2025 Casual Relief Teachers – Siena Catholic Primary School, Lucas – casual position (closes 4 July)
2025 Casual Relief Teachers – St Columba’s School, Ballarat North – casual position (closes 25 November)
Classroom Teacher 2026 – St Mary’s – Warracknabeal – ongoing position at 1.0 FTE (closes 5 December)

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Weekly Newsletter #58 - 11 June 2025