Villa View – Issue 17, 8th October 2026

Welcome back to all of our families as we make our way toward the end of another academic year. While I suppose this is a truism for every term there is of course the finality of Term 4 and the conclusion of a schooling journey for our Seniors which makes it all the more pressing that we start with vigour and quickly get into the rhythm of school life. 

The October holiday break was for many a nice break but I do need to acknowledge and commend the enormous number of senior and teaching staff who committed to holiday study workshops and academic preparation. Well over 80 boys attended regularly across the fortnight of opportunities hosted and facilitated by some of our wonderful teaching staff. As such I would like to  give special thanks to Ms Roslyn Giles, Mr John Holroyd, Mr Liam Pereira, Mr Paul Olsen, Mr Brendon Brauer, Ms Sallyanne Freney, Mr Michael Ware, Ms Julie Colbert, Ms Amber Smith, Mr Matthew Smith, Ms Emma Read, Ms Sheridan Carey, Mr Tyler McCluskey, Ms Terri Dillon, Mr Graeme George and Mr Kirk Astill for their commitment to our students and their success. 

Also on the horizon is the hand over of the Pope Leo XIV Precinct. This coming Monday October 12th we will finally have possession of the building and begin to take advantage of the opportunities it brings. Across the first week there will be tours and the boys will be able to view facilities. Our first College use will be for assembly the following Tuesday. The Cor Unum Sports precinct will be open for use for 2027 Trimester sport preparation from that week. There will be a little time needed for us to understand the operations of the centre. The classroom elements in the Prevost Centre will be able to be utilised once 2027 gets underway and a new timetable has begun. We do need the opportunity across the Christmas holidays to get the equipment from the Mendel building moved safely and efficiently in the new centre.  

This weekend, with our Deputy Principal Kristy Watkins, Dean of Mission and Identity Eleni Greenaway and Director of Wellbeing and Pastoral Programs Sheridan Carey, I will attend the Australian Augustinian Lay Congress. This is a gathering of Catholics who are in missional work and commitment to the ideals and values of the Augustinian Order. It will be an important moment as we gather to discuss and share Augustinian practices and values, that our philosophy and wisdom that comes with our work in the formation of people in the spirit an tradition of the Augustinians. One element of particular interest is a panel I will be a guest on, looking at Poper Leo’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas and what it means for education. I have written before regarding Pope Leo’s encyclical and its message and impact for educators. In essence he is examining how this age of AI needs to be carefully navigated to ensure that the magnificence of humanity, created by God, is not lost or damaged.

Specifically, Pope Leo XIV describes education as “a long journey requiring patience” and warns that the speed of AI generated answers may weaken a student’s desire to ask questions (Leo XIV, 2026, para. 140). His concern reaches beyond whether students submit work they have written themselves. If a young person routinely hands over the effort of thinking, what happens to the habits of curiosity, persistence and judgement that education is meant to develop? 

At the College we have recently pioneered a staff “chAIt” group. A relaxed, informal and optional group that comes together to discuss strategy and action for learning and teaching in the AI ‘obsessed’ world. We have discussed the challenge we have as teachers of removing the focus on answers and correctness to the value of the thinking, discerning, metacognition and the process of crafting responses to questions and challenges, and how we fit this into a school education system that defines a students value, importance and prestige by end product only, by a single number in some cases. This is in response to a ‘demand’ by Pope Leo for schools. 

Pope Leo offers a demanding test for schools: teaching students about AI includes helping them decide “when and for what purpose it ought not to be used” (Leo XIV, 2026, para. 140). At Villanova, that means making thoughtful choices. AI may help a student explore an unfamiliar idea, receive feedback or overcome a barrier to learning. There will also be times to put it aside: to read a difficult text closely, work through a problem, write from personal understanding or listen to another person without distraction. Our teachers will help students learn the difference. 

The encyclical calls for the ongoing formation of teachers so they can guide students to use new technologies “responsibly, critically and creatively” (Leo XIV, 2026, para. 145). This is important for our educational future. We will need to review how we teach and assess learning, including how students demonstrate their own understanding. We will also need to protect the time required for reading, discussion, reflection and sustained study. 

So as we start Term 4 we are focussed on a great conclusion to the 2026 academic year and the success of our Seniors, but our eye is never too far away from the larger, ongoing purpose, the restless search for truth and our own ongoing conversion.

Mr Paul Begg, Principal

In keeping with the Spirit of Reconciliation, Villanova College acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we stand. We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. This has always been, and always will be, a place of teaching and learning connected to country, culture and community.

Welcome back, Senior School families, to the final term of the year in what is always a frenetic sprint to the finish line with much to accomplish prior to the final week of November. I hope you found time for relaxation and renewal during the holiday break after the intensity of the previous term.

As we return, our Year 12 students are nearing the end of their Villanova journey, however in conversations with our Seniors this week, it was emphasised that how they complete the final leg of the journey will be a defining chapter of their legacy as a fine Senior class.

Similarly, the way our Year 11 students commence their Unit 3 studies this term ahead of commissioning day will be equally as important particularly in regards to ‘starting well’ and setting a strong foundation to build upon in their final year.

Finally, our Year 10 students will have their Day of Reflection at the conclusion of the month with an intentional focus on building leadership capacity and how they can serve and contribute to our community. I look forward to witnessing the continued growth and development of this group of young men.

Student Voice
At this Tuesday’s College Assembly, Monica House Captain Jai Bloxsom delivered a powerful address on the GREATS focus value of Growth. Drawing upon his own Villanova Journey as stimulus, Jai was courageously vulnerable in sharing some insights about shifting towards a growth mindset. I would like to share an excerpt of his wonderful speech:

“Up until Grade 11, I had a fixed mindset. This meant I was taking the easy path. Academically, I wasn’t pushing myself. I never really contributed to the school, and I barely pushed myself to do better.

When I got to Grade 11, I realised that the end of school was closer than I thought, and if I graduated at that moment, I would leave full of regret. Regretful of the opportunities I hadn’t taken, the things I didn’t do, and the people I didn’t meet.

It was then I decided to change my mindset, not only into a growth mindset, but more specifically, a “don’t leave any regrets” mindset. So that when I put on this uniform and walk out those gates for the final time, I can look back and be proud of all the things I did, and know that I had an impact on our community.”

Atomic thought
One of the most profound books I often to return to in my professional library is Atomic Habits by James Clear. Each week I receive his 3-2-1 Thursday email in which he shares 3 ideas, 2 quotes and 1 question.

Last week he shared the following idea:

There is certainly some pertinence in Clear’s thought relating to our Augustinian context.

There is a healthy kind of reflection or interiority search that helps us grow. Looking back at our mistakes can reveal what we might do differently. In this sense, the past becomes useful because we extract wisdom from it and carry that wisdom forward on our restless search for truth. The danger begins when reflection turns into repetition and our wellbeing is compromised by giving the past continued control over the present.

Perhaps the most constructive cycle is therefore:

Experience → Reflect → Learn → Accept → Act → Move forward.

The past deserves reflection, but the present deserves participation. We cannot change what happened, but we can decide whether yesterday continues to determine how we live today.
“The universe doesn’t give you what you ask for with your thoughts; it gives you what you demand with your actions.”- Steve Maraboli

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Welcome back to Term 4!

I hope that all members of our Middle School community enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating break, whether you were fortunate enough to have a holiday away or simply enjoyed the recent long weekend with family and friends. The final term of the year always arrives quickly and with only a short number of weeks available, it is important that we establish positive routines and habits from the very beginning. Consistent attendance, organisation and a strong commitment to learning will help our young men make the most of the opportunities that Term 4 provides.

During the break, I had the privilege of travelling to the Philippines as part of the AFAS Immersion Program. It was an incredibly humbling and rewarding experience. One of the highlights was seeing our Villanova students represent the College with such maturity, compassion and humility. They were outstanding ambassadors for our community, building genuine connections with the people they met and embracing every opportunity to learn from their experiences.

The immersion also provided a powerful reminder of the impact our community can have through its generosity. Seeing firsthand how the funds raised by Villanova support those most in need was both inspiring and confronting. In particular, it was wonderful to meet some of the scholars whose education is made possible through our support. Education is highly valued by these young people and their families and the opportunity to attend a quality private school can be life-changing. Witnessing their gratitude and determination reinforced the importance of service and reminded us of how fortunate we are for the opportunities available to us each day.

Next week, our Year 9 students will commence one of the most significant experiences of their Rite Journey program as they enter the Abyss. This stage of the journey encourages reflection, challenge, growth and resilience as students continue their transition towards young adulthood. I wish all Year 9 students the very best as they embrace this important experience and the lessons it offers.

Finally, I would like to wish all of our athletes the very best for this week’s Track and Field Competition. Thank you for the commitment and preparation you have shown throughout the season. We look forward to seeing you represent Villanova with pride, determination and great sportsmanship.

I wish all students, staff, and families a successful and rewarding Term 4.

Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Term 4: Building Momentum and Finishing Strong
Welcome back to Term 4! I hope the September holidays gave everyone the chance to slow down, recharge the batteries and enjoy some well-earned time with family and friends. Whether it was travelling, spending time outdoors, catching up with friends or simply enjoying a slower pace of life, I hope you return feeling refreshed and ready for the final chapter of the school year.

For sporting fans, the holidays delivered two wonderful Grand Finals, with both the AFL and NRL deciders going right down to the wire. They were tight, physical contests where neither team was prepared to give up. Momentum shifted, pressure mounted and every possession, tackle, run and decision mattered. Ultimately, it was the team that continued to work hard, stay determined and take its opportunities that found a way across the line.

There is a great lesson in that as we begin Term 4.

The final quarter can be the most demanding, but it can also be the most rewarding.
This week, our Junior School boys will engage with the pastoral focus of “Adopting a Growth Mindset.” Now, I wonder how many of us instinctively roll our eyes when we hear those words! Growth mindset can sound like another educational buzzword, but its message is actually quite simple: we are not finished products, and we can all get better.

It is about being willing to learn, accepting that mistakes are part of the process, listening to feedback and having another go when things don’t go to plan.

As I thought about my own goals for Term 4, I asked myself: How can I continue to improve as a leader, a colleague and a positive influence on the students, staff and families in our community?

Our boys can ask themselves similar questions. How can I improve in Mathematics? Can I become more organised? Can I listen more carefully? Can I be a better friend? How can I make a positive difference to the people around me?

The answer is not to change everything at once. Start small. Identify something that matters, set a realistic goal and work out the steps that will help you achieve it. Small, consistent actions can create remarkable change over time.

For our boys, growth might mean persevering with a difficult task, asking for help rather than giving up, taking greater responsibility for their belongings or choosing to include someone who is not usually part of their friendship group. These things may seem small, but they matter.

Some of the most important growth we see in our boys has little to do with a mark on a report. It is seen in how they respond when things become difficult, how they treat others when nobody is watching and whether they are prepared to put the needs of the group ahead of their own.

Our Augustinian values of Community, Humility, Interiority and the Search for Truth come alive through these small choices.

So, as we begin the final term, I encourage every boy to choose one goal. It might be academic, personal or simply about becoming a better friend. Think about what you want to achieve, the steps that will help you get there and who might support you along the way.

Then, most importantly, get started.

There will be days when progress feels slow and moments when giving up seems easier. That is when we can remember those Grand Final teams: keep working, trust the people around you, respond to setbacks and never underestimate what can happen when effort and determination are sustained until the final whistle.

We cannot always control the challenges we face, but we can control the effort, attitude and care we bring to them.

Let’s make Term 4 count. Let’s finish strongly, look out for our Villa brothers and make the final term a memorable one.

After all, the final term is not simply about getting to the finish line. It is about who we become along the way.

Mr Stephen Rouliadeff, Head of Junior School

AFAS Immersion
During the recent school holidays, a number of Villanova students and staff travelled to the Philippines as part of our AFAS Immersion Program. The experience provided opportunities to engage in service, deepen their faith, and build meaningful connections with the communities and ministries supported through AFAS.

Students visited Cebu and Bacolod, spending time with AFAS scholar families, local communities, our sister school La Consolacion College Murcia, and the Augustinian Sisters. Through these encounters, they gained a greater appreciation of the challenges faced by others, while witnessing extraordinary generosity, resilience and joy.

The immersion was a powerful reminder that service is not simply about what we give, but also about what we learn and receive from others. Our pilgrims returned with hearts full of gratitude and a renewed commitment to living their faith through service.

World Youth Day and Augustinian Youth Encounter 2027
Families are asked to refer to MyVilla for information regarding an exciting opportunity for students to attend the World Youth Day (WYD) and Augustinian Youth Encounter (AYE) in Seoul, South Korea, from 5-13 August 2027.

This experience is open to students who will be in Years 10 or 11 in 2027. Students interested in attending are encouraged to complete the Expression of Interest form linked in the MyVilla letter.

For further information, please contact Mrs Greenaway at missionandidentity@vnc.qld.edu.au

Mrs Eleni Greenaway, Dean of Mission and Identity

As we begin our final term, it is a wonderful time to reflect on the year that has been and, in particular, to farewell our 2026 Wellbeing Team.

One thing has become increasingly clear to me this year: our Villa boys are starting to realise that wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility. If you are passionate about mental health and wellbeing, or there is an initiative that you believe could make a difference to your mates and your community, you can make it happen.

And this year, so many of our boys have done exactly that.

They have found wellbeing initiatives that resonate with them and, rather than waiting for someone else to make them happen, they have stepped up and made them their own. From Friday Fun Runs and Friday Unplugged, to the Push-Up Challenge, fundraising, awareness campaigns and simply looking out for their mates, our boys have shown that wellbeing is not something that belongs to one person or one team. It belongs to all of us.

Boys, you are getting it – and it is making a difference.

I want to make a very special mention of our 2026 Wellbeing Captain, Hayden Eller.

Hayden has been truly outstanding in this role. He has made the position his own and has genuinely put the wellbeing of every Villa student at the forefront of everything he has done. It has been an absolute pleasure working with Hayden this year. His leadership, care for others and willingness to get involved have been exceptional, and he will be very much missed by our community.

Thank you, Hayden. We genuinely appreciate everything you have done for wellbeing at Villa this year.

Hayden spoke at Assembly yesterday and I wanted to share part of his speech, as I thought he captured the spirit of our Wellbeing Team and our community so beautifully:

“I would like to start by thanking everyone who has contributed to making Wellbeing what it is this year, from all the teachers, support staff and students – without you none of it is possible. Special shoutouts must go to the Year Twelves, who have shown unwavering support throughout the year, from the first Friday Fun Run to both Dredgey and Ando’s monumental efforts. Similarly, to Ollie and his mates who rocked up to every day of the Push-Up Challenge and supported Sean, and to the Year 5s and 6s for always finding the cameras during Friday Unplugged. Especially to the Wellbeing Team, thank you for your constant dedication and support, and giving up your time for the benefit of your brothers.”

He gave a special mention to our honorary members Christian McIlwain and Reid Gapes, Lachie Francis for his constant commitment throughout the year, and Harry Woodward, who Hayden described as someone who has demonstrated what we want wellbeing to be about at Villa.

Hayden spoke about Harry’s leadership through his actions – from celebrating Chinese New Year with our community in Term 1, to riding 126km with Harvey Anderson during the holidays to raise money for You Are Not Alone.

These are the moments that make wellbeing at Villa what it is.

It is not just the big events. It is the boys who notice someone sitting alone. The boys who check in on a mate. The boys who turn up to support someone else. The boys who have an idea and decide to make it happen.

That is wellbeing. And that is the culture we want to continue building at Villa.

In other news, our Seniors are now on the home stretch, with lots of exciting milestones ahead as they prepare to finish their time at Villa. Of course, alongside the excitement comes the reality of a busy period of assessment. This can bring additional stress and anxiety, particularly as the boys balance study, exams, future plans and the many emotions that come with reaching the end of their school journey.

Please remind the boys that they have a huge amount of support available to them at the College. Whether they need help with their workload, are feeling overwhelmed, need someone to talk to, or simply aren’t quite sure where to start, there are people here who are ready to support them. Most importantly, encourage them to speak up. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.

To all our Villa families, I hope you have a wonderful start to our final term of 2026.

And to our 2026 Wellbeing Team – thank you. You have left your mark on Villa, and we are incredibly proud of what you have achieved.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing and Pastoral Programming

From the Foundation
Welcome back to Term 4. It’s hard to believe we’re already entering the final stretch of 2026.

While the year may be drawing to a close, there is certainly no slowing down at Villanova. With the opening of the Pope Leo XIV Precinct just weeks away, our Charlie Fisher Cup Golf Day around the corner and the launch of our inaugural Christmas Appeal, there is plenty for our community to look forward to.

There is a great sense of excitement around the College as we prepare to open the new Pope Leo XIV Precinct in the coming weeks. Over the term break, finishing touches continued on this transformational new addition to Villanova, and we cannot wait to welcome our community through its doors.

The precinct will provide exceptional new facilities for our students, including a strength and performance gym, double basketball courts, state-of-the-art Science classrooms, a commercial kitchen and much more. Perhaps most excitingly, it will allow us to gather our entire College community under one roof in the Great Hall for the very first time. For generations, Goold Hall has been at the heart of Villanova life and will continue to play an important role, but having a space large enough to bring every student and staff member together marks an exciting new chapter in our College’s history.

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If you would like to learn more about the Pope Leo XIV Precinct or arrange a visit, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Foundation team.

Our final major event of the year, the Charlie Fisher Cup Golf Day, will be held at Pacific Golf Club on Friday 20 November. Always a highlight on the Villanova calendar, the day is a wonderful opportunity for Old Boys, parents, staff and friends of the College to reconnect, enjoy some friendly competition and support the Foundation.

Team registrations are now open, and we’d love to see plenty of familiar faces on the course. We also have a range of sponsorship opportunities available this year for businesses and community members looking to support the event while increasing their visibility across the Villanova network. If you’d like to register a team or learn more about sponsorship, please get in touch.

Community connections continue through our monthly College Tours, which resume on Monday 12 October. These tours provide a wonderful opportunity to revisit Villanova, hear about what’s happening across the College and reconnect with the place so many hold dear. Our next tour on Monday 2 November will include the opportunity to see the new Pope Leo XIV Precinct once it has officially opened.

Finally, we are pleased to launch our inaugural Christmas Appeal. Christmas is a time of gratitude, generosity and supporting those around us. This year, we invite members of our community to make a gift to the area of Villanova that resonates most with them. Whether supporting student bursaries, music, building projects or broader College priorities, every gift helps create opportunities for current and future Villanovans.

The countdown to the end of 2026 is certainly on, but there is plenty to look forward to in the weeks ahead. There is a real sense of excitement around the College at the moment, and we look forward to sharing these milestones with our community.

As always, if you’d like to learn more about the work of the Foundation, reconnect with Villanova, or explore ways to get involved, I’d love to hear from you.

Have a wonderful Term 4.

Kindest,
Mrs Effie Kent, Development and Foundation Manager

Welcome to Term 4
I hope all students and families enjoyed a restful and enjoyable holiday break.

As we commence Term 4, I would like to welcome everyone back for what is a short, yet busy and important period in the academic calendar. Across the term, students will complete final assessment pieces, participate in a range of academic programs and continue preparing for the opportunities that lie ahead.

For our Year 12 students, the coming weeks represent the culmination of their secondary education. Students will shortly submit their final internal assessment items, complete their certificate and vocational pathway courses and, for the majority, undertake the QCAA External Assessments. We wish our Year 12 students every success as they enter this significant final stage of their schooling journey.

Term 3 Interim Reporting
During the holiday break, Term 3 Interim Reports were published through myVilla.

The purpose of the Interim Report is to provide families with feedback regarding their son’s application, engagement and commitment to learning throughout Term 3. Unlike semester reports, which focus on academic achievement and results, Interim Reports provide valuable insight into the learning behaviours that support academic success.

We encourage students and families to take time to review this feedback together and reflect on areas of strength, as well as opportunities for improvement. For some students, this may involve implementing strategies to improve organisation, engagement or participation. For others, it may be a reminder to continue with the habits and routines that are already supporting success.

A reminder that all current reporting information, assessment feedback and results are available through the myVilla platform. Parent Lounge continues to provide access to historical reports and records for families who may need to access previous reporting information.

Year 12 Study and Tutorial Holiday Program
During the September and October holiday break, more than 80 Year 12 students attended the College’s Study and Tutorial Program in preparation for their upcoming External Assessments.

The program provided students with the opportunity to work closely with subject specialists, receive targeted academic support, clarify concepts and engage in focused revision activities. Students were able to seek guidance from teachers across a range of subjects as they prepared for the final stage of their assessment program.

It was extremely pleasing to see so many students engage positively with this opportunity, with many indicating that the additional support and structured study environment assisted their preparation.

Our thanks also extend to the large number of teachers who generously gave their time during the holiday period to support our students. Their commitment reflects the strength of our community and the genuine care our staff have for helping students achieve their best. The willingness of teachers to provide this additional support is a wonderful example of the partnership and dedication that characterises learning at Villanova College.

2027 Stationery Information
Families will shortly receive information regarding stationery and resource requirements for the 2027 school year.

The College will continue its partnership with Box of Books for the provision of student stationery and learning resources. A number of improvements have been introduced to the ordering process and overall customer experience.

We encourage families to engage with this provider and purchase the resources and equipment specified by the College. Doing so assists in ensuring students commence the school year with the materials required to fully participate in their learning programs from the first day of classes.

Further information will be distributed to families in the coming weeks.

Subject Confirmation for Years 8 to 11
Planning for the 2027 school year is already well underway. Across Term 3, students and families participated in a range of Subject Selection Information Evenings, pathway discussions and consultation opportunities designed to support informed decision-making regarding future subject choices.

These events provided students and parents/carers with the opportunity to speak directly with teachers, and Heads of Faculty to explore interests, strengths, career aspirations and post-school options.

The College is currently developing the 2027 timetable, with a focus on aligning student preferences with available subject offerings. As part of this process, significant work occurs behind the scenes to maximise the number of students able to access their preferred learning pathways.

Subject confirmations and further information regarding 2027 course enrolments will be shared with students and families later this term.

Year 10 and 11 Tutorial Opportunity
To provide additional academic support opportunities for students in Years 10 and 11, the College has partnered with MindBridge Education.

MindBridge Education is a specialist educational provider that works with schools to deliver targeted academic mentoring, tutoring and learning support programs. Their tutors assist students in improving understanding of subject content and building confidence in their learning.

This initiative has been designed to provide a more focused and targeted support option for students seeking additional assistance beyond the classroom. Whether students are aiming to improve performance, consolidate understanding or prepare for senior studies, the program offers valuable opportunities to strengthen learning outcomes.

The program will commence on Monday 20 October. Information has been distributed directly to Year 10 and 11 families via myVilla and email. Families interested in participating are encouraged to review the information provided and follow the registration process outlined in the communication.

Year 12 External Assessment Information
Throughout the year, and more recently through correspondence from our Director of Studies and Curriculum, Mr Tyler McCluskey, important information has been shared regarding Year 12 External Assessment arrangements.

This information includes details relating to examination room allocations, start times, equipment requirements, student expectations and the processes that apply in situations involving illness or misadventure.

We ask all Year 12 students and families to engage carefully with this information and ensure they are familiar with the expectations and procedures associated with the assessment period. Should students or families have any questions, we encourage them to contact the College for clarification and support.

This is an important and exciting time for our Year 12 students. We wish them every success as they undertake their final assessments and have every confidence that they will approach this opportunity with diligence and pride in their efforts.

PAT-R and PAT-M Testing
Over the next two weeks, students in Years 5 to 9 will participate in Progressive Achievement Tests in Reading (PAT-R) and Mathematics (PAT-M).

These assessments are nationally recognised standardised tests that provide information about student achievement and growth over time. They allow schools to measure literacy and numeracy development against national benchmarks and provide valuable data regarding student progress.

The results assist the College in a number of important ways, including monitoring growth over time, identifying areas of strength and challenge, informing curriculum planning and teaching strategies, supporting intervention programs and contributing to evidence-informed decision-making regarding student learning. Students do not need to undertake any specific preparation for these assessments. The best preparation is simply arriving well rested and ensuring their laptop is fully charged and ready for use.

Students will receive detailed information regarding access to the testing platform, testing schedules and relevant instructions closer to their allocated testing sessions.

As we begin the final term of the year, I encourage all students to remain focused and committed to their learning. While Term 4 is relatively short, it provides an important opportunity to finish the year strongly and make the most of the academic opportunities available.

Thank you to our families for your continued partnership and support. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our students throughout the term and wish everyone a successful and rewarding finish to the 2026 school year.

Mr Kirk Astill, Dean of Teaching and Learning

Lessons and Ensembles have commenced!
At time of writing, we have almost completed a full-week of 2027 ensemble rehearsals.  After a fortnight away, it has been wonderful to hear our building full of life and music as our teams enthusiastically commence our 2027 musical journey.  All ensemble rehearsal and lesson times have been emailed directly to participant students, and the Term 4 music schedule of rehearsals has been distributed home for display on the fridge.  Our music team are looking forward to working with you all as we prepare for our busy program in the year ahead.

Wieneke Family Music Prize
Wieneke Music Prize forms have been distributed to all students via email.  We are seeking entries by the end of school on Wednesday afternoon, 14^th October.  Heats will be scheduled across the Thursday and Friday next week.  The Wieneke Family Music Prize finals will be convened in Hanrahan Theatre on Tuesday 20^th October.  We are looking forward to celebrating all participants over the coming fortnight.

Music Support Group – next Monday evening
Our next-to-penultimate Music Support Group meeting will be convened next Monday evening, 12^th October, in the Chapter Room, Hanrahan Theatre, commencing at 6:30pm.  All are welcome to come and learn a little more about what is happening in our program.

Term 4 events and activities
Due to some changes to key events in the College calendar, we have had to reorganise some of our performance and activity dates over the remainder of this year.  We will be sharing information shortly regarding our ‘camp/workshop’, the Year 5 Open Rehearsal (postponed), and both our Christmas Concerts once we have some clarity around venue use.  We expect to be able to share this information with families early next week.

We can confirm the Senior Musicians’ Farewell (Year 12 musicians and families) is proceeding on Thursday 22^nd October, and we will have musicians involved in the Celebration of Excellence to be convened on Tuesday 17^th November (same date as our scheduled Christmas Concerts).

More information to come!

Entertainment Publications Memberships
Entertainment memberships are one of the Music Support Groups main fund-raisers.  Just click on the link to purchase a membership and obtain ongoing special deals throughout the year.

Thank you all for your ongoing support of Music at Villanova College.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

DIRECTOR OF SPORT ADDRESS 

This week’s G.R.E.A.T.S. focus is Growth – a fitting opportunity to recognise the commitment and development of our Track & Field athletes as they represent Villanova at the AIC Track & Field Championships at QSAC. 

Over the past nine weeks, our athletes have invested time and effort in regular squad training, Villa Meets and holiday sessions. The strong attendance at this week’s final training reflected their determination to give their best for the College and their teammates. 

A special mention goes to members of the Andrew Slack Rugby Union Trial Squad who have embraced Track & Field as an opportunity to develop their athletic abilities and contribute to another College team. Their willingness to step beyond their primary sport demonstrates the openness to learning that Growth asks of us. 

At this week’s Opens Track & Field presentation, Captain Joshua N captured this message: 

“Growth isn’t just a personal best or a medal. It’s getting up at 6am for a parkrun, turning up after a long day of school, and having a bad performance but coming back ready to have another go.” 

His words remind us that improvement comes through consistent effort and the willingness to return after a setback. In Track & Field, progress may be measured in fractions of a second, centimetres or metres. It also shows in an athlete’s confidence, preparation and response when an event does not go to plan. 

Every athlete has a part to play. Whether running, jumping, throwing or supporting from the sidelines, our boys contribute through their effort and the encouragement they give one another. Giving our best is the standard. 

My sincere thanks to Track & Field Coordinator Andrew Lund, our coaches, the Sports Office team and our families for their work throughout the season. Your expertise, organisation and encouragement have helped our boys arrive at the Championships ready to compete. 

As the squad takes to QSAC, I encourage every athlete to compete with courage, respect their opponents and support their teammates. Results matter; so does the way we pursue them. We want our boys to finish knowing they gave their best, contributed to the team and represented Villanova with pride. Best of luck to the entire squad! 

Go Villa! 💚💛 

Mr Matthew Hannan
Director of Sport 

AIC Code of Conduct 

Families are encouraged to review the AIC Code of Conduct – April 2026 ahead of Saturday’s fixtures. 

Parents and spectators are asked to model positive behaviour, respect officials and their decisions, encourage effort and enjoyment and appreciate good play from both teams. Players are expected to compete hard and fairly, accept officials’ decisions, respect teammates and opponents and demonstrate humility in victory and graciousness in defeat. 

These expectations apply before, during and after fixtures, including online interactions. 

KEY UPDATES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS 

Communications 

Families should access sports information via the Villanova College website and App. The Locker Room and Villanova College phone application will be relied on to provide key updates between Villa View Newsletter issues. All training and match changes or cancellations will be communicated via the Villanova College phone application.  

FIXTURES, RESULTS and TRAINING INFORMATION 

Training Schedules 

The Term 4 Weeks 2 to 3 Training Schedule has now been published to the Locker Room page. If any changes or cancellations occur, the Villanova College App will also be updated accordingly. 

Please note: In the event of cancelled sessions or extremely poor weather, sessions may be adjusted or rescheduled where possible. Thank you for your understanding. 

Key Links 

Sport Results – Associated Independent Colleges 

SPORT-SPECIFIC UPDATES 

AIC Sport Contact List 

For information about a specific sport, please first visit the Locker Room page on our website. If you require further clarification, please contact the relevant Sport Coordinator, listed below. Until coach contact details become available online, please report training or game absences directly to the relevant Sport Coordinator and coach. Available contact details can be found through The Locker Room. 

Term 4: 

Touch Football Coordinator – Chloe Witt (chloe.witt@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Water Polo Coordinator – Lauren Robinson (lauren.robinson@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Trimester 1 Sports Coordinators: 

AFL Coordinator – Angus Sullivan (angus.sullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Cricket Coordinator – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Swimming Coordinator – Julie Colbert (jcolbert@vnc.qld.edu.au)  

Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Trimester 2 Sports Coordinators: 

Chess Coordinator – Kath Underhill (kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Cross Country Coordinator – Brian Pascoe (bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Football Coordinator – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding (ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Trimester 3 Sports Coordinators: 

Basketball Coordinator – Sharon Casey (sharon.casey@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Golf Coordinator – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Rugby League Coordinator – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Tennis Coordinator – Angus Sullivan (angus.sullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Track & Field Coordinator – Andrew Lund (andrew.lund@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Sport Office Administration: 

Sports Administrators – Angus Sullivan (angus.sullivan@vnc.qld.edu.au) and Maria Mascadri (3 days per week) (mmascadri@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

AIC Sports Leader – Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

Central Sharks District Sport – Todd Kropp (tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au) and Wian Joubert (wian.joubert@vnc.qld.edu.au) 

REGIONAL & EXTERNAL SPORTS 

Central Sharks trial information (formerly Composite/Lytton): Paperwork for the following sports is now available from the Sports Office. Nominations returned after the due date will not be submitted. 

The table below lists the sports/activities that are currently available to students wishing to nominate for the district & regional school sport pathway. Students wishing to nominate should have extensive experience in their chosen sport including club or previous representative history. 

Mr Todd Kropp, Regional Sport Coordinator 

We encourage all parents to check the NEWS section within your Villa app every day, as this is where important notices, updates, event information, and reminders are published.