Our first week of community survey is now complete with a further week before the opportunity closes. This week all students in years 5-11 completed their survey and in the coming weeks we are also conducting a series of forums across the various stakeholder groups.
Strategic planning in a school community is ultimately about imagining the future together. The perspectives of our students, parents and staff are therefore invaluable in helping us understand what we do well, where opportunities for improvement exist, and what our community values most as we shape the next chapter of the College.
We sincerely thank everyone who has taken the time to participate in surveys, consultations and conversations throughout the planning process. Thoughtful and constructive feedback provides an important evidence base for decision-making and ensures that our future plans are informed by the lived experience of those who know our College best.
Independent Catholic schools operate within an increasingly complex environment. We are called to remain faithful to our Catholic identity and educational mission while responding to changing expectations around learning, wellbeing, technology, facilities, affordability, compliance and the broader needs of young people and families. Inevitably, there are competing priorities, different perspectives and finite resources. Strategic planning therefore requires careful discernment: listening openly while recognising that not every individual preference can become a strategic priority.
The value of consultation is not that every suggestion will be adopted, but that every perspective contributes to a richer understanding of our community and the choices before us.
Through listening, reflection and evidence-informed decision-making, we can develop plans that are ambitious yet achievable, responsive yet sustainable, and firmly grounded in our mission. Thank you to all members of our community who have contributed their voice to this important work.
Currently then it is noteworthy to share a little of our governance story. Strong governance is fundamental to the ongoing success of Villanova College. A highly skilled and independent Board, whose members are deeply aligned with the College’s Catholic and Augustinian identity, provides the stewardship, strategic oversight and sound judgement necessary to ensure that Villanova remains faithful to its mission while responding confidently to an increasingly complex educational environment.
In the Augustinian tradition, leadership is an act of service, grounded in community, humility, dialogue and a restless search for truth. Vincit Veritas – Truth Conquers – reminds us that good governance requires openness, thoughtful discernment and a willingness to listen to different perspectives in seeking what is best for the whole community.
The ongoing renewal of Board membership is therefore both necessary and valuable. It brings new perspectives, contemporary expertise and diverse professional experience, while maintaining continuity of purpose, institutional knowledge and commitment to our mission.
Equally important is the Board’s committee structure. Committees enable deeper consideration of key areas including mission, strategy, finance, risk and development, while drawing upon expertise from our wider community. They also provide an important avenue for appropriately skilled parents and community members to contribute to the strategic governance of Villanova. In this way, governance itself reflects an Augustinian understanding of community: many people bringing their gifts together, united in service of a shared mission and the flourishing of our students.
The implementation of the College’s Sport Strategic Plan continues to progress, with the initial focus deliberately placed on strengthening the systems, structures and culture that underpin the sporting experience at Villanova.
A significant body of work has already been undertaken. College-wide selection processes have been reviewed, with a focus on greater consistency, transparency and clarity across sports. We have also examined the structure and responsibilities of the Sport Office to ensure that our staffing model is aligned with the future direction of the program.
Importantly, a Sport Governance Group has now been established, led by Deputy Principal Ms Kristy Watkins and Head of Junior School Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff. This group provides greater oversight of implementation, accountability and alignment between sport and the College’s broader educational priorities.
Communication was identified through the strategic review as an important area for improvement. Work has consequently commenced on improving the accuracy, consistency and timeliness of information provided to families through MyVilla, complemented by the reinstatement of the fortnightly Sport Newsletter. Our aim is to make it easier for parents and students to understand what is happening, when it is happening and what is expected.
Considerable attention has also been given to coach induction, development and formation. We want a recognisable “Villa Way” of coaching that extends beyond technical sporting knowledge. Our coaching philosophy is being more deliberately aligned with our teaching and formation practices, including the Search Institute Developmental Relationships Framework and the College’s GREATS PB4L framework. Coaches are therefore being equipped not simply to develop better athletes, but to build relationships, establish high expectations and contribute positively to the formation of our young men.
The next stage
The next phase will include a realignment of roles within the Sport Office to build greater capability in two important areas.
A high-performance guidance and mentoring function will provide more coordinated support for our current elite and emerging sporting scholars. This will focus on helping students successfully navigate the demands of high-performance sport alongside their academic, personal and College commitments.
A sport program development specialist will also provide greater consistency and quality across individual sports. This role will support the development of aligned skills matrices, age-appropriate development pathways, coaching resources and training plans, helping ensure that the quality of a student’s sporting experience is not dependent upon a particular team, coach or year.
These initiatives represent further implementation of the recommendations arising from the Sport Strategic Review and build toward our longer-term vision, The Villa Way – Pathway to 2032.
The work is deliberately staged. Our priority has been to strengthen communication, governance, selection, coaching and student experience before moving progressively into the longer-term areas of performance pathways, staffing and program development. Ultimately, our measure of success will not simply be sporting results. It will be whether Villanova provides a sporting program characterised by participation, quality coaching, strong relationships, transparent processes, appropriate pathways and an experience that contributes to the formation and development of every boy who represents the College.
Mr Paul Begg, Principal
As we approach the conclusion of another academic term at the College, it is a fitting time to pause and reflect with gratitude on the vibrant student life that has characterised Term Three at Villanova. Our holistic approach to education, grounded in our vision and mission, has been evident in the many ways our students have embraced opportunities to grow in mind, heart and spirit.
In the Augustinian tradition, we are called to seek truth, to know ourselves more deeply, and to place our gifts at the service of others. Throughout this term, our students have lived these values through their enthusiastic participation in music, service and sporting programs, while continuing to engage purposefully in their academic studies. These experiences remind us that education is not simply about achievement in isolation, but about forming young men who understand their responsibilities to one another and who contribute generously to the life of their community.
The spirit of community has been particularly evident in the fellowship and celebration surrounding the QCMF, as well as in the strong performances of our basketball, rugby league and tennis squads. Such achievements are worthy of celebration, not only for the success itself, but for the commitment, discipline, teamwork and shared purpose that made it possible.
As our Seniors complete their mock external examinations and prepare to receive feedback next week from our dedicated Year 12 teaching team, our Year 10 and 11 students continue through their examination period. I encourage all our students to approach these assessments with perseverance and diligence- hopefully the results will reflect the fruits of your preparation.
Finally, I extend my best wishes and prayers to all Year 11 students travelling to the Philippines for their AFAS immersion. May this experience be a genuinely transformational one—an opportunity to encounter others with openness and humility, to learn from a different context, and to discover anew the Augustinian call to serve, to build community and to recognise our shared humanity.
Student Voice
Across the last two weeks in the absence of our Year 12 students, we have had the opportunity to hear from some different voices at assembly. The following Year 10 students have led our assemblies as emcees- Sage Arancibia, Jackson Copp, Lincoln McAlpine Mitchell Rigby- and they have discharged their responsibilities with charisma and aplomb.
This week, Year 10 student Patrick Tiernan offered a wonderful perspective on the GREATS theme of Effort. I would like to share an excerpt of his address:
“We talk a lot about effort at school. We talk about putting in the hours, studying for the test, training harder, getting the better result.
And yes, that matters.
But I think effort is bigger than that.
Effort is having the courage to do something when you’re not confident you can do it. Because confidence doesn’t always come before you take the leap. Sometimes confidence is what you build after you take it.
I used to be the person that would quiver in fear with the thought of leaving home
Now I’m less than 50 days away from going to Nepal.
That doesn’t mean I’m suddenly fearless.
You don’t have to completely change your life tomorrow.
You just have to find your next challenge.”
“Continuous effort– not strength or intelligence – is the key to unlocking our potential.” – Winston Churchill
Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School
As we approach the end of another busy and rewarding term, I would like to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of our Middle School students across a wide range of activities. The final weeks of the term always provide an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved and to celebrate the many ways our young men continue to contribute positively to the life of the College.
Next week, I have the privilege of accompanying a group of Villanova students on the AFAS Immersion Trip to the Philippines. While I am looking forward to experiencing the rich culture and communities we will visit, the real highlight for me will be working alongside these young Villa men as leaders and ambassadors of our College. Having watched many of them grow throughout their time in the Middle School, it will be a wonderful opportunity to see them put into practice the values we speak about so often at Villanova. Service is not simply something we do; it is a way of living that calls us to recognise the dignity of others and our responsibility to contribute to the common good. Experiences such as this help our students better understand the privilege of the opportunities they enjoy at Villa and challenge them to consider how they can use their gifts in service of others.
As St Augustine reminds us, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” I have no doubt this experience will provide valuable lessons, broaden perspectives and leave a lasting impact on all those involved.
I would also like to wish all Middle School students the very best as they commence their Term 3 examination block next week. Exams can often bring a mixture of anticipation and nerves, but they are also an opportunity for students to demonstrate what they have learned throughout the term. Success in examinations is rarely about last-minute preparation; it is built upon consistent effort, good habits and a willingness to engage fully in learning each day. I hope each student is rewarded for the commitment and hard work they have invested over the course of the term.
Congratulations and thank you to all students who have represented Villanova in Tennis, Basketball and Rugby League this term. The dedication required to train, compete and balance sporting commitments alongside school responsibilities should never be underestimated. Whether your team enjoyed success on the scoreboard or faced challenges throughout the season, your commitment in representing the College have been greatly appreciated. Best wishes to all players as they take to the field and court for their final fixtures this weekend.
Finally, last week marked the conclusion of our House Masses for the year. It has been a genuine pleasure to attend each of these celebrations and witness the strength of our House communities as students, staff and families gathered together in faith. These occasions provide an important reminder that Villanova is much more than a school; it is a community united by shared values, traditions and a commitment to one another. My sincere thanks go to Fr Saldie for his preparation and leadership of each Mass, to our Heads of House for their organisation and support and to the many family members who joined us. Your presence helped make each celebration a special and meaningful occasion.
Thank you for your ongoing support throughout the term. I wish all members of our Middle School community a successful conclusion to the term and look forward to a fantastic Term 4.
Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School
R U OK? Any Day
There are some questions we ask so often that we hardly notice we are asking them.
“How are you?”
“How’s it going?”
“Are you OK?”
And how often do we answer without really thinking?
“Good.”
“Fine.”
“Yeah, all good.”
Then we keep moving.
This Thursday, 10 September, we recognise R U OK? Day, a national day that reminds us of something that is important every day of the year: a conversation can make a difference. The message from R U OK? this year is simple — Ask R U OK? Any Day.
That last word is important.
Any day.
Because people don’t only struggle on Thursdays.
Our boys are learning that looking after one another is not about waiting for someone to announce that they are having a difficult time. It is about noticing. It is about being curious. It is about having the courage to ask a genuine question and, perhaps most importantly, being prepared to listen to the answer.
Speaking is usually not a problem for our Year 5 and 6 boys!
Give them a playground, a bus, a classroom or a sporting field and the conversation will often take care of itself. There are stories to tell, jokes to share, opinions to express and, occasionally, several boys who are absolutely certain that their story needs to be told at precisely the same time.
Listening is different.
Listening is a skill.
Real listening requires us to stop what we are doing, put down the device, look at the person speaking and give them our attention. It requires patience and self-control. Sometimes it means putting our own plans on hold for a few minutes because the person in front of us matters more than whatever we were about to do next.
That is particularly important for our boys.
A friend might be worried about an assessment. Someone may have had an argument at home. A teammate may be disappointed about being left out of a game. Another boy may simply be having one of those days when everything feels a little harder than usual.
We don’t always need to fix it.
In fact, we often can’t.
What we can do is be there.
Ask.
Listen.
Stay.
And if we are concerned, find an adult who can help.
Our Junior School Circle Times and Pastoral sessions provide opportunities for these conversations to happen deliberately. We talk about friendships, emotions, resilience, belonging and the different ways we can support one another. These aren’t extras to the “real” learning. They are part of educating the whole person.
The R U OK? message also gives us a wonderful opportunity to think about the difference between asking a question and genuinely checking in.
“Are you OK?” followed by immediately walking away doesn’t really give someone much opportunity to answer.
Instead, perhaps we can try:
“You don’t seem quite yourself today. Do you want to talk?”
“I noticed you were a bit quiet at lunch. How are things going?”
“You seemed frustrated before. Is everything OK?”
“I’m here if you want to talk.”
And then comes the hardest part:
Listen.
We don’t need to have the perfect response. We don’t need to be a counsellor. We don’t need to solve somebody else’s problems. Sometimes the most valuable thing we can offer another person is our time and our attention. There is also a responsibility that comes with being a good friend. If someone tells us something that makes us concerned about their safety or wellbeing, we don’t carry that responsibility alone. We find a trusted adult. Speaking up is not betraying a confidence — it can be one of the most caring things we do.
This is where our Augustinian values come to life.
Community asks us to notice those around us.
Humility reminds us that we don’t always know what another person is carrying.
Interiority encourages us to understand ourselves so that we can better understand others.
And our Search for Truth challenges us to look beyond the easy answer of “I’m fine” and, when appropriate, gently ask whether someone really is.
There is something else I would like our boys to remember.
It is OK if you are not OK.
There will be days when school feels difficult, friendships become complicated, assessments seem overwhelming, sport doesn’t go the way you hoped or things at home aren’t quite right. Feeling worried, disappointed, lonely, frustrated or overwhelmed does not make you weak. It makes you human.
The strength is in knowing when to talk.
So this week, I encourage our boys to look around their classrooms, playgrounds, sporting teams and friendship groups.
Who could you check in with?
Who might need a mate?
Who could use a little encouragement?
And perhaps most importantly, are you OK?
If the answer is yes, wonderful.
If the answer is no, or even “I’m not really sure”, then please know that there are people here who will listen.
At Villanova, we talk often about being a brother. Being a Villa brother isn’t simply about wearing the same uniform or belonging to the same House. It is about looking after one another.
Sometimes that starts with three very simple words.
Are you OK?
And sometimes, those three words are the beginning of a conversation that someone really needed.
Mr Stephen Rouliadeff, Head of Junior School
Finishing Strong
As we approach the final week of Term 3, students across the College are completing a significant period of assessment. While the term has been busy, the week ahead provide an important opportunity for students to finish strongly by maintaining consistent effort, staying organised and making the most of the learning opportunities available to them.
Within our Augustinian tradition, we are reminded that growth occurs through perseverance and continual improvement. St Augustine encouraged us to“aspire not to have more, but to be more.” As students near the end of the term, this serves as a timely reminder that success is not measured solely by results, but also by the commitment, resilience and character demonstrated throughout the learning journey.
Term 3 Interim Reporting
At the conclusion of Term 3, families will receive an Interim Report providing an overview of their son’s application, engagement and commitment to learning throughout the term. The report follows the same matrix-style format used in Term 1 and focuses on the learning behaviours that support academic progress.
For students in Years 5 and 6, feedback will be provided by their son’s Core Teacher across seven areas:
For students in Years 7 to 12, feedback will be provided by each teacher across three areas:
Reports will be available through myVilla under the Reporting tab, located beneath your son’s profile picture. We recommend accessing reports on a desktop or laptop computer for the best viewing experience. A myVilla news item will be distributed once Interim Reports are available.
Further information about the College reporting system is available via myVilla – Semester Reporting Information
Continuous Reporting Through myVilla
In addition to Interim Reporting, families can continue to monitor their son’s academic progress through the Grades section of myVilla.
The College’s continuous reporting process enables families to access assessment results and feedback as they become available throughout the year. We encourage families to review both assessment results and teacher feedback to support meaningful conversations about learning and academic growth.
Please note that results for completed assessment items should generally appear no earlier than two school weeks after submission to allow for marking, moderation and quality assurance processes.
Year 12 Holiday Study and Tutorial Program
As communicated to Year 12 parents and carers earlier this week, the College has developed a study and tutorial program for the September/October holiday break. The program will support students as they prepare for their upcoming QCAA External Assessments through revision, targeted academic assistance and examination preparation.
Parents and carers are asked to register their son for the sessions he is available to attend. Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities as they enter the final stage of their secondary education.
Full program details and registration information are available through myVilla – Year 12 Study and Tutorial Opportunity | September/October Holiday Break
The Value of Reading
The development of strong literacy skills remains an important priority across all year levels and learning areas at Villanova College. Literacy is fundamental to a student’s capacity to understand complex information, communicate effectively, interpret questions, construct well-reasoned responses and participate confidently in learning.
Literacy is essential whether students are interpreting scientific texts, analysing historical sources, solving mathematical problems or constructing extended responses. Alongside this discipline-specific work, the College continues to promote reading as one of the most effective ways to build vocabulary, comprehension, writing ability and critical thinking.
Research into boys and reading highlights that many boys read willingly when they can access engaging texts connected to their interests and are encouraged to explore a broad range of genres. Parents and carers can assist by:
Choice is particularly important. A student is more likely to develop a sustained reading habit when he has some ownership over what he reads. The initial goal is to establish regular engagement with worthwhile texts and then progressively broaden the range and complexity of those texts.
The College is committed to strengthening literacy instruction, promoting reading and supporting students to become confident readers across all learning areas.
Celebration of Excellence
Towards the end of Term 4, the College gathers for one of the most significant events in the College calendar, the Celebration of Excellence. This special evening recognises student achievement across the academic, cultural and service dimensions of College life.
Academic award recipients are determined using results achieved across Terms 1, 2 and 3.
For students in Years 5 to 9, an Academic Excellence Award is awarded to students who achieve an A standard in at least four of the five core subjects, with no less than a B standard in the remaining core subject. The five core subjects are:
For students in Years 10 and 11, an Academic Excellence Award is awarded to students who achieve an A standard in at least four of their six subjects, with no less than a B standard in their remaining two subjects. Subject Prizes are awarded to the student who achieves the highest cumulative result in a subject across Terms 1, 2 and 3.
The Celebration of Excellence provides an important opportunity to recognise the dedication, effort and achievement of our students. We look forward to celebrating these successes with our community later in the year.
As Term 3 draws to a close, I thank our families for their continued partnership and support of their son’s learning. I wish all students and families a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break and look forward to welcoming everyone back for the final term of the year.
Mr Kirk Astill, Dean of Teaching and Learning
Villa Cadet Corps
This week at assembly, we officially acknowledged our students in the Villa Cadet Corps as a new Mission in Action group under our Ministry banner.
The group was formed in response to a need identified among our young men and through the opportunities we have had to work together in activities such as the ANZAC Day Catafalque Party and attendance at the ANZAC Day Memorial Galleries and service. Most recently, our Cadet Corps led Australian National Flag Day proudly with a flag-raising ceremony, demonstrating respect and reverence.
The purpose of the Villa Cadet Corps is to develop our Augustinian values of community, leadership, service and stewardship through activities that support our community, honour our nation and recognise the service and sacrifice of others.
The group is open to students interested in service initiatives, leadership opportunities, military and peacekeeping service, Australian commemorative traditions, current or former cadet involvement, or those considering joining the Cadets in the future.
Importantly, students do not need to be a current cadet to join. All students from Years 5-12 are welcome to become involved.
If your son/s would like to be part of the Villa Cadet Corps, please email Mrs Greenaway for more information. We would love to welcome new members to the group.

Countdown to the Philippines: 1 Week to Go!
Last night, our AFAS students and families gathered for their final preparation session and Commissioning Evening ahead of next week’s departure to the Philippines. The evening was a wonderful celebration of their journey so far, with students even showcasing some dance moves as they embraced the spirit and culture of the immersion experience.
The AFAS Immersion provides a unique opportunity for students to step beyond their comfort zones, deepen their understanding of global communities, and live out our Augustinian values through service, solidarity and cultural exchange. We look forward to supporting them as they embark on this life-changing experience.

Mrs Eleni Greenaway, Dean of Mission and Identity
This Thursday is R U OK? Day, and as part of our wellbeing focus, we have created specific lessons designed around this important theme.
R U OK? Day is about more than simply asking the question, “Are you OK?” It is about encouraging our boys to notice when something may not be quite right with a mate, have the courage to check in, dig a little deeper and, most importantly, listen.
In our lessons, we are encouraging the boys to think about the small changes they might notice in someone they know. Perhaps a mate who is usually at school every day has started arriving late or missing school. Maybe they have stopped coming to training, missed music practice, become quieter than usual, seem more withdrawn, or just don’t seem like themselves. These changes may not always mean that something is wrong, but they can be a reason to check in.
The boys don’t need to be experts or have all the answers. They simply need to notice, ask questions, be present and listen. Sometimes, giving someone the opportunity to talk can make a much bigger difference than we realise.
Our message to the boys is simple: you could make a difference to someone simply by taking the time to ask. By being aware, reaching out and listening without judgement, we can help our mates feel supported and remind them that they don’t have to face difficult times alone.
We can all make a difference by having regular, meaningful conversations about life’s ups and downs. If something doesn’t seem quite right with someone, trust your instinct and ask, “Are you OK?” And if they aren’t, don’t feel that you need to fix everything yourself – listen, stay connected and help them find the right support.
Wishing all students the very best during the exam period. Staying organised and using time wisely will make a big difference. Enjoy the break, boys, and come back refreshed and ready to go for Term 4!
Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing and Pastoral Programming
A New Chapter for Villanova
The Pope Leo XIV Precinct is now nearing completion, marking an exciting new chapter in Villanova’s history.
Forty years ago, Goold Hall opened its doors and quickly became the backdrop to countless Villanova memories. Generations of students have gathered there for assemblies, Masses, awards ceremonies, performances and celebrations. It has been a place where friendships were strengthened, milestones were marked and our community came together.
As our Villanova family continues to grow, we now look forward to a new home for these important moments.
As someone who has spent much of this year supporting the Building Fund, it has been incredibly exciting to watch the Pope Leo XIV Precinct take shape.
Standing inside the building recently, I found myself thinking about the thousands of students who will learn, gather and celebrate there in the years ahead. While it is an impressive facility, its true value will not be measured by bricks and mortar. It will be measured in the memories created within its walls, the friendships formed, the opportunities provided and the sense of belonging it will foster for generations of Villanovans.
Alongside the Great Hall, the precinct will provide contemporary STEM classrooms, collaborative learning spaces and enhanced facilities that will support teaching, learning and community life for decades to come.

Charlie Fisher Cup Golf Day
The Foundation is also gearing up for the annual Charlie Fisher Cup Golf Day this November. One of the highlights of our Foundation calendar, the day brings together Old Boys, parents, staff and supporters for a wonderful day of connection and community.
We are excited to offer several new sponsorship opportunities this year and would love to hear from anyone interested in supporting the event or becoming involved. To register your team, click here.
Monthly College Tours
Our monthly College Tours continue to provide Old Boys, grandparents and members of the wider Villanova community with the opportunity to reconnect with the College and see firsthand how Villa continues to evolve.
Our next tour will be held on Monday 12 October at 10.00am. If you would like to join us, please reach out to the Foundation office to register your interest.
Stay Connected
One of the most rewarding parts of my role is hearing the stories, memories and connections that people have with Villanova. Whether you are an Old Boy, parent, grandparent or supporter, I always enjoy learning more about what Villa means to you.
If you would like to learn more about the Foundation’s work, attend an upcoming event, or simply have a chat, I would love to hear from you.
With Gratitude,
Mrs Effie Kent, Development & Foundation Manager
Minecraft Capture the Flag Australian Esports League third-place!

Over Term 3, our senior “OG” Minecraft Capture the Flag team comprising Damian E, Taylor P, Alex T, Oliver T, and Joseph Y competed on Saturdays both at the College and remotely against a large cohort of national teams across Australia. This was the first time our team competed in the Australian Esports League (AEL) fixture, and we did exceptionally well! Across six weekends of 2-3 matches, the Villanova team went undefeated into the final elimination rounds. We met St Peters Lutheran College in the Semi-Finals where St Peters took the match 2-1 on flags, securing their pathway into the Grand Final. Our Villanova team went on to comfortably win the bronze medal match against Melba Copland Secondary School (ACT). My thanks to Taylor P for stepping up as both captain and coordinator across the AEL season, and we look forward to continuing to compete on a national stage in 2027.
Mr Jason Lane, Esports Coordinator
College Music News – Term 3 Week 9, 2026
Term 3 Gala Concert Series
At time of writing, we have experienced our first Gala Concert Series event on Tuesday evening. With almost 250 students participating, this was a wonderful evening of music in Hanrahan Theatre with a large and appreciative audience in attendance. From our spirited opening with our Drumline students, through to our combined string, band, and percussion offerings, there were a number of highlights. Special mention must go to our AMP Choir and Villanotes for their respective performances – the development in these groups over the term has been amazing!
This evening we are looking forward to our Irish and Jazz program, Senior bands, Chamber Ensembles, and Guitar Ensembles, along with our Supernovans, sharing their music in our Theatre. Concert commences at 6pm (Thursday 10/09/26) in Hanrahan Theatre – we look forward to seeing you all there!
Auditions for 2027 Ensembles
Audition material for 2027 ensembles is currently being distributed by heads of department. Please check with your tutor regarding audition requirements for the ensembles you are, or would like, to participate in next year. Remember – new groups commence at the start of Term 4.
Wieneke Family Music Prize
The entry forms for our annual Wieneke Family Music Prize will be available for collection from the Music Office next week. Our annual solo competition will be held early Term 4 with heats over the first couple of weeks. Please speak with your tutors regarding your repertoire and start preparing for an early October ‘heat.’ We are looking forward to listening to all our soloists very soon.
Music Support Group – next Monday evening
Our next-to-penultimate Music Support Group meeting will be convened next Monday evening 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.
Key Dates Term 3
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary:
| Term 3 | ||
| 9 | Tues 8 Sept | Gala Concert Series |
| 9 | Thurs 10 Sept | Gala Concert Series |
| 10 | Mon 14 Sept | Music Support Group / QCMF meeting – 6:30pm |
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.
Michael Jones – Director of Music
How to Use MyVilla and The Locker Room
Families are reminded that MyVilla and The Locker Room on MyVilla are the central locations for Villanova Sport information, including weekly training schedules, fixture information, draws, team lists and key sport updates. To support families in navigating these pages, we have prepared a simple step-by-step guide
How-to-navigate-the-MyVilla-Locker-room-and-sports-pages.pdf
Families are encouraged to bookmark this page and check The Locker Room on MyVilla regularly throughout the week, as sport information may be updated as fixtures, venues and team details are finalised. The Villanova College App will continue to be used for urgent updates, including cancellations or same-day changes. Thank you for your support in staying connected with Villa Sport.
Director of Sport Address
Effort is our G.R.E.A.T.S. focus this week, and Round 6 against Ashgrove demonstrated that effort remains important regardless of the final result. Basketball recorded 24 wins and a draw from 30 matches, including eight wins from 12 Aggregate fixtures. Our First V produced a gritty 83-78 victory over the previous ladder leaders, securing their fourth consecutive win.
Rugby League recorded three wins and two draws from 12 matches, including no wins from five Aggregate fixtures. The First XIII went down narrowly 24-22 in a contest between fellow ladder leaders, Ashgrove. Tennis recorded one win and a draw from 15 matches, including one win and a draw from 11 Aggregate fixtures, with the First IV prevailing on games in a hard-fought clash. Across these different outcomes, the gritty, narrow and hard-fought contests reflected the importance of continuing to compete and give your best effort.
That effort was also evident behind the scenes. A sincere thank you to Andrew Lund and all staff who assisted Villanova in hosting AIC Track and Field Meet 2 at QSAC. We also thank the Primary and Secondary staff who supported the AFL and Cricket trials during Year 5 Orientation Day, along with Angus Sullivan, Wian Joubert, members of CLT and other staff who assisted with the Schools Cup AFL fixture and Saturday’s AIC fixtures. Your time and energy helped these important events run smoothly.
Attention now turns to AIC Track and Field Meet 3 at QSAC on Thursday, September 10, followed by Round 7 against St Patrick’s College on Friday, September 11 and Saturday, September 12. Our final lead-up Track and Field meet (AIC Track and Field Meet 4) will then be held at QSAC on Wednesday, September 16. Full schedules are available through The Locker Room.
Thank you to our students, coaches, staff and families for your continued effort and support.
Go Villa! 💚💛
Mr Matthew Hannan, Director of Sport
Season Results to date
AIC Touch Football Invitational 2026 (as per Touch Football Locker Room page – follow for updates)
The AIC Touch Football Invitational will be held on Friday 23 October (Primary) and Saturday 24 October (Secondary) in Term 4, 2026. The Sports Office are calling for an EOI from interested students in Year 7-11 to represent Villanova at the event. For further tournament details, or to register for trials, please complete the link below. Trials will be in week 10 of Term 3 and training in weeks 2&3 of Term 4.
Trials will be held as follows in Week 10:
EOI – Touch Football Invitational
AIC Water Polo Invitational 2026 (as per Water Polo Locker Room page – follow for updates)
The AIC Water Polo Invitational will be held on Sunday 25 October (Term 4) 2026. The Sports Office are calling for an EOI from interested students in Year 7-11 to represent Villanova at the event. For further tournament details, or to register for trials, please complete the link below.
Trials will be held as follows in Week 10 in the College pool on Thursday 17 September – 6:45-7:30am for Years 10 and 11 students, 7:30-8:15am for Years 8 and 9 students.
Green and Gold Recognition
This term, Villanova Sport continues to recognise students and teams who represent the College with pride, humility, effort and strong team spirit.
The Grill’d Green and Gold Player of the Week initiative gives coaches the opportunity to acknowledge students who demonstrate our G.R.E.A.T.S. values through their attitude, improvement and contribution to their team. Our most recent Grill’d winners were as follows:
AFL
Year 12: Sam H
Basketball
Year 5: Joshua F
Year 6: Taj P, Beau H and James W
Year 7: Wallace M and Cody J
Year 10: Jock S
Year 11: Beau H and Byron D
Rugby League
Year 6: Tommy R
Year 10: Joe S
Tennis
Year 5: Arjun S, Edward A and Reuben R
Year 10: Veer K and Xavier L
Year 11: Josh S
Track & Field
Year 9: Oscar H
Together, these initiatives shine a light on the positive habits, team focused actions and character that make Villa Sport so special.
Congratulations to each of these students for the way they represented Villanova College through effort, respect, teamwork and pride in the Green and Gold.
Round 7 vs St Patrick’s College – Volunteer Callout
We are seeking volunteers to assist with the smooth running of Saturday’s home AIC Basketball and Rugby League fixtures against St Patrick’s College on Saturday, September 12. Your support plays an important role in creating a positive and well organised match day experience.
Registering is quick and easy – no account or password is required, and your email address will not be shared. Every role contributes to ensuring a safe and enjoyable day for everyone.
Thank you in advance for your support – our community relies on it.
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.
No Dog Policy
A reminder that there is a NO DOG policy at all AIC sporting fixtures. Venue coordinators at and adjacent to Villa Park have reported that some pet owners are ignoring the gate signage. Pet owners who ignore the signs will be asked to remove their pets immediately.
Fixtures, Results and Training Information
AIC Draw 2026
Please find linked the AIC Draw for 2026.
Training Schedules
The Term 3 Weeks 2 to 9 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.
Team Lists
Team lists are published via The Locker Room. Basketball team lists will be released by Thursday evening, with Rugby League and Tennis published by Friday lunchtime ahead of the round. This is the earliest possible time this information can be finalised and shared.
Key Links
Sport Results – Associated Independent Colleges
Trimester 3 Sport Uniforms to be returned
Uniform returns will be managed through the Uniform Shop during Morning Tea and Lunch times from Tuesday to Friday of Week 10.
As a final reminder, all hire singlets and jerseys must be returned during morning tea or lunchtime at these times stated above to avoid replacement costs.
All items must be returned directly to the Uniform Shop. Returns will not be accepted at Student Services, Main Reception or the Sports Office.
To ensure an accurate stocktake, returns made outside the designated times will not be recorded. Any uniform not returned will incur a $100 late fee, charged to the student’s account.
Late fees
All players will be charged the $22 hire fee. The additional $100 fee applies only to items that are not returned.
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.
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)
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)
Sport Department Reminders
September School Holiday Camp with Pro Player
The Pro Player Elite Performance Group Camp will be held during the September school holidays. The camp is open to all Villa players from Years 5 to 12 and offers a great opportunity to develop skills and learn from experienced coaches.
Dates — Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 September
Times — 8:00 am to 11:00 am on both days
Location — Perry Park, Bowen Hills
We hope to see plenty of keen Villa players taking part. For further information or assistance, please contact Liam on 0491 685 721 or Liam@pro-player.com.au.
September EPG Camp Registration
Regional and External SDports
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.
| Sport/Activity | Age Group | Nominations due to the Sports Office |
| Triathlon/Aquathlon | T- 13-19 Years
A – 11-19 Years |
Monday 5 October |
Mr Todd Kropp, Regional Sport Coordinator
A Reminder About MyVilla and the Villanova College App
As we continue to streamline communication across the College, we would like to remind parents and caregivers that MyVilla remains the central hub for important information relating to your son’s education and College life. The Villanova College App provides convenient access to MyVilla directly from your phone.
2026 Census Privacy Collection Notice
Census and special circumstance applications privacy collection notice
About
The Australian Government Department of Education (the department) would like to advise all staff, parents, guardians and students (where applicable) that it will collect certain information about your school, its staff and student body as part of the non-government schools census collection (the census) and special circumstance applications.
How and what information is collected for the census?
Census information is provided to the department by your school’s legal entity (the approved authority) via the Education Funding System (EFS).
The census provides information about your school and the number and characteristics of the school’s staff and student body during a specific reference period. Information and characteristics collected through the census include:
•teaching and non-teaching staff
•students’ year level and workload
•students’ gender and age (as on 1 July 2026)
•Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students
•students with disability
•students receiving distance education
•day, boarding and overseas students.
The names of students and staff are not collected, apart from the name, position and contact details of the staff member nominated as the primary contact for the census.
Census special circumstance applications
A census special circumstance application is for a student who did not attend during the census reference period and/or did not have a pattern of regular attendance at a school during the year but otherwise meet the non-government schools census eligibility requirements. Schools can apply to have a student individually considered for inclusion in the census through a census special circumstance application. Any information provided to the department through this application should be de-identified by the school.
Purpose of the census collection
The information provided during the census is collected by the department in accordance with the Australian Education Act 2013 (the Act) and the Australian Education Regulations 2023 (the Regulations). The Act and the Regulations require the legal entity responsible for the administration of the school (the approved authority) to provide this information to the department to:
•ensure the provision of Australian Government funding to schools is properly calculated and appropriately managed
•conduct research, statistical analysis and develop school education policy for the Australian Government
•meet national and international reporting obligations on school students in Australia
•publish and provide information about schools to the public.
Use and disclosure of personal information
Your personal information is protected by law under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act). Personal information is information or an opinion about an identified individual or an individual who is reasonably identifiable.
Any use or disclosure of your personal information must occur in accordance with the Privacy Act and the Act and Regulations and any other applicable laws.
Your personal information provided to the department through the census may be:
•Used or disclosed by the department for the purposes outlined above under the heading Purposes of the census collection.
•Disclosed to the Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) to publish on the My School website and include as high-level data for ACARA’s National Report on Schooling in Australia.
•Disclosed to state and territory government departments and authorities in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
•Disclosed to Australian Government departments and authorities in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
•Disclosed to non-government school representative bodies in accordance with the Act and Regulations.
•Disclosed to a contracted auditor where the department decides to audit or verify the information provided by an approved authority about a school. The contracted auditor may use previously collected information or request access to individual student records for comparison purposes. The contractors may pass this information onto officers within the department, if there is a discrepancy in the data provided by the school and the school’s records and further investigation is required. The contracted auditor must handle personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act.
•Disclosed to its service providers for the purposes of the provision of information and communications technology support services to the department.
•Used to validate data from other collections undertaken by the department.
•Used or disclosed where it is otherwise required or authorised by law including under the Act or Regulations, or otherwise permitted under the Privacy Act.
Other than in exceptional circumstances (for example, investigation of fraud relating to overseas students), the department does not disclose any of the personal information collected to overseas recipients.
You can find the department’s privacy policy on the Department of Education website or request a copy from the department at privacy@education.gov.au. The privacy policy includes information about how to access or correct personal information held about you or your child, how to make a complaint about a breach of the Australian Privacy Principles and how the department will deal with such a complaint.
What do you need to do?
You are not required to do anything. The approved authority of the school is responsible for providing the information to the department.
Contacts for further information
Your school can provide information about data provided for you or your child for the purposes of the census. To find out more about the census collection and reporting, visit EducationHUB
Villanova College is an independent Catholic School for boys under the care of the Augustinian Order. Striving for excellence in boys’ education as an Augustinian community one in mind and heart on the way towards God.
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