Villa View – Issue 4, 13 March 2025

It has certainly been an interesting fortnight as we have battled cyclonic conditions, flood waters and power outages. It must be said though that the preparations that were able to be done and level of readiness would certainly ensure that the extent of damage to person and property was minimised.

From a Villanova perspective we certainly faced some challenges with water ingress into classrooms and of course quite significant impacts at Villa Park due to flooding, but it was nice to get everyone back to school by Wednesday this week. I state this point without specifically thanking the College leadership team and the grounds crew who were here on Monday ‘wet vaccing’ up countless litres of water out of classrooms, wiping down walls, accessing and setting up drying fans and generally looking to make the campus safe and operational so that we could get back to school as soon as possible. Without their efforts we may well have had to have more time away. Hopefully, with some good drying days ahead we will have all elements of College life, including sport and music back up and running.

There were a number of cancellations and/or postponements of events across the six days of cyclone impact. This included:

• Year 9 Rite Journey launch
• International Women’s Day acknowledgement and shared breakfast with Loreto College
• All College AIC Sport including Tuesday’s AIC Swimming Championships
• The Trimester 2 AIC Coaches induction session
• The Debut Music Concerts (1 & 2) for the year

The rescheduled dates for these events are being organised and published with the hope that most will be able to be held. If I could ask you to remain patient in this regard and information will be shared as soon as is practicable. We are trying to ensure that all will still occur inside this term, but this is proving challenging given examination and assessment blocks, Year 12 retreat and the already timetabled events in the calendar.

Empower Ed Goalsetting
“Goal setting is much more than a skill. It is a powerful tool that aids in the holistic development of a teenager. By setting and working towards goals, teens learn to identify their passions and interests, giving them a sense of direction” www.theattitudeadvantage.com

In the last three weeks we have as a Villa community looked to centre the boys and ensure they have a focus for the year, both academically and personally. Specifically, we have had our Senior Parent Teacher meetings, Empower Ed Goalsetting sessions for all boys in the College and our Year 10 career planning and understanding launch event.

Each of these do ask of the school, our teachers, and students to give significant time to this process. So why is it important?

Sense of Direction and Purpose
Setting goals helps adolescent boys identify their passions and interests, providing them with a clear sense of direction. This clarity is essential during their formative years, helping them understand their desires and aspirations.
Motivation and Engagement
Goals serve as a source of motivation. When teens set and work towards goals, they experience a sense of urgency and excitement, which keeps them engaged and driven.
Personal Growth and Resilience
Through goal setting, teenagers learn valuable life lessons in responsibility, self-discipline, and perseverance. They develop resilience by navigating setbacks and learning from failures, which prepares them for the complexities of adult life.
Improved Focus and Decision-Making
Goal setting enhances focus by helping teens prioritize tasks that align with their objectives. It also fosters critical thinking and decision-making skills, as they learn to evaluate options based on how well they serve their goals.
Mental Well-Being
Achieving goals provides a sense of accomplishment, boosting confidence and self-esteem. This positive reinforcement is crucial for mental well-being, as it helps teens feel capable and in control of their lives.

Websites referenced: · [1] The Impact of Goal Setting on Adolescent Development · [2] Teenage Goal Setting: A Guide to SMART Success & Independence · [3] 13 Best SMART Goals Examples for Teens – Success in Depth

Sad News for our Community
It is with sadness I share with you the news of the passing of one of our Villa Mums. Shelly Hanley, mother of Oscar (Year 5), soon to be Villa boy Levi (Year 2) and wife of Ben. As a Year 5 Mum Shelly was one of the newest members of our Villa family, starting only this year but had so many connections through the local St Martin’s Catholic Primary School community that transitioned here to Villa with her family. Our communities support and care is with the Hanley family at this difficult time.

As a family you may like to recite the following prayer in your daily reflections and share, through prayer, your support for the Hanley family.

Lord of life and love, as we give thanks for times past, grant us courage to embrace the present, and grace to share the future. In memory of Shelly, kindle her flame to shine in the dark and light the path ahead for Ben, Oscar, and Levi through their grief. Show the way that leads to life. As we cherish days gone by and inspire us with the touch of love that faith and hope live on.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Love always, in the name of Jesus. Amen

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.

In the wake of Cyclone Alfred, we have seen firsthand the strength and resilience of our Villanova College community. The impact of the cyclone on our students, families, and the broader community has been significant, but the response has been nothing short of inspiring. As St. Augustine wisely said, “In the evening of life, we will be judged on love alone.” This powerful message reminds us that in times of challenge, it is our love, support, and sense of community that will see us through. Together, we can overcome adversity and emerge stronger.

Last week, prior to the school closure, we had two significant events occur at the College – Opening of Whinstanes and Ash Wednesday liturgies.

On Monday 3 March, our Year 12 Student Leaders joined with Year 6 students for the re-opening of the hallowed grounds of Whinstanes. This is a fantastic new space for our young men to engage in a wide range of sporting activities. This revitalized area not only enhances our sporting facilities but also provides an opportunity for our young men to build community through collective play and shared experiences. The ground will play a vital role in fostering teamwork, school spirit, and camaraderie among our students. It is a valuable addition to our campus, helping to continue the proud tradition of the Villanova story, where excellence in both academics and sport go hand in hand.

Our young men participated in meaningful Ash Wednesday liturgies in their House Mentor groups last Wednesday (5 March), reflecting on the season of Lent and the call to repentance and renewal. These moments of prayer and reflection provided a deep sense of connection to our faith and community. The liturgies allowed our students to pause, reflect on their personal journeys, and come together in shared commitment. As we continue to support one another, the lessons from Ash Wednesday will guide our resilience and focus in the days ahead.

As we look ahead, our Year 12 students are currently embarking on their first exam block of 2025. It is an important milestone in their journey, and we extend our very best wishes to each of them as they take this next step towards their future. To our Year 12 gentlemen: remain focused, dedicate time to your study and revision, and remember to seek feedback and support from your teachers. Clarity in all assessment tasks outside of the exam block will also be crucial. This is the time to ensure you are on track for success.

Following the exam block, our Year 12 students will embark on another significant part of their journey—Retreat. This experience is designed to foster the holistic development of each young man, guiding them in understanding who they are and who they aspire to become. It is a time for reflection, growth, and building the resilience necessary for life beyond school. The memories from Retreat stay with our graduates far beyond their days at Villanova. We wish the boys every success on retreat and hope it is truly memorable.

For our Year 10 and 11 students, the final weeks of classes prior to the upcoming examinations are upon us, and we encourage all to remain focused, engaged and engage in revision at all junctures. The exam block for Years 10 and 11 commences on Tuesday, 25th March. These next few weeks will set the tone for continued success as they move closer to their own milestones in education.

We continue to stand together as a community—one that is resilient, compassionate, and focused on the growth and well-being of each individual. Let’s support one another in every way we can, as we look to the future with optimism and determination.

Wishing all students the very best in their upcoming exams and experiences. Stay strong, stay focused, and remember that the Villanova College community is always here to support you.

March Date Claimers

• Wednesday 12 March – Year 12 Exam Block commences
• Tuesday 18 March – Year 12 Exam Block concludes
• Wednesday 19 March – Year 12 Retreat commences
• Friday 21 March – Year 12 Retreat returns from Alexandra Headland
• Monday 24 March – Year 12 Retreat concludes at school
• Tuesday 25 March – Year 10 and 11 Exam Block commences

Ms Kate Mellor, Acting Head of Senior School

I hope this newsletter finds you and your family safe and well in the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred and subsequent flooding and power outages. This past week has been incredibly challenging for so many in our community, and I would like to acknowledge the difficulties they have faced. Being housebound and without power [which is what I had to face] was certainly not easy, yet amidst the adversity, there was also an opportunity—precious time spent with loved ones, engaging in heartfelt conversations, playing board games, and rediscovering the joy of being together without screens. It was certainly a silver lining to an otherwise difficult event, and I hope that despite the hardships, these moments brought some comfort and connection to family and friends.

We are grateful for your patience and understanding as we gradually return to campus. We know that disruptions to schedules and routines can be difficult to navigate, and we truly appreciate the flexibility and resilience shown by both students and parents. Your support in ensuring a smooth transition back to school has been invaluable.

We are now approaching the pointy end of the term—a time when assessments and exams come into clear focus. This is an important period for students to refine their study skills, develop strong routines, and stay organised so as to meet their academic goals. Encouraging good time management and balancing study with wellbeing will help students finish the term successfully. If your son needs extra guidance, please remind him to reach out to his house mentors and teachers.

Unfortunately, due to the recent weather disruptions, we were unable to celebrate International Women’s Day as a College community. However, I want to take this moment to acknowledge and thank all the incredible women in our lives—mothers, grandmothers, sisters, teachers, and mentors. I hope all of our young men took the time to express their gratitude for the significant role you play in their lives.

Finally, an update for our Year 9 families—the Rite Journey “Departure” morning at Villa Park is in the process of being rescheduled. We understand that postponements can be frustrating, and we appreciate your patience as we work to confirm a new date. We anticipate having an update by the end of this week and will communicate details as soon as possible.

Thank you again for your ongoing support. Please do not hesitate to reach out if there is anything we can do to assist you and your family during this time.

As St Augustine says:

“Hard times aren’t dictators; they’re mirrors. Your attitude and actions shape your reality more than circumstances ever could.”

Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

It’s one thing to refer to our children as the “cyclones” in our lives – it’s another to have Cyclone Alfred arrive in his own time with gale force winds and rain, leaving an impact on so many of us in different ways.

There are people who prepare in ways I completely admire yet will never be able to replicate in my own world.  Typically, these individuals are experienced campers with all the cooking and lighting gear who also prioritise a trip to Bunnings or BCF to purchase fresh batteries or even some amazing new gadget they never knew they needed, but somehow is precisely what saves the sanity of all who live in that residence when the fury of mother nature hits.  They have a freezer chest, a couple of generators and hi vis vests for each member of the family.  Cryovac meals are stacked by date order and there are spares for neighbours if needed.

I’m not by any means the total opposite end of that spectrum when it comes to being prepared for the kind of weather we have just experienced, but I can admit to everyone that whilst my work brain is considering all kinds of school preparations and then clean up, my family and friends know I am more of a “when it’s imminent or happening” that’s when I’ll remember things that could be helpful.  Like a power pack I bought last year that I should have charged; that conversation late last year when I saw my wife clean and cull the torch and battery box for emergencies and heard the words “must replenish” but forgot; and that the loss of power is a big certainty in a cyclone and what a miracle lights are (Thomas Edison was a genius) and so is access to internet (BCC bin collection changes, Energex outages website and flooded roads).

We bunkered down and came out on the other side quite all right, albeit a little mentally worn out and very aware of our own limits with regards to patience and humour (thanks to Monopoly in particular).

Now we find our St Thomas building in need of care and attention – a massive amount of appreciation to Villanova College staff for the combined effort to inspect, move furniture, clean, and begin the road to drying out carpet and speeding up the return of students to these spaces as soon as possible.  It’s our second time responding to significant water damage, and it does not go unnoticed that our community comes together with sleeves up and ideas on how to move forward.

It’s Week 7 and so NAPLAN becomes an important focus for four days over the next week for our Year 5 staff and students.  The significance of vertical data for literacy and numeracy, tracked over five years (at Villanova College) is one we always reflect upon as teachers.  They inform us of our curriculum programs working over a longer period of time than just a term or year.  Heads of Curriculum can also reflect upon pedagogical practices and the impact of High Yield Teaching Strategies.  There is a two-week window for NAPLAN testing to be conducted and this includes make up testing sessions.

As an online testing platform again in 2025, it is very important that students bring fully charged laptops, with wired headphones to comply with the NAPLAN lockdown browser security measures for integrity of results.  My thanks in advance for supporting your sons with the best sleep practices, big breakfasts, and positive words of encouragement to do their very best this week.  Rest assured, any helping hands with charging laptops can be worked out each morning at school if power outages are your reality with Cyclone Alfred last weekend.

Class preparation for NAPLAN has been provided, as has Homework tasks and recently formal “practice” testing situations.  The boys should feel reasonably confident showing their best understanding of key Year 3/4/5 concepts within the testing sessions that last between 40-50 minutes.  Results are available later in the year, typically around late August, and can be used in conjunction with classroom results to give us more information about how your son is building his core skills in two crucial areas of study.

Going into our second week of Lent, I believe it’s safe to say that we are all working to be our best versions of ourselves.  Jesus may have been contemplating a fate far worse than ours in the desert, isolated, yet he never doubted the love of his Father.  My first week’s pledge revolved around going without – my vices of chips and chocolate – so my second is definitely one of service, with a promise to keep working on solutions with our change in learning spaces and I intend to push that wet vac myself and keep industrial fans working as many hours as possible to help restore normality sooner rather than later.  I’m sure if anyone else was looking for a similar opportunity this week, please just let me know and I’ll find an avenue for your helping hands too.

Mr Stephen Rouliadeff, Head of Junior School

The Beginning of Lent
The impact of ex-Cyclone Alfred has undeniably left its mark on our community. In its wake, we may find ourselves reflecting not only on the storm’s effects but also on the deeper meaning of resilience, preparation, and renewal. Interestingly, the timing of this event coincides with the beginning of Lent, offering some parallel between nature’s turbulence and our spiritual journey.

On Ash Wednesday, we embarked on a period of preparation, both individually and as a community, for something significant. At the College, this sacred time was marked by an Ash Wednesday Mass before school, as well as student-led Liturgies in House Mentor groups. The ashes, a powerful symbol of our connection to God, reminded us of our humble beginnings: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” As each person received the ashes, they also heard the call to “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.” This moment of reflection encourages a spirit of humility, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to our Restless Search for Truth.

St. Augustine once said that fasting and alms giving are the “two wings” that we need for our prayer to rise up to God. This wisdom resonates deeply during Lent, as we engage in these practices to elevate our spiritual lives.

Much like Lent, the experience of Cyclone Alfred brought with it a sense of preparation, waiting, and ultimately, transformation. As the storm approached, there was a collective sense of anticipation—uncertainty about what was to come, yet a shared responsibility to prepare. When the cyclone finally passed, the community emerged changed, having weathered the storm together. In many ways, this mirrors the Lenten season: a time of challenge, introspection, and ultimately, growth.

Global VILLAge
Last week members of the Villanova AFAS Ministry and AFAS Scholars from Divino Amore Academy in Cebu, Philippines came together for a Global Village Zoom conference, strengthening the solidarity and between Villanova College and our sister school in the Philippines. Students shared conversations about culture, food, weather, teenage challenges, and their dreams for the future – building connections that transcend distance.

Read some of our student reflections below:

• Talking with our Philippine (Filipino) friends I got a sense of how ignorant we can become in Australia. I find that we get so caught up in our privilege that we forget what others are going through. By doing this call I was very humbled, comparing my status at their age to their experiences. I believe this is a really worthwhile initiative. Can’t wait for the next.
• It builds a connection for the scholars that we will meet when we are over there and building that connection makes it better and easier for us to know some stuff about them. Getting to know them is a big step into creating that relationship with them.
• From today’s experience with the zoom meeting, I feel much more connected with the AFAS scholars and other members from our sister school. I think it was important to build connections early and meet new people so that I can be familiar with some faces when we arrive in the Philippines.
• The recent zoom meeting had a very positive impact for me as I now feel more comfortable to have a conversation with the members of our sister school. I was very impressed with how well they were able to speak English, which in turn will help me and everyone have more meaningful conversations in the Philippines.
• I think it’s important to build a connection with the people before going so that it’s easier when we see them in person and already know a bit about them.
• I’ve felt a significant impact through meeting our brothers and sisters in the Philippines, as the experience has helped me realise the connectedness and breadth of the Catholic faith and Augustinian community. Despite our differences, despite our faults, we are all the same at some level – we were all made in the image of God. Thank you for organising the World Village, Father Saldie, it was great!

Year 9 Retreat All Hallows and Villanova – Conversations of the Heart
“You are God’s work of art.” – Ephesians 2:10. These powerful words from Scripture have been the guiding message behind Conversations of the Heart, a transformative program developed in collaboration with All Hallows’ School. This initiative seeks to provide young men and women with the opportunity to discuss the complex realities they face in today’s world, all within the framework of Catholic faith and values.

Last week saw the culmination of our Senior students hard work and preparation in the running of the Year 9 Twilight Retreat night.

Read below to see what some of our Year 9 students thought of the event:

I really enjoyed meeting the girls and building relationships. I loved how we were able to settle in and learn more about people as the night went on.

What I enjoyed most about the event was meeting new people and making new connections.

We spoke about topics that were important to us. I enjoyed the small groups and being able to have a voice in the group.

Conversations that we could share. It was nice sharing stories and just talking in general.

I loved kicking the footy around and dancing on the All Hallows’ terrace with the girls during dinner break.

Mrs Eleni Greenway, Dean of Mission and Identity

Dear Parents and Caregivers
In the wake of Cyclone Alfred, many of us experienced disruptions—power outages, flooded roads, and empty supermarket shelves. It was inconvenient, it was frustrating, but in the grand scheme of things, it was temporary.

Now, as life returns to normal, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the everyday comforts we so often take for granted: clean running water, electricity at the flick of a switch, a roof that keeps us safe from the elements. These are not universal luxuries.

Right now, in war-torn regions across the world, families are living without these basic necessities—not for a few days, but for months, even years. Homes have been reduced to rubble, clean water is scarce, and power is a distant memory. What we call an emergency, they call everyday life.

This is not to diminish the real challenges faced by those affected by the cyclone, but rather to shift our perspective. When we finally got our electricity back, how good did that first hot shower feel? When the fridge hummed back to life, how much did we appreciate fresh food? Gratitude is powerful—it helps us focus on what we have rather than what we lack.

I will certainly be grateful when our power comes back on. But there was a silver lining—without screens or distractions, we spent time playing cards, board games, and makeshift volleyball on the deck. It was a great reminder of the value of family and simply enjoying each other’s company. That said, if we’re still playing games in a week with no power, my enthusiasm might start to fade. There’s only so many games of Monopoly I can play!

As we move forward, let’s try and hold on to this perspective. Let’s be thankful for the comfort and security we often overlook. Our thoughts are with the Villanova community during this time, and I hope any challenges from this weather event are resolved swiftly.

Now we turn to upcoming assessments. While it’s important for the boys to stay focused on their studies, it’s just as crucial that they take breaks and avoid becoming overwhelmed by their study schedule. Research consistently shows that stepping away for even five minutes helps refresh the brain, boost mental energy, and provide a fresh perspective—leading to better focus and motivation when they return to their work.

At Villa, we actively support students in managing stress, particularly through our wellbeing program. Each term, every cohort has the chance to step outdoors, engage in fun and physical activities, and spend time with their peers. These sessions offer a valuable break from academic pressures, helping the boys reset and recharge.

Good luck to the Year 12s for their exam block that begins this week, and for all the boys who are preparing for exams and assignments in the coming weeks.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing

NAPLAN
NAPLAN testing commenced yesterday with all Year 5, 7 and 9 students completing the Writing test. Over the coming six days, the remaining literacy and numeracy tests will be completed. For students who are away for any of the tests, catch up sessions will be run across the coming eight days.

Mr Astill has been in touch with all students and parents in the past two weeks communicating all of the specific information required for testing to be completed. We wish our students all the best with NAPLAN testing and know that they will do their very best in completing each test.

Examination Blocks
I spoke to the Senior School on Tuesday about a range of academic matters as we head into the last part of the term. The main focus was about assignments and examinations, an asking the students to consider they are best preparing for any upcoming assessment.

Year 12 students have now commenced their Term 1 block examination period. This concludes next Tuesday before the students then go on retreat. I do not have to remind the students of how important this block is. After conducting academic interviews with many of our Year 12 students over the past three weeks (some interviews are continuing), it is clear that all of young men are wanting to improve on their Year 11 results. All students set challenging subject goals, and this examination block is the start of achieving these goals in many of their subjects.

Year 10 and 11 students commence their block examination period on Tuesday 25 March. The block concludes on Monday 31 March. Whilst the stakes are not quite as high as for the Year 12 students, there is much to be gained from doing as well as possible in this first examination block for the year.

Year 7 to 9 students also have a range of assessment due over the coming weeks. Along with Senior School students, I wish our Middle School students great success in the next three weeks.

I have included below some tips on how to break down topics in order to study more effectively.

How to breakdown Complex Subjects
Taming big Topics, one step at a time

We’ve all faced it — that overwhelming moment when you look at a massive topic and wonder, “Where do I even start?”. Whether it’s preparing for a history essay, learning a difficult science concept, or tackling a big project, it’s easy to feel stuck. But breaking down complex subjects into manageable steps can make studying not only easier but also more effective. Here’s how you can master the art of simplifying the complex.

Understand the Big Picture
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, take a step back and ask: What is this topic really about? For example, if you’re studying photosynthesis, the big picture might be understanding how plants convert sunlight into energy. Write this overarching goal at the top of your notes—it’ll act as a guide for everything you learn.

Tip: Look for summaries in your textbook or online resources to help you grasp the main idea. Tools like YouTube explainer videos can also offer quick overviews or ask ChatGPT to explain the concept to you in a simple way.

Break It Down Into Sections
Once you understand the big picture, split the topic into smaller, more manageable chunks. Think of it like dividing a pizza into slices—it’s easier to tackle one piece at a time than trying to eat the whole thing at once. For example:

• Studying ‘The Nervous System’ can be broken into ‘Brain’, ‘Spinal Cord’, and ‘Nerves’.
• Preparing for an essay might involve planning the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion separately.

Focus on one section at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Tip: Use your syllabus, textbook headings, or teacher’s notes to identify these sections. If the subject feels particularly dense, ask your teacher for clarification on what’s most important.

Create Visual Aids
Many students find it easier to remember information when they can see it laid out visually. Try these tools:

• Diagrams: Perfect for subjects like science or geography. Draw a labelled diagram to understand relationships between components.
• Flowcharts: Great for processes like historical events or problem-solving methods.
• Mind Maps: Ideal for summarising ideas and seeing connections between subtopics.

Visual aids not only help you organise your thoughts but also make revision more enjoyable and less monotonous.

Learn in Layers
Think of studying like peeling an onion—learn the surface-level basics first, then delve deeper as your understanding grows. For instance:

• First pass: Identify the key terms and concepts.
• Second pass: Learn how these terms connect.
• Third pass: Dive into details and examples.

Tip: Use multiple resources during this process. Your textbook might provide one perspective, but online videos or practice questions might give you a new way of looking at the material.

Review and Consolidate
Once you’ve mastered each section, it’s time to fit the pieces back together. Review how the smaller parts connect to the big picture. This step helps you see the subject as a whole and prepares you for tasks like essays, exams, or projects.

Tip: Try summarising the topic in your own words. If you can explain it simply, you’ve truly understood it.

From Chaos to Clarity
Complex subjects might seem intimidating at first glance, but with the right approach, you can simplify them into manageable steps. By understanding the big picture, dividing the topic into sections, and using tools like diagrams and mind maps, you’ll gain confidence and clarity. Remember, learning is a process — take it one step at a time, and you’ll find that even the most challenging topics can be conquered.

You can learn more at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au.

2025 Next Step Year 12 Completers Survey
All Year 12 completers from last year will soon receive an invitation to participate in the Next Step survey. This is their chance to help our school to understand the different pathways of the 2024 Year 12 students and to improve our senior programs and supports for future students. The survey only takes five minutes and asks graduates about their study and work activities since finishing school.

As a thank you for participating, Year 12 completers who complete the survey will be entered into a draw to win a MacBook Air.

We ask parents, siblings, and friends to encourage our graduates to complete the survey. If their contact details have changed, please assist survey interviewers by providing their updated details or forward the survey to their new address so they can participate. Graduates may receive an invitation by mail, email, or phone. The survey can be completed online or by phone.

For more information about Next Step, including previous results, visit http://www.qld.gov.au/nextstep.

Mr John Christie, Dean of Teaching and Learning

Welcome Back…
It was wonderful walking around the building prior to school this morning, listening to the buzz of activity and hearing our rehearsals return to full swing.  The sound brings a sense of peace and the awareness that life returns to an equilibrium eventually.
I trust that you all have fared reasonably well over the past week and hope that those impacted find continued support as you experience the recovery period.  We look forward to supporting you in providing a return to routine for you and your sons.

Concerts and Lessons for remainder of term
With the weather interruption over the end of last week and into this, we have taken the opportunity to review our lesson timetables and concert schedule.  If your son’s teacher has adjusted lesson times over the remainder of term, you will have received an updated timetable.  If you have not received an updated timetable, please continue to work with your most recent edition emailed through.  Where required, we will adjust lesson tallies and billing as per usual routine – at the end of Term 3.

Our Concerts have now been rescheduled to the following times:

Concert 1 (was scheduled for Thursday 6 March) will now run on Monday 24 March.  This concert will run in Hanrahan Theatre commencing at 5pm.  Gig sheets and ticketing information has been distributed to participant families.  You can access tickets via the Trybooking link here:  https://www.trybooking.com/CZZGC

Concert 2 (was scheduled for Tuesday 11 March) will now run on Tuesday 18 March.  This concert will be convened in Hanrahan Theatre commencing at 6pm.  Gig sheets and ticketing information has been distributed to participant families.  You can access tickets via the Trybooking link here:  https://www.trybooking.com/CZZEB

If you or your son have not received an email with gig-sheet information, he will not be participating in this concert series.

Debut Concert Series – Reminder re Uniform
We are now only one week away from our Debut Concert Series.  This concert is for all students who are currently in a rehearsing ensemble (some Year 5 students are included in this set – NOT all).  If your son is involved in this concert series, you will be receiving an email in the coming week.

Due to possible growth spurts over the holidays, it is prudent to check our performance uniform now.  Please take a look at the information below and ensure your son is prepared for these events.  Information regarding performance dates for ensembles will be forthcoming.

Music Uniforms

Music Support Group Meeting – Monday 17 March, 6:30pm
Our next Music Support Group meeting will be convened next Monday, 17 March, commencing at 6:30pm.  This meeting will be convened online via Teams.  If you would like access to this meeting, please RSVP to the Music Office via email before 3pm next Monday.

All are welcome to come and learn a little more about the activities of our music community here at Villa.

Sydney Tour 2025
I am pleased to let you know that we have received sufficient interest for our Sydney Tour to proceed.  We have 44 places set aside for students interested in participating in this event.  A letter outlining more information and an information session will be distributed shortly.  We will distribute this letter again to all Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Sinfonia String Orchestra, and Camerata String Orchestra members and families; first option will be given to those students who have already communicated an affirmative expression of interest.

We are really looking forward to making this opportunity a reality.

ANZAC Day Preparations|
As we move toward the end of term, preparations for our annual involvement in the Coorparoo ANZAC Day March will commence in earnest.  Please ensure your son keeps his eye on emails as we move into the end of term and start our marching practice sessions.

Key Dates Term 1
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary:

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
I hope you are all safe and well amid the disruptions caused by the wind and rain accompanying Cyclone Alfred. My thoughts are with all families affected and I sincerely apologise for the impact on our community, including the significant loss of sport last week and this week for many teams.

We will share a larger update from our coordinators in the next College Newsletter, providing further insights and reflections on the season so far.

We Can Win and We Will Learn is more than just a motto – it is the heartbeat of Villa Sport. Whether you are piling on the runs at the crease, taking a mark on the footy field, digging deep on the volleyball court, or powering through the pool, it is about giving your best, backing your teammates and growing every step of the way.

A massive shoutout to our swimmers as they gear up for the AIC Championships next Friday – your dedication in the pool has been outstanding and we know you will make Villa proud!

Please note, Trimester 2 Sport registrations are now open for Chess, Cross-Country, Football and Rugby Union. More information is provided below.

Sport is not just about results; it is about progress, resilience and the lessons we learn along the way. So, let’s keep striving, supporting each other and embracing the journey. Because when we push ourselves to improve, stay accountable and compete with heart – we can win and we will learn!

Date Claimers
The best of luck to all Villanova students – let’s represent Villa with pride!

📅 Week 7 – Friday, 14 March: Trimester 2 Sport Registrations for Chess, Cross-Country, Football and Rugby Union are closing – click this link to register
📅 Week 7 – Saturday, 15 March: AFL, Cricket and Volleyball against Marist College Ashgrove
📅 Week 8 – Monday, 17 March: Trimester 2 Sports Induction for Coaches (Nick Simpson Auditorium, 6pm) – interested coaches should contact:

🔹 Chess – Ms Kath Underhill
🔹 Cross Country – Mr Brian Pascoe
🔹 Football – Mr Nathan Dufty
🔹 Rugby – Mr Chris Everding
📅 Week 8 – Friday, 21 March: AIC Swimming Championships (Sleeman Sports Complex): 4:00-8:00pm

Current Highlights & College Events
Swimming
🏊‍♂️ Week 8 AIC Swimming Championships – Next Friday afternoon at Chandler – 3:30pm warm-up until 7:45pm Presentations)!
📅 AIC Swimming Lunch – Next Friday afternoon for all supporting staff and helpers, from 1:30-2:00pm (Squad Photo at the end of Lunch, before getting Buses to Chandler)

AFL 🏉
✅7A, 6A and 5A Green remain undefeated.
✅ 8C and 8B Teams have now won three in a row!

Cricket 🏏
✅ Several teams still undefeated: 1st XI, 4th XI, 10A, 8C, 5A and 5C.
✅ The Seconds and 9Bs remain undefeated in Aggregate.

Volleyball 🏐
✅8C and 7C recorded their third consecutive wins – fantastic momentum!
✅The 8A team remains undefeated – an outstanding effort!

Thank you all for your continued support and dedication. Let’s keep the momentum going as we move towards another huge weekend of sport!

Good luck Villa and carn the ‘Cats! 💚🏆💛

Mr Matthew Hannan, Director of Sport

Key updates and Announcements
Communications
Families should access sports information via the Villanova College website and App. With the 2025 Sports Bulletin halted, the Locker Room and Villanova College phone application will be relied on to provide key updates between Villa View issues.

Trimester 2 Sport Sign-Ons – Rugby, Football, Chess and Cross Country – Now Online!!
All nominations have been extended to Friday, March 14. Register for Term 2 Sport here.

All students who are interested in representing Villa in AIC Chess, Cross Country, Football and Rugby Union in Term 2 from Years 5-12 must complete an online registration link, which will be accessible via the link below, on the Locker Room and Villanova College phone application this week.

Within the online form please tick your preference. Note that Rugby and Football will be played during the same time. Students who are eligible may choose either Rugby or Football as well as Chess and Cross Country. We aim for all trialling Football and Rugby Union students to be included in a team.

• CHESS (selected students from Year 5 – 12): Games played on Friday afternoon/evening as per College Calendar.
• CROSS COUNTRY (Open to all students from Year 5 – 12): Meets – refer to the College calendar.
• FOOTBALL (Open to students from Year 5 – 12): Games played on Saturday as per College Calendar.
• RUGBY UNION (Open to all students from Year 5 – 12): Games played on Saturday as per College Calendar.

We ask that all parents complete this online registration alongside their son. Information regarding the student’s name, year level, ID number, parent’s email address, DOB and sport selection is required. ALL students in rugby and football squads must also complete an online registration form.

We expect that when a boy commits to a team that he follows that commitment through until the end of season. Both parents and players must acknowledge within the online sign-on form that they are aware of the College’s policies and expectations with regards to school sport. The College’s Selection Guidelines and Code of Conduct will also be found on the online sign-on form. Please note that school sport is given priority over club sport.

Fixtures, results and training information
Draw – Round 6: Saturday 15^th March, 2025
The Round 6 draw for fixtures against Marist College will be available via the “Weekly Fixture/Draw Information” on the Locker Room page by this afternoon. We appreciate your patience as schools work through the challenges caused by Cyclone Alfred, with many outdoor venues sustaining damage. Efforts are underway to maximise the number of games that can be played safely and we will provide updates as soon as possible. Unfortunately, this is the earliest we are able to release this information this week.
Please find linked the AIC Draw for 2025

Team Lists
Team lists appear in the Parent Lounge and Student Cafe sections of the portal. Team lists will be posted by Thursday prior to the round ahead. This is the earliest possible time we can post this information.

Training Schedules
For all updated information regarding training and selection trials schedules, please visit the Locker Room page of the Villanova College website. Sport specific training schedules for AFL, Cricket and Volleyball can also be found on the Locker Room page – there were minor modifications to this training schedule, published last year. Please ensure you review the latest version, each week (note the version date, will feature in the title inside the document. The most recent version includes “…version current Jan 28” in the title).

Term 1 Sport Uniforms
Families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Villanova College Uniform Look Book. This information is available on the College website under the Uniform Shop page. Opening hours for the Uniform Shop can also be found here. All students selected in AIC teams are expected to wear the correct uniform for AIC fixtures each week.

SPORT-SPECIFIC UPDATES
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. Note: Report training or game absences directly to the Sport Coordinator.

Director of Sport – Matthew Hannan, matthew.hannan@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC AFL Coordinator – Matt Conlan, mconlan@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cricket Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Swimming Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cross-Country Coordinator – Brian Pascoe – bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Chess Coordinator – Kath Underhill, kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Football Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Golf Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Basketball Coordinator – Stuart Rowland, srowland@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Rugby League Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Tennis Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Track & Field Coordinator – Anthony Kemp, akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Water Polo Coordinator – Contact sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au
Composite District Sport – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
Lytton District Sport – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au

Swimming
I hope that you are all safe and well and that those who have been affected by TC Alfred are on the way to recovery.  The storm has significantly disrupted our AIC schedule.

AIC Championships
At this stage I can tell you that the event has been rescheduled to a twilight event on March 21^st.  This means that the swim squad and reserves will leave school early on the Friday to get to the Sleeman Sports Centre on time for warm up at 3:30pm.  Racing will begin at 4:15 pm and we look to conclude as close to 8:00pm as possible.  All swimmers must prioritise this event over other sports on the evening.  If there are any questions about the implications for other sports, please contact Matt Hannan in the Sports Office as early as possible.

There will be a bus returning from Chandler to Villanova for those families that cannot collect the boys from the venue. All swimmers and reserves must remain with the team and managers in the stand for marshalling purposes and not with their families.  This year there is a requirement for all spectators to be ticketed.  The students do not need a ticket.
Please see below ticket link for AIC Swimming Championship Tickets. This link is now live. The same link remains valid for the new date: AIC Swimming Championship Tickets (Spectators) – 21 March 2025
There have been a few changes to our team nominations, so please check the emailed events, carefully.

Training schedule
As a result of the delay for the competition, we have extended our training sessions for an additional week.

The Gold squad will train as usual Thursday 13th March, Monday 17th March and Tuesday 18th March. Wednesday 19th March and Thursday 20th March will be compulsory relay practice for only the swimmers in the relays.
Boys who are swimming only individual events are not required for those two days.

Team Briefing & Photo
On Friday 21st March, we will provide a team lunch and have a briefing and photo, before boarding the buses to Chandler as close as possible to 2pm.  Year 12 Swimmers will return from retreat earlier in the day to make the lunch, briefing and photo and travel with the team to Chandler.

Uniform
As mentioned previously, the squad shirt and sports shorts with shoes and socks is required on the day.  If you do not yet have the squad shirt, this can be purchased through the Uniform Shop.  As much as possible, swimmers are to wear plain black togs on the day.  All swimmers are required to wear a Villanova swim cap when racing and I will have spares available. I will continue to update you about any further details or changes as I hear about them.

Mrs Juanita Jacobs, Swimming Coordinator

Trimester 2 Activities
Cross Country
Unfortunately, the Cross-Country has been affected by the significant weather event has caused a stuttered start. However, when safe training will resume.

Throughout the cross-country season there are three scheduled training sessions each week. These sessions are intended to be difficult and challenge you. The three sessions we undertook last each week included,

• Session 1 (Tuesday morning) – Fartlek session – offers an effective and efficient form of endurance conditioning examples include.

1. a) Traditional first session of the season, Four-minute Fartlek session – 4 x (30 seconds steady, 20 seconds hard, 10 seconds very hard) with the student completing 3 or 4 sets.

• Session 2 (Thursday morning) – Interval session – we use structured interval training workouts and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to build speed and endurance.

1. b) 1 km Effort (E), 3-minute Rest Interval (RI), 500m E, 3 min RI, 1 km E 5 min RI, 1 km E 3 min RI, 500 m E.

• Session 3 (Friday morning) – Time trial – can help you run faster and longer, as well as preparing you for performing under race conditions.

1. c) 2 km Time trial

I also recommend participation in Parkruns, they are highly beneficial for racing practice. The AIC cross-country season has few chances to race and it is an important skill to practice. So, I challenge all members of the cross-country squad to attend Parkruns with the view to optimise your ability to race.
We look forward to having each runner in the team, become the best runner he can be. Dedication to training especially when no one is watching, is a key habit that enable a team and an individual, to grow in character.

I also encourage boys participating in field sports such as Rugby Union, Football or AFL to join a session or two to improve your fitness so you can perform better in your chosen sport.

Mr Brian Pascoe, Cross Country Coordinator

Football and Rugby
Save the dates – Register for Easter Holidays Skills Clinics Thursday 10 and Friday 11 April – Football & Rugby

The Sports Office invites all interested students from Year 5-10 to participate in the Easter skills clinics for Rugby & Football (Soccer).
These clinics are open to all ability levels, with a range of coaches in both disciplines. Players from our A/B teams through to our lower teams and students beginning in each sport are invited to attend. The details for this event are listed below.
Date:  Thursday 10 & Friday 11 April, 2025
Times:  Arrive 8.45am for 9am start – 12pm (each day)
Venue:  Villanova Park, Manly Road
Cost:  Single day – $70 (either Thursday or Friday), both days – $130 (made payable via Parent Lounge)
Uniform:  Sport specific clothing including boots or playing shoes, sunscreen, hat, water bottle etc. Students participating in the Rugby Camp will not be permitted to participate without a mouthguard. Students are welcome to wear Villa sports uniform or casual sports clothes.

Online payment and registrations (via Parent Lounge) must be received by Wednesday 2 April.

Rugby & Football – Coaches/Referees for the 2025 season
If you have an interest in refereeing or coaching, please contact:
Year 5-12 Football – Nathan Dufty email: ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au

Year 5-12 Rugby – Chris Everding email: ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au. If there are any parents or guardians who wish to nominate to be rugby coaches or referees next term, please contact Mr Chris Everding in the Sports Office. There is a shortage of Year 5 Rugby coaches.  Recent coaching experience is essential along with a Smart Rugby Qualification. Trials will officially begin in week 9 this term (from March 24) and there will be a coaches induction meeting prior to the start of trials on March 17. Any support would be greatly appreciated.

AIC Rugby & Football Training/Trials
The first training/trial session will occur the very first week after Round 7 of Cricket, AFL and Volleyball. That is, the week beginning Monday 24^th March.

Training times and venues for all Year 5-12 rugby and football teams are listed below. All Year 5&6 teams will train at Little Langlands or Whinstanes. Year 7-12 teams will train at Villa Park. The College will provide bus transportation to Villa Park for all teams. Parents are required to collect their son from Villa Park after training. There will be no return bus service from Villa Park.

Please see the divisions below. Note in each division the players will be graded from A, B, C etc. Opens will be graded from 1^st, 2nds, 3rds etc.
Football – Year 5, Year 6, Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 & Opens
Rugby – Year 5, Year 6, Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, Opens

AIC Rugby & Football Trial Games – Date Claimers 

• Mon 24^th – 28^th March (Rugby and Football training/trials begins at Villa Park for all Year 7-12 teams, Year 5&6 teams will trial at Little Langlands/Whinstanes). Year 5 teams will miss these
• Sat 29^th March Internal AIC Rugby & Football Trials at Villa Park (1^st, 2nds and 10A rugby and football v SLC Only).
• Sat 4^th April (first Saturday of the holidays) AIC Rugby & Football TRIAL CANCELLED v Iona
• Sat 26^th April Trial v Marist College Ashgrove. Full school trial.
• Sat 3^rd May Round 1 – Sat 14th June Round 7 as per College Calendar

AIC Rugby & Football Training/Trial Schedule
The below schedules will be applied all season. NOTE – some Year 5&6 training times could change depending on the coach’s availability, however, we will endeavour to keep to the schedule below.

Rugby Training

• Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, Year 11 and Opens @ Villa Park 3.45pm-5.00pm, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.
• Year 5 @ Little Langlands, Tuesday afternoon 3.20pm-5.00pm and Thursday mornings 6.45am-8.00am
• Year 6 @ Little Langlands, Tuesday mornings 6.45am-8.00am and Thursday afternoons 3.20pm-4.45pm

Football Training

• Year 7, Year 8, Year 9, Year 10, 3rds, 4ths & 5ths @ Villa Park 3.45pm-5.00pm, Monday and Wednesday afternoons
• 1st & 2nds @ Villa Pk 3.45-5.15pm Monday and Thursday afternoons
• Year 5 @ Little Langlands, Monday afternoon 3.20pm-5.00pm and Wednesday mornings 6.45am-8.00am
• Year 6 @ Little Langlands, Monday mornings 6.45am-8.00am and Wednesday afternoons 3.20pm-5.00pm

Mr Nathan Dufty and Chris Everding, Football and Rugby Union Coordinators

Community Engagement and Parent Involvement
Parent Volunteers
Join the Villanova College Sports Club in supporting our sporting community. Volunteers are needed at Goold Hall on Saturdays throughout Term 1. Please click the registration link on The Locker Room and Villanova College phone application in the Notices section, in order to register as a volunteer for events. Your contribution makes a real difference to our sporting community. Thank you for your anticipated support!

Villa Sports Club Meeting
Get involved in Villa Sport by joining our next Sports Club Meeting – connecting with other parents and helping to shape the future of sport at Villanova. We encourage all parents to attend – your involvement makes a real difference! The first meeting of the week occurred earlier this week; with outstanding parental involvement; stay tuned for a future release of the next meeting date!

Specialised Services
Physiotherapy reminder
Strapping will be available for all Firsts players in AFL, Rugby Union, Football and Rugby League. The cost is $5 per joint (e.g. two ankles will cost $10). A record of players receiving strapping will be maintained on game day and parents will be charged to students’ school fee accounts by the school. Additionally, Bridie will provide comprehensive sports physiotherapy services to AFL, Rugby Union, Football and Rugby League Firsts players on game days and at scheduled times during the week, as required.

Speed and Agility
In 2025, Villanova College’s Speed & Agility Programme for students in Years 5 to 8 will continue under the leadership of Matty Scott. The programme features highly qualified coaches, including an Olympian and Australian-level coaches, offering students a unique opportunity to enhance their athletic skills.

Open to all ability levels, the programme runs for 5 weeks in Term 1 and 8 weeks in each subsequent term. Sessions will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:00am at Whinstanes Oval; we are now two weeks into running this program.
Designed to benefit athletes across all sports, this programme comes highly recommended. To register for Term 2, access will be made available on the Parent Lounge, closer to the end of Term 1.

Sport Department Reminders
Wet Weather Cancellations
If there is any reason to cancel training sessions or weekend games, this information will be posted to the Villanova College phone application in the Notices section. Please ensure you have downloaded the Villanova College application and updated your preferences and settings.

The Villa Sports Department will endeavour to cancel morning training sessions by 6am and afternoon training sessions by 1pm. If a training session is cancelled, boys are not able to be dropped off to the training venue as there will not be supervision present. Please check the Villanova College phone application regularly for these notifications.

If any AIC fixtures are cancelled, we will follow the same procedure above. Timing will be dependent on when that information becomes available.

Guidelines regarding communication of External Achievements

• The Villanova College Sports Department celebrates individual student achievements through both our social media platforms and newsletter. To maintain clarity and consistency, the recognition criteria are outlined below:
  • Social Media Recognition:
    • Achievements at the national level (e.g., selection in an Australian team or being crowned a national or state champion).
    • Outstanding results in state level events may also qualify.
  • Newsletter Recognition:
    • Achievements at the state level (e.g. selection in Queensland teams or significant individual achievements at recognised State Championships, such as medal winners).
  • Exclusions:
    • Representation at club, district, or composite levels (e.g. Met East or Lytton District) does not meet the criteria for inclusion in social media or newsletter posts.
  • To have a qualifying achievement featured, please email SportsOffice@vnc.qld.edu.au with the subject “External Sport Achievement”. Please include:
    • A summary of the event or competition (100–150 words or an equivalent in dot point form)
    • A photo of the student (ideally in their representative uniform)

Selection process
The goal of this selection process is to address and resolve players’ concerns in a structured and collaborative way. It begins with direct communication with the coach and escalates to higher-level review (if necessary), ensuring fairness and the effective resolution of both minor and serious issues.

Step 1: Direct Communication
The player discusses their concern directly with the coach, who also provides feedback.
Step 2: Further Action
If the student’s concern is not resolved, the player consults the relevant Sport Coordinator, who will look to involve the coach.
Step 3: Serious or Unresolved Issues
For significant concerns or unresolved matters, the player and their parents will meet with the relevant Sport Coordinator and the Director of Sport.

Minor Disputes (handled by coach or Sport Coordinator):

• Issues with playing time or positions.
• Communication breakdowns.
• Concerns about skill development or behaviour at training.

Serious Misconduct (escalates to Sport Coordinator & Director of Sport):

• Bullying or harassment.
• Discrimination.
• Severe unsportsmanlike conduct.
• Violence or threats.
• Substance abuse.

Final Reflection
“The firefighter holding the hose is just as vital as the one holding the ladder — because every role matters when the goal is the same.”*
At Villanova, success is about more than results—it is about effort, growth and the way we support each other. Like a fire crew, every role in a team is essential. Some lead, others support, but all play a part in achieving success.
Every session, game and challenge is a chance to improve, stay accountable and build something greater than ourselves. Our teams have already shown resilience, discipline and respect—the journey is just beginning.
Now is the time to step up, trust the process and make this season unforgettable. Wildcats, go chase excellence! 🏆💚💛

Join AFAS Elders and Make a Meaningful Impact!

AFAS Elders is a dedicated group of  Old Boys, staff, and parents committed to supporting communities in the Philippines.

Working alongside AFAS Students – but focusing on different communities and independent funding – the Elders strive to build lasting relationships where the Augustinians have a presence.

We invite you to our upcoming meeting to help shape the future of AFAS Elders tonight Thursday 13 March at 6pm in the Augustine Centre.

The goal is to create a sustainable operating model and explore new ways to make a meaningful impact with our Filipino partners. All are welcome! If you’re interested but unable to attend, we’d still love to hear from you.

Find out more about our past projects at AFAS Elders or contact us here.

RSVP: afaselders25@gmail.com to register your interest and/or attendance.

Tuckshop News

 The 2025 Tuckshop menu can now be found on our website: Tuckshop | Villanova College

All students are reminded to bring their student card or cash to make Tuckshop purchases. This aids an efficient service for the boys. Student ID cards from last year can be used. Boys without student cards are asked to bring cash until the 2025 ID cards have been distributed.

Collection notice for parents/guardians
2025 Student residential address and other information
The Australian Government Department of Education (the department) would like to notify you that we have requested for your child’s school to provide residential address and other information.
Under the Australian Education Regulations 2023, the school is required to provide the department with the following information about each student at the school:
 names and residential addresses of the student’s parent(s) and/or guardian(s)
 student residential address (excluding student names)
 whether the student is a primary or secondary student (education level)
 whether the student is boarding or a day student (boarding status).
The school collects the above information by generating a unique and unidentifiable student reference number (SRN) for each student record. The school only uses the SRN for this collection. The SRN cannot be used for any other purpose. The number only indicates to the department that each record provided is for one student.

Purpose of the collection
The Student residential address and other information collection (address collection) informs Australian Government school education policy and helps ensure funding for non-government schools is based on need.
The information collected is used to inform school funding calculations. It is combined with Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data to calculate a non-government school community’s anticipated capacity to contribute to schooling costs, known as the capacity to contribute (CTC) score. More information is available on the CTC page.

Use and disclosure of personal information
Your personal information is protected by law under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (the Privacy Act). Personal information is information or an opinion about an identifiable individual. Personal information includes an individual’s name and contact details.
Any use or disclosure of your personal information must occur in accordance with the Privacy Act, the Australian Education Act 2013 and Australian Education Regulations 2023.
Your personal information provided to the department through the collection may be:
 disclosed to the ABS for the purposes of the ABS linking names and address(es) with their personal income taxation data using the capacity to contribute calculations and analysis as a part of the Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA – previously known as MADIP). Find more information about PLIDA on the ABS website PLIDA page
 disclosed to an authorised person (for example, contracted auditor or identified departmental official) where the department may audit a school’s collection submission. The authorised person compares the school’s submission with the student enrolment information. The authorised person will not use the information for any other purpose
 disclosed to our service providers for the purpose of providing the department with information and communications technology support
 used or disclosed where it is otherwise required or authorised by law.
GPO Box 9880, Canberra ACT 2601 | Phone 1300 488 064| www.education.gov.au | ABN 12 862 898 150
The department does not intend to disclose your personal information to any overseas recipients.
Aggregated information will be provided to your school in the form of school level median income for the last 3 years, rounded to the nearest $5,000. This information is provided to help your school understand their level of government funding. Your personal income information will not be provided to your school.
Find the department’s privacy policy on the Department of Education website. This includes information on:
 how individuals can access and modify personal information held by the department
 how complaints about potential breaches or breaches of the Privacy Act can be made
 how the department will deal with these complaints.
In association with this, the department commissioned an independent Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA). The PIA assessed the flows of information under the address collection, compliance with the Privacy Act and measures in place to safeguard the personal information being collected. The current version is available on the Department of Education web site.

What do you need to do?
You are not required to do anything. Your school is responsible for providing the department with the requested details; however, you can contact the school to update your family’s details.

Contacts for further information
Your school can provide additional information about the address collection process.
Alternatively, please visit the SchoolsHUB address collection help and support page.