Newsletter Edition 10 / 2025 August 4th
- Principal's Message
- A Message from Mrs Claire Wrigley
- Faith & Mission - Social Justice
- The Literacy Lowdown
- Year 7 Design & Technologies / Year 9 Systems Engineering
- Performing Arts & Music
- Year 11 Retreat
- Sports & Recreation Excursion
- Languages
- Sports News
- Sports News
- State Cross Country
- Library News
- Career News
- Words for Wellbeing
- Parent Book Discussion - The Anxious Generation
- Community News
Principal's Message
Dear Emmanuel College Families,
Welcome to Term 3. How lovely it is to feel and see the first stirrings of spring all around us. While the chill of winter lingers, it is uplifting to notice a little more daylight with each passing day.
While our students enjoyed an extra day of holidays, staff began the term with a professional learning day focused on deepening and enhancing learning at Emmanuel College. Together, we reviewed and reimagined our College learning model and explored ways to integrate emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence tools, to support student learning. The energy, positivity, and enthusiasm in our conversations were a testament to the commitment and passion of our staff. These important discussions will continue as we work to ensure our teaching and learning remains both contemporary and grounded in our shared values.
We were also blessed to welcome back St Ann’s alumni, many of whom now have grandchildren at Emmanuel College, to celebrate the Feast Day of St Ann - mother of Mary, grandmother of Jesus, and Patron Saint of our predecessor school, St Ann’s College - on Friday 25 July. The day commenced with Mass in our beautiful Chapel, followed by a luncheon in the Emmanuel Centre. It was a joy to hear the stories, memories, and laughter of friendships spanning decades. My thanks go to the staff and students who helped to organise the event, led music and prayers, and prepared and served a delicious lunch.
VCE Food Studies teacher Emma Askew and I recently had the pleasure of attending the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) Premier’s Excellence Awards ceremony in honour of Molly Leslie’s outstanding achievement in Food Studies last year. These prestigious awards recognise students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in VCE, and we remain immensely proud of Molly’s success and of the dedication and commitment of staff who support all our students to achieve their best.
You may have seen in my letter to families earlier this term that I am hosting a series of informal morning and afternoon teas with families. These gatherings are an opportunity to get to know each other in a relaxed setting and to share your thoughts about what you value most at Emmanuel, what could be strengthened, and your hopes for the years ahead. I warmly invite you to join me to be part of these important conversations as we continue to grow and shape our community together.
Finally, it is with delight, and a little sadness, that I share news of a significant change for our leadership team at the end of this year. Our current Assistant Principal – Teaching & Learning, Mr Justin Houlihan, has been appointed as Principal of Bayview College in Portland, commencing in 2026. This is a wonderful opportunity for Justin and a well-deserved recognition of his skill, leadership, and dedication to faith led education.
While formal farewells will take place at the end of the year, I take this moment to acknowledge Justin’s substantial contribution to Emmanuel College over the past eight years as Assistant Principal, during which time he has driven innovation, strengthened our teaching and learning programs, and worked tirelessly in service of our community.
Justin has shared the following reflection on his appointment:
“I’m pleased to share that I recently accepted the position of Principal at Bayview College in Portland, beginning at the start of 2026. This is an exciting opportunity to step into a new leadership role, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the life of the Bayview College learning community. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me to lead the next chapter of Bayview’s journey.
At the same time, I remain incredibly thankful for the experiences I’ve had at Emmanuel College and the connections I’ve built over so many years, including as a proud alumnus of CBC. I want to acknowledge the strong support of our current Principal, Ms Rachel McGennisken, whom I have known through our school networks for several years and have very much enjoyed working with in recent times. I also wish to recognise former Principal Mr Peter Morgan, who gave me the opportunity to step into Assistant Principalship and has been a significant influence on my career. He was an exceptional leader of the College throughout his twelve-year tenure.
Working at Emmanuel has given me so much, both professionally and personally, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside such committed staff and students for the remainder of the year. I aim to finish 2025 with focus, positivity, and a strong commitment to our shared goals, while supporting a smooth transition for the next Assistant Principal in 2026.”
I know you will join me in congratulating Justin on this exciting new chapter in his educational leadership journey, and in thanking him for all that he has contributed to the life of Emmanuel College.
St. Joseph: Pray for us. May the spirit of Catherine McAuley and Edmund Rice guide us in all that we do. Amen.
Warm regards,
Ms Rachel McGennisken
Principal
A Message from Mrs Claire Wrigley
Uniform Expectations
We are currently emphasizing the importance of adhering to our uniform policy, with a particular focus on the wearing of blazers. It is expected that all students wear their blazers when arriving at and departing from school.
Students who do not meet this expectation will receive a warning. Continued non-compliance will result in a lunchtime reflection. If the issue persists, an after-school uniform reflection will be assigned.
Additionally, all students are required to attend the Commissioning Mass for our Principal, Rachel McGennisken, on Friday, August 8, during Periods 1 and 2. We kindly request that parents support this important event by refraining from scheduling appointments for their children during this time. This event is a significant occasion in the history of the school and we look forward to celebrating as a school community.
Mrs Claire Wrigley
Assistant Principal - Students
Faith & Mission - Social Justice
Vinnies Winter Appeal - Term 3 Focus
As winter sets in, we are reminded of those in our local community who are doing it tough. At a recent Emergency Response Meeting, we learned that approximately 30 people in Warrnambool are regularly sleeping rough - often in tents or sleeping bags if they are fortunate.
This term, Emmanuel is once again supporting the Vinnies Winter Appeal through fundraising and awareness efforts. Please highlight this in your conversations with teenagers. If you have any ideas or initiatives you would like to pursue around this important cause, please reach out to the Faith and Mission team.
https://donate.vinnies.org.au/winter-appeal
Food Drive - Breakfast Items
Last term’s Tinned Soup Drive was a huge success—we collected an amazing 396 tins for Western District Foodshare.
This term, we are shifting our focus to Breakfast Items—including cereals, spreads, baked beans, spaghetti, and tinned fruit. These donations directly support Community Meals and many individuals and families in our wider community.
At Senior School and Year 9, this continues as a House Challenge. At Junior School, it is now a Homeroom Challenge to help boost engagement. Collection boxes will be delivered to classrooms next week—please encourage students to contribute.
Ms Natasha Cummings
Social Justice Coordinator
The Literacy Lowdown
Hi! I’m Chris Allsop, the Literacy Coordinator at Emmanuel College.
Each newsletter I’ll be sharing a Quick Literacy Tip—an easy, practical idea you can try at home to support your teen’s learning. These tips are designed to help build strong habits in reading, writing, speaking, and thinking—skills that are essential not just for success at school but for life beyond the classroom too. You don’t need to be an expert—just a supportive partner in the learning journey. Whether it’s improving vocabulary, structuring an argument, or spotting bias in online content, each tip offers simple steps that make a real difference.
Writing: The 'Power of Three' - Make Writing more Impactful!
The Challenge - Writing that Lacks Strengths and Persuasion
Many students struggle to write persuasively or create compelling arguments because their sentences are flat, vague, or repetitive. One simple but powerful trick is using the Power of Three’—grouping ideas, adjectives, or examples in threes makes writing more engaging and memorable. You can even see the Power of Three being used in visual materials such as advertising.
Tip: Strengthen Sentences with the 'Power of Three'
Authors, advertisers, and speechwriters use this trick all the time:
✔ She was confident, determined, and ready to win.
✔ A great leader is honest, hardworking, and inspiring.
✔ This law is unfair, unnecessary, and ineffective.
How Parents Can Help at Home
- When helping with homework, encourage your teen to rewrite one sentence in a 'Power of Three' format.
- Practise spotting the 'Power of Three' in ads, books or speeches.
- Challenge your teen to describe their day in three words.
Quick Challenge for Your Teen
Have your teen write a persuasive sentence about a topic they care about, using three descriptive words.
Example: Video games are fun, educational, and social!
A simple tweak like this can transform writing instantly!
Mr Chris Allsop
Literacy Teacher
The Power of Three is often found in visual images too!
Year 7 Design & Technologies / Year 9 Systems Engineering
Year 7 Design & Technologies
Last semester, our Year 7 students designed and built their own LED Lamps! They cut, shaped and sanded timber, soldered LED strips, and personalised their lamps with creative designs. The project introduced students to workshop tools, electronics, and ensign thinking in a fun and practical way.
Year 9 Systems Engineering
Year 9 students completed a range of exciting engineering projects last semester. They built mousetrap and electric cars, flew model planes while measuring height and speed, and constructed custom foosball tables using tools like laser cutters and sticker machines. Students also designed and built their own personalised LED lamps. These hands-on tasks helped students explore key STEM concepts such as mechanical advantage and energy transfer.
Jelena Lockett
Art Teacher
Year 7 Design & Technologies - LED Lamps
Year 9 Systems Engineering
Performing Arts & Music
2025 Warrnambool Eisteddfod
We are incredibly proud of all our students who participated in the 2025 Warrnambool Eisteddfod. From stunning solo performances to powerful ensemble pieces, our students represented our College with confidence, passion and professionalism. It was truly inspiring to see their dedication and courage on full display in front of a public audience. The standard of performance was high, and we commend every competitor for their preparation, teamwork and enthusiasm. Whether it was their first time on stage or one of many, each student did Emmanuel College proud! Congratulations to all involved - we can’t wait to see what you achieve next.
Our Standout Results:
13 Years and Under Musical Theatre Solo
Paddy McKane 2nd place
Roisin Hansford 3rd place
18 years and under Own Choice Solo - Flynn El-Hage 3rd place
18 years and under Musical Theatre Solo - Jess Bushell 3rd place
Novice Strings - Grace Stephens- Honourable Mention
Beginner Piano (Australian Composer) Solo - Arusha Cashmore 1st Place
Beginner Piano (Popular) Solo - Arusha Cashmore 2nd Place
Beginner Piano (Baroque/Classical/Romantic) Solo - Arusha Cashmore 2nd Place
Piano Consolidated is Grade 5‑6 AMEB or equivalent - Francisco Aedo Sato- 1st Place
Piano Advanced Level - Francisco Aedo Sato- 3rd Place
Intermediate Woodwind
Sienna Plozza 2nd place
Belle Plozza 3rd Place
Advanced Woodwind / Brass Ensemble - 2nd Place
Intermediate Woodwind / Brass Ensemble - 3rd Place
Senior Contemporary Band - 2nd Place
Mrs Megan Davies
Head of Performing Arts & Instrumental Music Coordinator
Band Karate
We have had many Year 7’s who have earned their White and Yellow belts in band this week. This means they have mastered: rhythm studies and can hold a solid note for 6-10 sec depending on instrument and play 2-3 songs 3-5 note compositions,
Grace Bolton has earned her Purple Belt- mastered complex compositions
Geordie Donahoo Red Belt- mastered-even more complex compositions!
Year 7 Band Program:: 5 Note Concert
Over two sessions held on Monday 23rd June and Friday 27th June, the Emmanuel College Year 7 Band Program took centre stage in our highly anticipated “5 Note Concert.” This concert is the first of what will be the cornerstone event in our music calendar in coming years offering our newest musicians their very first performance opportunity—and what an incredible job they did!
Monday’s concert featured the talented students of 7B, 7E, 7A, 7C, and 7D, while Friday’s program showcased 7J, 7F, 7G, 7H, and 7I. These performances celebrated how much progress can be made in just 430 minutes of tuition—that’s only around 11 lessons of 40 minutes each! It’s extraordinary to think that in this short time, students have already learned to:
- Hold their instruments correctly
- Develop buzzing and blowing techniques to produce sound
- Read music notation
- Play in time with others
- And begin to build the confidence that comes from performing live!
The concert focused on the first five notes, which form the building blocks of countless melodies and compositions. It may seem simple, but mastering these fundamentals is no small feat—and most our Year 7 students rose to the challenge with enthusiasm and commitment.
It was heartening to see so many proud families in the audience. Your support is invaluable and reminds students that their hard work and dedication are truly appreciated.
We would also like to extend a very special thank you to our exceptional team of music educators and instrumental tutors who guide and support our young learners with patience and care:
Airlie Tait, Adam Burgess-Metal, Hannah O’Neill, Erin Toulmin, Dean Mullholland, Ian Leonard, and Maria Carras-Kerr. Your expertise and encouragement help build both skill and passion in every student.
We look forward to seeing everyone again in November for the Year 7 Band Showcase Concert, where students will perform more complex music arrangements—a testament to how far they’ll have come by the end of the year.
Congratulations to all our young musicians—you should be so proud!...remember practise is the key to success!
Mrs Megan Davies
Head of Performing Arts & Instrumental Music Coordinator
Year 11 Retreat
Year 11 Retreat
The Year 11 cohort experienced the Retreat experience a bit differently this year, as the whole year level was able to attend at the same time.
Although it was a bit chilly, the staff and students enjoyed a mix of outdoor adventure activities and small-group reflective bonding sessions.
The students rotated through activities such as nature hike, bike riding, high ropes, abseiling, archery and damper making. In the small group sessions, we considered goal setting, connection, wellbeing, forgiveness and gratitude.
The first night, we had a formal dress-up and trivia night, where laughs were plentiful. The second night, we had a beautiful liturgy outside by the fire. Thanks to the staff and students for making this such an enjoyable experience for all.
Mrs Kristy Cameron
Head of McAuley House
Sports & Recreation Excursion
On Friday the 25th of August, 16 students from the Sport & Recreation classes headed off for a big day to Melbourne at 6am for an excursion full of highlights.
The first stop was the Richmond Football Club where they were lucky enough to have a full tour of the club, a presentation about the Richmond Institute followed by a gym session.
Emmanuel College alumni and current Carlton player, Will White was kind enough to meet us for a chat about his journey, experiences and advice which the students found fascinating.
After some free time in the city, we headed to Marvel Stadium to attend the AFL game between Essendon and the Western Bulldogs. Luamon Lual, also an alumni and current Essendon player, gave up 10 minutes of his time before the game to say hello and provide some brief insights into his role as a player.
Although the game wasn’t a close one, the students had a great experience and thoroughly enjoyed the day. It was a long day getting home at 1am, well done to all who attended.
Special thanks to Jaffa for driving the bus and Jase Moloney and Olivia Walter for helping with supervision.
Mr Julian Claridge
Teacher
Languages
Tokyo Obirin Highschool Students Visit
Last Monday, Emmanuel College proudly welcomed 15 students and their teacher from Obirin High School in Tokyo. Emmanuel and Obirin have been sister schools for many years, visiting each other's schools annually. During their week-long stay in Warrnambool, the Obirin students were hosted by generous Emmanuel College families and had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Australian life and education. They attended classes alongside our students and enjoyed a range of special activities, including cooking traditional meat pies in our food tech rooms and engaging with students in Japanese classes.
The group also took part in several excursions, including a full-day trip along the Great Ocean Road, a visit to Warrnambool Wildlife Encounters in Cudgee, and a Friday morning visit to St Joseph’s Primary School, where they interacted with the younger students.
Overall, the Obirin students had a wonderful time, with homestays forming lifelong friendships, thanks in large part to the warmth and hospitality of their host families, who went above and beyond to make their experience unforgettable, this program would not be possible without the generous support from our College families. A heartfelt thank you to the Emmanuel families for opening their homes, and to the Emmanuel College staff, especially Mr So Ota, Ms Sawako Suzuki, and the leadership team, for their support and efforts in organising this successful visit. Emmanuel College is looking forward to visiting Obirin in Tokyo in the near future, and continuing to strengthen our relationship. One Obirin student is staying at Emmanuel College for the next three weeks, so please make her feel welcome as a part of our community.
Mrs Julia Smith
Languages Coordinator
Sports News
Year 7 Junior Boys Football
Our Year 7 boys recently travelled to Ballarat for the GWR - Greater Western Region Footy Finals. Greeted by a mild and frosty Ballarat morning, spirits were high from the outset, with the boys buzzing with excitement and ready to give it a crack.
The team came out firing in the first two games, securing strong wins over Trinity College Colac and Ballarat High School. Their energy, teamwork, and intensity set the tone for the day and showcased the skillset that our players have.
Game three presented a much tougher challenge, coming up against a talented and tall Mercy Regional College side. After a slow start, our boys dug deep and showed resilience, fighting back to wrestle a draw and keep their hopes alive.
With everything on the line in the final game against Horsham, we needed to score at least five goals and keep the opposition to as few as possible. The boys rose to the occasion, starting strongly and maintaining relentless pressure throughout. The final score line of 6 goals to none sealed a dominant win and, thanks to percentage, secured our place as overall winners on the day.
All players represented the College extremely well and played their roles selflessly to make valuable contributions across the day. We now look forward to heading back to Ballarat in Week 4 to compete in the state quarter and semi-finals.
Mr Daniel Weymouth & Mr Justin Marris
Teachers
Year 7 Football Team
Sports News
Year 8 Junior Boys Football
Last week our Year 8 boys Football Team headed off to frosty Ballarat for Junior GWR Greater Western Region Boys Football. Our Year 8 boys started their day in incredible fashion by having 3 goals on the board in their first game against Horsham without the opposition touching the ball. The form continued for the first half, kicking 9 in the 15 minute half. The second half saw goals slow down but the dominance continued.
Game 2 against Mt Clear of Ballarat followed a similar path with the boys winning convincingly.
Our third and final game against Trinity College was always going to be a tougher match. We controlled the game, but kicking with the wind only managed 2 goals. Some wasted opportunities in front of goal left the door slight ajar for the opposition. After some tense moments earlier in the second half we kicked a goal to put the game to bed.
The conduct of our young people both on and off the field was exemplary for the entire day.
Best players for the day were - Hugh White, Lachie Walters, Ollie Dowie, Ethan Alexander, Finn Byrne and Lenny Thornton.
Mr Michael Clements
Teacher
2025 Year 8 Football Team
State Cross Country
On the 24th of July, a strong team of 24 Emmanuel Cross Country runners headed to the Yarra Glen Racecourse for the 2025 SSV State Cross Country Championships. We were met with sunshine, great overall conditions and a dry track which was a welcome surprise compared to the last few years.
Overall, our team performed exceptionally well with two individual bronze medals, two teams winning state gold medals and one state team bronze medal which is an exceptional result for our school. Below are our overall results from the day.
Girls 12-13 years – 3km
- Charlotte Staaks – 4th 12:09
- Miranda Jansz – 60th 14:14
- Ava Gleeson – 69th 14:29
- Greta Greene – 71st 14:34
- Team Result – 6th
Boys 12-13 years – 3km
- Occy Hayes – 3rd 10:48
- Tadhg Loughran – 6th 11:00
- Dane Nicholls – 23rd 11:51
- Tim Boyd – 39th 12:12
- William Foster – 41st 12:13
- Team Result – 1st
Girls 14 years – 3km
- Lexie Gliesner – 3rd 12:15
- Charlotte Versace – 7th 12:47
- Ester Gleeson – 16th 13:11
- Daisy Greening – 68th 14:24
- Team Result – 1st
- Girls 15 years – 3km
- Lucy Howland – 6th 12:29
- Eve Ryan – 46th 14:03
- Zoe Benson – 54th 14:22
- Lexie Dwyer – 59th 14:30
- Zeta Kane – 68th 14:58
- Team Result – 4th
Girls 16 years – 3km
- Rylee Foreman – 13th 13:24
Girls 17-20 years – 3km
- Edith Stretch – 13th 12:50
- Olivia Lenehan – 57th 15:04
Boys 17-20 years – 5km
- William Callaghan – 15th 17:02
- Edward Northeast – 55th 18:36
- David Boyd – 63rd 19:01
- Team Result – 3rd
Well done to all those who competed on the day.
Mr Mark Jansz
Teacher
Library News
Library and Information Week
The Emmanuel Library celebrated Library and Information Week with English classes visiting the Library for borrowing and reading sessions. We thank the teachers and students for participating in this way. The theme for the Week this year was To Read Or Not To Read, encouraging everyone to read, whether it is the physical book or on a digital reading platform, a magazine, comic or website fan fiction.
The Emmanuel Student Book Club gathered during the Library and Information Week to share the creative responses from the CBCA Shadow Judging Program and enjoys some food together. The Book Club have read the six books listed in the Picture Story Book category over six weeks, and then made a creative response for each of the texts.
If you would like any further information, please contact Margaret Sinnott, Library Coordinator msinnott@emmanuel.vic.edu.au or ring the College for more information.
Mrs Margaret Sinnott
Library Coordinator
Career News
With the year flying by, it's that time of the year when our senior students are turning their focus to life beyond school. with VTAC applications now open, many are actively considering their future pathways - whether that's Uni, TAFE, Traineeships, Apprenticeships or work.
It's a great time for students to regularly check in with our Careers Department for guidance, support, and up-to-date information to help navigate these often overwhelming options ahead! Whether students need help with course selections, application processes, or exploring career possibilities, our team is here to support every step of the way.
VTAC - Victorian Tertiary Admission Centre
A reminder that VTAC applications open on this week. From this time, students will be able to apply for courses, as well as equity schemes and scholarships, to ensure the process is completed, students will need to have a USI number https://www.usi.gov.au/students/create-your-usi and also their VCAA number which we can supply.
Student Support as Applications Open
VTAC are also hosting a webinar on how to apply for courses on Tuesday 5 August at 5:30pm. Students can register here. In addition to this we are having an information session this coming Thursday during period 4 to further support our students, this will include the application process along with further pathway information.
To further support students, they have created a YouTube playlist featuring screencast walkthrough videos for each stage of the application process. These are available here.
VTAC have also launched their webinar series for students for 2025 covering their most popular topics. See the schedule below. We highly encourage students and parents to sign up and attend.
All webinars will be published to YouTube after the session for students to access if they are unable to make it live.
Webinar | Date and Time | Link | Audience |
Applying for courses in 2025 | 5:30PM-6:30PM, Tuesday 5 August 2025 | All 2025 applicants | |
Understanding equity schemes and scholarships | 5:30PM-6:30PM, Thursday 14 August 2025 | All 2025 applicants | |
Refugee and Asylum Seeker applicants – application information | 5:30PM-6:30PM, Tuesday 19 August 2025 | Refugee and Asylum Seeker applicants | |
Understanding equity schemes and scholarships | 5:30PM-6:30PM, Tuesday 2 September 2025 | All 2025 applicants | |
Getting your results – what happens next? | 12:00PM-1:00PM, Tuesday 9 December 2025 | Year 12 students | |
Preferences, pathways and offers | 12:00PM-1:00PM, Thursday 11 December 2025 | Year 12 students |
VTAC - Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre - is the central organisation that processes applications for university, TAFE, and independent tertiary colleges in Victoria. Year 12 students use VTAC to apply for most undergraduate courses, scholarships, and the SEAS - Special Entry Access Scheme.
Open Days
Attending institution open days gives you the opportunity to learn how an institution works, where it is, what opportunities are available and how you feel about the environment, people and courses.
You can meet staff and students, see facilities, experience the on-campus culture and ask lots of questions. It’s a good idea to visit open days for all of the institutions you're interested in studying at so you can feel prepared and be confident in your decisions when listing courses in your VTAC preference list, please use the link below to find when the open days are on.
Items in the Career News include -
- Dates to Diarise in Term 3
- Casper Entry Requirements for Teacher Qualifications
- Alternative Entry Requirements for Teacher Qualifications
- New Courses at ACU in 2026
- Bachelor of Business
- Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
- Bachelor of Psychological Science/Master of Teaching (Primary)
- Biomedicine or Science at Melbourne?
- News from Monash University
- Bachelor of Learning Design and Technology
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Medical Imaging Courses in Victoria in 2025
- Snapshot of Federation University Australia in 2025
- Merit Scholarships
For further information please view the Emmanuel Careers Website https://www.emmanuelcollegecareers.com/
Work Placements
Just a reminder to all students that are selecting to participate in a Structured Work Learning arrangement or Work Experience for the remainder of this year and also into 2026, this is now the time to start exploring options Industries and possible employers, whilst we can certainly assist and suggest organisations it is not the responsibility of the school to source placements, this is an ideal time to start working on your cold calling skills, communication and problem solving to ensure a successful placement in the preferred areas, we also highly recommend students think broadly and consider a range of areas, we are often faced with the dilemma that an Industry has been exhausted and simply, there are no placements available.
We also encourage students that are wishing a Structured Work Placement to make contact with the South West LLEN, they are another resource that can assist in this area https://www.swllen.org.au/
Deakin Young Influencer Award - Application and selection criteria process
If you're a leader in your local community, have a willingness to help others, or enjoy thinking of new ideas to solve real-world problems, the Deakin Young Influencer Award may be perfect for you. Our prestigious award is offered to just one student from each of Deakin's select group of schools, meaning this excellent addition to your resume will give you a distinct edge on others in your future pursuits.
Selection Criteria
- Successful students must be able to demonstrate excellence in one or more of Deakin’s core values:
- Have made an outstanding contribution to their school or local community, or a community in need in Australia or overseas.
- Demonstrate a real willingness to help, coach, teach or care for others in a significant
- Foster inclusive and supportive environment wherever they go and show a willingness to challenge preconceived ideas
- Be a strong leader, helping to bring about change for the betterment of
- Generate and apply new ideas and fresh thinking to real‐world problems and help to deliver new solutions that make positive impacts.
- Share knowledge and cultivate connections on a local level, or, far and
$5000 scholarship for one Year 11 student ($500 upon receipt of the award; $4500 in first year of study at Deakin in an undergraduate course
Application and selection process
- Apply online at deakin.edu.au/young‐influencer‐award. Students may apply from Wednesday 27st August to Wednesday 8th October inclusive. Please note, late applications will not be accepted.
- Online applications will be received by Deakin, collated and returned to the school after the closing date.
Mr David Gladman
Student Pathways & Careers Leader
Words for Wellbeing
Fit4Friendships Program
During Term 2, a group of Year 7 girls took part in the Fit4Friendships program, facilitated by wellbeing team member Megan Collins. The program is designed to support students in developing social skills, building friendships, gaining confidence, enhancing communication, and increasing emotional awareness — all while connecting with peers they may not usually interact with.
The group received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants. Highlights included the positivity jar, icebreakers, creative activities like colouring and drawing, and the chance to have open, meaningful conversations. Students shared that the group helped them talk to new people, hear about each other’s experiences, and most importantly, have fun.
Several new friendship connections were formed throughout the program, and the final session was a celebration of the group’s shared time together — complete with snacks, games, and reflection on each person’s contribution.
Journal Club
So far this year our Journal Club is buzzing! A keen group of students gather in the Library every Thursday afternoon, diving into the world of journaling. So far we’ve discussed the ‘Who, What, Where, How, and Why?’ of Journal Club, had fun with an old typewriter and Polaroid cameras and even hosted guest presenter Genevieve Howland from the Our Lady Help of Christians Journal Club. Journal Club has been such fun so far, and we'd like to share with you a piece written by long time time Journal Club member Lexi.
Exhilarating, Exhilarated, Exhilarate
Singing song after song, the high notes sailing through the air
coaster going as fast as it can down a deep, deep slope.
Twirling around a room in a made up dance
Watching the actors walk around on stage singing a song they have performed a hundred times before
‘Making one feel very happy, animated or elated. Thrilling’
Intensity, Intensive, Intense
Intense is when the thunder strucks the earth.
When the waves meet the earth in an intense hold before pulling away.
Intense is performing a song while dancing across the stage
Intense is when someone loves something so much that it's all they care about.
It's intense how the fire burns through wood.
Intensity is different, it's unique, it changes from person to person.
‘Degree of strength, force, energy or feeling.
Exhibiting strong emotions, passion or energy in behaviour or community’
It’s been great, and the Journal Club open to all students will continue in Term 3.
Year 9 Girls Group
Each Wednesday at lunchtime, Year 9 girls at Emmanuel College have the chance to come together for Girls Group – a welcoming and inclusive weekly catch-up where connection, fun, and snacks are always on the menu.
Girls Group has been running for several years at Emmanuel College and continues to be a popular space where girls can relax, hang out with peers, and enjoy a range of student led activities. Whether it's Just Dance (a group favourite!), games, or simply a chance to chat, the girls can decide what they’d like to do each week.
The benefits go far beyond the activities. Girls Group provides a great opportunity for students to build friendships, develop confidence, and connect with others outside of their usual social circles in a supportive environment.
Parent Book Discussion - The Anxious Generation
Parent Book Discussion - The Anxious Generation
Parents are invited to a special meeting and related workshop run as a collaboration between our Wellbeing team and our Library and led by school Psychologist Dr Jodie Fleming. We will be discussing the No. 1 bestseller “The Anxious Generation” written by Jonathan Haidt.
Date: Tuesday August 5th
Time: 6pm
Location: The STAGE at Emmanuel College
Community News
413 SQN Australian Air Force Cadets - Warrnambool are holding their last intake Recruit Info Night for 2025.
Secondary students aged 12 (turning 13 this year) - age 15 are invited to attend our Info Night on Thursday 7 August with a parent/carer. Cadets can continue their journey until the end of the year they turn 18.
Enrolments can be started by following this link CadetNet - Expression of interest
