Edition 5, Term 3 2025

Students from Southern Independent Schools joined a workshop at John Paul College to prepare for SIS Book-in-a-Day. Guided by professional authors and illustrators, they explored story planning, character development, and illustration, building teamwork and creativity ahead of Writing Day on 25 August.

The Chapel Art Competition invites students to explore this year’s Arts Night theme, Bloom – Celebrating identity, growth, and the journey of becoming who you are. Submit any art form by September 8th for a chance to be exhibited, voted on, and win prizes up to $50.

Success in the Australian Geography Competition is a testament to the hard work and curiosity of our Years 7 to 10 students. Their knowledge, preparation, and resilience reflect both their passion for geography and their dedication to academic excellence.

Years 7–10 students recently participated in the Australian Science Innovators Junior Science Olympiad, a national competition that inspires young science enthusiasts to extend their learning and engage with Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth and Environmental Science.

Students embraced Maths Week through activities such as the Daily Quiz Challenge, Rubik’s Cube Speed Solve, and the Year 11 Numeracy Amazing Race, while also showcasing their talents in the Australian Mathematics Competition.

Year 12 VCE VM students engaged in hands-on learning, exploring wildlife conservation at Melbourne Zoo, creating road safety campaigns with Road to Zero, and crafting visual biographies at Skye Lodge. These experiences foster teamwork, creativity, and personal growth while connecting learning to real-world issues.

The John Paul College Counselling Team supports students facing personal, social, and academic challenges. Whether it’s school stress, friendships, or family issues, counsellors offer short-term help with up to 4-6 sessions. Students can visit the Wellbeing Hub or ask for a referral anytime.

Our Year 10 students participated in two wellbeing programs promoting personal growth and lifelong skills. The Man Cave helped male students explore emotions and healthy relationships, while Big Sister Experience guided female students in confidence, friendships, and making empowered choices.

The College is proud to announce that the Community Companion Van is now a registered partner with Container Deposit Scheme Victoria (CDS Vic). By recycling eligible drink containers and using our partner code, you can directly support the Van, helping us continue delivering care, connection and practical assistance locally.

From the end of this year, major social media platforms will block under-16 users in Australia. Parents can prepare teens by planning safe alternatives, backing up memories, building offline connections, and keeping communication open to support their wellbeing during the change.

John Paul College is pleased to share an exclusive offer from Safe on Social - a leading organisation dedicated to helping families navigate the online world safely. The Safe on Social Parent “Live” Library is a practical, no-nonsense resource, designed to give parents and carers the tools and knowledge needed to protect children and teens in today’s digital environment. For the next 12 months, you can access this resource for free.