Lord Jesus Christ,
You are the true King of peace.
In You alone is found freedom.

Please free our world from conflict.
Bring unity to troubled nations.
Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart.

Dispel all darkness and evil.
Protect the dignity of every human life.
Replace hatred with Your love.

Give wisdom to world leaders.
Free them from selfish ambition.
Eliminate all violence and war.

Glorious Virgin Mary,
Saint Michael the Archangel,
Every angel and saint:
Please pray for peace.
Pray for unity amongst nations.
Pray for unity amongst all people.
Pray for the most vulnerable.
Pray for those suffering.
Pray for the fearful.
Pray for those most in need.
Pray for us all.

Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, hear our prayers.
Jesus, I trust in You!

Amen.

In this edition of College Street News, you will read about the wonderful day-to-day learning and teaching taking place at the College, as well as the various faith and co-curricular events and activities that have enriched our community this term.

The first five weeks of Term 1 have been both productive and busy. It has been wonderful to begin the school year with so many co-curricular and whole-school activities. As we enter March and the season of Autumn, it is a fitting time to reflect on some of this year’s key events so far:

• 1,102 students engaged in day-to-day classes and learning
• Opening College Mass
• Ash Wednesday Ceremony
• Student Leadership Camp
• Year 9 Camps
• Social Justice Leaders Development Day
• Whole-School and Year-Level Assemblies
• Italian Exchange Student Visit
• Various Parent Information Evenings
• Cybersafety Parent Evening
• Years 7, 8, 9 Ignite Program
• Year 10 Premier League
• SACCSS Junior Golf
• SACCSS Badminton and Mixed Netball
• Project Compassion and Caritas Fundraising Activities
• Outdoor Education Surfing Excursions
• Musical Auditions
• Year 7 Camps (commencing Monday, 16 March)

Each of these events requires careful planning and preparation to ensure their success. On behalf of the CRC Caroline Springs community, I would like to sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their hard work. Their generosity and commitment in giving their time to facilitate these activities are deeply appreciated. Without their support, these opportunities would not be possible.

Fostering a Respectful and Supportive School Community- MACS Parent Code of Conduct

At CRC Caroline Springs we are committed to creating a respectful, supportive, and collaborative environment where students thrive. A key part of this is the strong partnership between home and school, built on mutual respect and shared responsibility.

As a College, we work closely with students and their families in areas such as learning, behaviour, uniform expectations, and punctuality. These guidelines ensure consistency and fairness, helping every student reach their full potential. When enrolling a child, families agree to uphold the College’s policies, which play a vital role in maintaining a positive school environment.

We ask all parents and guardians to support these policies and demonstrate respectful communication with staff. The MACS Parent Code of Conduct outlines expectations, including maintaining appropriate communication in both tone and frequency. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to support students, and their efforts are strengthened when we work together in a spirit of partnership and cooperation.

We encourage all families to review the MACS Parent/Guardian/Carer Code of Conduct, available here. 

Thank you for your continued support in making our school a respectful and welcoming community for all.

Your presence and participation are invaluable in fostering a strong and engaged school community. We look forward to seeing you there!

Catholic Education Week

Catholic Education Week will run from Sunday 15 March to Sunday 22 March and serves as an opportunity for Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne to celebrate their Catholic identity, their role within the local community, and the strength of the Catholic education sector.

The theme for Catholic Education Week 2026 is:

‘Christ beside me: Walking in the footsteps of Saint Patrick’

This year’s theme celebrates the significance of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of our local Church in Melbourne.

Last year, as part of our Jubilee Year and Catholic Education Week, a striking new icon and depiction of Saint Patrick was unveiled and blessed by Archbishop Peter A Comensoli in front of thousands of students, educators, and special guests.

At CRC Caroline Springs, we remain deeply committed to our mission of nurturing students in faith. Christian teaching is central to our work, and we continually strive to ensure that it permeates all aspects of College life.

St. Patrick’s Day – A Celebration of Faith and Heritage

On Monday 16 March, we celebrate the Feast of St. Patrick, a day of deep significance for the Catholic community, particularly here in Melbourne.

St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is remembered for his unwavering faith, missionary zeal, and commitment to spreading the Gospel. His legacy of courage and evangelisation continues to inspire us today.

In Melbourne, St. Patrick’s Cathedral stands as a powerful symbol of faith and heritage. As the mother church of the Archdiocese, it represents the strong Catholic foundation upon which our city’s early Irish immigrants built their community. The Cathedral’s striking architecture and sacred presence remind us of the importance of faith in shaping our lives and society.

As we reflect on St. Patrick’s life, may we embrace his spirit of faith, service, and perseverance. Let us pray for God’s guidance in living out our College motto – Live Fully, Act Justly – and for the continued flourishing of our Catholic community.

Wishing you all a blessed and joyful St. Patrick’s Day!

Car Parking at Caroline Springs Veterinary Hospital

We have recently received further concerns from our neighbours at the local veterinary clinic regarding parents using their private car park during student drop-off and pick-up times.

The veterinary clinic’s car park is private property and must only be used by their clients who have appointments or are attending the clinic. When parents park in this space, it prevents their clients — including those arriving with sick or injured animals — from accessing the clinic. There have also been instances where emergency cases and delivery vehicles have been unable to enter the car park due to congestion.

I have also been informed that, on a small number of occasions, clinic staff who have politely asked drivers to move their vehicles have been spoken to in an aggressive and disrespectful manner. This behaviour is unacceptable and does not reflect the values of our College community.

I ask all parents to please:

• Refrain from using the veterinary clinic car park at any time for school drop-off or pick-up.
• Park only in designated public parking areas.
• Treat our neighbouring businesses and their staff with courtesy and respect at all times.

Please also be aware that the clinic is exploring the use of enforcement measures, including towing and potential infringement notices, to deter vehicles from using their private car park.

We value our relationship with the local community and ask for the cooperation of all families in ensuring we are respectful neighbours and that surrounding businesses can operate without disruption.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Love is a Person – Lenten reflection

During Lent this year, I have been listening to the Pray40: The Return series on the Hallow app as part of my daily prayer. One reflection that particularly stood out explored a powerful moment from the classic novel ‘The Brothers Karamazov’ by Fyodor Dostoevsky.

In the story, a character named Ivan wrestles with the suffering of the world and asks a deep question: ‘Who could ever truly forgive the pain and injustice we see around us?’ A common question many ask, as we try and make sense of human suffering.

But the story offers something unexpected. When Christ appears in Ivan’s tale, He does not argue or explain. Instead, after being accused and challenged, Jesus simply responds with a gentle kiss.

That moment captures something profound about our faith, God’s answer to suffering is not an theological or philosophical explanation, but Himself.

In Jesus, God enters our world, shares in our suffering and stretches out His arms for us on the Cross. Love is not just an idea or a theory. Love is a person, Jesus Christ.

This is a beautiful reminder for our homes. During busy schedules and daily challenges, Christ invites us to turn to Him in prayer and trust in His presence.

This Lent, may we remember that even when we do not have all the answers, we are never alone. Jesus walks with us and His love is always near.

Ash Wednesday Liturgy

On Wednesday 18 February, we gathered as a College community to commemorate the beginning of the Liturgical Season of Lent with our Ash Wednesday Liturgy. The sacred liturgy was led by Deacon Chris Creo and supported by our Student Leaders, who reverently assisted in the Liturgy of the Word and the Prayers of Intercession. The liturgy provided our community with an opportunity to pause, pray, and reflect on the deeper meaning of the Lenten season.

In his homily, Deacon Chris invited students and staff to reflect on the powerful words spoken as ashes are placed on our foreheads: “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” While these words may initially sound confronting, he reminded us that they speak both a truth about our humanity and a deeper truth about God’s love for us.

Reflecting on our place in the vastness of creation, Deacon Chris reminded us that, in many ways, human beings are small and fragile, echoing the words of Scripture: “The Lord God formed man from the dust of the ground” (Genesis 2:7). Ash Wednesday therefore calls us to humility, reminding us that life is fragile and that we are not self-sufficient.

However, this is only part of the story. As Deacon Chris explained, “Of all creation — stars, oceans, animals, galaxies — God chose to love human beings in a special way.” He reminded us that our value does not come from how impressive we may seem, but from the immeasurable love God has for us.

The ashes we received also carry a powerful symbol. Formed from burnt palm branches from the previous year’s Palm Sunday and traced in the shape of the cross, they remind us that although life is temporary, we are redeemed through Christ’s love. As Deacon Chris beautifully expressed, “We are dust — but dust that God holds in His hands.”

The beginning of Lent is therefore not about sadness or hardship, but about renewal and returning to God. Through prayer, fasting, and acts of generosity, we are invited to deepen our relationship with God and with one another.

As we journey through the season of Lent together as a College community, may we take to heart the invitation offered in the homily: “Remember who you are… and remember who you belong to. You are dust — but you are loved beyond measure.”

Fr Nestus visits from Uganda

We were honoured to welcome Fr Nestus from Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Buyaga, Uganda to the College for a special visit with our students and staff.

Fr Nestus was warmly greeted by our College Captains, Deputy Captains and Faith & Social Justice Captain before spending time touring the College and visiting classrooms across Years 7–10. Students had the opportunity to meet Fr Nestus, learn about his ministry in Uganda, and share a glimpse of life and learning at our College.

During his visit, Fr Nestus also met with members of our Social Justice Group and College Leadership Team, engaging in meaningful conversations about faith, service and community. The visit concluded with Fr Nestus addressing staff and offering thoughtful reflections and encouragement.

We thank Fr Nestus for taking the time to connect with our community and share insights from Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Buyaga, Uganda. It was a privilege to host him at the College and to strengthen our shared commitment to faith and service.

Highlighted in the last edition of the College newsletter was the new child-safe campaign and website called MACS Care. The purpose of this is to assist schools in continuing to build a child safety culture and maintain compliance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.

The MACS care website includes a number of resources and templates to guide schools throughout the year as they focus on all 11 standards each month. This month, we will be focussing on Child Safe Standard 2: Child safety and wellbeing is embedded in organisational leadership, governance and culture.

An overview of Child Safe Standard 2:

• A public commitment to child safety
• Champion a child safe culture at all levels
• Ensure governance supports child safety policies
• Develop and enforce a Code of Conduct
• Implement risk management strategies that focus on preventing, identifying and mitigating risks to children
• Ensure staff, volunteers and contractors understand their obligation and the role they play in keeping children and young people safe. This includes information sharing and record keeping.

I encourage you to read the Newsletter Child Safe Standard 2 on the MACS Care website which will give you a better understanding of what our College do to ensure our students are safe and the processes involved in making Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs a child safe school.

Term One Interim Reports will be released via SEQTA Engage (for parents and carers) and SEQTA Learn (for students) after 4:00pm on Thursday 2 April.

Interim Reports are designed to provide students, parents and carers with a snapshot of a student’s progress and work habits at the midpoint of the semester. Teachers will also use the Interim Report to either request or welcome a meeting with parents and students for our upcoming Student Parent Teacher Interviews to be held on 27 April.

In the Interim Report, student work habits are reported against the following categories:

Demonstrates academic improvement

• Responds to questioning in class
• Completes all coursework
• Demonstrates growth in class tasks and assessments.

Applies effort

• Attempts all tasks
• Maintains attention in class
• Participates in class
• Cooperates and collaborates in class

Manages personal learning

• Punctuality
• Brings correct materials to class
• Organisation
• Satisfactory completion of set homework, in a timely manner
• Seeks teacher support as required

Demonstrates appropriate behaviours

• Works respectfully with peers and teachers.
• Respects Self, Others and our Environment.

Following the release of Interim Reports, if you have any questions about the report or your child's progress, please contact your child’s subject teacher.

The start of the year has been an outstanding one for our Senior School students at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs.

Our Year 9 cohort recently returned from their camps across Victoria, and their approach to these experiences made them some of the most successful camps we have had. Whether students were embracing adventure at Phillip Island or taking part in activities such as rock climbing, bushwalking and snorkelling in some of Victoria’s beautiful locations, they demonstrated enthusiasm, resilience and a genuine willingness to challenge themselves. Their positive attitude, support of one another and engagement in every opportunity presented to them made the camps a memorable experience for both students and staff.

Our Year 10 students have also begun the year exceptionally well as the senior cohort of the College, setting a high standard for themselves and for the year levels that follow. Their commitment to their learning, the care they show for our College spaces, and the compassion, empathy and support they demonstrate towards one another reflects exactly the type of community we strive to build within the Senior School. Our Year 10 students have also represented the College exceptionally well on the sporting field in Premier League, through their involvement in Social Justice programs and in student leadership.

Collectively, it has been a joy to see our Year 9 and Year 10 students begin the year so positively. It is a privilege to walk alongside them as they continue their journey through the Senior School in 2026.

Our Student Leadership Camp at Camp Toolangi was a phenomenal and meaningful experience that challenged and inspired us to grow as leaders. Throughout the camp, we stepped outside our comfort zones, strengthened friendships, and built new connections while learning what leadership truly looks like. Through activities such as the Leadership Journey, icebreakers, liturgy, and workshops on integrity, we developed a deeper understanding of courage, responsibility, and teamwork. 

Challenges like raft building, the high ropes course, and the exhilarating flying fox pushed us to trust one another, communicate effectively, and believe in ourselves. Raft building, in particular, allowed us to use our innovation and collaboration skills while respecting different ideas and sharing responsibilities. Beyond the activities, moments like the talent show, cabin chaos, and even surviving without WiFi brought us closer together as one big family. 

We returned feeling more confident, connected, and empowered - ready to lead our school community with courage, integrity, and purpose.

Recently our Year 7 community came together for an important evening focused on supporting young people to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.

The evening began with a presentation from cyber safety expert Susan McLean, who spoke with parents and students about the realities of growing up in a highly connected world. Drawing on the themes from her work on digital wellbeing and online behaviour, the session highlighted the potential risks associated with social media, online gaming and device use, while also providing practical strategies families can use to keep young people safe online. Parents and students left the session with clear takeaways around digital responsibility, managing online interactions, and understanding that the choices we make online can have long-lasting consequences.

The second half of the evening provided families with the opportunity to visit their child’s homeroom and meet their homeroom teacher. Conversations centred around key processes at the College, expectations for the year ahead, and upcoming experiences such as the Year 7 camp. It was also a valuable opportunity for parents to ask questions and connect with the teacher supporting their child each day. Some students even took the chance to proudly show their parents their lockers… although opinions differed on just how “tidy” they were!

This focus on respectful relationships and responsible online behaviour continued in our first Ignite session for the year. During this program, students explored what bullying is, the different forms it can take, including cyberbullying and the important role of bystanders becoming upstanders. Students discussed how online behaviour can affect others, reflected on their digital footprint, and considered the responsibilities that come with using social media and technology.

As part of the session, students created anti-bullying posters to communicate positive messages about respect, kindness and standing up for others. Each homeroom selected one finalist to represent their class in a Year 7 competition.

On Thursday, students visited the College Library to vote for the overall winner from the eleven homeroom finalists. During Communal Homeroom on Tuesday 10 March, the winning poster was announced.

Congratulations to Ally Salvatore (7BA), whose poster was selected by the Year 7 cohort as the overall winner. Ally received a $20 canteen voucher, and we thank all students who participated and contributed thoughtful and creative messages about building a respectful school community.

Together, these experiences continue to reinforce the golden rule for our students: the way we treat others, both online and offline, matters.

“In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets.” Matthew 7:12

On Thursday 5 March, as part of their Work-Related Skills class, our Vocational Pathways Program (VPP) students attended the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park. This excursion formed part of their learning program, allowing students to explore real-world application of workplace skills and safety in a large-scale event environment. While the high-speed racing provided plenty of excitement, the visit also had a strong educational focus.

Students investigated occupational health and safety (OHS) practices used at major events, identifying potential hazards and observing how risk is managed to ensure the safety of spectators, staff and competitors. They considered factors such as crowd control, barriers, signage, noise protection, and emergency response procedures. The day also provided an opportunity to discuss the positive health and wellbeing impacts of large sporting events, including community engagement, entertainment, and the promotion of physical activity.

Importantly, the students explored the wide range of career pathways connected to the Grand Prix. Beyond drivers and engineers, students discovered opportunities in event management, hospitality, logistics, media, security, marketing and many other industries that contribute to the success of a global event.

It was a fantastic day of hands-on learning, giving students valuable insights into workplace safety, event operations, and the many career possibilities within the sporting and event industries. The VPP students are to be congratulated on their engagement and immersion with this unit of learning.

Year 7 Food Technology students have enjoyed an exciting start to the subject. Over the past few weeks, they have learned about kitchen safety and hygiene and applied their skills by preparing Rocky Road truffles, Honey and Lime fruit salad, and a Pancake Stack.

For some students, this was their first time using a knife or cooking on the stovetop. Throughout the lessons, they have shown excellent teamwork, organisation, and enthusiasm, leaving the kitchen with big smiles.

The skills they are developing are valuable life skills, and we encourage students to continue cooking at home and consider exploring Food Technology in the years ahead.

As part of their Unit 1 inquiry, 13 students of VCE Modern History took part in a guided tour of the Melbourne Holocaust Museum in Elsternwick on Thursday 5th March. The museum's collection of personal testimonies, artefacts and photographs offered students a vivid and deeply humanising window into one of history's most significant atrocities. During the excursion, students had the opportunity to deepen their historical knowledge of the Holocaust and develop a greater emotional understanding of its continued impact.

As the final generation able to do so, students also had the opportunity to meet a survivor in person and ask them questions. Hearing a firsthand account of survival brought the history to life in a way no textbook can replicate, and the weight of that privilege was not lost on our students. It is clear that this experience had a profound impact on them, and they used the occasion to its full potential, asking thoughtful questions of the survivor before reflecting on how they might carry this history forward as increasingly decisive agents of change in our society. We are grateful to the Melbourne Holocaust Museum for making this experience possible.

This February, I had the privilege of attending the 2026 Los Angeles Religious Education Congress, one of the largest gatherings of Catholic educators and faith leaders in the world. I travelled with Dr Beth Nolan, Manager of Religious Education Excellence at Melbourne Archdiocesan Catholic Schools (MACS), and three other Religious Education Leaders from schools across Melbourne. One of the most meaningful aspects of the Congress was the opportunity to engage with colleagues in open and thoughtful dialogue through our shared experiences. My attendance was generously supported by MACS as part of their commitment to investing in staff and strengthening Religious Education across our system.

Held at the Anaheim Convention Centre, the Congress centred on the theme “Wrapped in Mercy, Hope Renewed.” Over three days, religious educators gathered for inspiring plenary sessions, workshops and liturgies exploring how faith, hope and mercy can shape our teaching and school communities.

A Journey of Faith and Learning

Before the Congress began, our group undertook a pilgrimage to several significant Catholic sites in Southern California.

We visited Christ Cathedral, the world-famous glass cathedral, where I even explored the underground chapel and crypts.

We also travelled to Mission San Juan Capistrano, founded in 1776, and renowned for its beautiful courtyards, arches and the annual return of the swallows.

Another highlight was attending Ash Wednesday Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in Los Angeles.

These visits provided a powerful reminder of the rich history and beauty of the Catholic tradition and how sacred spaces can deepen faith. I was filled with a deep sense of wonder and awe as I encountered the various ways people are inspired to creatively reveal God’s love for us.

Key Insights

The Congress offered an array of workshops on contemporary Religious Education. Two sessions were particularly relevant to the new Religious Education curriculum units currently being taught in our school:

• Exploring the Mastery of Jesus’ Teaching Styles – David Wells reflected on how Jesus’ ability to truly see and understand people remains the model for great teaching.
• Family Dynamics in the First Monotheistic Family: Abraham through Jacob – Rabbi Jason Fruithandler provided a fascinating look at the complex relationships within the family of Abraham.

Across the plenary sessions, a clear message emerged: mercy restores dignity and hope inspires action. Christian hope is more than optimism—it calls us to prayer, compassion and a commitment to justice in our communities. Remember you must be kind (and forgiving) of yourself to be kind and merciful towards others. You can’t share what you don’t have.

I am very grateful to Mr Jamie Madigan, Mr Paul Sammut and the school leadership, teachers and students for supporting my attendance at this enriching professional learning opportunity. The experience left me inspired and renewed (and often teary), with fresh ideas and energy to bring back to our school community. One of the first things a colleague said to me when I returned to work (still jet-lagged) was “you look like you have undertaken a transformation, you are glowing” - and indeed, that’s true.

Feeling blessed and grateful!

Vanessa Shaw
Religious Education and Formation Leader

Social Justice Leadership Day

The Social Justice Team recently came together for their annual Student Leadership Day, a meaningful opportunity for students to reflect on their role as leaders within our college community and begin planning for the year ahead.

The day commenced with prayer and reflection, grounding students in the purpose of their leadership. Students were invited to take a deeper look at what they are called to do as members of the Social Justice Team, reflecting on the responsibility they carry to serve others and be a voice for those in need. They also explored our college pillars and motto, considering how their role in social justice aligns with the values of compassion and stewardship and the call to Live Fully, Act Justly. Through discussion and reflection, students began to recognise that leadership in social justice is not only about organising events, but about modelling empathy, awareness and action in their everyday lives.

The second session of the day involved participation in the Handover HeART Project. This initiative supports families of hospital patients by providing thoughtfully prepared care bags that offer comfort during difficult and uncertain times. Students worked carefully to prepare and decorate the bags, including messages of encouragement and hope. The activity reminded students that even small acts of kindness can have a meaningful impact on those experiencing hardship.

Students were also privileged to hear from a guest speaker from the organisation Give Until It Hurts, who shared the inspiring work the organisation carries out in supporting vulnerable communities both locally and globally. The presentation helped students gain a deeper understanding of the impact of generosity and service, and encouraged them to reflect on how their own actions can contribute to positive change.

The final session of the day saw students place their hearts and minds into action as they began planning for the year ahead. Working collaboratively, they brainstormed and developed ideas for future Social Justice initiatives and events within the college. This allowed students to take ownership of their leadership roles while thinking creatively about how they can continue to raise awareness, support important causes and strengthen the culture of compassion within our community.

Overall, the Student Leadership Day was a fruitful and purposeful experience. It provided students with the opportunity to reflect, learn and plan with intention, setting a strong foundation for the important work the Social Justice Team will undertake throughout 2026.

Faith and Social Justice Captain Address

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Matilda and I am your 2026 Faith and Social Justice Captain. I feel incredibly grateful and excited to be stepping into this role and to have the opportunity to work alongside such a passionate and inspiring group of students.

Social justice is something that truly matters. It’s about standing up for others, showing compassion, living out our faith through action, and making sure everyone in our community feels seen, supported and valued. I believe that even small actions can create meaningful change, and together, our ideas and efforts can have a real impact.

I am so excited to work with all of you this year. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts, your ideas, and the causes you care about most. This team isn’t about one person leading — it’s about all of us collaborating, encouraging one another, and using our strengths to make 2026 a year that truly makes a difference.

I’m really looking forward to planning initiatives, supporting important causes, strengthening our school community, and finding creative ways to raise awareness and inspire others to get involved. I hope this year is not only impactful, but also something we are proud of and genuinely enjoy being part of.

Thank you for being here and for being willing to give your time and energy to something bigger than yourselves. I can’t wait to get started and to see what we can achieve together.

Thank you

Matilda Snooks
Faith and Social Justice Captain

Project Compassion

Term 1 at the College is devoted to supporting Caritas Australia through its annual Lenten campaign, Project Compassion. The 2026 theme, Unite Against Poverty, calls us to come together in solidarity to support our brothers and sisters around the world who are experiencing hardship and injustice.

Throughout the term, our school community has embraced this call with generosity and compassion. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a huge difference in the lives of those in need. So far, the Social Justice Team has raised funds through several initiatives, including Shrove Tuesday pancake sales and a very successful Casual Clothes Day, which raised an impressive $1181.00. This amount can support one month of a nurse’s wage in Gaza, providing critical medical care for up to 200 patience.

There are still several exciting initiatives to come, including a sausage sizzle, an Easter raffle, and another Casual Clothes Day. These events will continue to build on the wonderful spirit of generosity already shown by our students and staff.

Students are also encouraged to make small donations each morning during homeroom to support the campaign. In addition, every Thursday during homeroom, students are invited to read and reflect on inspiring stories that highlight the life-changing impact of Project Compassion and the difference these donations make in communities around the world.

Funds donated to Project Compassion directly support long-term, sustainable development programs that help more than 1.5 million people across over 36 countries, including Australia. These programs work to combat poverty and injustice by providing access to clean water, education, healthcare, income generation opportunities, and emergency relief for marginalised communities.

As a faith community, this is a powerful way for us to live out our call to compassion and justice, to Live Fully Act Justly in uniting to make a meaningful difference in the world.

Our Curious Kitchen Club has had an incredible start this term! Running every fortnight and tailored especially for our Year 8 students, the club provides a wonderful opportunity for students to engage in hands-on, exploratory cooking sessions beyond the standard Food Technology curriculum.

The energy in the kitchen has been fantastic, with students embracing the chance to learn through doing, building confidence, developing practical life skills, and, of course, having fun with food. Each session offers a mix of sweet and savoury recipes, giving students the opportunity to explore new flavours while strengthening their skills in measuring, preparing, cooking, and presenting dishes.

It has been wonderful to see students collaborating, encouraging one another, and taking pride in what they create. Curious Kitchen Club is already proving to be a vibrant and engaging space where curiosity, creativity, and confidence come together. We look forward to many more delicious discoveries ahead!

At Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs, we take great pride in the vibrant range of musical opportunities available to our students, and we warmly invite our school community to explore the world of Instrumental Music, Bands and Choirs in 2026. We believe these opportunities nurture not only musical ability but also play an important role in supporting each student’s social and emotional development.

In 2026, the College will continue to provide an exciting and diverse range of opportunities for students to engage in music. We encourage families to consider the many benefits of learning an instrument, as it contributes significantly to the development of character, emotional growth and musical capability.

Instrumental Music lessons at the College are thoughtfully integrated into the school day and delivered on a rotating timetable. This structure allows students to participate fully in their musical training while maintaining their academic commitments.
The Instrumental Music Program also provides students with the valuable opportunity to experience a variety of instruments. Through this process, students are able to make informed choices and discover the instrument that best aligns with their interests and aspirations. Whether it is the expressive sound of the violin, the dynamic rhythm of the drums or the rich harmonies of the guitar, students are encouraged to explore and develop their own musical pathway.

We remain committed to fostering a deep appreciation for music while providing students with the skills and experiences that support their growth both as musicians and as individuals.

We look forward to welcoming students on this musical journey in 2026, as we continue to nurture the talent, creativity and confidence that enable them to flourish not only in music, but in all areas of their lives.

Enrolment forms are available here. 

On Friday 20 February, as part of our Project 9 program, Year 9 students had the privilege of hearing from guest speaker Ben Pettingill, whose story left a lasting impression on all who attended. 

Ben shared his personal journey of living with vision loss and the challenges he has faced along the wat. Through honest storytelling and humour, he encourages students to reflect on the importance of resilience when confronting obstacles and setbacks. His message emphasised that while we cannot always control the challenges we encounter, we can choose how to respond to them. 

A key theme of Ben’s presentation was the power of perspective. He challenged students to look at difficult situations through a different lens and to recognise the opportunities for growth that can emerge from adversity. His ability to speak candidly about his experience, while maintaining an uplifting and hopeful outlook, was well received by our students. 

Students were inspired by Ben’s determination, courage and positive mindset. His message aligned closely with the goals of the Project 9 program, which aims to support students in developing resilience, self-awareness and a strong sense of purpose as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. We are grateful to Ben for sharing his story and inspiring our students to approach life’s challenges with courage, perspective and perseverance. 

Here is a reflection by Year 9 Student Ava Lo Guarro:
After listening to Ben Pettingill speak, the main takeaways from his story were the importance of resilience and learning to adapt when life suddenly changes. Ben lost 98% of his vision overnight at only 16 years old. At first, he struggled to accept the fact that he was blind, hoping that one day his vision would come back. He tried to refuse the thought of being permanently blind. Though eventually overtime, he learnt he needed to accept the situation and move on. He learned to navigate the world in a new way and be able to do the things he used to love. 

What stood out was how he refused to let blindness stop him from challenging himself physically and mentally. Ben completed in the Spartan Race, which included barbed wire and crawling through mud. Overall, his story shows the importance of being resilient in hard situations, as well as how having a strong mindset can help you overcome many obstacles.

Rehearsals for our 2026 College Production, Disney's ‘The Little Mermaid’, are in full swing!

Our talented cast, bringing to life beloved characters such as the strong-willed and adventurous Ariel, and the almighty evil Ursula, alongside our strikingly talented and hard-working leads and ensemble, have already demonstrated remarkable dedication throughout the audition process; and we cannot wait to share this magical story of courage, determination and love with our CRC Caroline Springs community.

This year’s College Production will be directed and produced by Mr Jack Wilkinson (Head Director and Designer) and Mrs Grace Maddern (Head Producer and Choreographer) of GJ Productions. Their creative leadership will further strengthen our vibrant Performing Arts community while bringing the magical underwater city of Atlantica to life on stage.

Congratulations to the cast:

Lead Roles:

Ariel: Emilia Raunik
Prince Eric: Sean Nicholas Cortes Alinea
Ursula: Ava Lo Guarro
King Triton: Bill Conto
Sebastian: Jacob Magtalas
Flounder: Matilda Snooks
Scuttle: Olivia Cassar
Grimsby: Teddy Jeske

Featured Roles:

Flotsam / Maid / Pit Singer: Emma Clayton
Jetsam / Maid/ Pit Singer: Augustine Caballes
Aquata / Princess/ Pit Singer: Olivia Piscopo
Andrina / Princess / Pit Singer: Olivia Vu
Arista / Princess / Pit Singer: Eden Henare
Adella / Princess / Pit Singer: Christabelle Susanto
Allana / Princess / Pit Singer: Zara Borg
Atina / Princess / Pit Singer: Savannah Friggieri
Windward / Leeward / Pit Singer: Holly Bloomberg
Chef Louis / Sailor: Aiden Antonopoulos
Pilot / Chef / Courtier: Paolo Tartaglia

Dance Troupe:

Olivia Attard
Isla Baker
Holly Bloomberg
Yohanna Espina
DANCE TROUPE
Gulls, Sea Creatures and Animals
Liliana Galdamez
Sienna Hoysted
Naomi Francheska Mallari
Angelina Raso

Land Ensemble:

Jonah Attard
Flynn Bellino
Chloe Chrisostomou
Charlie Ellis
Maryam Rafo
Kiara Sharma
Ben Sulewski

Sea Ensemble:

Zoe Agapis
Alexandra Attard
Grace Chambers
Sheira Fernando
Teah Fyssarakis
Gabriella Gerada
Gabriella Lawrence
Ava Naplitano
Sofia Paradowski
Izzy Rupa

Keep a look out for updates and show dates on our College social media and upcoming newsletters!

2026 School Fees

The 2026 School Fee Schedule and Fee Payment are available on the College website (College Tuition Fee – CRC Caroline Springs) for your convenience.

Families are reminded that school fees must be paid in instalments as outlined in the Fee Payment Agreement, unless alternative arrangements have been approved by the College Business Manager.

If you have not yet returned the signed Fee Payment Agreement, we kindly ask that you do so as soon as possible, as fee payments for 2026 have now commenced.

The BPAY payment option is now available. Please refer to your monthly statement for the relevant BPAY details.

If you have recently changed your home address or email details, please notify the College to ensure our records remain up to date.

CSEF 2026 – Current Health Care Card Holders

Applications for the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) for 2026 are now open.

Only Year 7 students and new students who are eligible for the Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF) are required to submit an application for 2026. Students who received CSEF in 2025 will have their eligibility automatically rolled over and do not need to reapply.

Eligible families are asked to:

• Complete the CSEF application form available on our website and College Reception
• Return the completed and signed form, along with a copy of the current parent/carer Health Care Card, to the College office as soon as possible

Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund application form 2026 (DOCX)

Dear families,

I am reaching out to present a saving program, that could greatly benefit you and your young person - Saver Plus Program.

Saver Plus is a free, financial education and matched savings program that can help you reduce the financial pressures associated with school costs, by providing $500 in matched savings.
Through the program:

• You save up to $50 a month for 10 months.
• Your savings are matched dollar-for-dollar (up to $500) to support education-related costs, such as school uniforms, books, laptops, or extracurricular fees.
• You attend free online financial education workshops to enhance budgeting and financial management skills.

Now is the perfect time to join for 2026 and preparing for 2027 School costs!

Your participation can help ease the burden of school-related costs while fostering a culture of financial resilience and invest in your child's education.

For further information and eligibility criteria please see the below flyer.

Please note that involved organisations do not share any personal information with the school, other than number of participants.