I thank you, O Lord,
my joy and my glory,
my hope and my God.
I thank you for your gifts to me.
Keep them unharmed for me:
they will be the making of me,
and I shall be with you for my being is your gift.
Amen.
St Augustine - Confessions I, 20, 31
Throughout each year, we pause to listen to our students, families and staff to gauge how our learning community is travelling. This feedback is invaluable to our progress as effective school communities and is backed by evidence-based research and best practices.
A significant and formal way in which we engage and gather data is through MACSSIS, the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools – School Improvement Surveys.
MACSSIS is a set of surveys that have been built specifically for Catholic schools in Melbourne by the Learning Services team at MACS, in partnership with researchers at Learning First and in wide consultation with principals in our schools.
In 2025, students, families and staff are invited to participate in MACSSIS via our secure and purpose-built online platform. The online platform is where our school leaders will access the summary reports that visualise the results of the student, family and staff surveys.
The MACSSIS survey platform is operated by an independent supplier, ORIMA Research Pty Ltd. The platform meets with the high security and privacy standards for handling student and school data. Participating schools are in the process of updating their privacy policy to ensure school communities are fully informed and protected.
Students at our school will be provided with supervised sessions, where teachers are on hand to help and answer any questions. Families and staff can complete the survey anytime over the three-week window via an emailed link and password. Feedback has indicated that previous surveys were completed across a range of mobile devices and different web browsers.
Our community’s opinions are critical to understanding how our school is performing – MACSSIS is a key data source for guiding the ongoing work to improve our school.
If you would like more information, please contact the school.
Our sister school, St. Francis Catholic Primary School in Kizinga, Uganda, is a place where hope, learning, and faith grow, often in the face of great challenges. For many of the 450 students, a simple breakfast at school is not just a meal, it is the energy they need to learn, play, and dream of a brighter future. The support of our staff and students has enabled the construction and furnishing of three brick classroom blocks; a food program; the refurbishment of the church with a concrete floor; and soon the installation of water tanks.
Our support of St. Francis Kizinga is more than an act of charity; it is a reflection of our shared values and our commitment to living out the Gospel in tangible ways. For our students, this partnership provides a valuable lesson in what it means to live fully and act justly. It is an opportunity to see firsthand the difference that can be made when we put our faith into action. It teaches them that living fully means embracing the fullness of life that Christ offers, and acting justly means standing up for the dignity and well-being of others, especially those in need.
We are inviting our College community, parents, families, and students to give generously to this very worthy cause. Every contribution, big or small, makes a real and lasting difference.
Here is how your gift can help:
Every donation, no matter the amount, also supports future classroom buildings and vital school projects, helping to create a better learning environment for all.
Together, as a faith-filled community, let us reach out with love and compassion to help our brothers and sisters at St. Francis Kizinga. Your generosity will change lives.
This weekend, our College proudly presents the 2025 Musical Production, Once Upon a Stage! It’s such an exciting time to come together and celebrate the amazing talent, hard work, and creativity of our students.
The performing arts are such an important part of school life, giving students a chance to be creative, work together, and have fun. Once Upon a Stage takes us on a joyful trip through Broadway’s best hits, from the glamour of the 1930s to the anthems of the 2010s. With soaring ballads, iconic duets, and high-energy ensemble numbers, this show is a real celebration of the magic of the stage.
A big thank you to Ms Allison Caruana (Director and Producer), Mr Danny Godoy (Music Director), Mrs Jordyn Bugeja (Production Assistant), and all the choreographers, voice coaches, staff, and volunteers who have helped make this show happen.
And of course, to our incredible students, we are so proud of you! Your talent, energy, and passion have brought this production to life, and we can’t wait to see you shine on stage.
There are still some tickets left for Saturday’s shows, so don’t miss your chance to catch this amazing performance.
We are cheering for our students as they take to the stage this weekend.
Term Three Interim Reports will be released via SEQTA Engage (for parents and carers) and SEQTA Learn (for students) after 4:00pm on Friday 19 September.
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 Thursday October 9th.
In the Interim Report, student work habits are reported against the following categories:
Demonstrates academic improvement
Applies effort
Manages personal learning
Demonstrates appropriate behaviours
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.
On Friday 15 August, we joyfully gathered to celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of our Blessed Mother Mary into heaven — body and soul. Our Mass was a special occasion for our students and staff, with Fr. Jaycee Napoles, assistant priest and Master of Ceremonies at St Patrick’s Cathedral, leading the celebration.
In his homily, Fr. Jaycee shared the biblical significance of the Assumption, drawing profound connections between Mary and the ancient Ark of the Covenant. The Ark was considered sacred because it contained the presence of God, along with the Ten Commandments, manna from heaven, and Aaron’s staff — all central symbols of Israel’s faith.
Fr. Jaycee explained that Mary is the new Ark of the Covenant, embodying all these elements:
The Ten Commandments: Mary, as the mother of Jesus, perfectly exemplifies obedience to God's Word and divine law. Her willingness to follow God’s plan makes her a living model of divine obedience in action.
Manna (Bread from Heaven): Mary bears Jesus, the true Bread from heaven (John 6:51), who sustains our spiritual life. Through her motherhood, she is the vessel through which we receive the Holy Eucharist.
Aaron’s Staff (Aaron as the first High Priest): As the mother of Jesus, our High Priest, Mary is associated with bearing Jesus, the ultimate fulfillment of the priestly role.
This Solemnity reminds us of Mary's unique role in God’s plan ss the mother who carries the Word made flesh, sustains us with the Bread of life and the priesthood. May we always look to Mary as a model of obedience, faith, and devotion that leads us to her son, Jesus.
On 22 August, we had the privilege of providing our students with a deeply meaningful opportunity – A pilgrimage to St Mary MacKillop Catholic Church.
With 2025 being the Jubilee Year of Hope, we wanted to offer students a chance to experience faith as a time for renewal, forgiveness, and reflection. A time to recognise Jesus’ humble and supportive presence in our lives and in our individual faith journeys.
The day began with a short bus trip to Catholic Regional College North Keilor, where we joined students and staff from CRCNK for introductions and lunch in preparation for our pilgrimage. With full stomachs and open hearts, we set off, focused on the presence of Jesus in our lives and entered a space of prayer.
Along the way, we paused for moments of reflection, exploring Mother Mary’s vital role as a mother, a carer and a model of unwavering faith and love in both Jesus’ life and our own. We continued with a Rosary Walk, contemplating the lives of Jesus and Mary and their deep devotion.
Upon arriving at St Mary MacKillop Catholic Church, Fr Vinh Do assistant Parish Priest of St Mary of the Assumption Parish gave us a talk on the meaning of ‘hope.’ We were blessed to experience Adoration, allowing us to be still in the presence of Christ through beautiful worship music and were provided with time to reflect on our connection to Jesus. The pilgrimage concluded with opportunity for students to experience confession where they were encouraged to encounter God’s grace, healing, and forgiveness.
We would like to sincerely thank all the students who so beautifully said “yes” to this opportunity to encounter Jesus, especially in this Jubilee Year of Hope. We are proud of the reverence, respect, and faith shown by students from both CRCCS and CRCNK.
A heartfelt thank you to the staff who made the day possible:
A special thank you goes to Angella Francis, whose vision, planning, and passion brought this beautiful, faith-filled experience to life. Her dedication ensured our students could meaningfully engage in this time of spiritual growth and reflection.
We hope this experience will continue to inspire and nurture our students, contributing meaningfully to their personal faith journeys and the ongoing development of our faith community here at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs.
Naomi Francheska Mallari, 7 Wurundjeri:
What was your favourite part of the pilgrimage?
My favourite part of the pilgrimage is when we went to the Church.
Did you make a special memory with your friends or classmates?
When we were on the walk, my friends and I were holding the college banner, this was memorable for me.
How did the pilgrimage help you feel closer to God?
The pilgrimage really helped me feel close to God because when we went to Church, there was confession happening. And when I confessed my sins, I felt like God will always be there to help me.
What is one thing you will always remember from this experience?
I will always remember the Church, St Mary Mackillop Church.
If you had to describe the pilgrimage in one word, what would it be?
Journey.
Year 8 Faith Formation Day with Fr Rob Galea
On Tuesday, August 12, our Year 8 students had the privilege of spending their annual Faith Formation Day with Fr Rob Galea. He shared his personal testimony of moving from a troubled teenage life to finding God, which deeply resonated with our students. His lively and heartfelt songs added to the engaging and relatable experience.
The second session, led by Miss Wendy Smith (Year Level Coordinator) and Sr Lawrence Nicolas (College Chaplain), invited students to reflect on Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” From this, the students created their own unique crosses as a personal expression of faith.
The day concluded with an “Instructional Mass” celebrated by Fr Rob, where he carefully explained the symbols and meanings behind various parts of the liturgy. This allowed the students to appreciate more fully the richness of our Eucharistic tradition.
Fr Rob was accompanied by fellow musicians Thomas Byrne and Zeb Fernandez whose contributions helped enrich the day. We are especially grateful to Fr Rob for his witness and enthusiasm, offered so generously despite his jetlag after returning from Rome, where he performed for thousands of young pilgrims during the Jubilee of Youth and received the Catholic Music Award for Best Worship Song at the Vatican.
Ava Olivia – 8 Kulin, shares her experience of the day:
“On our Year 8 Faith Formation Day, we were fortunate to have Father Rob Galea visit our school as a guest speaker. He shared his personal experiences growing up in his home country of Malta, his relationship with Jesus, and music in a way that captured the attention of the Year 8 students. What made the experience even more engaging was that we were able to sing along to his songs and join in with hand gestures and dance moves.
After hearing all about his life, I was struck by how much he had changed and how honest he was about his past mistakes. He shared with us about his relationship with Jesus and how Jesus will be there for us, and he will always have a chair waiting for us to sit down and talk to him. One important lesson I took away from the day was that it is possible to turn your life around if you put your trust in Jesus.”
CRC Caroline Springs came alive with curiosity and creativity as students and staff joined in the celebrations for National Science Week 2025. With a range of hands-on activities and friendly competition, the week was a fantastic opportunity to explore the wonders of science in engaging and interactive ways.
Each morning began with a daily ‘Homeroom Science Quiz’, challenging students with questions on everything from physics to environmental science. Homerooms battled it out for top marks, but it was 10 Kororoit who took the crown, proving themselves the sharpest science minds in the school!
Lunchtimes were just as action-packed. Students had the chance to take part in Solar-Powered Robot Workshops, where they built their own robots powered entirely by the sun. The workshops sparked interest in engineering and renewable energy, with students working in teams to bring their robots to life.
Adding a touch of fun to the week students also took part in giant bubble blowing competitions. Students had fun testing their technique to create the biggest and longest-lasting bubbles—turning science into a colourful art form. Even our Principal Mr Madigan got in the spirit of bubble blowing!
National Science Week at CRC Caroline Springs was a huge success, bringing science out of the classroom and into the everyday lives of our students. A big thank you goes out all who participated.
We look forward to even more exciting discoveries next year!
This term, our Year 10 Science students became DNA detectives in an exciting hands-on practical. Using kiwifruit, the students carried out a DNA extraction experiment—bringing their genetics lessons to life.
With simple household ingredients like detergent, salt, and chilled ethanol, students carefully broke open the kiwifruit cells and revealed the long, white strands of DNA usually hidden from view. The classroom buzzed with curiosity and amazement as students held in their hands the very molecule that carries the instructions for all living things.
The activity not only deepened their understanding of genetics but also gave them a taste of what it’s like to be a real scientist. From teamwork and problem-solving to the thrill of discovery, the practical proved to be a memorable highlight of the term.
We asked our Social Justice Team what it means to help our brothers and sisters in Uganda:
Though it may seem like a waste, our thoughts and funds actually go a long way for the children and people in Uganda. The money we donate, the support we give, it all means something special. The children at our sister school appreciate us, so it should be right that we appreciate them back. It makes me feel good to see how much money us as a school community has raised in building new classrooms, providing clothes, and giving them a breakfast support system. Their smiles only encourage our mission of keeping them healthy and well. Thank you everyone for all your support, lets continue this gratitude.
~ Charlotte A
The importance of helping the people in Uganda is being someone who is there for them, without us they wouldn't have all the privileges that they do have. My experience on how our school helps makes me feel proud on how something so small for us can equal so much for them, by just donating our time, money and resources we are building them an education and a sense of hope for their future.
~ Poppy V
For me, helping the kids in Uganda makes me feel accomplished because I know how lucky we are to live in Australia with access to our school and food and water every day. Knowing that the kids didn't have that, but we have the opportunity to help them and even what we have done so far thought it may only seem small for us I know that for them it means the world and it's the difference between going to school or not. I love being able to be a part of a school that can help provide and give to those less fortunate than us.
~ Alannah S
At CRCCS, we donate money to a school in Uganda, where we help build classrooms for many children and provide them with breakfast every day. Without our help, many kids would be taught under trees, not in real classrooms. It warms my heart that we can make a difference, and I hope that more people do what our school does and donates to those in need.
~ Alarii B
Supporting our brothers and sisters in Uganda is important because it reminds us to share love and compassion. At our school, we give through fun and fundraising which makes me feel proud to be part of positive change.
~ Sophia F
Our contributions our brothers and sisters in Uganda is crucial as we have made a significant change to their lives. Whenever there is a casual clothes day or any food and snack items being sold by the Social Justice teams on occasion, even a simple dollar makes a positive impact. We as a college community have transformed the lives of those kids in Uganda, having built many classrooms blocks suitable for learning, providing them with breakfast every morning, and so much more to change their lives for the better and making a difference. Many often take our fortune of being in a school and country like ours for granted so it is important to help those who do not have that same fortune, even if it is just a $2 coin on casual clothes day.
~ Chanel G
BOOK WEEK
Our school celebrated Book Week from the 18 - 22 August. The theme this year was “The Book Was Better” which showcased books that had been made into movies. The library was decorated with silver streamers, balloons, Hollywood stars, as well as two giant books. A Book Fair was also held to allow students to purchase books at discounted prices. During Book Week, library staff organised many competitions and lunchtime activities, including a “Wheel of Fortune”, Harry Potter scavenger hunt, movie, quizzes and making bookmarks.
Congratulations to:
The winners of the ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” drawing competition were:
The best borrowers of library books were:
Thank you to everyone who purchased books from the Book Fair and participated in Book Week activities.
On Monday 18 August, fourteen Year 7 and 8 students represented our College at the SACCSS Junior Badminton tournament in Werribee. All teams competed in a pairs format with two of our teams reaching the semi-final stage. Each team competed with great skill and real enthusiasm. The students are to be commended for the way they represented themselves and the College.
Two students share their accounts of the day:
Representing the school in sports competitions is always a fun opportunity, especially when we miss a day of school. Badminton was one of them, having fun with our partners and creating new memories. The bus ride itself was a great experience, talking and having random discussions with friends, but upon arrival the nerves started to settle in for all of us. There were 6 games that lasted 12 minutes each. Each pair had to score the most points they could in the timeframe. Our first match had started with complete uncertainty and being scared. Although our first match was a loss, the main point was for me and Myeisha (my partner) to keep being positive. The next matches were wins, turning our whole mood in another direction, winning a promising 5/6 matches that led us to the semifinals. Although we played to our best efforts, we fell back to being nervous, losing the semis by a close margin—around 4 to 6 points. It was upsetting to lose the semis, but the fact we made it in was what we were grateful for. Making it that far was an overall achievement for us while at the same time we represented our school. We didn’t get gold, but we had fun.
~ Rhaiyne
I was really hyped going to the badminton tournament today, smiling and talking excitedly on the bus with my doubles partner, Rhaiyne. We had six games scheduled, each lasting 12 minutes, and the pair with the most points won. Our first match didn’t go so well—we were nervous, kept missing shots, and the other team had a strong, experienced player. We lost badly, around 35 –17 but Rhaiyne encouraged me to stay positive. After that, things turned around.
We won our next five games and made it to the semifinals. Even though we played well together, the nerves came back, and we lost a very close match. At first, I was upset, but then I realized how far we’d come. It was my first tournament, I haven’t been playing long, and Rhaiyne doesn’t even play regularly—yet we made the semifinals! Overall, it was an exciting experience.
I achieved many goals today, such as making new friends from other schools, showcasing my skills, and becoming closer with my peers. The tournament will always be a key memory for me, and even though I didn’t go home with a medal, I still came home with plenty of great memories.
~Myeisha
One of the most anticipated events for Year 10 students at CRC Caroline Springs is the annual formal, and on 3 July, we celebrated this milestone at the Lakeside Banquet and Convention Centre. The evening marked the end of our first semester, filled with a vibrant mix of relief, excitement, and friendship. It was a night to celebrate our hard work, reflect on our achievements, and create lasting memories through dancing, singing, and shared laughter.
The evening began with students arriving at the venue in style—some chauffeured by parents, others stepping out of limousines with friends, all dressed in stunning formal attire. The girls shone in an array of elegant dresses, each reflecting their unique style, while the boys looked sharp in tailored suits, exuding confidence and charm. Parents gathered outside, snapping photos to capture the moment before we entered the venue.
In the foyer, a professional photography station and a displayed seating chart welcomed us. As we located our table numbers, we flowed into the elegantly decorated function room. Circular tables draped in black linens, labelled with numbers, were adorned with silver and gold balloons that added a festive touch. A lively photo booth in one corner attracted students throughout the night, with groups posing in animated duos, trios, and larger groups. At the centre of the room, an empty dance floor awaited, flanked by the DJ’s elevated setup, set to ignite the evening’s energy.
The night officially began with brief speeches from Mr. Sammut and Ms. Conforti, who outlined the evening’s schedule and set a warm tone. I had the honour of delivering a prayer, expressing gratitude for the occasion and the successful semester, followed by an inspiring address from Mr. Madigan. With formalities concluded, the atmosphere shifted to pure celebration. Students flooded the dance floor, grooving to 2000s pop classics, singing R&B tunes, and dancing along to familiar songs. The energy on that dance floor was contagious and potent, at some points attracting the whole cohort onto the dance floor as they screamed lyrics or jumped up and down. Others moved between tables and the photo booth, capturing candid moments with friends. The dance floor remained the heart of the night, pulsing with energy as we danced and celebrated together, forging unforgettable memories.
The evening culminated in the much-anticipated awards ceremony. Throughout the night, excitement built around the "Best Female Dancer" and "Best Male Dancer" awards, with a mysterious third award—"Star of the Night"—that remained unknown. Ms. Conforti, the pioneer behind the event’s decoration, was warmly acknowledged for her efforts in making this night special for us. Further thanks were extended to the all additional staff for their contributions to making the night seamless and memorable.
When the awards were announced, the room buzzed with anticipation. Cienna Victuelles and Klark Nuestro were honoured as "Best Female Dancer" and "Best Male Dancer," respectively, for their standout performances on the dance floor. The "Star of the Night" award, revealed as an award to the student who embodied the spirit of the event by engaging with and respecting others as well as their energy, was presented to Monique Schnellmann. Each recipient was met with a raucous and celebratory round of applause.
The Year 10 Formal was more than a celebration of the semester’s end; it was a milestone in our journey at CRC Caroline Springs. It brought old friends closer, welcomed new friends into our lives, and gave us a chance to revel in our collective successes. The event’s success was a testament to the hard work of Ms. Conforti, Mr Sammut and the entire organising team, to whom we owe immense gratitude. Their dedication ensured the night was a cherished memory for all.
To next year’s Year 10 students, I cannot emphasise enough the importance of attending this unforgettable event. It’s a night to celebrate your achievements, bond with friends, and create memories that will stay with you long after you leave CRC Caroline Springs. Thank you to everyone who made this evening extraordinary.
Annual Spring Twilight Concert – A Celebration of Music and Talent
We are delighted to invite you to our Annual Spring Twilight Concert, a highlight of the year where our talented Instrumental Music Students take the stage for an evening of unforgettable performances.
Date: Wednesday 17 September 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Venue: CRCCS Performing Arts Centre, 10–28 College Street, Caroline Springs
This year’s concert will showcase the incredible talents of our Stage Band, String Ensemble, College Choir, Mass Choir, Solo Performers, and the School of Rock Band (Junior and Senior). With such a diverse and dynamic program, the evening promises to be filled with energy, inspiration, and community spirit.
Tickets are free! Reserve yours now via TryBooking. There are no limits on ticket numbers, so bring along family and friends to enjoy this special event.
Your support makes a world of difference to our students, and we can’t wait to celebrate their dedication and achievements together. Join us for what is sure to be a vibrant and memorable night of music!
2025 School Fee notice and Fee Payment Agreements have been mailed home. If you have not received your statement, please contact the finance department or visit the school website. College Tuition Fee - CRC Caroline Springs. If you have changed home address or email details, please also advise the school.
School Fees need to be finalised by November 2025 unless prior arrangement is in place.
Statements will be issued to parents every month for record keeping purposes. If you have requested for a direct debit to be in place, nothing further is required.
Payment due dates are:
28 August 2025 $1500
16 October 2025 $1500
01 December 2025 $1500
05 February 2026 $1500
If you wish to discuss any finance concerns, please reach out to us by phone 9217 8000 extension 2 or email accounts@crccs.vic.edu.au
How long have you worked at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs?
One and a half years
What is your role at the school?
Maths and Digital Technology teacher
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Seeing the students grasp a concept they were struggling with and then having more confidence in their ability when they learn the next things.
What is your ideal way to unwind and relax?
I love travelling, catching up with friends, going for walks and playing golf (very badly!)
When you were little what did you aspire to be?
When I was little I wanted to be a zoo veterinarian.
What was your favourite subject at school?
My favourite subject at school was maths
How many languages do you speak?
I speak two languages – English & Spanish. I went back to uni as a mature age student to study Creative Arts and Spanish and spent a year studying at university in Santiago, Chile.
What skill would you like to master?
Golf! I’ve been on the highest handicap for three years. I haven’t dropped a stroke.
What book/tv series/podcasts are you into at the moment?
I love the Thursday Murder Club books, and the Cormoran Strike series. I love the tv show Slow Horses. There’s a bit of a theme.
What is your favourite sport to watch or play?
I love watching and playing tennis.
Do you play a musical instrument? If so, which one?
I played flute and piccolo in high school and played in Westgate Concert Band for a few years. I also used to teach beginner piano part-time.
What would you sing at karaoke night?
Walking on Sunshine, Katrina and the Waves. I love that song. It always makes me smile.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Gnocchi
If you were a superhero, what powers would you have?
Invisibility or superhuman strength.
What's your favourite holiday destination?
I love going anywhere with history or different cultures, and I love camping in the bush.
Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Maybe Carey Mulligan or Felicity Jones
Do you collect anything?
I collect novelty socks.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies are cooking, reading, writing and playing golf.
What is something you could spend hours doing?
I could spend hours hiking and camping.
If you had to watch a documentary, what would you want it to be about?
I like watching documentaries about scientific discoveries.
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