Villa View – Issue 6, 19 April 2024

We return this week from our Easter break with renewed focus on the education of our young Villanova men and an enthusiasm for their growth and development. As always Term 1 is an important time of transition into a new year level, and a new school for some, and with the second term comes the movement into deeper engagement in learning. I know our staff are excited about the prospect of the term ahead and certainly trust that boys and families are similar motivated to explore the possibilities of ‘what’s next’ as the year progresses.

During last year the College Leadership team in partnership with the College Board examined, discerned and refreshed our Strategic Plan. The full plan is available for viewing on the College website however over the next few weeks I would like to share it with community and ‘break it apart’ a little and share our goals and intentions over the coming years.

As a Catholic School in the Augustinian tradition, it is important that our strategic plan reflects this beyond the Mission and Vision Statement and as such we have detailed the College’s Operating Principles that give global guidance to our processes, purpose and function.

OPERATING PRINCIPLES In following the path of Augustine:

• We embrace the living tradition of the Catholic Church, enriching the mission of the Archdiocese of Brisbane with our Augustinian charism and organisational independence.
• We witness to the Gospel vision of life, centred on Christ, supporting the principles of the common good and challenge those values of contemporary Australian society which erode the dignity of the human person.
• We value and seek humility and interiority as paths for each individual to form, nurture and restore right relationships with themselves, with others and with God.
• We assist our students to realise the fullness of their potential, as they strive to integrate the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions of life and culture, in ways most appropriate to their particular stage of development.

From these operating principles and looking at the future needs of students, community and staff there have been identified five elements focus for our journey through to 2026. These have been sharpened in their view from the strategic plan but largely remain unchanged. We have added one element to give further focus to the care and development of our staff, ensuring the best possible engagement and outcomes for your sons in the process.

The Five Elements of focus:

1. Cultivating Understanding and Commitment to Augustinian Identity and Mission
2. Delivering Intentional Teaching for Optimal Learning Growth
3. Forming and Supporting young Augustinian men for the world
4. Developing, Forming and Caring for Staff
5. Designing and Supporting a Sustainable future

To conclude I would like to share with you the strategic intent and action elaborations that will form our focus in the areas of element one:

Cultivating Understanding and Commitment to Augustinian Identity and Mission
Strategic Intent:

Ignite in our young men, our staff and community a connection and understanding of Augustinian values experienced through service, spiritual development and actions inside and outside the classroom.

Elaborations:

1. Design and provide formation for staff and community in the Augustinian charism through induction, targeted education and ongoing educative, and immersive, experiences. These experiences are for teaching, non-teaching and co-curricular staff.
2. Implement a cycle of evaluation of the breadth, effectiveness, engagement, impact and outcomes of our Augustinian formation, outreach and ministry programs for staff, students and community.
3. Adopt a systematic approach to the aligning Catholic Social teaching to our service learning and curriculum to encourage a lived Augustinian experience at Villanova.
4. Focus our efforts on fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive community at Villanova.

I will in future editions of the Villa View share further the elements, intent and elaborations. As always, I welcome your correspondence, or simply Saturday sideline discussion, regarding College life and our movements in educating your son and stewarding the actions and traditions of Villanova College.

This weekend we begin our Term 2 sporting commitments with trials in Rugby, Chess and Football against Iona College. As always though the preparations have been occurring since last term and our Cross-Country team headed out on Thursday for the first meet of the season. These young men, a squad of some 80 boys, have been in solid preparation for many weeks and we are looking forward to a promising and enjoyable season for them. AS such I would like to remind parents that there is a code of conduct, and a responsibility to adhere to it, during all of our sporting seasons but particularly in Rugby and Soccer where it seems more emotion can be generated that at other times of the year.

Respectful conduct toward athletes, from both competing schools, other parents, coaches and referees is of the utmost importance and I would hope that all sporting seasons will continue in the manner of our Term 1 sports in regard to the behaviour and support of our parent and community representatives. We will certainly be enforcing this with our boys on the fields and would hope that this will then also be equally supported by our community.

In coming weeks, we will ramp up preparations for the Queensland Catholic Schools and Colleges Music Festival (QCMF) which is of course a wonderful initiative of the College and an outstanding service to the Queensland music community. There will be opportunity to volunteer and assist in this event and I would encourage as many parents and community members to support where possible to help make this event a success.

In many ways QCMF has special importance this year as earlier this week we celebrated the life of Mr Keith Druery, the long serving staff member and Primary Principal of Villanova who began both the music immersion program for boys in Years 5 – 7 during the 1980’s, well before it was ‘best practice’ in music education and was the driving force in starting the festival here at the College.

Mr Paul Begg, Principal

In keeping with the Spirit of Reconciliation, Villanova College acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we stand. We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. This has always been, and always will be, a place of teaching and learning connected to country, culture and community.

Welcome back to all Senior School students and families for the commencement of Term 2. I hope that the holiday period provided an opportunity for rest and renewal after the intensity of the first term. Starting with the Easter weekend, the holiest time in our Christian tradition, the primacy of following the example of Jesus was illuminated, particularly by Pope Francis who stated:

“Brothers and sisters, Jesus Christ is risen! He alone has the power to roll away the stones that block the path to life. He, the living One, is himself that path. He is the Way: the way that leads to life, the way of peace, reconciliation and fraternity.”

During the mid-semester break, I hope that all Senior School students- with their parents- had meaningful conversations about their start to the year, both inside and outside of the classroom, considering the goals that were established and purposefully reflecting upon the reports from their teachers in relation to their diligence towards learning, classroom behaviour and participation, study habits and overall progress. Following further feedback across the student-parent-teacher conferences that will be conducted in Weeks 2 and 3, I expect that all Senior School students know what they need to do to in order to drive their individual improvement agenda this term.

Trimester Two Sport and Expectations
Excitement fills the air as we gear up for another thrilling trimester of AIC Sport, kicking off this weekend with our final trial matches against Iona College in Chess, Football, and Rugby. These contests pave the way for Round 1 next weekend against Marist College Ashgrove. To all Senior School students, whether you’re a player or not, I urge you to immerse yourselves in the vibrant community spirit of Term Two sport by cheering on our teams throughout the season, with particular focus on the First XI and First XV on the weekends and where possible and appropriate, our Senior A Chess Team on Friday afternoons.

I hold the highest expectations for all students in displaying exemplary behaviour, both on the field and on the sidelines. While I foster a culture of healthy competition and a drive for victory, it’s imperative that our values remain unwavering, especially in demonstrating humility in success and resilience in defeat—essential components of true sportsmanship.

Our sense of unity as a College community is strengthened when students proudly don their College uniform. Therefore, all Senior School spectators must adhere to the full winter academic uniform, including tie and blazer. This requirement extends to players, who are expected to transition into their academic attire post-match. Spectators for First XI and First XV fixtures will be seated together in designated areas. Additionally, students representing the College in Open Teams or A teams must arrive in full academic uniform before changing into their playing gear ahead of warm-up.

ANZAC Day March
Next Thursday marks our observance of ANZAC Day. As has been the long-standing tradition at the College, we will have representation at the Coorparoo RSL March and Service. Our Student Leadership Team and our College Marching Band form the main contingent of our student presence, however, any student who wishes to attend is more than welcome. The meeting place is Baragoola Street at 7.45am and students are required to be attired in full winter uniform.

‘Bravery never goes out of style.” – William Makepeace Thackeray

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Welcome back to Term 2! I hope you had a rejuvenating Easter break filled with joy and relaxation. Easter is a time of profound significance for Christians worldwide, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, renewal, and hope. At the heart of Easter lies the story of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, a testament to the power of love and redemption. As a Catholic school community, it’s essential for us to understand and honour these traditions and make them our own by fostering a deeper appreciation for our faith and values.

As we embark on this new term, it’s crucial to start well. Establishing good study habits and routines is the key to academic success. Whether it’s setting aside dedicated study time, organising notes and materials, or seeking help when needed, it’s important to commit to prioritising academic pursuits. By doing so, we lay the foundation for achievement and personal growth. It is hoped that all students and parents engaged with the mid-semester report and found ways to reflect and set goals for what Term 2 looks like.

While prioritising the academic, it is important to balance that aspect of our lives with co-curricular activities. These pursuits enrich not only our school experience, but also our lives by fostering creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills. It is all about the balance and manage our time effectively. Get the balance right and academics can remain a priority while we still get to participate in the other activities we enjoy.

Lastly, it was lovely to see this week begin with the overwhelming majority of students not only in their winter uniform but wearing it well.  Wearing our uniforms with pride and attention to detail reflects our respect for our school community and its traditions. Remember to wear your ties properly, as they are a symbol of both unity and professionalism within our school.

As we commence Term 2, let us embrace the traditions of Easter, commit to our academic and co-curricular pursuits, and strive for excellence in all that we do. Together, we can make this term yet another part in fulfilling and successful journey through Villa.

Wishing you all the sort of term we can all be proud of.

Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Online Parent Teacher Conferences are being held on Tuesday 23 April, and face-to-face Teacher Conferences will be held on Wednesday 1 May. All our Junior School class teachers are meeting in their classrooms, in the St Thomas of Villanova Learning Centre.  If you would still like to make a time, please email your son’s teacher directly as online appointments are now closed.  Running from 1.30pm until 7pm, these opportunities are important for several reasons.

Your son needs to know that school and home goals align.  Everyone needs to be on the same page or else the students are going to find expectations are confusing or overwhelming.  Our young men need simple, clear pathways forward into Term 2 – academically, behaviourally and emotionally.  These meetings can help clarify the goal/s, suggest some reasonable strategies to get to the target, and plan the times each week that confirm the commitment to improving.  Most importantly, our boys need to know “who” is going to be checking in and making sure it’s happening according to plan.  Someone they trust – someone who can be firm but fair.  High support and motivation (also a reward here and there) matter greatly to making sure that changes are helpful and have an impact.

Your son will see that you value the relationship with the teacher.  If this is about positive experiences, then this time reinforces what works for him as a learner and how he can continue to grow in a manner that is meaningful.  Boys who love coming to school and think their teacher is great fun still need to know their parent understands one of the most influential people firsthand.  You might have insightful stories to share that the teacher is not aware of – perhaps very helpful in reinforcing what makes a significant difference with his day-to-day school life.  If your son is in a transition phase of being challenged somehow – grades disappointing, behaviours being challenged or expectations needing reinforcement – then this is the time to find the “bridge” that can bring College expectations and your son’s participation in school together.  Common ground.  A starting place for how to take small steps in the right direction.  Everyone needs hope and a chance to do better.  This meeting is the chance to “reset” and start fresh.

You will have the opportunity to see your son’s assessment tasks.  Read the responses, be proud of work that you and I know we never could have put together at this age.  Being able to share these observations will mean a great deal to him – even if he’s long forgotten – your one recollection of what you loved in Term 1 will make him feel like a million dollars.  It may also be the chance to see what decisions or attempts fell short of expectations.  It’s always interesting to see some of the errors – and remembering our own flaws – acknowledge that there is room for improvement.  Was it learning the content more thoroughly?  The right terms for a subject?  Was it reading the question correctly?  Was it just small errors that clouded the answer?  Understanding these challenges mean you can be of more help when it comes to assessment towards the end of Term 2.

Remember that we have other Junior School Staff available on Friday.  Chloe Adams (Year 5) and Melissa Liddy (Year 6) are our Heads of Curriculum and Pedagogy – the teachers responsible for the leadership of subject units and assessment tasks – including moderation of grades.  Callum Hackett is our Junior School Pastoral Leader – attitude, behaviour, sense of belonging, adherence to College expectations, social interactions.  These three individuals are also available for meetings should you think that more support could be helpful to your son’s experience.  Email them for ideas about your questions for making Term 2 the best it can be.

Villanova College makes Parent Teacher Conferences a priority.  Students can attend if you feel it would be of benefit, and they should wear their academic uniform with College tie if they do come along.  With 20 minutes allocated, spend some time at home thinking about what matters the most to you, to your son, and be ready to listen, or ask the questions you have, to make the very most of the time you have.  We look forward to seeing you all – thank you for showing your commitment to supporting your son in his journey.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Welcome back everyone to Term 2. I hope you had a wonderful Easter and took time to slow down a little with family and friends. To ensure the wellbeing and social-emotional learning of Villanova students are prioritised, this term in Wellbeing the Year 11 students are undertaking a unit on Respectful Relationships, namely Consent.

This is a complex issue that is tricky to navigate, and one that is often played out and scrutinised in media forums. The findings earlier in the week from a Federal Court judge in the Bruce Lehrmann case is but one example.  Schools, universities, and community organizations are increasingly implementing programs aimed at educating people about consent from a young age. These initiatives focus on teaching individuals about boundaries, respect, and communication in relationships.

Understanding consent is essential for teenagers navigating life decisions.

The aim of this unit is to help unpack the messages boys receive about masculinity, provide them with the tools to build a healthy identity and empower the young men at Villa to make informed decisions.

The cohort is broken up into small groups to allow for deep and honest discussions, and will be facilitated by the Heads of House, our School Counselling Team and members of the Senior Leadership Team, including School Principal Paul Begg. The staff are fully invested in this program and are eager to work alongside the boys with this issue.

The goal moving forward is to have this topic incorporated in the wellbeing program in an age-appropriate way for all boys at Villanova.

I am confident this unit will have an impact with the boys and will help not only empower them to know who they are and who they are becoming, but ensure they feel confident to make healthy and respectful decisions in adolescence and beyond.

In other news, just a reminder about the upcoming Empowering Parenting Workshop. ‘Eyes Open Social Media’ session is about educating parents on the risks and dangers associated with social media use and taking control of this prominent issue. A letter was sent out about this in March, and it is to again be held at Loreto’s Mary Ward Centre on Monday 29 April from 6:00-7:30pm.

Hope to see many of you there.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing

Welcome back to Term 2. I hope you and your family enjoyed the Easter break, and your son is excited to be back at school.

Year 5 to 11 Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences
As communicated over the break, Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences will be held over the coming two weeks. Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences provide an excellent opportunity for you to discuss your son’s progress across Term 1 with a number of his classroom teachers. Specific details for the conferences are as follows:

• The first session of conferences is being held next Tuesday 23 April. These conferences will be held online (via Microsoft Teams). Parents/carers have been emailed with instructions on how to participate.
• The second session of conferences is being held on Wednesday 1 May. These conferences are being held as face-to-face conversations. Junior School conferences will be held in the relevant Junior School classroom whilst any Middle and Senior School conferences will be held in Goold Hall.

On both days, students will finish classes at 1.00pm. This will allow conferences then to commence at 1.30pm (last conference finishes at 7.00pm). Students can either go home at 1.00pm or if they do not have the ability to leave before 3.00pm, supervision will be provided in the library. Parents/carers can register that their son is remaining at school until 3.00pm by using this link – Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences – Supervision of Students

Our teachers are looking forward to speaking with parents/carers over the next two weeks. An email to all parents/carers has been sent this week with further details.

Artificial Intelligence
I’ve written previously about artificial intelligence (AI) and the significant inroads it has made in transforming the educational landscape over the 18 months. The most pleasing aspect of AI conversations is that schools are wanting to embrace innovative AI technologies to enhance teaching and learning experiences, and also want to look for opportunities to lessen teacher workloads. From personalized learning platforms to AI-driven assessment tools, the integration of AI in schools has evolved rapidly.

Pragmatically, AI does need to be viewed as double-edged sword though; on one hand it can provide so many benefits to students and staff as mentioned above, however, there is the obvious challenge of AI being an obstacle to academic integrity and high level scholarship when it comes to completing assessment, particularly heavily text-based assignments. As a schooling system, Australian education, through the ACARA National Curriculum and the QCAA Senior Assessment and Tertiary Entrance system, places significant emphasis on students producing responses to tasks that are written with integrity and are a representation of a student’s own thoughts and work. Not to mention too, that Villanova College’s values include a Restless Search for Truth and Interiority, with both being very difficult to achieve when relying on external platforms or programs to produce academic work the individual should have completed.

Whilst academic misconduct should not be the sole reason why changes should be made systems, it certainly is something that the College is keeping firmly in mind when addressing assessment processes. The College is implementing a change to the way that text-based assessment will be created and completed across Years 5 to 12. From the beginning of Term 2, the College will require students to use Microsoft Teams Assignments to complete these assessment tasks. There are many benefits to using Teams to standardise typing/text-based assessment practices:

• Student work (from drafting through to completion) is always accessible to teachers.
• Document history is tracked, which is useful in determining hours/time editing, revision history, etc. This is added to Teams Insights to form an overall picture of a student’s activity and engagement in the relevant course.
• Feedback is centralised in a teacher dashboard that allows for typed or audio/video feedback.
• There is a consistency of approach which reduces cognitive load for students; there is the same approach across the curriculum.

All of the above benefits will also allow teachers to gain a greater understanding of student ability and ensure assessment is completed using a high level of academic integrity.

Students will be given more information about this next week during classes, however, in short, teachers will create a ‘blank’ document in Teams through the Assignments function for each assessment task that students must use to complete their assignments. All of the benefits mentioned above will then be available and as a College we will be far more confident that work produced is authentic and the student’s own work.

Looking ahead, the continued evolution of AI holds immense potential for transforming teaching and learning processes, fostering greater equity and accessibility, and preparing students for success after they leave Villanova College’s gates. As schools continue to explore AI technologies, the possibilities for enhancing educational outcomes are limitless. We must continue to take care around what we invest our time in and how we use such technologies.

Mr John Christie, Dean of Teaching and Learning

Light, Life and Love in the Risen Christ
Term 2, 2024 is underway! We ended Term 1 with our Holy Week Liturgy that extended through Holy Thursday and the suffering of Jesus in the lead up to his crucifixion.  A big thank-you to all students and staff involved in the events of Holy Week in the Stations of the Cross around the College; the Sponsored Walk for Emmanuel City Mission; and the Holy Week Liturgy.  It was not the whole story.  Our Christian story does not end in Jesus’ death but in his resurrection.  Fr Peter Jones, the Prior Provincial for the Augustinians, has written about this in the latest edition of ‘The Augustinian’.  You can find the rest of the articles and news through the following link: ‘The Augustinian’.

Fr Peter reminds us that:
As portrayed in the Gospel accounts of the empty tomb and the appearances of the Risen Christ, Easter is the breaking forth of Ultimate Light, Ultimate Life and Ultimate Love to overwhelm darkness, death and all that militates against love. Easter is at the heart of Christian faith.

The Christian vocation is a long pilgrimage in which we integrate the ups and downs of what we experience with the reality of Resurrection. Our recent Lenten meditation of the perplexity and dark moments experienced by Jesus on the path to Jerusalem resonate with our more difficult times. Lent however has a purpose beyond itself – we live in the mystery of Easter.

A gift of the spirituality of Saint Augustine is the capacity to see all in the light of Easter. Grace is always transforming. The annual explicit celebration of Easter speaks to what is always true – God’s overwhelming love revealed in the Incarnation and Paschal Mystery is continually at work in us.

So, at Villanova, we have deeply embedded in our values, a belief in God’s overwhelming love.  Jesus in his resurrection called us to continue his mission.  To build the Kingdom of Heaven here on Earth through our actions and our loving of one another.  As Easter people our prayer of Holy Week is well worth contemplating and moving and enacting.

Loving God, stretch our hearts and minds.
Encourage us and challenge us
To reach out to a heartbroken friend.
Encourage us and challenge us
To listen the voices of the ignored.
Encourage us and challenge us
To stand up against injustices.
Encourage us and challenge us
To call ourselves Christians when it is unfashionable to do so.
Encourage us and challenge us
To remember that we should be ‘washing one another’s feet.’
Encourage us and challenge us
If we all did so, the world would be a kinder, more compassionate, just and loving place.

We are over halfway to meeting our goal for Emmanuel City Mission.  Many thanks to families who have supported already.  If you would still like to support the Walk the link is here

Walk for Emmanuel City Mission

Vinnies holiday kids camp
We were delighted to have a great team of past and present Villa boys at the Vinnies Easter Camp.

This Camp is an annual three-day camp where children have fun participating in outdoor adventure activities and team building challenges. Volunteer leaders support every child acting as positive role models, developing meaningful and supportive relationships with children who attend camp. An ocean-themed camp took place over 12-14 April where 25 young people and 26 volunteers went to the Sunshine Coast Recreation Precinct at Currimundi. This year’s camp included ocean olympics, a pool party, high ropes, stand-up paddleboarding, a shipwreck survivor challenge, and a beach trip. Camp concluded with everyone receiving a shell necklace of their team colour with Kids Camp 24 written on the inside. The action-packed schedule full of fun, laughter, creativity, and teamwork provided opportunities to form new friendships, strengthen existing connections, and create positive memories that will last long after camp. We are incredibly proud of our deep and ongoing Villa connection and benefit greatly from the effort the boys put in every time they engage. Massive thanks to the Villa boys who attended Kids Camp 2024 and looking forward to their continued involvement in our youth programs in the years to come.

From left to right: Noah Lum; Wade Wildin-Powell; Matthew Sondergeld; Harry Bryant; Xavier Simondson; Ronan Hughes; Angus Tracey and Dan Ingledew

Wade and Noah share the following about their experience:

Volunteering for my first ever Vinnies Kids Camp was a very enjoyable experience that I encourage everyone to try to aid the growth of the kids and themselves. I had initial worries prior to the camp, as I had never done anything quite like it, however, they were quickly diminished from the beginning thanks to all of the welcoming individuals who were happy to talk. Through many fun activities (my favourite being the pool party) and countless engaging conversations, the eight people in my team got to know each other well. Everybody would have some kind of role when the time came and I’m sure our bonds helped us to succeed in tasks like making a skit or collecting the most pool noodles. When the time came to present each other with affirmations nearing the end of the camp, I just had so much good to write about the people I’d spent the last few days with. Someone who was shy to get involved in activities managed to open up and let their happiness shine through while others breathed life into the experience with their hilarious comments. I must say, it was hard to say goodbye to everyone when the camp was over, but I will cherish the memories I made there and will jump at the chance to participate in the next one.
Wade Wildin-Powell

The 2024 St Vincent De Paul Kids Camp was one of the most exciting and worthwhile experiences I’ve been lucky enough to attend. Arriving at the Vinnies State Office early on a Friday morning was a challenge, considering I knew only a few other people attending. However, my nerves were quickly shut down when I was approached by an experienced leader who introduced me to the group with whom I’d be spending the weekend. With over 50 kids and volunteers in attendance, the multitude of backgrounds and life experiences provided opportunities to develop relationships and appreciate people for who they are. After an incredible weekend of pool parties, games, uno, high ropes, stand up paddle boarding, the dreaded Sunday afternoon came. Saying goodbye was sad, yet it gave me an opportunity to reflect on the luxuries of my life, and how truly lucky I am. I am nothing but grateful for the chance to attend such a fulfilling experience, and it is one I will always recommend.
Noah Lum

Upcoming Events: Date Claimers and more!
Wednesday 24 April               ANZAC Assembly – Period 1
Thursday 25 April                   ANZAC March
– Assemble at Baragoola Street from 7.45am
– March commences along Old Cleveland Road at 8.00am
– Service from 8.30am in front of Coorparoo RSL
16 – 24 May                            AFAS Partners visiting Villanova College
Sunday 19 May                       Villanova families welcomed at 9am Mass at St James followed by bring a plate to share morning tea to celebrate our visiting AFAS partners
20 – 24 May                            Mission Week – including Red Candle Week
Tuesday 21 May                     Mass of St Rita and St Thomas
Friday 24 May                         Mission Day
Friday 31 May                         Twilight Retreat with Loreto for Year 8

Mrs Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

Director of Sport address
The Easter holiday break was a busy one, with various sporting activities, camps and tournaments. We also had a number of our elite sportsmen compete at state and national representative championships.

Under the stewardship of Cross-Country Coordinator Mr Brian Pascoe, our runners continued with tailored sessions and Park Run invitationals over the break. The squad continues to work hard as the first pre-season meet approaches.

Our Football First XI participated in the TSS Tournament which saw our elite Footballers play six games across the four days of competition. The live in camp at the TSS Boarding facility was a great opportunity for the squad to bond leading into Term 2.

The Rugby First XV squad travelled to the Sunshine Coast Recreation Centre for a camp and trial matches versus Somerset College. Our Open, U15 and U13 rugby teams competed at Ballymore Cup, with our U13’s placing second, narrowly losing the grand final.

All in all, fantastic preparation for the AIC season which is fast approaching. We thank all staff and coaches involved for giving up their time over the holiday period.

Congratulations also to our elite Swimmers who competed at the Age Nationals and students who represented their Club Water Polo teams at the State Championships.

We look forward to our final round of trials this weekend versus Iona College. Chess trials are at Villanova College on Friday 19 April and Football and Rugby trials on Saturday 20 April. Round 1 versus Marist College Ashgrove is next week.

Draw – Trial Round vs Iona College, 19/20 April – coming soon…
The Trial Round draw for this Friday 19 and Saturday 20 April is now available on the Locker Room Overview page.
For all future rounds, the draw will be posted to Locker Room by the Wednesday prior to the round ahead.
This is the earliest possible time we can post this information.

Team Lists
Team lists for the Iona trial round will be posted by Friday 19 April. Our apologies, however due to the cancellations towards the back end of Term 1, coaches need all sessions this week to finalise teams.

Team lists do not appear online. They appear in the Parent Lounge and Student Cafe sections of the portal. In a normal week, team lists will be posted by Thursday prior to the round ahead. This is the earliest possible time we can post this information.

Sports Club – Meeting
The next Sports Club meeting will be held on Monday 22 April, 6:00-7:00pm at Villanova College (Level 3, St Thomas of Villanova building). All welcome.

Sports Club – Villa Park Canteen Volunteers
The Villa Sports Club will be looking for volunteers to assist on the Villa Park canteen in Term 2. There will be a registration link sent out to the community each week for parents to sign up. Proceeds from the Villa Park canteen go directly to the development of all our AIC sporting programmes.

Our next round of Football and Rugby games is Saturday 20 April. Years 9-Open teams are at Villa Park that day. Please click on the link below to register your assistance. We really do appreciate it.

 Villa Park Canteen – Register here – Sat 20 April

Trimester 2 Sport Sign-Ons
Registrations for Trimester 2 Sports are now closed.

If you did not register your son, he must now visit the Sports Department to collect a “Late Registration Form’. This form must be taken home, completed, signed by both student and parent, and returned to the Sports Office, prior to the student being added to a Sport. Failure to follow this process may result in non-selection for the upcoming season.

Registrations for Trimester 3 Sports will be available later this term.

AIC Draw 2024
Please find attached the AIC Draw for 2024.

Communications
Families are reminded to access all Sport information via the Villanova College website and the Villanova College App. The Locker Room Overview tab provides updated information regarding training schedules and current AIC/trial draws.

Training Schedules
For all updated information regarding training and selection trials schedules, please visit the Locker Room Overview page of the Villanova College website.
The Term 2 Training schedule for Weeks 1-8, Term 2 is below. This schedule will commence from Monday 15 April.

Term 2 Training Schedule – Weeks 1-8 (commences Monday 15 April)

Chess Training Schedule 2024

Villa Park pick-ups – Football and Rugby
Football and Rugby trials commenced at Villa Park from Week 9, Monday 18 March. Football on Mondays and Wednesdays, Rugby on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Transport for all players is organised ‘one-way’ from the College to Villa Park straight after school. Buses will depart Sixth Avenue promptly from 3:05pm. All buses will be supervised by a Villa staff member/coach.

Parents are reminded to please collect their son/s from Villa Park between 5:00-5:15pm. A staff member will be on site until all students are collected. The hope is that we do not need to ask our staff to remain past 5:15-5:30pm at the latest. We appreciate your consideration here.

Save the dates – Sporting Tours, Camps and Clinics

• St Augustine’s College Tour – Sydney – 17-19 June 2024.
• Rugby League Confraternity Carnival – Townsville – 22-29 June 2024.
• Xmas holidays 2024/2025 – Cricket Oblate Tour to Perth, Volleyball AVSC Tournament Gold Coast & Swim Camp at Tallebudgera.
• ** International Tour ** – Football & Rugby Tour to Japan – Easter 2025.
• ** International Tour ** – Basketball & Volleyball Tour to USA – Xmas holidays 2025/2026.

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

For those students preparing for Trimester 2 Sports – please see correct uniforms below;

Hire Jerseys – Term 1 AFL and Volleyball
In Term 1 hire jerseys for AFL and Volleyball were to be returned to the Uniform Shop by the end of Term 1.

Sport Contact List
If you are requiring information about a specific Sport, in the first instance, visit the website Locker Room page. If you need further clarification, please contact the relevant Coordinator below. For any training or game absences, please contact your Sport Coordinator.

Director of Sport – Shaun McLean, smclean@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC AFL Coordinator – Matt Conlan, mconlan@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cricket Coordinator – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Swimming Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cross-Country Coordinator – Brian Pascoe – bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Chess Coordinator – Kath Underhill, kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Football Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Golf Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Basketball Coordinator – TBC – contact the Director of Sport
AIC Rugby League Coordinator – Alex Russell, arussell@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Tennis Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Track & Field Coordinator – Anthony Kemp, akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Water Polo Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
Composite District Sport – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
Lytton District Sport – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au

Wet weather cancellations
If there is any reason to cancel training sessions or weekend games, this information will be posted to the Villa App in the Notices section. Please ensure you have downloaded the Villa App and updated your preferences and settings.

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

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

Mr Shaun McLean, Director of Sport 

Chess
Training Schedule for Term 2 below. These sessions commence from Monday 15 April.

Mrs Kath Underhill, Chess Coordinator

Cross Country
There were many Running Wildcats who kept busy over the Easter holiday working hard to maintain their fitness. Many thanks to staff members Jordan Roach, Jane Weule and Matt Smith for their time allowing Cross-Country training to continue on the holidays. The training was well attended and many completed ParkRun from many different destinations.

Good luck to the following athletes who will compete at the Composite District Trial in Cross-Country next Monday,

• Under 13 – Jacob Grimes, Lachlan Ison, Cooper Lane, and Harris McPherson.
• Under 15 – Nathan Hannah.
• Under 16 – Jack Fidge and Bailey Horvath.
• Open – Kyan Simpson

Good luck to all students challenging themselves at the district trials.

There were many runners completing ParkRun at assorted destinations including Kirra, Stones Corner, Minnippi, New Farm, Coolum, Golden Beach, and Alex Holmes recorded his run on Strava at the Wangaratta ParkRun.

A reminder that for Weeks 1 – 3 of Term 2 training is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings.

I look forward to the building on the positive start to the Cross-Country season from Term 1.

Lytton District Cross Country
The Lytton District Cross Country Trial will be held at Villanova Park on Tuesday 30 April. Selections will be finalised by Mrs Weule, Mr Roache and Mr Pascoe over the next week at training. Four students will be selected in each of the U10, U11 and U12 age groups. There is a trial run tomorrow morning and all boys who wish to be selected for Lytton, must attend to qualify.

Villanova will be running the canteen at the Cross Country trial and we will be looking for parents of the runners to assist with preparation and serving throughout the morning. A note will accompany the boys nominated regarding this request.

Mr Brian Pascoe, Cross-Country Coordinator

Football
Although it was holiday season, the Villanova Football program certainly didn’t stop over the break. It was great to see many students attend the clinics at Villa Park and continue to work on their skill development whilst having plenty of fun. Our A teams also played trials against Churchie last Saturday which gave all teams another opportunity to continue to work on their skills and be as prepared as possible before the season starts. A lot of work has gone into the entire Football program for this season, and it’s clear to me that the “overall program” is heading in a positive direction.

As we approach our final trial round this Saturday and draw closer to our round 1 matches, can I remind all parents to make sure that they always check for updates on the college website in “The Locker Room” area. The training schedule, weekly draws and team lists will be posted in that section across the season.

TSS Tournament
In the second week of the holidays, our “Firsts Football Squad” attended a tournament which was held at The Southport School. The tournament attracted over 20 different colleges from across Australia and the standard of the Football was very high. This was a great opportunity for all our players to not only keep working on combinations for the season ahead, but it also provided an opportunity for our coaches and players to build a strong camaraderie amongst the entire squad as we lead into round 1.

The first two days of the tournament resulted in losses against very strong opposition, but even amongst the losses there were a lot of positive signs that the team is heading in the right direction. This was evident on the last day of the tournament when Villanova won both of it final two matches to finish the tournament on a positive note. I must commend all players who attended the tour on their great attitude and behaviour across the entire week, and I’m positive that they all would have gained a lot of confidence from the week.

A big thank you goes to our Director of Sport Mr Shaun McLean, plus our 1^st XI Football coaches Mr Hudson Rogers and Mr Damien Rogers for their commitment and great coaching and leadership across the entire tournament.

If parents or students have any questions about Football, please contact the following people.

Years 5-8 Football Junior Football Coordinator – Mrs Maria Mascadri mmascadri@vnc.qld.edu.au

Years 9-Opens Football Football Coordinator – Mr Nathan Dufty ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au

Mr Nathan Dufty, Football Coordinator

Rugby
The fields looked fantastic at training on Tuesday afternoon and there was some excitement bubbling around the place that we will hopefully get a full season in, and everyone was ripping in knowing we are still in the trial phase of the season.

This weekend sees the Year 5-8 boys away to Iona College and we especially look forward to seeing the Year 5 boys run around in what will be their first game of rugby for Villanova. The year 9-Open teams will be Home to Iona at Villanova Park. Could I please ask that parents of

Year 9 to Open players, give a little bit of your time when you drop your boys off to assist in the Villa canteen. You will be able to shoot off and watch your boys play and it is helping raise money for the Sports Club, who work tirelessly to provide equipment for ALL sports at Villanova. It is also a great way to meet other families at Villa and helps build a great community.

A big thanks needs to go out to the coaches for their efforts in putting together teams in such a short timeframe and with so many disruptions. We still have another two training sessions and a trial game prior to Round 1 next week and it should also be pointed out that teams can change weekly because all the boys train together.  Injuries will become a factor in selections and most sides will play at the same venue each week. Please keep encouraging your sons if they believe they should be in a higher grade.  We have a great and experienced team of coaches, and they will move players around and promote players where it is warranted.  It is not just the playing ability that determines where a player ends up. His attitude at training and his commitment to the team that he has been chosen to represent, have a large bearing on the decisions that the selectors make.

Most of our teams will carry just enough players and possibly a reserve or two. It was evident last year that many boys would play their game and then leave straight after. In order to build relationships and show your support for your mates, we ask that all boys stay behind and sit on the bench for the following game. You may not get on the field, but you are there supporting the next team and giving the coaches options for replacements if boys get injured. It is also the perfect opportunity to show the coaches what you can do, if they want you to play in a higher grade.

Please remind your sons that it is important to leave their areas clean after their games and it is not the responsibility of the groundsmen or coaches at Villa Park to clean up after them. We want them to leave their area as they found it. Hopefully that is in excellent condition. There are plenty of bins around and they don’t have to walk far to use them.

Ballymore Cup
Over the holidays the U13 (Div 1), U15 (Div 2) andU18 (Div 2) participated in the Ballymore Cup, a tournament played by schools across Southeast Queensland at Albany Creek Sports Complex. Our boys competed in two matches on both the first and second day of the tournament and then a final or playoff match on Sunday. The coaches had the opportunity to play a lot of the boys and have a look at them in different positions and try different combinations as a way of fine-tuning the boys coming into the AIC competition. It was a worthwhile experience and gives our boys a great opportunity to get some game time in before we head into round 1 next week.

At the conclusion of the carnival the U18s finished 5^th, U15s finished 4^th and the U13s made it through to the cup final and finished runners up to Kings Christian College, going down in the final 21-7.

The boys would not have been able to play if it wasn’t for the dedication and commitment of the coaches who took time out from work last Friday and spent all Saturday and Sunday at the venue. Thanks to the following coaches for making the weekend a success;

U18- Terry Gaffney and Pat O’Halloran
U15- Nathan Spooner and Damien Lyons
U13- Anthony Piacere, Josh Stanbury and Anthony Caruso

Rugby training next week
Training will go ahead next Tuesday afternoon 23 April from 3.45pm to 5pm. There are parent teacher interviews online that afternoon with school concluding at 1pm. Information will be sent out to the community regarding students being able to stay at school until 3pm to catch our normal buses to Villa Park (if required).

There will be no training Thursday 25 April due to Anzac Day.

The following teams will have a second session on Friday morning 26 April, 6:30-7:45am at Easts Rugby Union, Halifax St Norman Park.
Students will be bused back to the College at the end of training; 1^st XV, 2^nd XV, 10A, 9A, 8A and 7A.

Mr Chris Everding, Rugby Coordinator

Strength & Conditioning
Refer to the Locker Room Overview page for the Term 2 Training Schedule, which includes the S&C schedule. Students attending LTAD (Long Term Athlete Development) sessions do not need to register prior to attending. Just turn up with your towel and water bottle.

Mr Marco Mastrorocco, Strength & Conditioning Coordinator

Speed & Agility Training – Years 5-8 students
Term 2 registrations are now available for students in Years 5-8. See details and flyer below. Note sessions will move to Friday mornings, from Weeks 2-9, commencing on Friday 26^th April and concluding on Friday 14 June.

Speed & Agility sessions teach technique, change of direction and speed work to excel in your chosen sport.

Term 2 information:

• Friday mornings, 7-8am on Whinstanes Oval
• Weeks 2-9, Friday 26 Apr to Friday 14 June
• Registrations and payments through Parent Lounge
• Cost is $154 per student per term
• Years 5, 6, 7 & 8 students only

See flyer attached for all other information.

Speed & Agility – Years 5,6,7,8 – Flyer

Student Achievements

Water Polo
A huge congratulations to Patrick D in Year 5 who recently attended the Queensland Water polo State Titles held in Brisbane after the Easter weekend. Patrick played with his club, the Mantas, in the U12 Team in the Maroon division and they finished undefeated and won GOLD! After a great performance, Patrick has also been named in the State Squad. Well done, Patrick!

Will P (Year 8) also won a silver medal, coming second in White division for U14. Great effort Will!

Queensland School Sport – Swimming
More success in the water for Villanova students comes as Ollie J (Year 11) and Tyler S (Year 9) have been selected in the Queensland School Sport Swimming team that will compete at the National event in July. Good luck gentleman!

And always remember, kids Sport is meant to be fun…

The Villanova College Music Department welcomes you all back for another great term of music making.  As we share upcoming events in our calendar with the broader community a little later in this article, it becomes apparent at the engagement our students have with College life in general.  Thank you to all students involved and their families that continue to support their music involvement!

QCMEC 2024
This Friday (19 April) and Saturday (20 April), our community will be hosting the Queensland Catholic Schools’ and Colleges’ Music Education Conference.  We have almost 80 music teachers from across Queensland Catholic schools attending this year’s event – this is a greater than doubling of last year’s attendance!  I am very grateful for the support of our music team and College Leadership for allowing us the opportunity to host this important event.  Villanova knows the value of community – it is amazing that we can embody our charism for a couple of days with our Queensland friends yet again.

Music Support Group
Our next Music Support Group meeting will be convened on Monday 22 April commencing at 6:30pm.  Please note the change of venue – we will be meeting in the Music Classroom on Level 1 of the Augustine Centre.  All parents are most welcome to attend.  We encourage you all to come along and learn a little more about what happens behind the scenes in music here at the College.

ANZAC Day and Liturgy
This coming week will be one of the busiest in our calendar for some time.  On Wednesday morning we have our Symphonic Band and choristers leading the College with our ANZAC Liturgy in Goold Hall.  This is always a wonderful occasion where our community may gather and reflect on the service of so many in the quest for peace.

On Thursday, members of the College Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and Symphonic Band will be participating in the Coorparoo ANZAC March.  The students are continuing their marching practice in preparation for this event.  Information regarding marshalling has been distributed home via email.  A reminder will come later this week.

Strings and Bands Workshop
On Tuesday 7 May, our Senior and Middle School String Orchestras, and Wind Ensemble will be participating in a combined workshop with Loreto College.  These workshops will be occurring after school with Strings working at Loreto College; Band working at Villanova College.  Information regarding both these opportunities will be distributed home via email shortly.

AHEP & SHEP Nominations
Open Conservatorium, Griffith University, have been recently seeking nominations for students to attend the Australian Honours Ensemble Program (to be convened in September/October holidays) and the Brisbane State Honours Ensemble Program (to be convened in Term 2).  The staff of the music department have made nominations for a number of students to both these events.  If you receive an email regarding either of these activities and require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us in the Music Office.

There are three other opportunities across the year that we will be nominating students for:  SHEP Middle School SE Queensland, SHEP Primary, and SHEP Queensland.  These events are age and ability based.  We will continue to seek to support our students participating in these events for the benefits it brings the individual, and the benefits they then bring to their colleagues in our program.

Congratulations to those nominated.  We look forward to sharing more of their story across the year’s events.

Key Dates Term 1 & 2
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary:

Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers
Our fantastic Music Support Group have organised an innovative fundraiser for Villanova College.  You may have heard the buzz about our Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers…  the MUST HAVE items for the beach/cricket/park/fishing/BBQ/etc.

Villanova Branded Camp Chairs – $35; Wildcat Coolers – $30
All items can be purchased via Trybooking through the following link:  https://www.trybooking.com/BMEML
Purchases can be collected from the Music Office and all profits will go to the Music Support Group.

Entertainment Publications Memberships
Entertainment memberships are one of the Music Support Groups main fund-raisers.  Just click on the link to purchase a membership and obtain ongoing special deals throughout the year.

Thank you all for your ongoing support of Music at Villanova College.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

QR Code Project at Villanova College

Over the past year, some immersive videos delving into the rich history of some of our buildings have been created. We are now thrilled to announce that plaques with QR Codes are officially installed, ready for students and visitors to explore!

A special thank you to Fr Pete for leading the project, along with a huge thanks to Belinda Grant, Graeme George, Caain Miller, Kate Garrone, Nicole Rouhliadeff, Stephen Rouhliadeff, Kath Underhill, Antonietta Neighbour, Myriam Paul and Kirstine Herbert, who were all part of the project committee.

Simply scan the QR codes around campus to embark on a journey through time, discovering the captivating stories and legacies behind every corner of our beloved campus. These videos serve as a fantastic resource, offering insights into the architectural marvels and the people who shaped them. So far, the selected buildings include:

• St. Thomas of Villanova
https://youtu.be/MjUaiANaQqI?si=x-1MDBPsTtw6xJPD
• St. Augustine Statue
https://youtu.be/vgbsGzEh8Zo?si=pRcAO3pTS1Chk5Az
• Mendel Hall
https://youtu.be/Rv2yHh9aYUA?si=hE_UKWR6XYDJRSji
• Langlands
https://youtu.be/r2UiV5NjkhM?si=9IDipc1f-DJnt183
• Tolle Lege Library
https://youtu.be/ChoOBqAMadY?si=N8sfBsffeSaXaNnD

In the coming months, we will continue to unveil more videos, ensuring that every building’s unique narrative is celebrated and preserved for generations to come.

Important Dates to Remember – Term 2

Secure your tickets here:

• Villanova College P&F Mothers’ Night
  Friday 10 May
  Mother’s Night 2024 (vnc.qld.edu.au)
• Sports Lunch
  Friday 17 May – Tickets now on sales!
  Sports Lunch 2024 | Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au)
• Veritas Veteran Lunch
  Sunday 19 May
  Veritas Veterans Lunch 2024 | Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au)
• Villanova Community Carnival
  Save the date: Saturday 20 July
  Villanova Community Carnival 2024 | Villanova College (vnc.qld.edu.au)

Join us for our Weekly Breakfast Café! 

Every Tuesday morning, our talented Year 11 Hospitality students take charge and run a delightful breakfast café from 7:30am to 9:30am. We have built a fantastic following of students and teachers, especially between 8:00am and 8:30am. However we would love to extend a warm invitation to parents to join us, particularly between 8:30am and 9:30am, to keep the boys busy and enjoy a delicious breakfast.

Check out below the wonderful menu our students have prepared!

Students With Disability Travel Rebate – Semester 1 2024

• Does your child have a verified disability that requires transport assistance to and from school?
• Has your school’s learning support teacher assessed your child’s travel capability rating as ‘semi-independent’ or more dependent?

Visit our website to see if you qualify for financial
assistance to help with the cost of transport and
apply at www.schooltransport.com.au by 31 May 2024.

 Late applications cannot be accepted after 31 May 2024.