Dear family and friends of OLSH College, 

At the end of this very full term, we can certainly attest to a journey that has taken us across many different experiences — from our core business of classroom learning to a myriad of co-curricular activities, the richness of the Hartzer and Nous Sommes program, and importantly, our opportunities to pray together and celebrate the gift of life that is ours. These experiences contribute so powerfully to what makes an OLSH education unique, and we extend our sincere and heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated staff who so generously enable these opportunities for our students.

At OLSH College there is a culture characterised by the readiness of our OLSH students to be involved in their own growth, their own life’s journey. With a passion to make a difference, to strive for their very best, to hold a sense of humour, and to accept the vulnerability of being human while rejoicing in the richness of life — this is so much a part of what we see and hear at OLSH each day. For this witness of our young women here at OLSH, we are truly blessed.

Over these next two weeks, may each of us take some time to rest, refresh and renew. For most of us, students and adults alike, we live in the midst of a constantly technologically connected world filled with expectation. Is it possible in this term break for us to make a deliberate choice to put the technology aside, even for a short while, and allow our souls the opportunity to breathe? To enable our hearts to be filled with experiences of beauty, wonder, awe, hope and peace? For now is time to let God’s love in! When we come to recognise God’s presence in our lives at every moment, we find a pathway to deep and abiding joy within – for as St Paul attests:

For I am certain of this: neither death nor life, no angel, no prince, nothing that exists,
nothing still to come, not any power, or height or depth, nor any created thing,
can ever come between us and the love of God made visible in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8: 38-39

To be on earth the Heart of Christ
Regnet Christus

Always united in our shared OLSH Spirit.

Anne O'Loughlin
Principal

Alpha Youth

Imagine a space where young people can have open and honest faith conversations without the pressure of having all the answers. Welcome to Alpha youth. This is a new lunchtime initiative here at OLSH that unpacks the real questions young people have. Join us on Thursday 23 July in M.1.11 for session 1. 

We will be providing snacks, but bring your lunch and come for a chat. Our first topic will be, "Is there more to life than this?" Alpha will run every two weeks after this first session. Keep an eye out on the screens around the school and on Ametur for more details. 

Find out more here.

This week's Gospel

Mt 10: 37-42
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew.
Anyone who does not accept his cross is not worthy of me. Anyone who welcomes you, welcomes me.

Jesus instructed the Twelve as follows: ‘Anyone who prefers father or mother to me is not worthy of me. Anyone who prefers son or daughter to me is not worthy of me. Anyone who does not take his cross and follow in my footsteps is not worthy of me. Anyone who finds his life will lose it; anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it.

‘Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me; and those who welcome me welcome the one who sent me.

‘Anyone who welcomes a prophet because he is a prophet will have a prophet’s reward; and anyone who welcomes a holy man because he is a holy man will have a holy man’s reward.

‘If anyone gives so much as a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple, then I tell you solemnly, he will most certainly not lose his reward.’

The Gospel of the Lord.

HOW SHOULD I LIVE AND ACT?

If Jesus were to meet you (and he does constantly!) and you were to ask him, ‘How should I act and live my life?’, the answer would come into today’s Gospel. It continues Jesus’ teaching concerned with disciples (us!) on mission. As our church deepens its practice of synodality, the instructions Jesus offers are meant for all: our focus is to be on Jesus. Our relationship with him guides every other relationship and commitment. In the Gospel, Jesus tells the Twelve, the symbolic leadership group of disciples who spearhead the Jesus missionary movement, ‘Anyone who prefers ….[fill in the blanks] … is not worthy of me.’ His words are not a rejection of one’s relationships or family ties but the preference in all relationships is to be guided by our abiding commitment and friendship with Jesus.

The second collection of sayings in today’s Gospel concerns hospitality. Those who welcome others, members of the Jesus household, and act in holiness or speak prophetically are also welcoming the presence of Jesus. This spirit of openness and receptivity continues into the last part of today’s Gospel. Offering a welcoming drink to ‘one of these little ones’—those regarded as social nobodies without prestige or status—and discerned, surprisingly, as disciples, as members of Jesus’ community of believers, will be eternally rewarded: ‘..they will most certainly not lose their reward.’

Today’s Gospel is not about earning rewards, though. It is about how to live, with a firm commitment to Jesus and welcoming all, especially the ‘little ones’ and identifying as disciples the most unlikely.

Gospel reading from The Jerusalem Bible, Copyright © 1966 Hodder & Stoughton Ltd. and Gospel Reflection, © St Pauls Publications 2025, are published with permission of St Paul's Publications. Strathfield NSW. All rights reserved.

Take pride in your accomplishments

With the conclusion of a busy and rewarding 10-week term, learning at OLSH has continued to flourish in both achievement and spirit. Our students and teachers should feel a great sense of pride in all that has been accomplished. 

Our senior students have completed their exams, demonstrating that assessment is not simply about outcomes, but about the growth and learning that occur along the way. As I continue to remind my Year 10 students, now is the time to establish strong study habits in preparation for end-of-year exams — developing mind maps, refining study notes, and making the most of collaborative group study sessions. 

A key highlight of the term was the VCE Learning and Pathways Expo, which provided our students with valuable insights into subject selection, future pathways and career opportunities. The level of engagement and curiosity shown was outstanding, and it was encouraging to see students thoughtfully considering their individual learning journeys ahead. 

The first round of the Nous Sommes program concludes today, and the standard of work has been outstanding. It has been particularly pleasing to see so many students fully engage with the Design Thinking process, producing creative, thoughtful and purposeful final products. 

Beyond the classroom, the spirit of our students has been on full display. A highlight of the term has been the enthusiasm and energy of the girls gathering at lunchtime to support the Socceroos fixture at lunch today. Their passion, unity and joy captured the strong sense of community that makes OLSH such a special place. 

Our Year 12 students will no doubt use the upcoming break to rest and recharge, but also to continue their preparation. With most Unit 4 courses concluding mid to late term3, exam revision will quickly become the focus. Over the holiday period, students are strongly encouraged to complete exam-style questions and consolidate their understanding. 

For all students, this break provides a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect on their progress, and set meaningful and achievable learning goals for Semester Two. We look ahead to Term 3 — a shorter term, but one that promises to be purposeful, focused and filled with momentum.

Mr Joshua Di Pietro
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching

OLSH students shine at BaySpeak

BaySpeak is a youth public speaking competition for secondary school students across the Bayside region of Victoria, proudly organised by the Rotary Clubs of Brighton, Brighton North, and Sandringham.

OLSH College was proudly represented by three talented students. In the Junior Division, Grace F (Year 8) and Abigail W (Year 8) delivered their chosen speeches with poise, clarity, and confidence. While they did not progress to the final round, both students embraced the challenge and gained valuable experience. Their efforts were warmly acknowledged by the audience, whose enthusiastic applause reflected the quality of their presentations.

In the Senior Division, Isabelle A (Year 11) impressed both judges and audience members with her engaging and persuasive speech. Demonstrating a sophisticated use of persuasive language, strong non-verbal communication skills, and genuine passion for her topic, Isabelle showcased exceptional public speaking talent. Her outstanding performance earned her a place in the BaySpeak Grand Final, where she was awarded Runner-Up in the Senior Division.

BaySpeak provides students with a valuable opportunity to develop and showcase their public speaking abilities before a live audience. The experience helps participants build confidence, strengthen their communication skills, and develop qualities that will benefit them throughout their personal, academic, and professional lives.

Congratulations to Grace, Abigail, and Isabelle on their achievements and for representing OLSH College with such professionalism and enthusiasm.

Growing Hearts. Inspiring Minds. Transforming Futures. 

Our Enhancement and Enrichment Program provides students with opportunities to extend their learning, discover new passions, and challenge themselves beyond the classroom. Throughout 2026, students have embraced a wide range of academic, creative, leadership, and co-curricular experiences designed to foster curiosity, confidence, and excellence. 

From competitions and academic challenges to leadership initiatives, community engagement, and specialist programs, our students have demonstrated a commitment to personal growth and lifelong learning. 

These opportunities encourage students to: 

• Explore their strengths and interests
• Develop critical and creative thinking skills
• Collaborate with like-minded peers
• Build resilience, confidence, and leadership capacity
• Engage with real-world challenges and global perspectives 

Whether participating in activities such as Model United Nations, Ethics Olympiad, Da Vinci Decathlon, our students continue to exemplify the OLSH values of courage, compassion, and excellence. We are proud of every student who has stepped outside their comfort zone to embrace new opportunities and challenge themselves to achieve their personal best.

Model United Nations (MUN) – Building Tomorrow’s Global Leaders

Model United Nations (MUN) gives students the opportunity to step into the shoes of diplomats, working together to tackle real-world issues such as climate change, human rights, global health, peace and security. This year we have had teams represent Tunisia, Brazil, Chad and South Korea.

Through MUN, students develop public speaking and debating skills, learn negotiation, collaboration, and diplomacy, Gain a deeper understanding of global issues and cultures, build critical thinking and problem-solving abilities and Increase confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills

Students are assigned a country to represent and must research its policies and perspectives before participating in formal debates, negotiations, and resolutions—just like delegates at the real United Nations.

Thankyou to the 16 students who have participated this semester at Brighton Grammar and McKinnon Secondary College. Our third and final Model UN will take place in Term 3.

Da Vinci Decathlon

The Da Vinci Decathlon is one of Australia's leading academic competitions, designed to challenge and inspire high-achieving students through teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving. Students compete in teams of eight across ten disciplines including Engineering, Maths, Code Breaking, Science, English and Cartography.

The competition places a strong emphasis on higher-order thinking skills, critical analysis, creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Students must work together to solve complex challenges, often under strict time limits

OLSH had two teams participating in the 2026 competition and we congratulate Emilia, Starlise Sunday, Anjanique, Abigail, Ellie, Miiko, Amelie, Charlotte, Asha, Kara, Samantha, Javina, Holly, Rachel and Ivy.

We further congratulate the year 10 team for being awarded second place in the Engineering section of the competition.

Ethics Olympiad – Senior Competition 2026

The Senior Ethics Olympiad is an international academic competition for students in Years 10 to 12 in Australia. Unlike traditional debating, the Ethics Olympiad focuses on collaborative reasoning, respectful discussion, and critical thinking rather than winning an argument.

During the competition, teams discuss ethical case studies covering contemporary issues such as technology, justice, relationships, human rights, and social responsibility. Students are assessed on their ability to think critically and ethically, present clear and reasoned arguments, listen respectfully to others, respond thoughtfully to questions, and demonstrate collaborative problem-solving and intellectual openness

We congratulate the two OLSH teams that have participated in this program in 2026 - Matilda, Ruby, Imogen, Isabelle, Alisha, Mia, Hannah, Annaliese, Zimeng and Zara. Congratulations to Team Purple who finished in 10^th place and Team White who received an honourable mention.

ROME: Empire, Power, People

Our Year 7 Humanities students attended the Melbourne Museum for their History unit on Ancient Rome.

Across the day they visited three exhibitions to support their Humanities education: the Forest Walk, the Melbourne Story, and Our Wondrous Planet, viewing art and artefacts telling the story of our natural landscape, our city and our world more broadly.

They were fortunate to see the temporary exhibition ROME: Empire, Power, People, featuring artefacts from Ancient Roman times including original statues, mosaics, frescoes, jewellery and other everyday objects.

"It was a fun and interesting way to learn about Ancient Rome and it was also really good because we got to see a lot of the city of Melbourne." - Evelyn

"It was a fun and interesting experience. We got to see lots about Ancient Rome and learn cool facts." - Eve

"The Roman baths were very calming and relaxing and the pictures and artefacts were very interesting." - Alana

"Going on the train was really fun. It was fun to learn how to go on trains with our teachers and and friends, and walk around the city and see all the cool art." - Chelsea

As we reflect on the term and semester, we celebrate the many ways our students have continued to grow as learners and young people. A strong sense of wellbeing remains at the heart of this growth, as we know that students thrive when they feel connected, supported and empowered within their school community. Our “Every Lesson, Every Day” approach will continue to guide this growth. Developing positive organisational and learning routines continues to be an important focus, as these habits support both academic progress and overall wellbeing. Encouraging students to establish consistent study patterns, manage their commitments effectively, seek support when needed and prioritise healthy relationships helps build confidence, independence and resilience.

We recognise that wellbeing and learning are deeply interconnected and that fostering a sense of belonging, positive relationships and balanced participation in school life is essential to every student’s success. We encourage students to continue taking ownership of their learning journey, embracing challenges with confidence, resilience and a willingness to take positive risks by engaging in the many opportunities available to them, both within the classroom and through the rich co-curricular experiences offered at the College. We thank our families for their ongoing partnership in supporting each student to flourish academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually, enabling them to thrive and reach their full potential.

Thinking Traps – Toolbox Education

‘Thinking Traps’ tools identify the cognitive distortions that fire under pressure. Catastrophising, all-or-nothing thinking, mind reading are some examples. The tools presented by Toolbox Education equip students with a process to challenge and reframe unhelpful thinking in real time.

The Thinking Traps workshop highlighted how to recognise unhelpful thinking styles, where they show up, and how we can challenge these types of thoughts in our learning and our wellbeing.

This week all students in Pastoral Care workshopped the strategies presented to them by Toolbox Education. This included:

• Identify common thinking traps (Mind Reading, Ignoring the Good, Fortune Telling, Blowing Things Up, Setting the Bar Too High)
• Recognise when unhelpful thoughts show up in everyday situations
• Use simple strategies to challenge and reframe unhelpful thinking
• Develop more balanced and helpful responses to difficult situations

Brainstorm Productions – ‘Verbal Combat’

Over the past few weeks our Year 7 and 8 students have been engaged in workshops following an educational theatre performance that provided strategies for resilience, bullying prevention and help-seeking.

In a world where algorithms, AI and online influencers shape what we see and believe, ‘Verbal Combat’ brought to life scenarios for students that highlighted fact from fiction, how best to navigate friendships, (cyber)bullying, mental health and the ever-changing challenges of the online world.

Students were able to workshop the following themes:

• Describe the benefits and risks of social groups, both online and offline
• Describe some of the ways that group dynamics can contribute to bullying and abuse, both online and offline
• Explore why some bystanders choose not to intervene in bullying situations
• Describe ways that bystanders can safely and appropriately speak up and take a stand against bullying, both online and offline
• Provide examples of support options for people who are being bullied, as well as support options for bystanders and the people responsible for bullying

SchoolTV

As we come to the end of one semester and start a new one, continuing to develop students’ confidence and motivation is critical. SchoolTV has a great module on Confidence and Motivation that you can view here. 

"Confidence and motivation are two critical ingredients for young people's success. Supporting your child to help nurture these qualities allows them to believe in their abilities and navigate life's challenges with resilience and a positive outlook." - Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

Ms Antonella La Greca
Acting Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Hartzer Group 1 return

As we conclude our fourth week at Hartzer and return to Melbourne, we reflect on all we have done, the growth we’ve experienced, the memories we’ve made, and the friendships formed. Hartzer is a unique experience: the beautiful setting of Hartzer Park nourishes the soul, while the Hartzer program fosters personal growth and maturity.

Over the four weeks, the girls gave back to the community by assisting with Meals on Wheels and visiting Harbison Nursing Home to spend time with residents. These intergenerational programs bring light to the residents and move us deeply as individuals. Our OLSH Pilgrimage connected us with the story of the first OLSH Sisters in Australia: we visited St Bernards, the first OLSH school in Australia, prayed at the shrine of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, and shared afternoon tea with the Sisters. These experiences helped us recognise our place within the wider OLSH story beyond Bentleigh. Visits to Sydney, hikes up Mount Gibraltar, the Bondi to Coogee walk, a minute of silence at the Bondi Memorial, and the laying of flowers were all deeply moving for everyone.

Whether gathered around the fire pit to reflect, relax and give thanks, taking HARTime (Healthy Awareness Re-set Time) each day to reset, using MySpace to reflect on our Hartzer journey, or participating in Reflection Day, each of these moments allowed us to slow down and see how much we have developed and changed.

Thank you to Hartzer Group 1 for your unique spirit and for embracing the specialness of the Hartzer program and for all the staff who came away from their own families to provide this unique experience to our girls.

Issoudun...where the heart is captured.
A journey of transformation. A time of inspiration, challenge, vision, courage, risk, for others and with others.

Nous Sommes program

The Nous Sommes students have enjoyed a busy and rewarding few weeks, embracing a range of learning experiences and opportunities to explore their interests. Activities included a challenging hike from Churchill Park to Lysterfield Lake, a Performing Arts Day and a Technology Day, each encouraging students to develop new skills and discover their strengths.

The program culminated in the Heart Project Expo, where students proudly showcased projects based on topics that are close to their hearts. From sport, dance and craft to mental health and social issues, the expo highlighted the passion, creativity and individuality of each student. It was wonderful to see students sharing their learning with the wider College community and celebrating the subjects that matter most to them.

Our next Open Morning will be held on Tuesday 21 July, from 9.15am. This is a great opportunity to tour the College, hear from Principal Anne O'Loughlin and meet our Student Ambassadors. If you have a daughter in Grades 4 to 6, we'd love to see you at Open Morning on Tuesday 21 July.

Register the Open Mornings and Tours page. 

Try a Sunshine Challenge

Term 2 has been filled with so much hard work and growth. As we close this chapter, may we look back with joy and fulfilment of our efforts and look forward with purpose. Be proud of how far you have come!

For our class of 2026, it has been a busy final week of term, with wrapping up our Unit 3 studies and completing the GAT (general achievement test) alongside Year 11 students completing an accelerated subject. Although SACs can be a stressful time for students, we are reminded of our privilege to have such a great educational experience and all the learning opportunities our wonderful teachers provide us. The last two weeks of term we have transitioned into Semester 2, which is the beginning of the last unit for the class of 2026, the change has been smooth and exciting as its an opportunity to start new learning techniques and explore new content. We also congratulate both Year 10s and 11s in the completion of their mid semester exams.

This term, the first Issoudun group travelled to Hartzer. We hope they had an amazing experience, filled with lots of memories and opportunities to grow! We wish the best to Group 2, who will start their journey at the beginning of next term. Make sure you cherish every moment and make the most of this wonderful time with your friends and year level!

Later in next term, the exciting introduction of next year's leadership will begin. We have so much hope for the next leadership team and cannot wait to see the amazing students who fill these roles. As the student executive team, we have loved learning new skills, working together and supporting our school community, and we are so grateful we were encouraged by our peers to fill these roles. Leadership is not just the title you hold but the work you put in to support and encourage those in our community. Every student at OLSH has amazing capabilities to be a leader so we hope people step out of their comfort zones and put themselves out there.

Over the holidays, we encourage everyone to try a Sunshine Challenge. Each day, do one small thing to brighten someone's day. It could be sending a kind message, helping a family member, checking in on a friend, or simply sharing a smile. When we return in Term 3, we can't wait to hear about the little moments when you chose to brighten someone's day.

It has been an amazing term for our school, coming together and supporting one another through Feast Day, Athletics Carnival, and even just passing one another in the hallways. Each student has shown so much enthusiasm, and the excitement doesn't stop here. We have so much to look forward to in Term 3, with new initiatives waiting just around the corner.

Take the holidays as a chance to reflect, refresh, and recharge. We can’t wait to see everyone next term, and remember to shine like the sun and walk with someone.

A busy concert season

The final few weeks of the term has seen many opportunities for students to perform on stage, showcasing their vocal and instrumental talent. The Junior Music Concert was a wonderful showcase of the growth and talent of our junior musicians throughout Semester 1. From first-time soloists to ensemble performances, students entertained the audience with a vibrant mix of genres and a great demonstration of their commitment to learning. 

The Senior Music Concert featured a varied and engaging program, showcasing the skills of our vocalists, ensembles and our auditioned choir Chante across a range of musical styles.

Congratulations to all performers for sharing their passion and musicianship with such confidence, and thank you to our music staff for their guidance and support.

Our two MCs for the concerts, Esther and Sam, provided their reflection of the events. 

"The Winter concert was a wonderful evening showcasing both new and experienced musicians and vocalists. We had a range of musical ensembles, including the college’s Year 7 concert band, Jazz Band, Junior choir, and Percussion ensemble as well as many incredible solo, duet and trio performances. Entertaining the audience with fan favourites and classics for all ages, the performers, teachers and stage crew worked together seamlessly to make this evening such a memorable one!" - Esther T

"The Semester 1 Winter Concert was certainly a highlight of the term! It was amazing to see my peers shine on stage and showcase the incredible range of musical talents within our school community. I also loved having the opportunity to perform a solo piece that I had been working on during my singing lessons. It was such a rewarding experience to see all of the hard work and practice come together in front of an audience. Celebrating everyone's achievements and diverse musical talents was the perfect way to wrap up the semester, and it made for a really memorable evening." - Sam M