Catholic Education Week is an opportunity for all Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Melbourne to celebrate their Catholic identity, the pivotal role they play within their local community and the strength of the sector. This year’s theme draws from the motto of the Holy Year, the Year of Jubilee, and the Australian Catholic Youth Festival’s theme – ‘Pilgrims of Hope.’
‘Arise, shine: for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you’ (is 60:1)
Last week we acknowledged Harmony Week. It is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds. It is about inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone. Harmony Week is a community celebration. Since 1999, more than 80,000 Harmony Week events have been held in childcare centres, schools, community groups, churches, businesses, and federal, state, and local government agencies across Australia.
Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world and we should celebrate this and work to maintain it. Our cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and is at the heart of who we are. An integrated multicultural Australia is an integral part of our nation's history and character.
Orange has been the Harmony Week colour since the first event was held in 1999. Traditionally the colour orange relates to social communication, stimulating two-way conversations. It aids in the development of new ideas and frees the spirit of its limitations, giving us the freedom to be ourselves. At the same time, it encourages self-respect and respect of others.
Parade’s Harmony Day took take place on Friday 21 March, and the College ran a number of activities/events for staff and students to celebrate the occasion and raise awareness.
Last Monday we welcomed our friends from Takada High School to Parade College. It was a lovely occasion to introduce the staff and students from Takada to our wonderful College community. The students have been attending classes and have also visited some beautiful places around Melbourne and have had the opportunity to experience our culture. A sincere thank you to our families who are hosting our visiting students and our staff who are hosting Takada school staff.
The Parade College School Advisory Council meets on a monthly basis and provides invaluable advice and support to the College Principal on a range of matters relating to school life and the education of our students. Members of the council have varied skills and provide advice across some of the following areas: education, strategic planning, marketing, governance, risk, community development, legal and finance.
If you believe you could actively contribute to the College’s School Advisory Council, and are interested in finding out more information, please send an email to info@parade.vic.edu.au with your details and I will be in contact to further discuss this opportunity.
As we approach the end of term next Friday, on behalf of the staff at the College, we wish you all a lovely break over the Easter period.
We look forward to then welcoming our students back for day 1 of Term 2 on Tuesday 22 April.
This year marks a special occasion in the Catholic Church—the Jubilee Year, a time of renewal and celebration. The theme for this Holy Year, 'Pilgrims of Hope', calls all Catholics to deepen their faith, embrace compassion, and journey together in unity. Celebrated every 25 years, it is a time when the Church invites the faithful to seek spiritual renewal and actively engage in works of justice and service.
Pope Francis has emphasized the Jubilee as a moment to rediscover the power of hope in a world facing many challenges. Central to this celebration is the practice of pilgrimage—both physical and spiritual. Many will travel to Rome to pass through the Holy Doors of major basilicas, a symbolic act of entering deeper into God’s grace. Yet, we are all called to embark on an inner pilgrimage, growing in faith and extending kindness to those in need.
As a Catholic school community, this Jubilee Year presents a unique opportunity to live out our values of faith, learning, and service. Throughout the year, we will be engaging in reflections, prayer services, and acts of service that embody the spirit of hope and renewal. Students will be encouraged to take part in activities that deepen their understanding of mercy and justice, fostering a stronger sense of connection with our wider Church community. Let us walk together as Pilgrims of Hope.
Our school's fundraising efforts this year will be dedicated to supporting The Good Samaritan Inn. The Good Samaritan Inn provides safe, emergency accommodation and support for women, children, and gender-diverse people escaping family violence or homelessness. Their mission is deeply connected to our own mission of offering hospitality, dignity, and hope to those in need. We know there is lots of evidence that highlights the disproportionate impact Family Violence has on women, children, and gender-diverse people, making the work of The Good Samaritan Inn even more critical. When we invest in supporting gender equality, we can contribute to breaking the cycles of violence and injustice, offering individuals a chance to rebuild their lives with dignity and empowerment.
Given the Good Samaritan Inn’s empowerment model, the focus of our campaign is ‘Embrace EmPOWERment,’ focusing on supporting individuals seeking refuge by contributing to the cost of essential utilities such as electricity, water, and gas. By helping to cover these basic expenses, we aim to alleviate financial stress and provide a stable living environment for those in need.
On Friday 21 March, some of our Year 12 Prefects attended mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral in celebration of Catholic Education Week. This annual event is held to promote the unique mission of Catholic schools and to highlight the great things that take place in Catholic schools every day. Following the Mass, MACS hosted a Young Speakers Colloquium where they heard from young panellists from schools across the archdiocese. Students concluded the day exploring the inspiring creative endeavours of students from Catholic schools across Melbourne at the Annual Creative Arts Exhibition.
Catholic Education Week is a time of reflection, celebration, and gratitude as we acknowledge the vital role of Catholic education in shaping young minds and hearts. This year’s theme, "Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you" (Is 60:1), draws inspiration from the motto of the Holy Year, the Year of Jubilee, and the Australian Catholic Youth Festival’s theme – 'Pilgrims of Hope'. It invites us to embrace our faith with joy, courage, and a renewed sense of mission. We look forward to sharing this meaningful week with our school community and celebrating the unique and transformative power of Catholic education!
Recently Parade teaching staff participated in our annual Teaching and Learning Professional Learning Day, focused on upskilling our teaching staff on aspects of the College’s Instructional Model based on Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) Vision for Instruction. This approach involves teachers breaking down complex skills into manageable steps, providing clear explanations and demonstrations before guiding students through practice opportunities with feedback. Research in cognitive science supports this method, showing that students learn more effectively when instruction is structured to avoid cognitive overload. At Parade, teachers are implementing a gradual release model, beginning with teacher guided instruction and progressively shifting responsibility to students as their foundational knowledge strengthens. Families can support this approach at home by encouraging practice, creating structured learning environments, reading together, promoting critical thinking through discussion, and modelling a positive attitude toward learning.
Mid-semester reports will be released on the afternoon of 26 March on PAM. The report provides valuable insights into your child's learning behaviours in the classroom. Rather than focusing solely on academic achievement, this report highlights the habits and attitudes that contribute to successful learning. Teachers evaluate four key areas of learning behaviour:
Semester 1 Student Progress Interviews – Year 7 to 12
There will be two opportunities for Student Progress Interviews in Semester 1 on the following dates:
Further information on how bookings can be made on PAM were emailed to families on 14 March.
Study Support Sessions for students who have not completed set homework have been occurring throughout this term. There has been a positive uptake of staff referring students to these lunchtime sessions to complete outstanding work. Similarly, students have indicated the merit of these sessions in offering the opportunity to complete their assigned work. Parents receive an email notification when their child is allocated a session. If a student does not attend their assigned session, it will be rescheduled. After two missed sessions, an academic after school detention will be issued. We appreciate parent’s support in encouraging their children to complete homework assignments on time. Together, we can help students develop stronger study habits and greater ownership of their own responsibilities.
Families should be aware that students in Years 7- 9 are not given set work during the upcoming school holidays. However, students in Years 10 - 12 must continue their home studies. For all students, regular revision including the reading of set novels and revision of work during the holiday period is strongly encouraged.
On 14 March, the Academic Committee hosted an International Pi Day Recitation Challenge to support our College charity, Good Samaritan Inn. Students tested their memory skills by reciting as many digits of π as possible. Year 12 student, Lachlan Elia H06, claimed victory with an impressive 122 decimal places!
March has been a fantastic month at the Preston Campus, filled with achievements, hands-on learning experiences, and meaningful community service. Here is a snapshot of the incredible things happening on campus!
Rugby training has started over the last few weeks, a fun way to get involved in sport and keep busy during lunch time. Students are encouraged to chat to Mr Hazzaz if interested in being involved or attending lunchtime sessions.
The Eddie Rice Café is open Wednesday and Thursday mornings before school and during recess thanks to the work of various VCE VM students.
We are proud to celebrate the success of Year 11 student, Cooper Wood, who has been excelling in his VET studies, showcasing dedication and hard work in his vocational education training, and has been awarded a bronze medal from World Skills Australia for Bricklaying.
Isabella Hawkins, a Year 11 VCE VM student, was named in the Northern Knights U18 squad, where she will be training intensely and working incredibly hard to build on her football craft.
A huge congratulations to one of our VCE VM Year 12 students, Tyson Gresham, who has been named Captain of the Northern Knights. Tyson’s leadership and commitment to excellence in sports are truly inspiring. Tyson is a positive role model amongst peers in the VCE VM program and we are very proud of his achievements, both as a footballer and a student at Preston.
Our Sport and Business Academy students had the incredible opportunity to experience an F1 visit, gaining firsthand insight into the world of motorsports, business, and elite performance, connecting their understanding of real-life events to business and sport. It was an unforgettable learning experience and very tiring!
The Sport Academy went along with Mr Watson to support the Darebin/ Nillumbik Division Swimming carnival, marshalling, timekeeping and awarding ribbons and encouraging the Primary students who represented their schools.
Year 12 students put their teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test in The Amazing Race in Melbourne. This exciting Year 12 challenge encouraged collaboration, teamwork, and strategic thinking, making learning both engaging and fun. Students were also commended on their excellent behaviour around town.
Our Indigenous students from Parade College were invited to join other schools from across Melbourne to participate in day with Melbourne Storm at AAMI Park. The day began with an Acknowledgement of Country and Smoking Ceremony. Students participated in cultural and connection workshops with the highlight of the day watching the Melbourne Storm training session before their big game against the Panthers.
Students were treated to a question-and-answer session with several Storm players who spoke about their journey from childhood to where they are now. The common message that all the students received was, 'you have to earn what you want to achieve in life, no-one is going to give it to you’. Storm players spoke of the importance in attending school and that education was paramount for every one of them. Our students will have the opportunity in Year 12 to join the Melbourne Storm School to Work Program.
In Numeracy, students have explored the concept of floorplans, applying mathematical skills to design and structure layouts in real-world scenarios. Meanwhile, in Literacy, students embraced creativity and practical skills by planning holidays, developing their research, budgeting, and itinerary-planning expertise.
In Year 11 Personal Development Skills, students have looked at the different elements of emotional intelligence and in Work Related Skills, many great discussions have been had around job statistics over the last few years and discovered current job trends and data.
Our ERPP STEM excursions provided hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, inspiring students to explore innovation and problem-solving in dynamic ways. Students will soon be able to have access to VR headsets, provided through our incredible connection with the Banyule Nillumbik Local Learning Network.
The Work Learning Program, running from 24 March to 4 April, offers students invaluable real-world experiences in various industries, helping them build essential career skills. Teachers will contact employers during this time, supporting students and ensuring that they are making the most out of their time during the Work Learning Program. Students who did not organise a placement are required at Preston Campus to complete a workbook.
In the spirit of giving back, our Business Academy students, along with teachers at the campus, have created packs to provide to the Good Samaritan Inn. We are grateful to all students and staff who contributed to making a difference in the lives of those in need.
As we approach Term 2, students and parents are encouraged to keep an eye out for information nights, notices, and emails about the VCE VM program, Sport and Business Academy to ensure that we work together to find the right pathway for our students.
Please also keep an eye out on bookings that will open very soon for Student Progress Interviews which will be held at the Bundoora Campus as well as next term online. Please refer to information sent via PAM.
The Nano Nagle Tutoring program commenced on Thursday 13 March. It has been wonderful to see so many students in attendance. This program sees high-achieving Old Paradian students from the Class of 2024 tutoring our current VCE students. The program is open to all VCE students and will run on most Tuesdays and Thursdays in Terms 1 to 3, from 3:30pm to 4:25pm in the VCE Study Centre (MQ28). A full list of dates will be published in the VCE Study Centre. Students who attend are welcome to receive help or simply study in the area. This is a great opportunity for VCE students to get extra assistance in meeting the demands of the final years of their schooling.
Students have begun to enquire about the GAT. The GAT is scheduled for Tuesday 17 June, and will be held in the Greening Auditorium. All Year 12 VCE and VCE VM students complete the GAT, as well as Year 11 students accelerating in a Unit 3-4 subject. Students can get a sense of the types of questions included in the GAT via the VCAA website.
Students who are absent for a SAC are reminded to obtain a medical certificate, to present to their teacher upon their return. Generally, missed SACs are rescheduled to Thursday afternoons and can go as late as 5:15pm, so students should avoid scheduling part-time work or other commitments on this day.
ExCEL is an experiential program designed to foster passion, skills, and independence in our students. This innovative approach empowers students to become self-directed learners while exploring diverse curriculum areas and educational pathways.
Our first eight-week Extended Learning Project (ELP1) has launched successfully this term, with many students confidently travelling independently between campuses and into the community. Students have participated in numerous engaging activities, including tracking data using golf simulators, researching small businesses in Melbourne's CBD, reviewing the architecture of Melbourne's bridges, and working as a team to problem solve out of an escape room.
Students have received their ExCEL room and subject allocations via email. Please note that ELP blocks and L4L classes will operate at both Bundoora and Preston campuses. Classes in 'R' and 'K' classrooms (e.g., R14) will take place at Preston. Students attending classes at their non-home campus must arrive by 8:40am and remain until 3:15pm. At Preston, ExCEL teachers will handle tutor group attendance. Students whose classes are at their home campus should attend their regular morning tutor group.
Independent travel is a core requirement of the ExCEL program. Last year's orientation program covered efficiently using public transport between campuses, safe travel practices, excursion protocols, and strategies for punctual arrival at both locations.
Please note that Extended Learning Project 2 (ELP2) will commence on 2 April. This will be reflected on your child's timetable on the Monday morning prior to the start date. Until then, please refer to the email your child received for their room and campus location information.
For any questions regarding the ExCEL program, please contact me directly.
In this ExCEL subject, we have learnt a lot about creating a business as well as how to maintain it. There has been a lot of important information we can take away from this subject which I and many others believe are useful. So far in ExCEL we have had two excursions. These two excursions were to Preston Market and the City. On our first excursion which was at Preston Market, we began with a detailed explanation of the day. We received a worksheet, and we observed as well as filled out the questions about businesses which expanded our knowledge as we were able to experience first-hand how an actual business would work. Our second excursion was going to the city where we met at the State Library. As a class, we all moved over to Melbourne Central, and we again observed businesses and filled out our worksheets. We got an even better experience at Melbourne Central as it was packed, and we were able to observe a lot more types of businesses.
This ExCEL subject so far has been amazing with interesting and fun excursions, great classes and gaining a lot of valuable skills. I can speak for most people in the class, in saying that the class is really engaging, and our teacher has made it enjoyable. When I first chose this subject, I did not think it would be that interesting, yet now I really recommend it for future students.
Xavier De Sousa Year 9 L19
Our excursion to Ace Karts was an exciting and fun experience. We had to adapt to the track, improve our turns, and learn from our mistakes. Each race made us better, and the competition between us grew stronger as we all pushed to set the fastest lap. Between races, we shared tips, analysed the track, and developed new strategies to improve our times. Working together while still competing made the day even more exciting, and by the end, we could all see how much we had improved. My time dropped by a full eight seconds over the day, reflecting my jump in confidence and skill improvement.
Erik Bosco Year 9 L14
I really enjoyed going go karting, as it was a new experience for me. The best part was definitely the competitiveness of trying to get the best lap time out of everyone. It was a fun day out and I would definitely do it again.
Isaac Roguska Year 9 T11
NAPLAN
Thank you to all our students and families for their support during the NAPLAN testing period. In total, over 2600 separate tests were completed at the College during this time. Results will be mailed to families in Term 3.
Year 8 Elevate Education - Study Skills Incursion
On Tuesday 1 April during Period 1, Year 8 students will attend a workshop facilitated by Elevate Education. The workshop will cover topics including dynamic reading, note taking, conceptual learning skills, and self-directed learning.
Homework Club
Homework Club runs on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons in the NLC from 3:15pm to 4:30pm. With many learning support officers in attendance each week, Homework Club is an excellent opportunity for students to receive extra help with their studies. We encourage all students and their families to consider this offer of extra support, particularly students in Years 7 to 9.
In today's hyper-connected world, young people are constantly exposed to carefully curated snapshots of other people's lives - from picture-perfect holidays and academic achievements, to the latest fashion trends and fitness goals. This relentless stream of comparisons, often amplified through social media, creates what is known as comparison culture.
Comparison culture fosters a mindset where individuals constantly evaluate their own worth by measuring themselves against others. This leaves many young people feeling as though they are falling short. For children and adolescents who are still developing their sense of identity, this environment can be especially harmful - contributing to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and anxiety.
It is important to understand how comparison culture shapes the way children see themselves and their place in the world. When young people constantly compare their appearance, achievements, or social lives to their peers or online influencers, they can develop unrealistic expectations and a distorted sense of self-worth. This can lead to low self-esteem, perfectionism, and a constant need for external validation.
However, through open conversations, positive role modelling, and proactive support, families can empower young people to build the resilience and confidence needed to navigate today's comparison-driven world. Encouraging an environment that values individuality, personal effort, and growth - rather than constant comparison or external validation - helps foster a stronger sense of self that allows young people to embrace their unique strengths and identity.
For further information and video clip explaining more about this topic, please click here.
A reminder to families, our canteens will not accept mobile phone bank card payments. Please ensure your child either has cash or a plastic bank card to purchase items at the school canteen.
Our students have been engaging in 'Wellbeing Wednesday' Tutor period check-ins. Please view the link here for information regarding our student experience. Our Wellbeing Support Services, Tutor Teachers and House Leaders continue to support our students, reaching out for conversations, clarifications and general wellbeing support. Please discuss with your child about using the Wellbeing check in tool each Wednesday morning in their Tutor Group.
On Monday 24 March, Year 10 students Aarav Thakur N03 and Nicholas Cicero L02, attended the EREA Victoria Strategy Consultation Workshop for Young Leaders. The day aimed to engage young leaders in shaping the future of education within Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA). Grounded in the EREA Charter and Touchstones, students were offered the opportunity to explore how student voice and agency can be strengthened by developing three key areas:
The workshop was full of opportunities to network with other young people from a diverse range of EREA schools. Students were afforded the opportunity to discuss and workshop how schools can be genuine, inclusive, accessible, and action driven places. Activities prioritised co-leadership, reflection, deep listening, and interactive decision-making. We are grateful for Aarav and Nicholas’ time in helping to shape the ongoing development of EREA schools for all young people.
To complement the recent RYDA Year 11 student workshop, we are pleased to offer parents and guardians the opportunity to participate in the Drive Coach workshop. This practical session provides insights into the latest research and road safety approaches, equipping parents with valuable strategies to support their young drivers. Attendees will also have the chance to ask questions and receive expert advice.
The Drive Coach workshop will take place on Tuesday 1 April at 6:00pm in the Chapel at our Bundoora Campus, coinciding with our Semester 1 Student Progress Interviews.
To assist with planning, we kindly ask parents and guardians to complete a short Expression of Interest by clicking on the link provided. We encourage all families to take advantage of this valuable opportunity to support their young drivers on the journey to becoming safe and responsible road users.
Communication will be sent to all families and student emails in the first week of the school holidays to assist with your winter uniform preparation and general appearance expectations. This will include a letter outlining the required Winter Uniform items and the Uniform Policy. Hopefully, this assists in the preparation of uniform items for your child for the commencement of Term 2.
The College Blazer, tie, and winter long sleeved shirts are all essential items as part of our College Academic Winter Uniform and students must wear these to and from school when they are wearing their academic uniform. The Student Wellbeing Team will be out and about at the buses to greet our students each morning.
Given the cooler weather in Term 2 and Term 3, please ensure your child has the additional warmer College garments. These items can be purchased through Academy Uniforms in Thomastown, or at the Bundoora Campus Uniform Shop.
The College’s Bundoora Campus Uniform Shop is open each Tuesday and Friday. Please see the times outlined below, and flyers can be found on SIMON in the Student Bulletin each day.
Bundoora Campus Uniform Shop Opening Hours
Tuesdays: 12.30pm to 2.00pm
Fridays: 8.00am to 9.00am
Located in A16 (Main Reception Building)
Staff will be checking student uniforms as they arrive at school and classes, across both our campuses, if necessary, alerting the relevant House Leaders/Wellbeing Leaders of students wearing incorrect uniforms. Your child’s Tutor Teacher may require further clarification and communication, in this case, you may receive a phone call or email.
Time has almost run out! Final chance for Year 12 students and families to secure your Year 12 Memorabilia Jumper. Orders close Thursday 27 March 2025, at midnight - no late orders will be accepted, so do not miss out!
Place your order now:
Bundoora Students/Families - https://www.reformclothing.com/au/order/11676197646
Preston Students/Families - https://www.reformclothing.com/au/order/11676197679
Last-Minute Checklist:
Surname Only – Ensure your surname is entered correctly to avoid delays.
Check Your Sizing – Double-check before submitting your order.
Make sure your order is placed before the deadline to secure this special keepsake of your child’s final year!
On Thursday, 20 March, our Year 11 students from both campuses participated in the RYDA Road Safety Education workshop at our Bundoora Campus. The award-winning program was designed to equip young drivers and passengers with essential road safety knowledge and practical strategies to make responsible decisions.
Throughout the morning, students took part in six interactive sessions: Speed & Stopping, Mind Matters, The ‘I’ in Drive, Drive SOS, Road Choices, and Crash Investigators. These workshops included personal stories, practical demonstrations, and group activities that highlighted the risks and responsibilities associated with being a road user. Students left the program with a personalised booklet containing their goals, plans, and strategies, which they were encouraged to share with their parents.
We kindly ask parents and guardians to complete the short survey (click here) regarding your child's recent participation in the RYDA workshop. When selecting a venue from the dropdown list, please choose: Incursion - VIC.
To extend this important learning beyond the classroom, parents and guardians are invited to attend the Drive Coach workshop on Tuesday, 1 April, at 6:00 pm in the Rivergum Theatre at Bundoora Campus. This session, held on the same evening as the Student Progress Interviews, provides expert advice, the latest research, and practical tips for supporting young drivers.
The Year 7 students of Parade College recently embarked on an exciting and enriching camp experience, marking an important milestone in their transition into secondary school. Each house attended a different adventure camp, where they took part in thrilling activities, built strong friendships, and demonstrated the values of teamwork, respect, and responsibility.
Bodkin House ventured to UC Camping Grantville, where students challenged themselves on high ropes courses and encouraged one another on the giant swing. Hughes and Lynch Houses spent their time at Log Cabin House Creswick, taking part in confidence-building activities such as the Leap of Faith. Meanwhile, Nolan and Treacy Houses embraced the outdoor spirit at Golden Valley Adventure Camp, Flinders, where they pushed their limits and strengthened their connections with their peers.
Throughout the camps, students displayed exceptional teamwork, supporting and motivating each other to overcome challenges. Whether it was participating in adventure activities or taking responsibility for setting up and cleaning after meals, they showed great manners, respect, and a strong sense of community. They also took pride in maintaining their cabins, demonstrating responsibility and maturity.
Above all, the camp experience provided the students with the opportunity to form new friendships and strengthen relationships that will support them throughout their journey at Parade College. The College is incredibly proud of their efforts, and their families should be too.
A special mention must be made to the dedicated Parade College staff who generously gave their time to attend and ensure the camp was a success. Their commitment and support were instrumental in making this experience a memorable one for all involved.
Year 7 Camp was an incredible success, and we look forward to seeing our young people continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead!
As we move into the heart of the academic year, I wanted to take a moment to share with you how well our students have started their journey this year. Their enthusiasm for learning and dedication to their studies have been evident from the first day, and it is heartening to witness their growth both academically and socially. Their hard work and commitment set a positive tone for the year ahead, and we are incredibly proud of their efforts thus far.
Alongside their academic progress, it is important to highlight the role that technology plays in our students' lives today. With the increase in digital communication and social media use, we believe that fostering a safe online environment is as important as guiding our students academically.
As parents/carers, it is crucial to remain aware of your child’s online activity. Social media platforms can provide great opportunities for connection, but they can also present risks. We strongly encourage you to engage in open conversations with your son about the potential dangers and how to navigate the online world safely. Discuss the importance of privacy settings, responsible behaviour online, and the potential impact that their digital footprint can have on their future.
Additionally, we recommend that you regularly check your child’s phone or other digital devices to ensure they are being used in a healthy, responsible manner. Regular checks can help establish clear boundaries and foster better communication between you and your son about their online presence.
For further guidance, we encourage you to explore the resources available on the following websites:
These resources offer valuable insights and tips to help you protect your son while ensuring they can make the most of the opportunities the digital world provides. We are committed to supporting your child both inside and outside the classroom, and we are always here to assist you with any concerns you may have.
Thank you for your continued support in helping us provide a safe and productive learning environment for our students. We look forward to a successful remainder of the academic year.
Our Family Tours are a fantastic opportunity for prospective families to meet members of our College Leadership Team and to see our Bundoora Campus in action. Tours run from 9:15am to 11:00am. Bookings can be made online Book a Family Tour - Parade College. Term 2 dates are as follows:
Prospective families of current Year 4 to 6 students are invited to come along to our Year 7 Information Evening to be held on Wednesday 21 May from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Registrations are now open through the link below.
Year 7 applications for 2027 and beyond are now being accepted. If you have a younger son in Grade 5 and wish to enrol for Year 7 2027, please note that applications close on Friday 15 August 2025. Applications for other year levels are also welcome. For further information and to submit an application, please click the link below.
Over the last month our Year 8 Altior students have taken part in some fun activities and excursions as part of their Humanities program. A couple of the students involved in these activities have recounted their experiences.
On 18 March, the Year 8 Altior Humanities class had the exciting opportunity to attend and participate in the Monopoly Dreams experience. It was a fantastic chance for students to explore the world of Monopoly in a new and interactive way.
The experience featured a variety of fun activities, not only for the students but also for the teachers. These activities included a 4D movie, a selection of carnival games, and even a laser maze, all of which added to the excitement of the excursion.
The excursion focused on the economic side of the Monopoly game, as well as how economics influence both the game and the store itself. A huge thank you goes to Mr. Simpson, Mr. Rowland, Ms. Mihocic and all the staff and teachers who helped make this enjoyable and educational experience possible.
Tom Price Year 8 T18
On Tuesday 18 March, the Year 8 Altior Humanities students attended an evening where we showcased our business concepts in the Rivergum Theatre.
Over the past few weeks, we worked in pairs to prepare to present a business concept to the students, parents, and guardians. The winners were as follows:
As a representative of the Year 8 Altior Humanities students, I would like to thank our teacher, Mr Matt Simpson, as well as the parents, guardians and all the additional staff who attended the event; Mr Aiello, Ms. Mihocic, Ms. Bonvicino, Ms. Thompson, and Mr Astbury. Amazing work by all the students!
Nathan Dang Year 8 L14
It is with immense pride and excitement that we announce Parade College has claimed yet another ACC Athletics Championship victory at Lakeside Stadium, making it an incredible 8 out of 10 championships in the past decade.
Our athletes' outstanding performances earned us both the Senior Cup and Intermediate Cup, with victories in the Senior, Under 17, and Under 15 age groups.
The intensity of the competition matched the sweltering conditions, with many events decided by the narrowest of margins. Our athletes embodied resilience and determination, pushing themselves to their limits to earn every possible point for the team.
Among these extraordinary efforts, one act of courage stood out. In his debut 100m hurdles race, Year 8 Joseph Khalil L15 was in third place when he struck the final hurdle and fell, fracturing his arm upon impact. In an astonishing display of bravery and unwavering dedication, Joseph rose to his feet and sprinted across the finish line in 5th place, securing valuable points for the team before collapsing in pain. Joseph’s sacrifice and indomitable spirit will forever be etched into Parade College history, serving as a powerful reminder of what it means to put the team above oneself. We wish him a full and speedy recovery.
This victory would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of our incredible coaching team. A sincere thank you to Gerard Large who put in countless hours preparing and coordinating our team. Thanks also to Oscar Kenda, Matt Hall, Paul Watson, Joshua Iacobaccio, Andre Botoulos, Ben Turner, Jaxon Nugent, Hayden Moulder, and Ben Major for their unwavering commitment to our athletes. Your expertise, encouragement, and passion have been instrumental in shaping this team's success.
We also want to take a moment to honour coach Terry Knape, who sadly passed away just before the competition. Terry’s influence on our athletes and his passion for athletics, in particular high jump, were immeasurable. His legacy of perseverance, and belief in every student’s potential, carried our team through the toughest moments of the championship. This victory is a tribute to the lasting impact he will have on athletics at Parade College.
Congratulations to all our athletes for their outstanding performances, fierce determination and unwavering team spirit. This victory is a testament to your hard work, commitment, and the collective support of the entire Parade College community.
ACC Athletics 2025 Video
We want to take a moment to congratulate all of our Term 1 sports teams for their hard work, dedication, and remarkable performances this season.
Our Volleyball and Tennis teams both reached the semi-finals, finishing in 3rd place. Our Cricket team went all the way to the grand final against a very talented St Bede’s but unfortunately were unable to come away with the victory. Thank you to all the students that represented the college so well. These achievements highlight the effort and skill put in by everyone involved.
A huge thank you also goes to coaches Luke Rosbrook (Cricket), Chris Sedgman (Volleyball) and Ben Turner (Tennis), as well as the sport assistants who guided our student athletes to make these accomplishments possible.
Congratulations to Year 12 students Tyson Gresham B10A, and Sebastian Murphy H09 on being named co-captains of the Northern Knights for 2025. We also extend our recognition to Year 12 Mitchell Moate H04, who has earned a place in the leadership group.
These students have consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout their time at Parade and the Knights, and we are confident they will continue to inspire and guide their teammates in the upcoming season.
We wish them all the best as they prepare for the 2025 Coats Talent League season!
Term 1 has progressed at a rapid rate with so much going on in the life of the Music Department. We are pleased to have many new enrolments this year and warmly welcome all our new music students. From Honours Band to Big Band, our Ensemble program continues to grow and develop, and we thank our music staff, music students and every parent for making our music and performing arts community a wonderful place to be.
Well done to all students who auditioned for Music Scholarships this year. With so many entries the audition panel had a tough job in selecting the various scholarship recipients. It was inspiring to hear everyone’s entries, and we extend a heartfelt congratulations to all our scholarship recipients.
The past weeks have seen our senior music students attend two fantastic music excursions. The first involved our Year 10, 11 and 12 students attending the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony, performed at Hamer Hall. It was a mesmerising performance, and our students came away inspired by the powerful yet sensitive performance. Many thanks to Ms Calia, Mr Watson and Mr Flanagan for accompanying our students.
Our second excursion involved our Year 12 students attending the VCE Top Class Music Concert at the Melbourne Recital Centre. This concert showcased the top VCE Music students from 2024 and provides some helpful motivation to our Year 12 students as they prepare for their final performance recitals. The outing also allowed students the opportunity to explore the Australian Music Vault. The vault is a walk-through exhibition of Australian music, and our students found extremely interesting and educational. Many thanks to Ms Leadbetter and Mr Flanagan for accompanying our students.
Battle of the Bands takes place on the evening of Thursday 27 March at 7:00pm in the Rivergum Theatre. With some talented entries, this year is looking like a fantastic lineup. Many thanks to Mr Brazil and Mr Tsiambazis for their organisation leading up to the event. With up to $500 in prizes on offer, this year promises to be one of the most hotly contested music events of the year!
Rehearsals have been going full steam ahead for the upcoming production of The Wedding Singer with Santa Maria College. A huge thank you to all staff and students involved in rehearsals – it is inspiring to see everyone’s dedication and hard work. Tickets for the show will become available in Term 2.
As the term progresses, we wish our students and families all the best for the upcoming weeks. As always please do not hesitate to contact the Music Department via music@parade.vic.edu.au with any questions.
Students voraciously consumed stories over the summer break, logging minutes and learning about the world for the Summer Reading Challenge. As we know, reading is excellent for mental health, contributes to understanding viewpoints of others, and can transport us to another world. As Stephen King once said, “Books are a uniquely portable magic”.
Three students stood out of the pack and took home some significant prizes.
1st place - Benedict Raphaels Glow Year 10 B09
2nd place – Nathan Drazic Year 9 L16
3rd place – Orlando Pettinella Year 11 T07
The staff member who read the most minutes was Jill Bovaird. Well done to all who took part.
Students are currently able to log minutes for the current 2025 Reading Challenge with even bigger prizes. Keep an eye out for additional challenges on Bean Stack throughout the year for more opportunities to win prizes.
It has been a very busy start to the year, particularly for the Year 7 students who have been navigating the school and all that it offers. Many of these students have found the NLC to be a haven to make friends, play games and generally find a place they feel safe and comfortable. The Fire Carrier Room upstairs has been set aside for Year 7 students so they can join groups and chat, but many have ventured out into the general areas and chatted with students of all year levels, played games and generally enjoyed the atmosphere. Many students have joined the current suite of clubs on offer at the NLC including Board Game club on a Monday, Tabletop Role Playing Game club on a Tuesday and Card Players club (mainly Pokémon) on a Thursday. Additional clubs starting in Term 2 are Juggling club and Podcasting Club.
There have been a few new additions to the NLC with a weekly Puzzle Wall challenge where students are required to complete a Target Word, a Rebus Puzzle, a Maths Puzzle and a Riddle in order to win the prize for that week. The communal Jigsaw Puzzle is up and running for another way to just chill out and connect.
The NLC has booked three dates this year to attend the Schools On Air program at the Banyule Nillumbik Tech School where groups of students spend the day planning, rehearsing and recording a radio show that is then played on SYN 90.7FM. This marks the second year of involvement in this program and this year proves to be even bigger than the last.
Inviting all Year 7 families to join us for Family Games Night on Thursday 3 April for a night of games and activities!
Get your tickets here https://events.humanitix.com/parade-college-year-7-family-games-night-2025
The OPA continues its support of the monthly RACV luncheon. Incredibly the lunch has been attended continuously by old collegians since 1936! At the most recent luncheon there were 5 nonagenarians in attendance, the oldest finished at Parade in 1945! Champion Data’s chief football analyst Daniel Hoyne (2006) was our guest speaker and gave an interesting presentation on his organisation’s involvement in AFL and its Clubs, broadcasting and betting. Champion Data is now a global organisation, providing elite analysis across a wide range of sports. Daniel has been at Champion Data for 20 years now, remarkably starting with a work experience placement in Year 10, that became a casual job through school and university to fulltime after he completed his studies.
Our next luncheon in April, we will congratulate and acknowledge Br. Thomas (Olly) Pickett (1959) who this year was awarded Australia’s Senior Citizen of the Year for his wonderful work with ‘Wheelchairs for Kids’. Br Olly will be coming over from Perth to attend the lunch.
The Association was able to complete its Annual General Meeting (AGM) where its Executive was appointed. A new President was elected, former College Captain and Vice President of the Association Michael Donato (2017). A new Vice President was also elected in Scott La Ferlita (2003). A new Secretary was also elected in Peter Bonadio (2014). Ryan Jones (2010) was re-elected as Treasurer. Congratulations to these men and we thank them for their service to the Association. We thank Angelo Mazzone (1982) and John Nicholls for their service as President and Secretary respectively. Both will continue the General Committee. Committee members elected at the AGM included Mark Aiello (1990), Joseph Marchio, Matthew Warke (2023), Patrick Collins (1995) and Anthony Mercadante (1988)
The Association continues to create opportunities for old collegians to connect. We are planning currently to welcome back our Old Paradian veterans who have served their country in Vietnam, the Middle East, Iraq, Afghanistan, Timor to name but a few. We will also have our class of 1975 reunion, one of many throughout the year.
The Association will be again a strong supporter of the Old Paradians Football Club who have recently commenced their 2025 campaign with Practice Matches against Euroa and Laurimar. The season proper commences April 5 against Whittlesea at home.
We encourage Old Paradians, and members of the Parade College community to connect to our Association through our website at www.oldparadians.com.au/connect. Our Newsletters are archived on the website which contain many stories of individuals and events. Go to Newsletter Archives - Old Paradians. You may be interested in subscribing to our Business Directory, details can be found on our website. Go to Directory - Old Paradians
The Australian Government has announced an additional $4.9 million in funding NBN Co to extend the School Student Broadband Initiative until 30 June 2028.
https://www.nbnco.com.au/campaigns/school-student-broadband-initiative
To qualify for the School Student Broadband Initiative, families and carers must:
To apply families and carers are encouraged to contact the National Referral Centre run by Anglicare Victoria on 1800954610 (10.00am – 6.00pm Monday to Friday) or visit https://www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet/
This April, Parade will be taking a Year 8 squad to Brisbane, to compete in the EREA Cup. We last played in the competition in April 2023 where our Year 8 team emerged as Champions, and we will be hoping for a similar result this time around.
The 15 selected students will have a fantastic experience, playing against other EREA schools from across Australia. They will learn how to prepare mentally, physically and tactically during an intense training and match schedule, as well as how to rest and recover in a short space of time to maximise their performance levels.
Last time, we also found the trip to be a great team-building exercise. Students learned to help and support each other on and off the pitch. Elliot Seddon, Assistant Coach Man City FS Parade, along with Andrew Ward, Fitness and Performance Coach for CFS Parade, and myself will lead the players.
We will give you an update of how the trip was in Term 2.
Late last year, a number of Arts students entered work into the Melbourne Archdiocese of Catholic Schools Creative Arts Exhibition for 2025. Out of almost 400 entries across the state, we were lucky enough that 2 of our students were successful in their entries.
Year 12 Harley Ryan’s H04 ‘Bruised But Still Moving’ is a ballpoint sketch, and Year 9 Gabriel Russo’s B19 ‘Depth of Our Roots’ is a watercolour painting.
I would like to commend and congratulate the students for their success, and in taking the opportunity to take a brief step into contemporary professional practice in the space of Visual and Creative Arts. To have work exhibited at any level is impressive and important to acknowledge. To have work selected and exhibited in an external and formal setting, separate to the College Community is something that we take immense pride in at Parade College. I would also like to say a big thank you to all the staff supporting our students in the Arts and in creating a safe space where students are able to express themselves and explore their own personal creativity. I also encourage all students to take the opportunities to engage in the Arts, whether it be the subjects they choose, joining Arts Club, enrolling and auditioning to for our performing arts and music programs, or taking advantage of our STEAM based software and technologies available to The Arts22.
The pieces were exhibited for the duration of the Creative Arts Exhibition at Celtic Hall, Catholic Leadership Centre from 16 March to 22 March. Following this, they will be displayed at the College.
On Friday 14 March, our Year 11 Business students had the incredible opportunity to attend a Business Forum featuring three local business owners. The event, designed to inspire and inform, allowed students to hear firsthand from these talented entrepreneurs about the creative ideas and strategies that led to their success.
The forum kicked off with a presentation from Leanne Daquino who shared her journey of building a business from the ground up. Leanne is a Melbourne-based mixed media artist and creative entrepreneur. She is the founder of Leanne Daquino Art, where she sells original artworks, prints, and art stationery, as well as running workshops to help others explore their creativity.
Old Paradian Ray Pastoors followed, offering insights into his business True Green Hosting and sharing some valuable tips about starting off as a young entrepreneur. Ray’s company received the top award for its environmental commitment at the 2024 National Australian Small Business Champion Awards.
Finally, Old Paradian Yin Van Beek wrapped up the session by discussing the importance of innovation and adaptability in today’s competitive market. Yin started businesses whilst still a student at the College and is now in partnership in Garage 46 – a workshop for servicing, modifying, and manufacturing business that specialises in BMW E36. His business partners with four Australian based businesses and three global businesses.
Throughout the event, students had the chance to ask questions and engage with the speakers, gaining practical advice on everything from personal motivation, business opportunities they encountered to the importance of social media in their marketing. The forum provided an exciting glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship and gave students a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in business.
We thank all the business owners for their time and generosity in sharing their experiences, and we look forward to seeing how our some of our students apply these lessons in their own future endeavours!
The business forum for the Year 11 cohort was an excellent opportunity to gain insight into what owning a business could look like in the future. Their presentations helped to link the theory we have covered to real life examples. I really appreciated how the guest speakers made a genuine effort to answer every question that was asked. I was particularly interested in Garage Forty-Six's presentation, where I learned about their business idea and the motivations that led them to start their business.
3 of our female students spoke to the Herald Sun about their first few weeks at Parade College.
Click to read the article https://www.heraldsun.com.au/victoria-education/parade-college-welcomes-female-students-for-the-first-time-in-154-years/news-story/27a59944b9d151ce4d32126fbcd0c802
Prior to playing together for the first time at Essendon, Old Paradians Nate Caddy and Isaac Kako spoke to the Herald Sun about their time at Parade College.
Click to read the article https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/essendon/from-parade-college-to-essendon-isaac-kako-and-nate-caddys-schoolyard-dream-achieved/news-story/1f19c1e54a326ec15ba1932461eabc23
Old Paradians Nate Caddy and Isaac Kako spoke to Channel 7 about their friendship and time in the Parade College Sport Academy.
Click to view the video https://www.facebook.com/7AFL/videos/1080581614115658/
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