Edition 1, Term 1 2025

This year, our teaching team is embracing the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) Vision for Instruction, a structured and research-driven approach that aligns with our mission to ensure all students can flourish in their learning.

The College was proud to host the annual Bunurong Cluster FIRE Carrier Program Commissioning Ceremony involving our 7 sister primary schools, JPC student leaders, FIRE Carrier student leaders and staff.  

The commencement of the school year assembly in Week 2 marked the beginning of the school year with tradition and celebration. A highlight was the inspiring speech by 2024 College DUX, Asher Johnston, who encouraged students to embrace challenges, build strong relationships, and prioritise well-being.

The College is pleased to introduce the SIMON Everywhere App, providing parents with a convenient way to access the Parent Access Module (PAM) and receive important notifications directly on their mobile devices.

The Victorian Government's Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund (CSEF) may be available to eligible families to help cover the costs of school trips, camps, and sporting activities.

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for Year 7 and 9 students will take place in March 2025. The NAPLAN Online test window is scheduled from Wednesday 12 March to Monday 24 March. These assessments evaluate student knowledge and skills in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar, and punctuation), and numeracy. 

Pope Francis has declared 2025 a Jubilee Year with the theme Pilgrims of Hope. In his announcement, he expressed his vision for the Jubilee, stating, “The forthcoming Jubilee can contribute greatly to restoring a climate of hope and trust as a prelude to the renewal and rebirth that we so urgently desire; that is why I have chosen as the motto of the Jubilee, Pilgrims of Hope.”

John Paul College is proud to once again support Caritas Project Compassion this Lent, continuing our tradition of raising awareness and funds to help vulnerable communities worldwide. This year, we’re organising several fundraising events, including a Shrove Tuesday pancake event ($2 donation) for students and a fundraising morning tea for staff. Donation boxes will also be placed in all pastoral rooms to encourage ongoing contributions until the 31 May 2025.

Year 7 students began the year with exciting adventures at Luna Park, Cable Park, and Gumbuya World. From thrill rides to water fun and high ropes, they embraced challenges, built friendships, and strengthened their connection to the JPC community.

The Stewart Centre for Individual Learning provides support in Literacy, Numeracy, and Organisational Skills, offering in-class support, intervention programs, and activities like Lunchtime Socialising and Music Club. We create an inclusive environment to help students thrive academically and socially.

Over the summer holiday break, the long-awaited construction of brand new basketball courts was completed, providing students with another new, exceptional sporting facility.

John Paul College is excited to announce the launch of its very own Pathways Hub! This new online resource is packed with valuable information about tertiary options, industry insights, career pathways, and important links to help students make informed decisions about their futures.

Year 12 students recently had the opportunity to listen to a thought-provoking Q&A session with John Paul College Alumni James McVitty (Class of 2016), Alicia Goldsworthy (Class of 2018), and Danni Moran (Class of 2023). 

The College is deeply saddened by the passing of Br Donald Eugene Neff, SM, a visionary leader and foundational figure in our history. At the age of 94 and with 74 years of religious profession, he has been called to his eternal home among the saints.