The Journey to Easter: A Time of Reflection and Renewal
As we approach the Feast of Palm Sunday and enter Holy Week, we reflect on the profound significance of Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection. This sacred time calls us to deepen our faith and live with greater compassion and justice, embodying our College motto: Live Fully, Act Justly.

Holy Thursday reminds us of Jesus’ example of service and humility as He washed the feet of His disciples at the Last Supper. Good Friday calls us to remember Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, a moment of deep sorrow but also immense love. Easter Sunday then brings us to the joy and hope of the Resurrection—a promise of new life and renewal.

Pope Francis reminds us: “Christ’s resurrection is not an event of the past; it contains a vital power which has permeated this world.” As a faith community, we are called to carry this Easter message into our daily lives, seeking ways to uplift others and act with mercy and generosity. May this Holy Week and Easter be a time of renewal for each of us. May we embrace the joy of the Resurrection and continue to Live Fully and Act Justly in all we do.

Term 1 concludes
On behalf of the College community, I would like to take this opportunity, to thank the I.T, maintenance, administration, and finance staff who worked diligently throughout Term 1. I would also like to thank the College leadership team and teaching staff for their efforts, as they have been extremely hardworking and generous with their own time to enable a very productive start to the school year.

Already this year we have continued to have quality learning and teaching occurring onsite, every day in the classrooms. We have also participated in many co-curricular activities, including SACCSS sporting events and competitions, camps, excursions, incursions, faith development days, whole school assemblies, masses and liturgies, music and drama concerts.

As Term 1 concludes, it is a fitting time to reflect on some of the key events so far:

• 1,093 students engaged in day-to-day classes and learning
• Opening College Mass
• Student Leadership Investiture Ceremony
• Ash Wednesday Ceremony
• Student Leadership Camp
• Social Justice Leaders Development Day
• Whole-School and Year-Level Assemblies
• Italian Exchange Student Visit
• Various Parent Information Evenings
• Cybersafety Parent Evening
• Dr. Andrew Wake Staff Presentation
• Years 7, 8, 9 Ignite Program
• College Swimming Carnival
• Year 10 Premier League
• SACCSS Junior Golf
• Project Compassion and Caritas Fundraising Activities
• Outdoor Education Surfing Excursions
• Musical Auditions
• Year 7 Camps
• Year 9 Camps
• Easter Liturgy

Each of these events requires careful planning and preparation to ensure their success. On behalf of the CRC Caroline Springs community, I would like to sincerely thank our dedicated staff for their hard work. Without their support, these opportunities would not be possible.

Naming of Our New College Building
We are delighted to announce that our newest and most significant building will be officially named The Sacred Heart Building.

Chosen with deep reflection, this name holds special meaning in our Catholic tradition, symbolising Christ’s infinite love, compassion, and presence in our community. More than just an impressive three-storey structure, the Sacred Heart Building represents our faith, commitment to educational excellence, and the legacy of those who have shaped our College.

The Sacred Heart of Jesus is a powerful reminder of His boundless love, mercy, and grace. It calls us into a deeper relationship with Christ, assuring us that His heart is always open—offering refuge, renewal, and strength. As we dedicate this building in His name, we pray that all who enter will experience a place where faith, love, and learning flourish together.

In a special way, we also dedicate the Sacred Heart Building in honour of Fr. John O’Reilly, who faithfully served as Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Parish, St. Albans, for 50 years. Fr. John was a man of deep faith and wisdom, committed to Catholic education and strengthening the bonds between our College, our feeder primary schools, and the wider community. His impact on Catholic education has been profound, leaving a lasting legacy for generations of students and families.

This landmark addition to our College is designed to meet both our current and future needs. It includes:

• A new College entrance with a welcoming reception and foyer.
• A conference room, meeting rooms, and offices for the Business Manager and Finance Team.
• A second staffroom and additional offices to support our dedicated educators.
• Two state-of-the-art Food Technology rooms with an adjoining dining area for hands-on learning.
• Four Art classrooms, three Music rooms, and a recording studio to foster creativity.
• Two large collaboration spaces and five general classrooms to support dynamic learning.

Beyond providing essential specialist classrooms and administration spaces, this building ensures we can accommodate future enrolment growth while preserving land for future projects.

Thank You to Our Student Leaders
As we reflect on another enriching term at our College, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our student leaders who have served with dedication and generosity.

A special thank you to our College Captain, Jennilyn Magtalas, and our Deputy College Captains, Cienna Victuelles, Klark Neustro, and Keisha Cortes Alinea, for their outstanding leadership and commitment. We also acknowledge our Faith and Social Justice Captain, Charlotte Attard, and Performing Arts Captain, Sophia Clayton, for their contributions to the spiritual and creative life of our community.

To all our Student Leaders and House Captains, your hard work and enthusiasm have ensured the success of major College events, including the Swimming Carnival. Your efforts continue to build a strong sense of unity and pride in our school.

We are deeply grateful to all our student leaders for embracing servant leadership in the spirit of Jesus and the Gospel. You have been wonderful role models, growing in your roles and making a meaningful impact on our community. Thank you for your commitment to living fully and acting justly.

Important dates for the beginning of Term Two:

Monday 21 April Easter Monday Public Holiday
Tuesday 22 April Students return to school (Normal classes)
Wednesday 23 April Normal classes
Thursday 24 April Student Parent Teacher Interviews (No formal classes)
Friday 25 April ANZAC Day Public Holiday

Heavenly Father,

As we enter this sacred time of Holy Week, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking to walk closely with Your Son, Jesus Christ. We remember His journey to Calvary, filled with love and sacrifice, and we ask for the grace to accompany Him in spirit and truth.

Lord Jesus, You walked the path of suffering and redemption. Help us to embrace our own crosses, knowing that through our trials, we can grow closer to You. May we reflect on Your passion and understand the depth of Your love, which calls us to conversion and renewal.

Let us prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter, remembering that through Your passion, we are reconciled to the Father.

We ask this in Your holy name, Jesus, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.

Amen.

Holy Week is one of the most sacred times in our Church’s Liturgical Season with beautiful ancient rituals and great symbolism that really elevate the significance of the Holy Season. It is a chance to follow in the steps of Jesus.

A beautiful line in our College Song – ‘The Future’ is “…following the steps of Jesus, knowing that he’ll never leave us.” Next Sunday we begin Holy Week where we follow the steps of Jesus beginning with the celebration of Palm Sunday, the triumphant entrance of Jesus into the city of Jerusalem. It is a stark contrast to the events that follow of Christ’s passion and death a few days later. However, we know that Jesus’ death is not how it ends, but rather with his resurrection “Death has been swallowed up in victory” (1 Cor 15:54-55).

In Pope Francis’ Message for Lent 2025, on the theme of “Let us journey together in hope” the Holy Father reminds us that “…thanks to God’s love in Jesus Christ, we are sustained in the hope that does not disappoint (cf. Rom 5:5). Hope is the “sure and steadfast anchor of the soul”. It moves the Church to pray for “everyone to be saved” (1 Tim 2:4) and to look forward to her being united with Christ, her bridegroom, in the glory of heaven.”

This is the revelation of Holy Week, that in the trials of Our Lord, in the trials of our lives we call to hope, to trust in God and his great promise of eternal life.

I encourage families to check your local parishes for Holy Week and Easter celebrations of which you can find information below.

May the joy of the Risen Lord be with you and your families this Easter Season.

St Catherine of Siena:

Resurrection Catholic Parish, Kings Park:

Sacred Heart / Emmaus Parish, St Albans / Sydenham:

The meaning of Easter

Matejas: My family and I like to keep it simple; its about God, family, and tradition. Every year we pop by Church to maintain our relationship with God, and at home we do our little traditions, which are mainly from Croatia. For example, Kuć Kuć Jaje!! That literally means Break, Break, Egg! Rules are simple; whoever egg breaks, they must eat it!

Poppy: To me, Easter means giving back to those who help first, its celebrating everyone and everything, and showing appreciation to those who support us

Charlotte: To me Easter is about not only celebrating Jesus’ resurrection but also spending close time with families and friends. It is special because different cultures can come together and share their traditions and love.

Alannah: To me, Easter is not only a time to remember the death and resurrection of Jesus, but it is also a time to reflect on my faith and my relationship with God. Easter also allows me to see my family where we continue our family traditions, we have had for many years whether this be laughing around the dinner table, retelling stories from past easters or going to church in the morning and listening to the Easter Liturgy Mass

Emilia: Easter is a time for me to reflect on Jesus’ life and a time I can be with Family and Friends celebrating Jesus' ascension.

Chloe: Easter allows us to appreciate Jesus' sacrifice and to gain a better relationship with God. It also allows people across the world to be able to spend a fun day with their families and to practise traditions based on where they live.

Sophia: Easter is a time to reflect on the past and look into the future. To be able to show our appreciation to Jesus for sacrificing his life for the benefit of ours. It is a great time to bond with family and create new memories.

Olivia: Easter is more than just chocolate and bunnies. It's a time to connect with loved ones and strengthen our bonds with Jesus at the time of his sacrifice for us.

Chanelle: Easter is a time to remember the sacrifices of Jesus and how he gave up his life for the better of ours. It's the time we spend time with our loved ones and show gratitude to those who respect and support us.

Sophia: Easter means to commemorate Jesus and his sacrifices and having fun with friends and family.

Chanel: Easter is a time to reflect on Christ's sacrifices and spend time with family.

Keisha: Easter is a significant time in our Christian lives as we remember the sacrifices Jesus made for us and his resurrection into Heaven. During this time, we grow closer together as one family in our faith.

Monica: Easter is a moment where faith and family intertwine. Spiritually, it is a time to reflect on the sacrifices Jesus made and the deeper meaning behind them. In Year 8 Religion, we have learned about the importance of tradition in faith, and Easter, as an annual tradition for Catholics, highlights its significance in strengthening our spiritual connection with God. It is also a time for family, as this holy occasion is best celebrated together, surrounded by loved ones.

Jana: Easter represents a time of renewal and hope—a celebration of new beginnings. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the renunciations Jesus made and the profound significance of His actions. It’s also a moment to consider personal growth and the renewal of life, reminding us that change is always possible, no matter the challenges we face. Easter is a time for deepening our bond with God and for coming together with loved ones to celebrate this occasion as a family.

From the moment we arrived at Camp Manyang, excitement was sensed as students eagerly anticipated the adventures ahead. Over the course of the camp, Year 7 students embraced a range of thrilling activities, pushed their limits, and forged new friendships.

The giant swing was a highlight for many, with students overcoming their fears as they soared through the sky. The ropes course and tree top challenge tested balance and teamwork, while the crate climb encouraged determination and problem-solving. Beach activities provided a refreshing opportunity for students to enjoy games on the sand and in the water.

Bike riding took students on a scenic trail, giving them a chance to explore the beautiful surroundings. Leadership activities helped build confidence and teamwork skills, preparing students for future challenges. Archery proved to be a test of focus and precision, with many students surprising themselves with their accuracy.

Sea kayaking and snorkelling offered unforgettable experiences in the ocean. Students paddled through the waves and explored marine life up close, learning more about the unique coastal environment through the marine discovery session.

One of the most memorable moments of the camp was the disco night. Students hit the dance floor, showing off their impressive dance moves and celebrating a fantastic few days together. Laughter and music filled the room as friendships grew stronger.

Throughout the camp, students participated with enthusiasm, supported one another, and stepped out of their comfort zones. Staff on the camp were especially proud of the students and their behaviour. Their positive attitude to engage in all the camp activities and jobs was encouraging to see. It was a rewarding and unforgettable experience that created lasting memories for all.

Term One has been an exciting and dynamic start for the Science & STEM department, as our students have settled into their new classes and fully embraced their studies in these fascinating fields.

Our Year 7 students have been busy in the laboratories, learning how to safely use scientific equipment to conduct experiments. Additionally, half of the Year 7 cohort has been diving into STEM, beginning the term by constructing film canister rockets and collecting data on fuel ratios to determine which will achieve the furthest flight.

Year 8 students have been exploring the world of cells, gaining hands-on experience with microscopes. They've had the opportunity to observe individual plant and animal cells up close, deepening their understanding of this fascinating area of biology.

In Year 9, the focus has been on Physics, with students investigating heat and electricity. They've tested various insulators to see which ones trap heat most effectively and have also enjoyed learning how to wire both series and parallel electric circuits.

Year 10 students have been relishing their first year of studying a science subject that aligns with their individual interests and future pathways. Those studying DNA, Genes & Inheritance have been learning about DNA and even extracting it from Kiwi fruit cells. Biodiversity and Evolutionary Science students have been diving into Natural Selection, while Physics students have been exploring Newton’s Laws of Motion and discovering how they explain the phenomena we encounter in our everyday lives.

Overall, it's been another action-packed term filled with discovery, offering our students countless opportunities to engage with the world of Science & STEM and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Saint Patrick once said, "The Lord is greater than all. I have said enough." His life was one of faith and perseverance—born in England, he was taken to Ireland as a slave but later escaped. Inspired by his journey, he returned to Ireland as a missionary, spreading Christianity and using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.

At CRCCS, we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with the theme "I am lucky because..." Students reflected on their blessings by writing on green clovers, expressing gratitude for family, friends, and education. The Social Justice team was at the gates bright and early, welcoming students with St. Patrick’s Day stickers and gold chocolate coins, all while lively Irish tunes played in the background, adding to the festive atmosphere.

At recess, the celebration continued with green jelly cups on sale, with all proceeds from the day going towards Caritas Project Compassion, supporting efforts to unite against poverty.

Thank you to our generous school community for making this day one to remember!

Last Friday 28 March, Ms Shaw, Sr Lawrence and Mr Sammut accompanied a group of students who attended ‘Encounter’ at St Andrew’s Parish Werribee. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to meet with other youth who share the same zeal of faith and encounter Jesus in prayer, fellowship, food and fun. Bradley Vincent 8 Barak and Keisha Cortes 10 Barak share their experiences:

"I loved Encounter night, especially when Rose came to talk about C.O.T.S. (Christmas On The Streets), an organization she has been running for nine years, starting at the age of 20. At the end of the night, we had the opportunity for adoration and there was also the sacrament of reconciliation (confession). I enjoyed Encounter night and cherished the chance to socialise and make new friends and connections with people from our school whom I did not know, as well as meeting others from different schools."
~ Bradley Vincent 8 Barak

The night began with a shared dinner, where everyone gathered in the dining room to eat together and connect. This time allowed us to get to know one another better before the evening's activities began.
Following dinner, Emma, the MC for the night, brought everyone together to set up a game of Pictionary. Participants divided into groups of eight, with each team electing a leader responsible for selecting a word and drawing it for their teammates to guess. Our team, The Chocolate Makers, inspired by our leader Timothy, finished our drawings first and were won as the best artists.
Next, we were introduced to Rose, the founder of Christmas On The Streets (COTS), who shared her powerful testimony. She spoke about how she once felt lost, believing she had found her calling only to be let down repeatedly. Eventually, she discovered her purpose—helping those in need within her own community and reminded us that we all have our own gifts.
Another speaker, Vatale, shared his journey of faith, reflecting on how his grandmother’s passing affected his faith in God. His message served as a reminder that, even in hardship, God always has a plan.
The night concluded with adoration in the church, where praise and worship music filled the space, and reconciliation was available at the back of the church. This sacred time was deeply emotional, offering a moment of personal reflection and connection with God. Encounter was an incredible experience one that not only strengthened our faith but also deepened our friendships. Being surrounded by a community so deeply rooted in their beliefs made the night truly unforgettable.
~ Keisha Cortes 10 Barak

Register your attendance here

The Feast of St Patrick aptly initiated Catholic Education Week, with the theme “Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you” (Isaiah 60:1). For this special week, Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools celebrated their Catholic identity. What a beautiful way to let this light shine!

Our Campus Ministry duo, Youth Minister Miss Angella Francis and College Chaplain Sr Lawrence Nicolas, organised a series of events to help students deepen their immersion in our Catholic faith and mission.

Highlights of the week included a Saints’ Scavenger Hunt, which honoured the significant people our school buildings are named after, as well as a visit from a Franciscan Capuchin friar, Fr Christopher Maher. The week concluded with live music led by the Gen Bryant Team, featuring a special opening performance by our own students from the Adoration Club, nicknamed YMB (Youth Ministry Band). A banner-making competition was also held, with the prize awarded to Year 7 student Maxine Louise Cruz.

As we continue this Year of Jubilee, may the light of Christ within us remain a powerful witness in our school community as we journey together as ‘Pilgrims of Hope.’

Below are some testimonials from our students about Catholic Education Week:

This week is the week I've been looking forward to!! As a member of YMB (Youth Ministry Band) I was so excited for our members to show case our talents to the school. We were also excited to meet the wonderful band Gen Bryant band! It was a great time, hope we can see more next year!
~ Augustine Caballes 8 Wonga

I loved Catholic Education Week, meeting a Franciscan Friar and especially the Concert with the Adoration club performance and my favourite the guest band! They really made us feel apart of the songs they were singing and the original ones too! It was a great way to embrace faith and it was also really fun.
~ Bradley Vincent 8 Barak

During Catholic Education Week, I participated in 4 events. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and the Friday one too! It was nice getting to see the series ‘The Chosen’ for the first time. Going to the church every Wednesday at lunchtime made me feel closer to God. I loved how each event was organised neatly and also loved how lots of people joined in for day to day. I got to make new friends, even with the younger people. Catholic Education Week made me happy, I want to have it again!!
~ Vanessa Jahola 9 Barak

I really enjoyed it, there were many activities to do and lots of people got involved, I had fun and learnt new things. My favourite was the live concert - I was singing for YMB (Youth Ministry Band) and after that I got to watch the concert where we welcomed a special guest band. There was also the 'meet a monk' session in that week which I also enjoyed. I got to learn things I didn't know before.
~ Rosalia Cajucom 9 Wurundjeri

I enjoyed Catholic Education Week because I was able to learn about God and I got to spend time with the LIHM Sisters and hang out with other people. I was able to watch ‘The Chosen ‘which related back to the Bible and made me remember how amazing Jesus is. I also enjoyed the going to the Church on Wednesday because I got to participate in activities related to God.
~ Christiano Gjeloshi Year 8 Wonga

During Catholic Education Week, I had lots of fun experiencing new things and learning all about different saints. I loved doing all of the activities as a social group and I really enjoyed spending it with the people I love and cherish. I liked how there were multiple activities that were optional if you wanted to go or not and it was a fun way to meet new people who have similar interests. But it was a fun time, and I hope to participate in upcoming years.
~ Alannah Vo Doan Year 8 Barak

Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) is a national gathering of Catholic young people established by the Australian Bishops more than ten years ago. Run over three days, the Festival provides young people from all across Australia with the opportunity to come together to connect, deepen their relationship with Jesus, be empowered to live their faith in the world and experience the breadth of the Church in Australia.

The Festival will bring together thousands of young people from all across Australia and include opportunities for engagement with other young people, school and youth groups, Bishops, musicians and speakers.

The College intends to send staff and students (Year 9 &10) to this wonderful event which will occur in late November, early December 2025. More details will be released early in Term 2.

2025 School Fees

2025 School Fee notice and Fee Payment Agreements have been mailed home. If you have not received your statement, please contact the finance department or visit the school website. College Tuition Fee - CRC Caroline Springs. If you have changed home address or email details, please also advise the school.

2025 Payment arrangements are due back as soon as possible to commence in February 2025 and be finalised by November 2025 unless prior arrangement is in place.

Statements will be issued to parents every month for record keeping purposes. If you have requested for a direct debit to be in place, nothing further is required.

CSEF 2025 (Current health care card holders)

CSEF applications are being accepted for 2025. Please complete the application form on our website and return the completed signed form along with a copy of the parent/carer current health care card to the College office as soon as possible. CSEF-application-form.pdf

If you wish to discuss any finance concerns, please reach out to us by phone 9217 8000 extension 2 or email accounts@crccs.vic.edu.au