Term 3 Newsletter 2025

Firstly, I would like to thank the Servite community for welcoming me as Principal for the remainder of 2025. While I have not worked here previously, I have had a close relationship with the College, particularly when I was Principal of Sacred Heart College.

Arriving mid-term, I was quickly involved in many key events in this very busy term.

Servite Day

This was a wonderful celebration from start to finish. The College Mass, Homeroom Challenge, Memorial Football Match, afternoon stalls and activities, Year 12 dress up and concluding with a student-centred assembly, highlighted the special nature of this College.

You can read more about Servite Day here.

Father’s Day

A very well attended event that included breakfast and a gift from the College for all attendees. We heard from Head Boy, Daniel Di Dio and his father Frank. I had the opportunity to speak on the importance of a father or a significant male for both boys and girls. I also commented that many children do not have this and may also complete Kindergarten to Year 6 schooling, without a male teacher.

Click here to read our Father’s Day news article.

Open Day

Over the years Servite College has become the “school of choice” in this region. This is clearly demonstrated by the attendance on days such as this, and the fact we have significant waiting lists of families wanting enrolment at Servite College. While the audience heard from myself, Vice Principal, Simon Messer, and Head of Learning Diversity, Ali Lang, the input from our students was outstanding. Year 7 students Matteo (OLS3) and Zamara (SM5), Head Girl, Olivia and Head Boy, Daniel, together with our Year 11 student tour guides showcased the college. They were wonderful ambassadors, and this was commented on by our visitors.

ACC Athletics Carnival

In 2024, Servite College won the carnival and were subsequently promoted to a higher division for 2025. When the team was presented to the College at a recent assembly, I made the bold comment that we were not there “to make up the numbers” and that the Servite spirit would be obvious to all. Finishing in fourth spot was an excellent achievement. Congratulations to all team members and the staff who coached them. Our relay results were amazing and reflected this sound team preparation.

Farewell Year 12s

During the term, I have attempted to be a presence for the Year 12 students. Meeting with the Leaders, visiting classrooms and speaking with them during break times are important to me. Year 12 is a three-term experience with final assessments and grades happening now. I mentioned when I commenced as Principal that I wanted to be on this journey with the Year 12 cohort. This week is also special milestone for our Year 12 students as they wrap up their final days of regular classes. We are so proud of this cohort for the resilience, leadership, and commitment they have demonstrated throughout their years at Servite. As they head into exam preparation and and look ahead to graduation, we extend our warmest wishes for every success.

I look forward to celebrating their Graduation Ceremony on Friday 24 October and recognising their hard work and contributions to the College.

Mobile Phone Review

Thank you to all parents for your valuable feedback in the recent Servite College Mobile Phone Review. We were delighted with the outstanding number of responses received and greatly appreciate your support.

This week, we engaged with both students and staff to discuss the college trailing tighter restrictions in Term 4. We are now in the process of carefully reviewing and collating all feedback to ensure that the decisions made reflect the needs of our community. Further information regarding the trial will be shared with parents, students, and staff during the upcoming school holidays.

Term 4 Staffing

In Term 4 Krystal Skelin will return from parental leave to take her position as Deputy Principal – Teaching and Learning. I thank Jaimee Dawson who has been in this role during this time. I also thank Libby Di Masi who has been Acting Head of Vocational Education and Training.

We also welcome back the following staff from long service leave:

• Marcus Allen
• Chris Callus
• Shane Carter
• Stephanie Lane.

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop will be closed over the school break and will reopen for Week 1. Please note some uniform item prices have changed, you can refer to the updated pricelist here.

During Term 4, the Uniform Shop will be closing from 2.00pm on Tuesdays for the incoming Year 7 cohort fittings. We thank you for your understanding.

Term 4 Dates

Please note the following important dates for Term 4:

• Year 11 last day of classes – Wednesday, 5 November
  • Exams or optional work placement commence Friday, 7 November 
• Year 10 last day of classes – Thursday, 13 November
  • Exams or workplace learning from Monday, 17 November – Friday, 21 November
• College Awards Night – Thursday, 27 November
• Term 4 concludes for the rest of the College – Tuesday, 2 December

2026 Key Dates

To view all Key College Dates, please click here.

As we approach the Term 3 break, I wish our entire community a restful and refreshing holiday. Best of luck to our senior students as they prepare for exams, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4.

Ian Elder
Principal