Dear Saint Ignatius College Geelong community members,

Congratulations and thank you to the 2022 PFA officeholders

At the recent AGM, the current President, Leanne Riley and Secretary, Nicole Sadler were reappointed to the position they held in 2021. On behalf of our College community, I express my gratitude to Leanne and Nicole for their generous ongoing commitment to our College. 

The position of Treasurer was unfortunately not filled. On behalf of the PFA, I ask parents to please consider nominating for this position. You can either nominate or ask questions about this position by sending an email message to sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au

Farewell to the Class of 2021

With the further easing of restrictions looking likely according to media reports, we are looking forward to celebrating the graduation of the Class of 2021 with parents and carers and families at the Year 12 Valete Mass and Graduation to be held at the College on November 25th, 2021.

Students are expected to arrive at the College’s Multi-Purpose Centre at 4.15 pm in readiness to be issued a graduation gown. Parents and carers are to arrive shortly after that to allow adequate time for QR Check-In and double vaccination status check. COVID Marshalls will be on-site to assist with this process. In keeping with the formality of this occasion, dress for all attendees will be formal attire.

A letter with more details, including information about how to book a seat, has been sent via email to Yr 12 parents, carers and students.

Building program update

The move into the new Loyola Centre will hopefully commence in early December.

Following this move, the current administration centre will be decommissioned, dismantled and relocated to prepare for the new senior school building site. We hope to commence construction of the MacKillop Senior Centre in late term one next year.

Some other updates

The MACS annual school community surveys have just been completed. The results will inform the implementation of our school improvement plan. Thank you to all community members able to complete the online survey. Your feedback is appreciated.

We conducted an Indigenous Recognition Day on Thursday, 4 November, which involved the students in various awareness-raising activities. Well done to our student social justice group members who organised this day.

Last week, the Year 9 “Journey” class students participated in a very successful day pilgrimage that involved walking along the rail trail to Queenscliff with short liturgies conducted along the way. Well done to all involved.

I am delighted to inform you that the College production of “Wicked" that we had to postpone from August, will go ahead, subject to government restrictions at the time, on December 9 & 10 at 7:30 pm at Costa Hall, Deakin Waterfront, Geelong. Visit the College Facebook page for the link to purchase tickets. This show will be a great way to finish the school year.

Equal opportunity laws – standing up for religious freedom

The Acting Executive Director of Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS), Dr Paul Sharkey, has asked principals to share Archbishop Peter’s letter to Victorian members of parliament and the Standing up for religious freedom factsheet with their school staff and families.

Archbishop Peter Comensoli’s letter and the factsheet outline the Archdiocese of Melbourne’s position on the changes to the Equal Opportunity Act. The Standing up for religious freedom factsheet also includes actions that members of Catholic communities can take to stand up for our religious freedom.

Dr Sharkey further explains the following about MACS’ position in regards to this issue.

In coming weeks, the Victorian Parliament will vote on legislation that will affect religious freedom and the independence, integrity and ethos of Catholic agencies and organisations, including schools.

Under current laws, Catholic organisations – along with other Christian, Jewish, Islamic and all faith-based educational establishments – have the right to choose to hire employees who are dedicated to upholding their religious identity.

The proposed Equal Opportunity (Religious Exceptions) Amendment Bill 2021 will seriously diminish the rights of religious organisations to manage their activities according to their faith and conscience.

The Bill puts forward measures that replace the current, well-working approach, which will mean Catholic organisations have to prove that staffing positions have an ‘inherent’ religious requirement if challenged.

The introduction of an inherent religious requirement test is an intrusion by the state government into how and why a religious organisation conducts itself.

As an example, the changes will mean that Catholic schools could be forced to hire individuals actively at odds with the teachings that underpin Catholic education and the unique ethos of Catholic schools, or face legal penalties. This poses a clear threat to the integrity of our schools by severely undermining the faith and values-based education they currently provide.

In addition to weakening the unique values and character of Catholic schools that make them so attractive to parents and students alike, the Bill also represents an attack on freedom of religion in general.

Catholics run service organisations ranging from schools to aged care and hospitals, and provide social support to people in need across the community. Suddenly, the government is determined to tell them whether or not religious identity should be a factor in managing employment matters.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne is working with its agencies in asking the state government to reconsider the Bill and abandon the proposal to introduce an inherent requirement test. Catholic school communities need to play their part in this debate.

Best wishes,

Michael Exton  Principal

Exams are done! Except for the celebratory events over the coming weeks the journey of secondary schooling has ended for our Year 12 students. So much is about the change for our students. Initially the end of daily attendance, coursework, bells and uniform requirements will be a dramatic change in the life of our senior students. As they work out what to do with the freedom and time that is made available the waiting for exam results, TAFE placements or job offers incrementally increases the tension that the end of school produces begins. Everything is possible but waiting for the new beginnings requires patience and gratitude.

Waiting can be a challenge. Our modern lives are centered upon instant gratification. Everything is available all of the time. We have been conditioned to respond to immediate outcomes. Waiting is something to be overcome. If the online shop can’t deliver tomorrow Google another that can. Snail mail is for Christmas cards and bills, express post or better yet email, is the way to go. When a significant event occurs we broadcast it to our family and friends via our socials. What better way to get ahead of others sharing your big news than posting it to everyone you know instantly?

By the time I write the next newsletter article we will be in the season of Advent. I have noticed evidence of Christmas in our supermarket for a few weeks now and over the weekend was excited to see the full roll out of Christmas everything – decorations, Cadbury elves, mince tarts and tinsel galore. I love it! I cannot wait for Christmas. There is so much joy on Christmas Day. It makes me want the school year to end and go to sleep and wake up on the 25th of December! We all do and that is part of the problem. We want so badly to arrive at the destination we forget that the journey is equally as important. If we wish away the weeks before Christmas, we find we also find that wish away Christmas Day itself; I just can’t wait for lunch…

Patience is not simply a virtue, it is a skill. Being patient requires practice and attention. It’s easy to be distracted or look for the short cut but some things are worth waiting for. In fact, the waiting is in some cases the outcome!

In exploring this thought I note the Year 9 Journey ‘pilgrimage’ that was held last week, where our students walked a significant length of the Bellarine Rail Trail punctuated by a number of short liturgies. The experience for the students was centred upon enjoying the journey and what was encountered along the way. The final destination was afternoon homeroom and obviously of itself not the goal of the day. To get the most out of the day the students needed to be observant, engage with others, and enter into the significant moments that others prepared and presented. Being patient and enjoying the journey was the goal of the experience.

We could have walked much faster, had air pods in our ears or focussed on all that was missed on the day and how much work we now need to catch up on. If we did that we would have missed those moments of beauty and encounter. We would have missed the perfection of creation as we walked along. We would have missed the two wedge tailed eagles flying over the farmstead in Mannerim. We would have missed the beauty of the wind blowing through the long grass as the warm sun energised masses of butterflies. We would have missed the pod of dolphins swim by our third liturgy. We would have missed the moments of presence with others as we journey together. So much would have passed by unnoticed if we were focussed on the end of the journey.

The many moments of encounter occurred because of our patience and awareness of the present moment. Focussing on the present makes us aware of the importance of now. Now is all we have. Presence and encounter only happens in the moment we experience it. Being patient is an important aspect of being complete. When we bide our time we add value to every moment. Waiting is not wasting.

Being comfortable with waiting is something we can all develop. We are all busy. The easing of restrictions has thankfully occurred more swiftly than expected and therefore the adjustments required to accommodate these changes have added extra stress to our days. We are so keen to get ‘back to normal’ we run the risk of actually achieving that! Normal was not perfect and racing back to it will limit our experience of the future.

Take some time each day to sit back and observe. Remove distractions and enjoy whatever it is you experience. What do you notice that you would not otherwise? What do you encounter that you would not otherwise? How does being present become more a source of life for you and others when you take a moment or two to bide in that moment?

Once you are more comfortable with waiting extend this to your ‘normal life’. Focus on the present in ways you have not done before. Turn off the TV and be present with your loved ones during meals or for a period of time each day. Go for a walk simply to go for a walk. Pat your pets intentionally. Order something online and have it sent parcel post instead of express! Consider extending yourself and watching some slow TV on SBS. Over the next six weeks transform you experience of life. Practice patience and find the joy that is here in the present. You may find your ‘new normal’ is better and more fulfilling that what you were originally trying to pursue.

The past we hold as memories and the future is not ours to demand. Enjoy this moment. Even if others are not able to bide a while you can and that may be the encounter that transforms their life. Don’t undersell yourself; Jesus encountered and offered love to one person at a time. When people encountered Jesus time stopped. The moment is and was everything! Live your life like Jesus, be patient and enjoy the pure gift of time as you should – one moment at a time.

Yours in Christ,


Brendan Nicholls  Liturgy Coordinator

"Ite Inflammate Omnia” (Go forth, and set the world on Fire) - these words were used by Saint Ignatius to commission his Jesuits before sending them out to the far reaches of the world to explore, educate, share and guide.

These very words were echoed during our opening liturgy at the beginning of our Pilgrimage across the Bellarine - it placed an invitation before all of our pilgrims to be aware of the world around them, to inspire all and to invigorate change - not only during the physical pilgrimage, but beyond in the emotional, spiritual and mental pilgrimages to follow.

Our pilgrims were invited to explore and take in the beautiful country of the Wadawurrung Peoples, to understand their own innate connection to these lands and seas.

Our pilgrims also set out to expand their knowledge and wisdom in regards to their sense of self, sense of faith and of community.

Our pilgrims shared in prayer, reflection and contemplation, conversation and companionship, and even shared in their moments of rest and moments of energy.

Most importantly, our pilgrims set out to guide each other, whether it be through their example and inclusion, or even through the powerful liturgies constructed by each class group, each focused on a different element or source of inspiration.

With each footstep on our almost 10 kilometre journey, we inched closer and closer to our “end-point” - not so much the physical end point of jumping on the bus and returning home, but more so the “Spiritual Checkpoint” where we get to stop, turn around and take in the path behind us - observe all of the moments of joy and consolation, but also acknowledge the moments of challenge and desolation along the way.

"Last week we attended a pilgrimage to Queenscliff. We took these hours of walking to reflect and talk to one another about our journeys with God. We spent time with each other and grew our relationships not only with God but with our peers. At certain locations we took a couple minutes for a few students to stand up the front and share different stories and reflections" - Giselle and Jorja, Year 9 Journey

"During the lead-up to our Pilgrimage, I was consumed with excitement and was longing for this experience. At the resolution of this momentous embark I fulfilled my expectation and realised that by partaking in this journey, a hidden meaning arose, which was the concept that it's not about the voyage or the path you walk but rather the print you leave behind." - Jack, Year 9 Journey

"My experience from last Thursday was amazing with being able to talk to friends and also go on a faith journey. The walk was fun and good to talk and be with faith at the same time." - Luke, Year 9 Journey

"I really liked the pilgrimage we went on, I enjoyed where we walked because of the scenery and enjoyed spending time with mates and I liked all the different liturgies that were told." - Harry, Year 9 Journey

Our hope is that our Pilgrims will not hang up the boots yet - that this is only the first step in a lifelong journey of awareness and presence, of inspiration and invigoration, and of world-changing fire-starting in the lives and hearts of others.

Jarryd Atkinson and the Year 9 Journey Team

This Semester, as a part of Work Related Skills, the Year 11 VCAL students have been making products to donate to the Drysdale Food Bank.

Items have included homemade wooden puzzles, baked goods such as cookies, chocolate slices, cupcakes and truffles. We have also made pencil cases filled with female hygienic products and toys / stationery products.

Some of the students also made tables out of recycled materials donated to the school, a couple of dog kennels and we’ve also grown herbs and spices in recycled jam jars.

Each week approximately 80 family access the services at the Drysdale Food Bank and this number has grown since COVID. Today we donated about 200 items and Jake the organiser at the Food Bank said “Wow, our clients will think that Christmas has come early!"

We feel like a valuable part of the community as we have been able to help those people who need assistance.

Isobelle Salisbury

The College production for 2021 is 'Wicked' - the untold story of the witches of Oz.

Tickets are now available for the rescheduled dates of December 9th and 10th. Both performances will be at 7:30pm.

All booking can be made through Geelong Art Centre at https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/all-events/saint-ignatius-college-geelong-presents-wicked/

For booking details and COVID information please see the Geelong Arts Centre website.

Please note Geelong Arts Centre’s ‘refunds due to event cancellation policy’:
"If refunds are issued due to COVID restrictions or cancellations etc a full refund is given to the patron inclusive of booking fees and transaction fee’s charged at the time of booking. We would email all ticket holders with information about refunds etc should this occur."

Also note that Geelong Arts Centre manages the ticketing site. If you have any technical difficulties, you will need to contact them directly.

Marine Brown  Learning Area Leader: Performing Arts

Students in Years 7 to 9 were invited to participate in The University of Melbourne Mathematics and Statistics Competition. 

They selected one of eight questions to work on, either individually or in a team of up to 3 people. Once they finished their research, they presented their findings in a written report.

The questions varied in their level of difficulty and context. Students investigated varied situations including modelling disease spread, patterns in coordinates and life cycles of insects.

The participants were:

Thomas Galan, Fin Hanley and James Grabowsky (9 Arrupe), Owen McCoughtry (7 Lewis), Curtis McCoughtry and Erin Robertson (9 Thomas), Alana Clark (9 Bandler), Will Hanley (9 Regis), Drew Magtaka and Stephanie Reynolds (8 Campion), Will Devine (7 Borgia), Max Creati (7 Licona), Ryan Thompson and Riley Peters (7 Carroll), Ryan Merriman (8 Realino) and Olivia Richardson (8 Aikenhead).

Brothers, Owen and Curtis McCoughtry tackled the following scenario;

‘A freight truck driver Alice has an electric truck. Each month she drives from Adelaide to Cairns via Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. She wants to install a solar panel on the roof of her truck to recharge the battery as she drives. The solar panel is square, and will be mounted facing directly forward at an angle θ from horizontal. The power received by the solar panel depends on the angle that the sun makes to the solar panel. What angle θ should she mount the solar panel to collect the most solar energy over her year’s trips from Adelaide to Cairns?’

Their high quality and in depth submission was awarded a ‘high commendation’ in a very competitive field. Congratulations to Curtis, Owen and all students who worked so hard on their chosen investigation.

Karen Perkins Learning Enhancement Coordinator

Congratulations to all students appointed to leadership positions for 2022. 

I would like to thank all (staff and current student leaders) who helped with the process of appointment, students who made an application and to those in the College community who encouraged students to apply.

Student Leader Conference

2022 student leaders will gather on Monday, 6th December for the annual student leadership conference. Our focus, on this day, is more on what we will be rather than what we will do.

The outgoing Year 12 student leaders ought to be commended on their contribution to the College. They have been instrumental in building a culture of selfless leadership for and with others in particularly unique and difficult circumstances.

Anthony Gravener  Student Leadership Development Coordinator

Farewell to Teresa Duddy

At the end of last term, we sadly said farewell to Ms Teressa Duddy.

Teressa was a very popular teacher who took over the role of Year 7 Music Coordinator and Year 9 music from Mrs Marrie. It was difficult to see Teressa leave but it was certainly for a very good reason. A few weeks ago, Teressa and her partner, Sam, welcomed a beautiful baby boy into their family. Sidney is the new baby brother of Teddy and we congratulate Teressa, Sam and Teddy on their new arrival.

Year 12 Farewell

As always, it was emotional to farewell the Year 12 music class.

The assembly was held online and we were treated to a couple of musical acts which demonstrated the incredible talent of the Year 12 music students.

Congratulations to these students and to Mrs Brown, their music teacher, who I am sure was very proud.

Magis Men Video

On the last day for Year 12, The Magis Men treated the college to a comical but informative video of the story of Saint Ignatius.

Thank you so much to these fine gentlemen who gave up their time and trusted the director (most of the time) during recording and filming! Thanks also to Mr Lewis who was the talented guest star.

See The Magis Men: “The Saint who we won’t forget” visit: https://vimeo.com/633577868/49a0542fae

Indigenous Day: Lily Petterwood

Thank you to our Performing Arts Captain for 2022, Lily Petterwood, who sang beautifully during the lunch hour at the Indigenous Day festivities. Lily sang “Took the children away” by Archie Roach.

Ensembles are back!

Students have returned to the world of bands and choir at Saint Ignatius College.

Thanks to our dedicated staff, the Choir, Honours, Junior, Intermediate, Stage and Senior bands are back rehearsing during the lunch hours and before school.

Students interested in joining an ensemble, please see me or any of the ensemble leaders to have a chat.

Music Concerts Years 9,10, and 11

Last week, the music students from Years 9,10 and 11 performed their works for Semester two. Due to restrictions, the concerts were held in The Potato Shed and the students performed to each other.

The concerts were videoed and will be available online for parents to see. Mr Wilding and I were very proud of our students and were even slightly surprised at how well they all performed, considering the difficult year they had all experienced.

'Last Thursday on the 11th of November, the Year 10’s had our first concert of 2021; we performed a multitude of solos and group acts. We were all very excited to be involved in a musical performance for the first time in 2 years. It was another exciting experience that Saint Ignatius College provided for us and we offer great thanks to The Potato sShed for allowing us an amazing venue and setup, so we could make the most of our final music performance of year 10.'

Lily Petterwood Year 10

'Last week on Thursday, the Year 10 music class had their final music performance at The Potato Shed. The first performance for a long time, for the vast majority of the students. Everyone was beyond excited and nervous. The ten performances ranged from emotional solos to exhilarating guitar duos and a fresh girl band. Personally, performing in our band, '505' the song 'Cloud 9' by Beach Bunny, it felt so amazing to be out on the stage again and in front of an audience. We hope to see many more of these fantastic opportunities in the coming years.'

Ella Beasley Year 10

Michael Wilding

We are delighted to welcome a new staff member, Mr Michael Wilding, who is taking on the position of Year 7 Music Coordinator and teaching Year 9 music. Mr Wilding is also taking the baton for The Intermediate Band and also the Honours band. Michael has arrived from St Joseph’s College and we are delighted to have him on our team.

Instrumental Music Lessons

It is fabulous to hear the sounds of music coming from the instrumental rooms in the Performing Arts area. Instrumental Music lessons are now back and to hear scales and exercises being executed is more than magic.

Students wishing to continue or take up individual lessons both in music and public speaking, must complete the Operoo form which was sent out to all parents last week.

Combined Bands Twilight Concert

On Tuesday November 30th, we invite parents and friends to the Performing Arts area to a short but entertaining Twilight Concert on the Green.

5pm-5.30pm. Students from the college bands will rehearse after school, have a meal and then play a couple of pieces each to their parents and friends at 5pm.

Entry is free but please bring proof of vaccination.

Looking forward to seeing you at our next performance. It will be Wicked!

Yours musically, 

Linda Pape Performance & Instrumental Coordinator.

We would like to congratulate Emily Green on being chosen as the recipient of the 2021 Deakin Young Influencer Award. This award is open to all Year 11 students and Emily was selected as Saint Ignatius College’s winner, which is an incredible achievement.

The Deakin Young Influencer Award recognises excellence and celebrates students who are truly motivated to make a positive difference in the world - now and into the future. Deakin believes strongly in acknowledging outstanding students, who stand for the same values that we do. The University has rewarded Emily’s efforts and achievements with a $5000 scholarship to support their first year of study at Deakin University in 2023.

Emily’s willingness to assist shines through in her leadership within her school and sporting communities. Her eagerness to always strive to help and assist others is commendable. Her strong sense of community showcases her empathy, understanding and passion to make our society a better place.

Congratulations Emily, we wish you all the best and can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.

Alex Simpson (Smith) Year 11 Coordinator

‘On demand’ is an online resource developed by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA). The pool of questions reflects the standards in the Victorian Curriculum. The data, along with teacher judgements assists in forward planning of teaching programs and monitors growth across the year.

As a follow up to Term 1 ‘On Demand’ testing, the end of year test is to be undertaken by Years 7-9 students in Mathematics and English in weeks 7, 8 and 9 of Term 4.

Karen Perkins  Learning Enhancement Coordinator

2022 College Fees Raffle

Can you believe it is that time of year again? Our annual college fees raffle is about to go live and is bigger and better than ever. Tickets are limited so get in early to avoid disappointment. The link to the raffle will be emailed to all families. Thank you for supporting this wonderful fundraiser.

Support our School Through Rebel Community Givebacks

Do you shop at Rebel Sport? You can support our school every time you shop by linking your Rebel Active Membership to our school. 5% of what you spend is given to PFA to purchase sporting equipment for our school. If you’re not a member it’s free to join either online or ask a team member in store.

Entertainment Book

Yes we are still selling the Entertainment Book however it now is digital and is valid for 12 months from date of purchase. If you would like to purchase an Entertainment Book please email us at sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au.

Become part of the Parents and Friends’ Association

We are still searching for a new Treasurer, unfortunately there was no nomination at our AGM. We would like to invite you to consider nominating for this role and be part of our wonderful team.

Our next meeting will be held on Tuesday January 8th at 7.00pm. Hopefully we will be able to meet on site but will let you know closer to the date. We look forward to seeing you there. Even if you cannot make it to the monthly meetings, but think you might be able to be on call to help at the different things we are involved in, please get in touch with us by emailing sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au

The Uniform Shop

Uniform Shop Opening Days and Times are as follows:

Wednesday 1st December 2-4pm

The above dates are dependant on current visitor restrictions within catholic schools. Please check the Saint Ignatius College's Facebook/Instagram pages for updates regarding open days and times. Email the uniform shop at uniformshop@ignatius.vic.edu.au if you have any questions.

Do you know the Uniform Shop also sells brand new socks, ties and hats?

Items to be sold or donated can be dropped off on any of the above days or anytime at the front office.

Please ensure any item that is sent in for sale has been freshly laundered, if not it will be returned to you.

We are always seeking Volunteers to help in the uniform shop. If you are available and have time to help out contact Kate by emailing uniformshop@ignatius.vic.edu.au . Training is provided.

The College canteen menu uses the 'traffic light system' to inform students, staff and parents of the College the healthier choices available at the College canteen (See 'Healthy Food @ School Guidelines' in our 'College Policies and Procedures' section for full details).

Canteen Duty for Parents

Canteen duty provides a much appreciated service to the school. It gives you the opportunity to meet and talk with other parents and also enables you to see your child’s school in action.

Five helpers are needed each day. Helpers will need to be at the canteen by 9:00am and will generally be finished by 1:30pm. If you can only be there part of the day, your help is greatly appreciated.

If you are able to assist, please contact Sandra Woodall at the College on 5251 1136.

Canteen Roster

Week starting November 22nd 2021

22nd Nov: N. Elliston, L. Hart
23rd Nov: C. Hughes, K. Allchin
24th Nov: L. Vella
25th Nov: Needed, Needed
26th Nov: S. Nyga, E. Stokie

Week starting November 29th 2021

29th Nov: E. Carpenter, K. Nailon, B. Brinfield
30th Nov: S. Fleet, K. James, S. Peters
1st Dec: C. Holland, L. Vella
2nd Dec: M. White, Needed
3rd Dec: S. Nyga, Needed, Needed

Turn your anger around without yelling

Weʼve all had those days. You know the ones… the days where your child has refused to get ready for school, thrown food at their brother and is in a right mood. Your teenager slams the door when you ask them to clean up their bedroom. You ask and ask again. And again. And the kids just wonʼt listen. That, or if they listen, they wonʼt do as theyʼre told!

When days like this happen – and they do – you can get so angry that you lash out only to regret your actions later on. With smacking now widely regarded as less acceptable, the lashing out often takes the form of yelling. Itʼs probably fair to say that yelling is the new smacking.

Yelling is harmful

Researchers believe that yelling at kids can be just as bad as smacking. Yelling has also been linked to lower self-esteem in children and young people. Children who are raised in a home where yelling is common have a higher risk of developing psychological issues. When parents use yelling as a discipline measure, kids have an increased risk of developing behavioural problems, anxiety, stress and depression.

Understand, donʼt reprimand

When your kids are really getting under your skin, instead of getting furious, be curious. You need to connect before you correct. Children donʼt wake up in the morning and think, ʻHow can I make life horrible for my parents?ʼ They might be having a hard time. Work out what needs arenʼt being met and help meet them.

Use humour

Humour is one of the best ways to take away anger and reduce stress. A good friend of mine was teaching his daughter to drive. The whole family was in the car while the daughter was driving when she missed a corner and ended up crashing into a petrol station sign. My friend looked at his daughter and at his family and said, “Well, while weʼre here, does anyone need to use the bathroom?” By using humour, my friend released the tension in the situation. Then they could calmly talk about what had happened and how to resolve it. What a wonderful way to turn away from anger!

Stay calm and kind

Self-talk is now recognised as a great way to regulate your emotions and change your behaviour. When youʼre starting to get upset thereʼs a mantra that you can use: ʻIʼm going to be calm and kind.ʼ When you repeat this phrase, it reminds you of what you want, and helps you to better regulate your own emotions. Calmness is something of a superpower that can have have such a positive impact on those around you.

Create psychological distance

All parents seem to have just a bit more patience with someone elseʼs child or young person. Pretend that youʼre ʻa favourite aunt who rarely never gets cranky at the kids. She always finds a way to be kind, even with the challenging child or teenager. If that doesnʼt work for you, pretend your child is a neighbourʼs kid!

In closing

Yelling turns children and young people away. Speak softly. Speaking softly forces them to listen closely, and it make everyone feel better.

Most parents hate yelling (as do their kids). When you are calm and kind, and look to understand, not reprimand, you will be able to keep anger and yelling out of your home. Thatʼs better for your kids and for you.

Michael Grose

Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s an award-winning speaker and the author of 12 books for parents including Spoonfed Generation, and the bestselling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It . Michael is a former teacher with 15 years experience, and has 30 years experience in parenting education. He also holds a Master of Educational Studies from Monash University specialising in parenting education.

Local Community and Sporting groups you may be interested in.

Local Sports Contacts

Attached is a comprehensive PDF document that lists a wide range of current contacts for different sport clubs in our region in 2021-2022. The ones that I have spoken to are very keen to hear from any Saint Ignatius student wishing to be involved in local sport teams this summer.

Ocean Grove Cricket Club: Cricketers Wanted!

Ocean Grove Cricket Club is looking for boys and girls (and men and women) interested in playing local cricket.

Any Age, Any Gender, Any Ability

We have 4 teams in Senior Mens, 2 Senior Womens teams, Under 17, 15 and 13 Junior Boys teams, 2 Girls Junior Cricket teams, Mixed under 11 teams and Woolworths Blast Program for mixed youngsters 5-8 years old

We love a social atmosphere but we are also a competitive and family orientated local Cricket Club

If interested contact Paul Madden – 0400 912 167 or email maddenpaul59@gmail.com

Parent Education Events - Geelong Region: Term 4 2021

All Regional Parenting Services programs are free and will be offered face to face or online via Zoom, however, bookings are essential.

To book visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au/parenting or call us on 5272 4781.

There are a number of events planned for Term 4. Please see attached flyer for details: