This term has been filled with meaningful learning, exciting opportunities, and a strong sense of connection across our school.
One of the highlights was the Aspire9 Camp, where our Year 9 students challenged themselves, built new friendships, and grew as leaders. Their positive attitude and willingness to step outside their comfort zones made the experience truly rewarding.
Remembrance Day
We also came together as a school community to commemorate Remembrance Day. Our ceremony was a respectful and heartfelt tribute, and we are proud of the students who contributed through readings, music, and the laying of wreaths. We are extremely grateful to the RSL Rosebud Branch for their generosity in providing 2026 scholarships to John Goss, Ruby Medcraft, Max Thompson and Zulai Shaw.
"When we arrived at the RSL we found the other Padua students. Due to the rainy weather we the made our way to a function room for the service. Poems and prayers related to Remembrance Day were read out. were read out. The last post was also played and we held a minute of silence. After this they called up different schools, groups and clubs to lay wreaths on the stage and receive our scholarship certificates. Following the event we were supplied with lunch, being sandwiches, sausage rolls and party pies. We took some photos with Mr Helisma and parents and then arrived back at school ready for period 4."
John Goss, Year 7 Anthony
Music Showcase
Another standout event was our Music Showcase, on 13 November, which celebrated the talent and dedication of our young musicians. The performances were a wonderful reminder of the creativity within our school and the hard work happening in our arts programs.
"The Showcase was a brilliant opportunity to display Padua’s musical talents. There were many different genres performed ranging from heavy metal to more harmonious classics. With over 20 Rosebud students from all year levels it was a great way for us to connect through music. The audience were starstruck after witnessing the sheer talent of the Rosebud and Tyabb students. A special thanks to Mrs Wilkinson and Ms Clough for leading the performances and also the many other teachers involved on the night."
Cy Pimlott, Year 9 McAuley & Renee Bradler, Year 9 Goold
"A few weeks ago, I was involved in the Padua Showcase at the Mornington Campus. I played the trumpet in the Rosebud Junior Band and the Rosebud Concert Band. At the start I was a bit nervous and scared but as I started playing all of the worry went away. So overall I oved the experience and enjoyed playing to a crowd. I feel that I played well which was a result of the many hours of practice leading up to the event. Although I did not have a lead role in the band, I felt as though I did my part playing along with everyone else to make the piece flow. I really enjoyed it and like playing the trumpet as I think it is a great instrument."
Charles Eagle, Year 8 McAuley
Athletics Tour Of New Zealand
Congratulations to Ruby Carroll (Year 8 Anthony) who has been selected to represent Little Athletics Victoria on the New Zealand Development Tour in January 2026.
The tour will depart Melbourne for New Zealand on Wednesday 7th January 2026 and return on Wednesday 14th January 2026. During this time Ruby will represent LA Victoria and compete in the North Island “Colgate Games” in Tauranga New Zealand. The Colgate Games are the biggest annual athletics event in New Zealand for junior athletes. Ruby was one of 36 athletes selected, 18 boys and 18 girls and will be accompanied by a management team of 6. Ruby will travel and stay with the team for the week. This will be an amazing experience for Ruby to represent Victoria but also to be part of a team, travelling (without her parents for a week) and competing overseas.
I caught up with Ruby to find out a bit more about her journey in the world of athletics.
What is your favourite event?
Ruby: 100m and 200m
Were you the fastest female runner at this year’s Rosebud Athletics carnival?
Ruby: Yes, that is correct
How long have you been running?
Ruby: For as long as I can remember. I was a keen runner in prep and have been in the Southern Peninsula Athletics club since I was 7.
How were you selected for the Colgate Games?
Ruby: I submitted my results from various events, and I was fortunate be selected.
How do you feel travelling without your parents?
Ruby: I know some of the other girls going so I am sure I will be OK.
Good luck Ruby!
Thank You
Thank you once again to everyone who played a part in making this term so successful. We look forward to the excitement, challenges, and opportunities that await us next year.
On a personal note, as I (Phil) approach retirement, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of my educational journey. To the students, thank you for your energy, curiosity, and the joy you bring to learning each day. To the teachers and teams I have been privileged to work with, your dedication and teamwork have been a constant source of inspiration. And to the parents, thank you for your support and partnership that have been instrumental in building our Padua community. I am deeply grateful for all the encouragement and kindness I’ve received over the years.
God Bless
