Dear Parents/Guardians, Students, Staff and Friends of OLSH College,

Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College is a proud member of the International Coalition of Girls Schools (ICGS), a global network of over 580 girls’ schools, providing world-class research, professional learning, student programs, and leadership opportunities that champion the limitless potential of girls and young women. Through collaboration with other leading girls’ schools, the ICGS provides access to research, professional learning, advocacy, and student opportunities that inspire girls and young women to lead with confidence, courage, and purpose.

Yesterday afternoon, OLSH College hosted the SA Branch ICGS student event Unstoppable Girls: Dream Big, Girls who Dream Big Change the World. The event drew an outstanding attendance, with 11 South Australian girls' schools represented and over 200 attendees. This strong level of engagement reflected the unity and shared purpose of our South Australian girls’ school community, together amplifying our collective impact. It was a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to championing girls’ education and our collective passion for advocating for opportunities, advancement, leadership, and the flourishing of girls and young women. Together, we are shaping confident, capable leaders who will make a meaningful contribution to the future.

The event was made particularly special with our guest speaker, Dr Katherine Bennell-Pegg, the 2026 Australian of the Year, the first Australian woman to be trained as an astronaut and represent Australia. Katherine’s remarkable journey spans global space exploration, engineering innovation, and leadership at the Australian Space Agency. Her story is one of determination, curiosity, and ambition—and she’s passionate about inspiring young women to dream big.

“Have the confidence to dream big… whatever your dream may be.”

The event truly brought to life the powerful belief that “You can’t be what you can’t see.” Dr Katherine Bennell - Pegg shared her stories, insights, and experiences serving as tangible examples of what is possible. Her presence not only inspired students but reinforced the critical role that representation plays in broadening horizons, raising aspirations, and empowering young women to pursue their dreams with confidence and purpose.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr Katherine Bennell-Pegg and the support staff from Australian Space Agency for accepting our invitation. The presentation was powerful. As a trailblazer and an inspiring woman, Katherine showed us time and again, "You can't be what you can't see."

We are also incredibly grateful for the endorsement and support of State Member for Enfield Laurence Ben MP.

We acknowledge and congratulate our 2026 Student Leaders for their contributions to the event. With confidence and poise, they took on ambassadorial roles, engaging our guest speaker and visitors. They brought energy and insight to the Q&A, helping to create a warm and inspiring atmosphere for all in attendance. Our students demonstrated the leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills we strive to nurture in all girls. They were exceptional representatives of our girls’ school community, and we are incredibly proud of the way they embraced the opportunity.

Maria Urbano
Principal

At OLSH College, empowering young women to believe in themselves, find their voice, and lead with confidence is at the heart of what we do. One of the aims of our co-curricular group, Tour Guides Off Campus (more affectionately known as OC), is to develop students' confidence, communication, and leadership skills through engaging and often challenging experiences.

At last week's lunchtime meeting, the girls stepped well outside their comfort zones as we explored the concept of Girl Power and the important role it plays in uplifting one another and building self-belief. We discussed how confidence is not something reserved for a select few, but a skill that can be nurtured, practised, and strengthened.

The session challenged students to experiment with "power poses" and reflect on how something as simple as body language can influence how we feel about ourselves. Through positive self-talk and adopting confident postures, the girls discovered that even when fear and self-doubt are present, our mindset can shift when we choose to act with confidence.

The girls then took part in a fun and challenging activity where they practised their "elevator pitches" with students they had never spoken to before. The goal was to introduce themselves and leave a positive impression in under a minute. While initially daunting, the activity quickly became a source of laughter, connection, and newfound confidence.

The lunchtime gathering was certainly one of a different kind, filled with laughter, encouragement, and meaningful conversations. Most importantly, it reminded our students that confidence is not about never feeling nervous. It is about backing yourself, supporting others, and having the courage to step forward anyway. Through the power of Girl Power, our OC students continue to grow as confident communicators, courageous leaders, and empowered young women ready to make their mark on the world.

"During this session, I learnt about the importance of being confident, independent, and willing to step out of our comfort zones. Girl Power means confidence, kindness, resilience, and empowering girls to reach their full potential. We also learnt about being an interactive OLSHie by having small conversations with different people to get to know everyone and build positive relationships within our school community." - Estelle (8 Malala)

"The key message of this meeting was that confidence is not just from inside; confidence is also what is outside. How you present yourself to others is called confidence. It is not always about being ready, prepared, and not scared or nervous." - Chelvi (7 Frank)

"I loved today! I learnt that even the most 'confident-looking' leaders may feel embarrassed or intimidated despite their experience or expertise. This was really reassuring as a leader myself, as I also feel those moments of nervousness. Be brave, be confident, and be bold. No one can see what you feel on the inside. By changing your physical state through open shoulders, head up, and a proud stance, it becomes so much easier to overcome nerves and be a confident person." - Cleo (12 Preston)

"Girl power means having the confidence, strength, and independence as a woman. It helps build self-confidence and empowers girls to make their own choices, lead in their own way, and succeed with power." - Sonia (Acting Deputy Principal)

Sonia Venour
Acting Deputy Principal

In the Term 2 holidays, I was lucky enough to make a pilgrimage to Issouden in France, where our OLSH story begins.

For the Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Issoudun is far more than a place on a map, it is the birthplace of a charism grounded in love, mission, and trust in God’s providence.

It was here that Fr Jules Chevalier, moved by the social and spiritual needs of post-revolutionary France, founded the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC) in 1854. Fr Chevalier’s vision was simple yet profound: to make known the love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, especially to those most in need. He believed that the heart of Christ was the remedy for a world marked by indifference and suffering, a message that remains deeply relevant today.

Soon after, Marie Louise Hartzer responded to this call by founding the Daughters of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart (FDNSC) in 1874. Inspired by Fr Chevalier’s vision, Hartzer and her companions embraced a life of service, education, and missionary outreach, placing their trust in Mary, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, as their guide.

Issoudun holds particular significance because it is home to key sites that tell this story. It was so rewarding to see these places that I had read about in our rich history. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart stands as a spiritual centre, symbolising the deep devotion to Mary that underpins the charism. The original convent and early mission houses remind us of the humble beginnings of the sisters, whose courage and faith enabled their mission to spread across the world, including to Australia.

For our school, this heritage is not simply history. Overtime, it has manifested into a living tradition. I was reminded again, of just how important it is to keep re-telling the story, because something special took place in this town. The spirit of Issoudun calls us to be people of heart: compassionate and committed to making a difference. As we continue to educate young people in this tradition, we are invited to carry forward the legacy of Fr Chevalier and Marie Louise Hartzer bringing the love of the Sacred Heart into our classrooms, school celebrations, staff events and our wider community.

"May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be everywhere loved. Forever!"

Damian Creazzo
Deputy Principal - Religious Identity & Mission

Last week, we welcomed students and families to the annual OLSH Subject and Careers Expo to become well informed for the upcoming subject selection process. It was wonderful to see so many students armed with well considered questions, discussing subjects with teachers and listening to industry experts about potential careers, while families attended information sessions to equip themselves with knowledge of the SACE process and how best to support their daughters.

Robyn Clifford
Leader of Teaching and Learning

At Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, we strongly believe that the success of every girl is best achieved when families and teachers work together in partnership. When parents, guardians, students, and staff share a common understanding of learning goals and expectations, students are better supported to grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Two key ways we actively engage parents and guardians as partners in their daughter’s learning journey are through Year 7–9 Folio Interviews and Learning Conversations. These events are distinct but complementary processes and should not replace one another.

· Folio Days (Years 7–9) are student-led conversations. Your daughter will have the opportunity to reflect on her learning style, growth as a learner, and the support she needs moving forward. These conversations empower every girl to take ownership of her learning and develop confidence in articulating personal progress and goals.

· Learning Conversations provide families with subject-specific feedback and detailed information about progress directly from subject teachers. These conversations are an important opportunity to clarify expectations, celebrate successes, and identify next steps in learning. While all girls are encouraged to attend these appointments with a parent or guardian, the appointments are generally teacher led.

We strongly encourage all parents and guardians to engage in both of these important processes, as together they provide a well-rounded picture of your daughter’s learning and development. Students are also strongly encouraged to attend Parent–Teacher Learning Conversations with a parent or guardian. Ultimately, it is the student who implements the feedback provided, making their involvement essential to ensuring learning conversations have a meaningful impact.

As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, the College continues to explore ways to better meet the changing needs of families. We recognise that many families face competing demands, and that finding time to attend the College in person can sometimes be challenging.

To support greater flexibility, in 2026 we are trialling a new system for Parent–Teacher Learning Conversations. They will be held on the following dates in Term 3:

· Online Interviews via Microsoft TEAMS (via SchoolCloud)
Wednesday 19 August, 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Teachers will connect with parents/guardians and students online.

· Face-to-face interviews
Tuesday 18 August, 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm held in the OLSH College Hall.

We appreciate your ongoing engagement and partnership as we work together to support the learning, wellbeing, and success of every girl.

Robyn Clifford
Leader of Teaching and Learning

During Week 1 this term, the 2026 Student Leadership Team launched the Authentic Leadership Program to kick-start the 2027 student leadership application process for Year 10 and 11 students.

The program, run by Cleo and myself, explored what authentic leadership really means, what leadership looks like at OLSH College, and personal experiences from our current Student Leadership Team. We also guided students through the leadership application process, providing practical advice and answering common questions.

This initiative was introduced as part of the 2026 Student Leadership Team's legacy: to foster a diverse, confident, and connected community where girls are encouraged to lead and make a meaningful contribution to college life. We hope that by hearing from familiar faces and learning about our own leadership journeys, students will feel empowered to step outside their comfort zones and apply for the leadership role that genuinely inspires them.

Running this program was a rewarding experience for both Cleo and me. It gave us the opportunity to reflect on our own experiences while encouraging the next generation of leaders to recognise that authentic leadership isn't about fitting a mould, it's about embracing who you are. Every leader brings different strengths, perspectives, and experiences, and those differences are what make a leadership team stronger.

If you're considering applying for a leadership position next year, our advice is simple: go for it. Putting yourself out there can feel daunting, but you'll never know what you're capable of unless you take the chance. As Lebron James says, "You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." Some of the best opportunities begin with a single decision to give something a go.

Most importantly, remember that authentic leadership isn't about becoming the person you think the panel wants to see. It's about embracing who you are and allowing your unique strengths, values, and personality to shine through. As Dr. Seuss reminds us, "Why fit in when you were born to stand out?" Leadership isn't about having the highest grades or the most friends; it's about serving others, uplifting your peers, and striving to leave our college better than you found it. We promise that authenticity will shine through.

Lastly, save the date! Join us for our Student Leadership Q&A Panel in Week 4, Monday @lunch in the Hall. Come along to hear from your Student Leaders, ask questions about the application process, and gain valuable insights into the different leadership roles available.

Zaynab
2026 College Co-Vice Captain

We are delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of one of our student athletes, Kat, who recently competed at the National School Sport Swimming Championship in the Girls 15-16 age division, in Melbourne.

Representing South Australia at this year’s national championships, she competed in the 50m Backstroke, 100m Backstroke, 200m Backstroke, 200m Individual Medley, and as a member of a relay team. Qualifying for the finals in each of these events. Competing at the national level is a remarkable accomplishment and demonstrates the dedication, perseverance, and hard work she has shown throughout the season.

A highlight of the championship was her achievement of Personal Best (PB) times in both the 100m Backstroke and 200m Backstroke, a fantastic reward for her commitment to training and continual improvement. Achieving PBs in such a highly competitive environment is a testament to her determination and resilience.

We are incredibly proud of Kat’s achievements. Balancing her schoolwork, swimming commitments, and success in this year’s national championship is an inspiration to her peers, and we look forward to following her continued progress and celebrating many more accomplishments in the future.

Well done, Kat, we are all very proud of you!

Mohammad Jafari
Assistant Principal - Student Wellbeing

Juliet Rapetti
Year 9 & 10 Student Wellbeing Coordinator

Lyndia Cavanagh
Leader of Learning - Human and Sport Sciences