Welcome back to Term 4. I hope everyone had a restful break and has returned refreshed for the term ahead.

In the final week of Term 3, I attended St Patrick’s Primary School, Gordon’s whole-school production of Rock Bottom. What a fantastic evening and a delight to see the joy on the students’ faces. I was particularly impressed by the amount of dialogue and choreography they had mastered, and by the huge audience that turned out to support a small school community. Well done to all the students and staff involved in creating such a terrific celebration.

This week, we officially announced the opening of a new Catholic primary school in Winter Valley, scheduled to welcome its first students in 2028. I had the opportunity to discuss the opening on 3BA with Brett Macdonald this morning. This is an exciting milestone to expand Catholic education in one of Ballarat's fastest-growing communities and the school will become the 56th school within the DOBCEL network. The school’s name will be announced in the coming months and recruitment for the inaugural Foundation Principal, to commence early 2027, is underway. 

As you would be aware, we remain in negotiations with the IEU regarding the next EBA. There are a two important points I want to emphasise:

• Catholic Education Employers’ commitment to pay parity dates back to the 1990s, and that commitment has not changed. We believe our staff deserve these pay increases.
• The significant challenge is that, for the first time in many years, these increases are largely unfunded with no substantial additional support from either State or Federal governments. In view of this, it is disappointing to hear reports of IEU representatives visiting DOBCEL schools and stating that these pay increases are fully funded by State and Federal governments: this is not consistent with the financial reality we are managing. Put simply, it is like your rent or mortgage increasing by 30% over four years while your income increases by only 12%. The funding gap has necessitated close scrutiny of the CEB budget and all school budgets for 2027 and beyond. I am particularly grateful to our principals, admin officers, business managers and CEB staff who are working hard to address this significant financial challenge.

We are also very concerned about the possibility of changes to Victorian legislation that currently protects the level of state recurrent funding provided to non-government schools. The VCEA is strongly advocating for this protection to remain in place, without which our school funding could be reduced by millions. The VCEA now has agreement from the Liberals and Nationals that the current funding formula will be retained, guaranteeing state recurrent funding for non-government schools at no less than 25 per cent of per-student recurrent funding for government schools. 90 per cent of Catholic schools receive less than $5,000 a year in fees, providing an affordable choice for 160,000 school families. The VCEA is calling on the ALP State Government to match the commitment made by the Liberals and Nationals. Please refer to the full VCEA Statement here. 

The term ahead holds some important milestones for a number of our school communities. St Aloysius Primary School, Redan will be celebrating its 150 years of Catholic education and St Patrick's Primary School, Camperdown, will be marking 140 years of Catholic education. We will also be taking time to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary contribution of St Mary’s Primary School, Clarkes Hill to the community over the past 80 years. This term is sadly the last at St Mary’s and we will be honouring the generations of students, families, staff, priests and nuns who have shaped the rich histories of the Clarkes Hill community. 

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Catholic education and to the students and families we serve. As Bishop Mark Freeman shared with the DOBCEL staff last week, I encourage you to look for opportunities to walk paths of peace together - overcoming ideas of “us” and “them” to advance together towards fullness of life for all. May your Term 4 be marked by hope, joy and purpose. 

With best wishes,
Tom Sexton
Executive Director

Living The Season of Creation

So as the Season of Creation comes to an end this Feast Day of St Francis, 4 October 2026, we pray that the Holy Spirit may renew in us all a sense of wonder, curiosity and gratefulness.

In a recent edition of the British Catholic publication, The Tablet, (September 2026), Bishop Bosco MacDonald outlined what a simple response to the Season of Creation for us all could be:

• “Give thanks for food rather than taking it for granted,
• Waste a little less,
• Teach children to marvel at the natural world,
• Walk a little more slowly and notice what is around us. The world does not belong to us. It belongs to God. We receive it as a gift, hold it in trust for a little while, and hand it on to those who come after us.”

We would do well to heed these wise words and reflect on what a blessing this year’s Season of Creation has been.

Ref: The Tablet | September 2026

Prayer to Become Stewards of God's Creation

Creator God,
As we feast our eyes on autumn reds and yellows, we sense your creative power.
As we marvel at the uniqueness of each winter shower, we rejoice that you know us each by name.
As we hear the songs of birds of spring, we yearn to sing your praises.
As we breathe the delicious scents of summer flowers, our souls rest in your love.

Forgiving God,
We have not lived out our responsibility to be faithful stewards of creation. For this, we seek your pardon.
Our over-consumption has impacted the poorest members of our human family most of all. For this, we ask your mercy.
Our actions have endangered both the lives of our children today as well as those yet to be born. For this, we seek your forgiveness.

Living God,
As we meet you in nature, inspire us to see anew our place in the web of life.
In our daily lives, help us to make daily choices that reflect global solidarity.
As we reflect on the teaching of our faith, equip us to advocate for laws and policies that reflect your call to faithful stewardship.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen. 

From USCCB handout for World Day of Peace 2010

Living St Francis of Assisi's Legacy

St. Francis devoted his life to living in harmony with nature. He saw the natural world and all its creatures as sacred gifts from God, each possessing intrinsic value to be loved, respected and cherished.

In following the teachings of St. Francis, Christians believe that God is generous, loving and that we are all created in God’s image. A simple description of St. Francis’ life and legacy might describe him as:

• A saint of peace and the poor
• A saint with a great love for all God’s creatures
• Respectful of each person’s God-given uniqueness

Across our DOBCEL school communities, we can still continue to honour St Francis' legacy through activities to promote compassion for animals, care for creation, peace, and service to others.

1. Care for Animals (Patron Saint of Animals)

• Wildlife Protection: Encourage students to build bird feeders, plant pollinator-friendly gardens, or install insect "hotels" around school grounds to support local wildlife.

2. Environmental Stewardship & Creation

• Schoolwide Cleanup or Eco-Day: Organize a litter cleanup around the school grounds or local community, emphasizing St. Francis’s reverence for nature.
• Tree or Garden Planting: Plant native trees, shrubs, or a school vegetable garden to promote sustainability and respect for the earth.
• Waste Reduction Challenge: Run a "Zero Waste" lunch day to encourage students to reduce single-use plastics and food waste.

3. Prayer, Liturgy & Reflection

• Liturgical Service or Mass: Focus liturgical readings, songs, and prayers on peace, humility, and gratitude for creation.
• The Prayer of St. Francis: Reflect on the prayer ("Lord, make me an instrument of your peace...") in religion classes or morning announcements, prompting students to write down ways they can be peacemakers at school.
• Outdoor Prayer Walks: Lead students on a reflective walk through a natural area near the school to appreciate nature through prayer or journaling.

4. Service, Charity & Peace

• Food & Coat Drives: In the spirit of St. Francis's dedication to the poor, collect non-perishable food or warm winter coats for local charities or St. Vincent de Paul societies.
• Acts of Peace & Kindness: Create a "Peace Wall" where students write down acts of reconciliation, kindness, or peace they carried out during the week.
• Living Simply: Host a simplified meal or "frugal lunch" day to learn about St. Francis’s choice of voluntary simplicity and solidarity with those in need.

Save the Date: International Eucharistic Congress 2028

The dates for the 54th International Eucharistic Congress (Eucharist28) have been confirmed, with the historic gathering set to take place in Sydney from September 24 to October 1, 2028.

As a celebration for the whole Church in Australia, Eucharist28 will provide Catholic school communities with a unique opportunity to journey together in faith, prayer and renewal. In the lead-up to the congress, schools, students and families will be invited to participate in formation, catechesis, liturgy, prayer and pilgrimage activities designed to deepen understanding of the Eucharist and strengthen our relationship with Christ.

Further information and resources will be shared as preparations continue. We invite our school communities to keep Eucharist28 in their prayers and begin considering how they may participate in this significant moment for the Australian Church.

Below is the official letter of the event's date announcement.

Eucharist28: Believe.

Online Professional Learning - Term 4

The CI&M team offer one hour online professional learning sessions for those who work across DOBCEL. They are intended to give short, but in depth, dips into various topics of interest across Catholic Identity. All who work in our schools are welcome to attend. Those who need to maintain accreditation to teach or lead RE will be able to apply for one hour towards this via TAP.

This Thursday, October 8, we welcome back Dino Martiniello from Jesuit Social Services to explore a different aspect of the Man Box project with us. All RE teachers as well as any other teachers involved in the teaching of RSE and RRRR are welcome to join the session at 3:45 to 4:45 pm.

Next week, on Thursday October 15, our session will give practical suggestions for the application of the Ten Characteristics of Prayer in classrooms. ‘How to Lead Classroom Prayer’ will take place from 3:45 to 4:45 pm and is best suited primary and lower secondary teachers of RE.

The links for both sessions are included in the PDF below.

Invitation to Adolescent Man Box Webinar

The final two online sessions of this five part series will be offered this term. 

The online workshops are facilitated by team members from the Jesuit Social Services. This week’s presenter will be Dino Martiniello (from week 1). These last two sessions will  continue to:

• Unpack the Man Box by building awareness through conversations and self-reflection,
• Explore the Adolescent Man Box pressures and age-appropriate insights,  
• Promote healthier alternatives, 
• Explore how to respond to individuals,
• Investigate how to implement strategies to manage resistance and backlash, 
• Explore whole school approach to healthy masculinities within Respectful Relationships, 
• Discuss the work of Respectful Relationships the connection between Catholic Social Teachings.  

Each session will begin at 3.30pm with prayer with the PD beginning at 3:45 pm.

The remaining two sessions are:

• Term 4, Week 1 – Thursday October 8, 3.30–4.30 pm
• Term 4, Week 3 – Thursday October 22, 3.30–4.30 pm

Each session will be allocated a TAP number for accreditation purposes. Attendance will be recorded at each session if you wish to claim the accreditation hours. 

ACU & VCEA Launch
Created for Respectful Relationships
Save the Date: 5 November 2026

ACU and the VCEA have worked together to release a suite of teacher resources for the teaching of Respectful Relationships through the Catholic lens. 

We have been asked to extend to teachers of respectful relationships and Wellbeing Leaders, an invitation to this all-day professional development opportunity at ACU Melbourne Campus on November 5, 2026. This PD is being offered both face-to-face and online.

This is a free event to hear how Consent and Respectful Relationships Education can help children and young people develop the language and relational skills to understand dignity, boundaries, consent, healthy relationships and help-seeking. They will also address the all-important question of how to create conditions that keep children safe.

The event will include the launch of a suite of materials that offer a theological framework and practical guidance on how to shape your environment by influencing what a school community notices, models, challenges and accepts. 

Presented by Australian Catholic University researchers from the Faculty of Education and Arts and Faculty of Theology and Philosophy, plus special guests who will offer insights and reflections based on experience. More details are in the attached flyer.

Registration: Please contact icps@acu.edu.au to receive a link to the registration page.

Invitation to Attend: Cardinal Mario Grech in Melbourne

The Global Centre for Catholic Leaders warmly invites you to join Cardinal Mario Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, for a conversation on "The Mission We Share: Co-responsibility in the Church."

Cardinal Grech will be in Melbourne on 4 November for a public session from 9am to 12pm. Taking place just one month before the Melbourne Synod, this event offers a valuable opportunity for those interested in the future of the Church and the practice of synodality.

Participants will hear from Cardinal Grech, engage in spiritual conversations and reflection, and have the opportunity to explore key questions with the Cardinal and a panel of guests, including:

• Is synodality here to stay?
• What does synodality mean for the way we lead and govern?
• What kind of formation is needed to support a synodal Church?
• How do we build co-responsibility within our communities?

This promises to be a timely and enriching conversation for all involved in Catholic leadership, ministry, and community life.

Registration Link

Aggiornamento Modules for Term 4 2026

Aggiornamento - small bites of theological questions for people with questions.

Description

There are two more 90-minute online modules in Term 4. Aggiornamento is Italian for "updating," and came to prominence as one of the aims of the Church of the Second Vatican Council. The modules have been developed collaboratively by Professor Robyn Horner and Dr Teresa Brown of the School of Theology at Australian Catholic University and draw from the resources of experts in the field.

Learning Outcomes

• To introduce teachers to the practice of thinking and talking about Catholic faith in dialogue with their experiences in today's world.
• To introduce teachers to the theological concepts and approaches that emerge from Vatican II.
• To enable teachers to practice the skills of dialogue and recontextualisation.
• To introduce teachers to the aims, purposes and language of the Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) research.
• To enable teachers to consider the ways in which they might apply their learning in specific school and diocesan contexts.

How to monitor?

Ongoing feedback from participating teachers and survey of findings/opportunities to implement learnings in their classrooms.

Audience

All staff in the Ballarat Diocese, particular focus on teachers in their 1st to 5th year employment in Ballarat Diocese and teachers who are new to the Diocese or returning after a break.

Other details

The cost per module is $30 and is payable to ACU. Details will be provided to participants upon registration through the TryBooking links below. There are TAP hours for each module. Both modules will be facilitated by Gina Bernasconi and Justin McInerney

Module 102 A Personal God

To enable participants to identify the source of Christian belief in God: revelation.

Thursday 12 November 2026 | 3:45-5:15pm                                     https://www.trybooking.com/DHZGB 
Repeat Tuesday 17 November 2026 | 3:45-5:15pm                          https://www.trybooking.com/DHZGD 

Module 103 The Great Tradition

To enable participants to identify a Catholic understanding of tradition as it is expressed in Vatican II’s Dei Verbum and to consider contextual processes that affect the handing on of tradition.

Thursday 3 December 2026 | 3:45-5:15pm                                      https://www.trybooking.com/DHZGF                
Repeat Tuesday 8 December 2026 | 3.45-5.15                                https://www.trybooking.com/DHZGH 

Priority courses for 2027 – Sponsorship applications now open

DOBCEL has identified the priority professional learning courses for 2026, with links and flyers now available online. These courses support teachers and leaders in meeting the VCEA Accreditation Policy requirements, particularly Level 2 Accreditation for those teaching Religion or holding leadership positions (a must if adjunct ‘principal’ with a title).

The courses provide valuable opportunities for theological reflection, formation, and deeper engagement with the Catholic tradition. Sponsorship is available, with enquiries and applications to be directed to sponsorship@dobcel.catholic.edu.au.

Applications close Friday 23 October 2026.

CTC/YTU Graduate Certificate in Teaching Religious Education

Year 1 (Those commencing in 2027)
Semester 1
BS8610Z: Introduction to the Bible for Teachers: Bro Paul Creevey
Dates: Saturdays, 6 March, 20 March, 1 May, 15 May 

Semester 2
CT8620Z: Introduction to Theology for Teachers: Bro Paul Creevey
Dates: Saturdays, 7 August, 21 August, 4 September, 9 October
 

Year 2 (Those continuing in 2027)
Semester 1
DT8630Z: Introduction to Moral Theology for Teachers: Bernard Teo
Dates: Saturdays, 27 February, 13 March, 1 May, 15 May 

Semester 2
DR8640Z: Introduction to Religious Education for Teachers: John Meneely
Dates: Saturdays, 31 July, 14 August, 4 September, 9 October

ACU Graduate Certificate in Religious Education (GCRE)

Year 1 (Those commencing in 2027)
Semester 1
THBS562 Introducing the Scriptures | TBA

Semester 2
THCT563 Introducing Theology | TBA

Year 2 (Those completing in 2027)
The following units are being offered in 2027 as online synchronous (with weekly classes):
Semester 1
THCT564 Introducing Church Life | ACU Online MT 

Semester 2
EDRE544 Change and Continuity in Religious Education | ACU Online MT

Or
For those who prefer a face-to-face option, similar units are offered in Melbourne on 4 Saturdays per subject (2 days at ACU Melbourne and 2 days online) TBA

For more information, visit our Sponsorship page on the DOBCEL website or contact Kate Lawry at 0428359854.

DOBCEL Deputy Director for Catholic Education, Matt Byrne, and DOBCEL Board Deputy Chair, Anne Pekin, joined the school community of St Augustine's Catholic Primary School in Maryborough to celebrate the official opening of the school's newly refurbished facilities.

The event was officiated by Senator Jana Stewart, with a blessing led by local parishioner Terry, in the absence of Fr John Monahan. Under the leadership of Principal Sonia Turner, the celebration showcased the strong spirit of the St Augustine's community, with students and staff enthusiastically participating throughout the occasion.

The project has transformed key learning and administrative spaces across the school, providing contemporary, flexible environments that will support student learning and wellbeing for years to come.

Funded through a significant investment from the Australian Government, the project received a grant allocation of $1.6 million, complemented by a $500,000 co-contribution, bringing the total project investment to $2.1 million.

Works included the refurbishment and alteration of existing buildings to create new general learning areas and upgrade existing classrooms, administration facilities, the library, and associated spaces. The project also delivered extensions to staff and library areas, along with landscaping works to create an arts terrace and improve site accessibility through a new accessible entry.

The refurbished facilities reflect St Augustine's commitment to providing high-quality learning environments that inspire student growth, collaboration, and creativity while strengthening the school's capacity to serve its community well into the future. The school is very grateful for the federal Government support and for the efforts of everyone locally to bring this to fruition. 

On behalf of the Ballarat Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA), we would like to share this Call for Art invitation with our school communities. This invitation is open to all students, teaching staff, and administrative staff residing in Ballarat and surrounding areas, as well as those outside Ballarat.

The theme of the exhibition is "Respect Is..." Community Collaborative Artwork. Selected artworks will be exhibited at the Ballarat Central Library as part of this year's 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Art Exhibition.

Artists and community members of all ages and abilities are invited to contribute a 20cm x 20cm artwork on cardboard or paper, responding to the theme: Respect Is...

Individual artworks will be displayed together as part of a larger collaborative community installation.

Blank cardboard 20cm x 20cm squares are available from Ballarat CASA, WRISC, and the Ballarat Central Library. Alternatively, participants can create their artwork on their own paper or card at home, provided it measures 20cm x 20cm. A paper or online consent form must be completed with each submission.

Digital artwork in the same dimensions can be uploaded when completing an online consent form.

Attached you'll find:

• 16 Days Call for Art Poster
• 16 Days Collaborative Artwork Information & Consent Form

If you require printed copies of the poster or consent form, please contact us at casa@gh.org.au.

Invitation to La Trobe Professional Mathematics Masterclass

Discover practical, research-backed strategies for teaching mathematics. 

Co-delivered by Professor Anna Stokke (University of Winnipeg) and Associate Professor Chrissy Monteleone (La Trobe University), this live masterclass brings together international and local expertise to help you teach mathematics more effectively, starting with what the evidence says works best. 

The session is designed to be interactive, practical and immediately applicable. You'll leave with tools you can implement in your classroom the next day. 

This masterclass will be held on Wednesday 18 November 2026, 3.30-5pm AEDT, at the State Library in Melbourne and is also available ONLINE.

This Masterclass costs $50.
Register now: https://bit.ly/4rACfjn

Why Mathematics Education Matters in a Changing World?

La Trobe University is presenting The Mallee Series - an annual event that will bring the Mildura community together to explore the critical policies, social issues and opportunities shaping regional Australia.

Join internationally recognised mathematics educator, Professor Anna Stokke from the University of Winnipeg (Canada) for a compelling conversation about why strong mathematics education matters for our children, our workforce, our economy and the future of our communities. Anna will also discuss why every young person needs access to excellent mathematics teaching and why this challenge belongs to us all.

Doors will open at 5.30pm, allowing time for registration and networking ahead of the keynote address, commencing at 6:15pm. The evening will be hosted by Professor Joanna Barbousas, Pro Vice-Chancellor Education Impact and Innovation and Dean of the School of Education at La Trobe University.

Book now for this FREE event.

Date: Thursday 19 November 2026 5.30 pm-7.30 pm
Contact: University Events: events@latrobe.edu.au
Location: Brian Grogan Lecture Theatre, La Trobe University, 471 Benetook Avenue, Mildura
Presented by: Professor Anna Stokke
Type of Event: Alumni; Community Event; Public Lecture; Public

Preparing for PAT testing

Transition to Adaptive PAT Mathematics and Literacy Assessments 

ACER's advice regarding the use of PAT Mathematics and Reading assessments has evolved. While linear assessments were previously recommended for annual summative purposes, ACER now advises that adaptive testing provides sufficient precision and reliability to serve as the primary method for assessing student achievement in these learning areas. In response to this advice, and to strengthen consistency in assessment practices across DOBCEL schools, we will move towards a fully adaptive testing environment for PAT Mathematics and Reading. 

Adaptive testing provides a more precise measure of student achievement and supports a more consistent assessment experience across the year. Schools should be aware that some variation in results may be evident during the transition period, particularly where comparisons are being made between adaptive and linear testing methodologies. These differences are expected to reflect improvements in measurement precision rather than changes in student learning and should be interpreted alongside other assessment evidence, teacher judgement, and curriculum-based measures. 

Here is a link to a webinar presented by Daniel O’Loughlin from ACER with a focus on PAT Adaptive and the use of the Data Explorer. 

Once you’ve clicked on the link scroll down to the last webinar 

PAT Resources on The DOBCEL Schools Hub for PATM 

As you and your teams prepare for the administration of PAT at the start of term 4 this is a reminder that in the DOBCEL Schools Hub you will find under the Administer Tab slide decks for administration, and  tools for recording the data. 

PAT Resources on the FLARE Website for Literacy Assessments  bit.ly/DOBCELFlare 

To access PAT Resources, go to  > Resource Centre → Assessment & Reporting → PAT Administration Support 

ACER’s upcoming free webinars Term 4 link is here 

1. Getting the most from PAT: Best Practice, assessment advice and updates Tuesday 13 October 4pm 
2. PAT Interviews: Conversations with schools using PAT – what next? Wednesday 28 October 4pm 
3. Tracking Student growth with PAT using data to understand learning progress Wednesday 4 November 4pm. 

If you have any queries, please contact:  

• Belinda Chiswell: bchiswell@dobcel.catholic.edu.au
•  Melanie Saleta: msaleta@dobcel.catholic.edu.au 
• Teresa Hadden: thadden@dobcel.catholic.edu.au

News from English as an Additional Language (EAL) 

Topics in this edition:

• Reporting 
• Professional learning opportunities
• Culturally significant dates for Term 4
• Bilingual books
• Resources
• Network meeting date

Feel free to reach out Natasha Watt if you have any questions or require support:
NWatt@dobcel.catholic.edu.au | 0497 111 230
Working days: Monday and Tuesday

Expression of Interest (EOI)
Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority – 2027 Curriculum Lead Writer Opportunity

About the Opportunity

The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) is seeking to engage an experienced Catholic primary school curriculum leader to contribute to the development of guidance and example resources that support a whole-school approach to curriculum planning. As part of this work, VCAA is looking to appoint a lead writer with demonstrated expertise in curriculum planning and design, ideally supported by a postgraduate qualification in curriculum or a related field.

We invite expressions of interest from experienced Catholic primary school curriculum leaders who wish to be considered for this contracted work. The role would involve contributing to the development of curriculum resources throughout 2027, with the work undertaken outside the applicant’s substantive school position and with the support of their principal.

Expressions of interest will be provided to VCAA, which will manage the selection and engagement process directly.

Nature of engagement

• The work will be undertaken on a contract basis outside the applicant’s substantive employment position.
• The work will take place throughout 2027.
• Specific project requirements, timelines and remuneration arrangements will be discussed directly with shortlisted applicants.
• The scope and time commitment of opportunities may vary, as determined by VCAA.

Desired expertise and experience

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Current experience in schools and/or educational leadership
• A postgraduate qualification, preferably in curriculum or a related field

Interested applicants are invited to submit an expression of interest via the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority – 2027 Curriculum Lead Writer Opportunity form.

Selection process

Expressions of interest will be reviewed by VCAA. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted directly by VCAA to discuss the opportunity, expected deliverables, timelines and engagement arrangements.

Please note that submitting an EOI does not guarantee appointment to the project.

Free Be Digitally Wise Week 2026 Resources for Schools

Hosted by Catholic Network Australia (CNA), Be Digitally Wise Week 2026 offers a range of free cyber safety and digital citizenship learning opportunities for students from Foundation to Year 12. 

Program highlights:

• Foundation-Year 2: Ollie Online (Live Virtual Incursion) - 22 October
• Years 3-4: Adventures Online (Live Virtual Incursion) - 22 October
• Years 5-6: Tech Trailblazers (On-Demand) - Available from 19 October
• Year 7: Thriving Online (On-Demand) - Available from 19 October
• Year 8: My Place in a Digital World (On-Demand) - Available from 19 October
• Years 9-12: Your Digital Future (On-Demand) - Available from 19 October

These free resources provide practical, age-appropriate learning experiences focused on cyber safety, digital wellbeing and positive online engagement.

Visit the Be Digitally Wise Week website- https://www.cna.catholic.edu.au/bedigitallywiseweek for full program details and registration information. Schools are encouraged to register and participate.

Building Agility into a Capability-Rich Curriculum

Join Apple and Future Anything for a FREE practical professional learning workshop exploring how schools can embed agility and future-focused capabilities into teaching and learning. Designed for teachers and leaders, the session will share research-backed strategies and classroom approaches that help students adapt, thrive and succeed in a changing world.

📅 Friday 30 October 2026
🕘 9.00am-4.00pm
📍 Melbourne CBD

👉 Visit the registration link for more information and to register.

2027 Professional Learning and Events

We’re pleased to share a new version of the 2027 Professional Learning and Events Guide, featuring a wide range of professional learning programs, events, and networks for all DOBCEL team members across our schools and offices.

There is a new event (Student Agency forum) and two new networks: the DOBCEL Primary Mathematics Leaders Network and the Secondary Leading Pedagogical Learning Network

Schools are encouraged to share the guide widely so all team members can explore upcoming opportunities. Updated versions will be released as new programs are added or details change.

In the coming weeks, events will be added and available on the PL Program and Calendar page on the DOBCEL website for easy registration where events are utilising the TryBooking platform. Please check dates, times, and venues before booking.

New DOBCEL Learning Management System – coming in 2027

In 2027, DOBCEL will introduce a new online learning platform, bringing professional and compliance learning together in one simpler, more connected place.

Find out what’s changing, why we’re making the change and what you can expect in 2027.

Professional Learning Opportunity 

Crucial Conversations- DOBCEL facilitated

For more information, please contact Emma Baldwin

People and Development - professional learning opportunities - Term 4

The following people and development professional learning opportunities are available for staff to attend:

World Mental Health Day: Together We Thrive

Mental Health Month is held in October each year, with World Mental Health Day taking place on 10 October.  

This is an important moment to raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma and encourage people to seek support when they need it.  

It’s also an opportunity to pause, check in with ourselves and those around us, and reflect on how we can look after our own mental health and wellbeing. 

Mental Health Australia, the national peak body for the mental health sector, coordinates the national Mental Health Month campaign. 

Whether at home, at work, at school, in the community or online, this Mental Health Month we're encouraging everyone to start conversations, share their stories and strengthen the connections that help us thrive. 

Mid-North Leaders visit SWPBS Platinum Award School – Nhill College 

During the last week of term, a group of School-wide Positive Behaviour Support (SWPBS) enthusiasts visited one of Victorias most celebrated SWPBS schools – Nhill College.

Joining Anne Ruddell and Jane Bennnett from the DOBCEL team, were:

• Principal Mark Zimmerman and SWPBS Learning Specialist, Lauren Brown from Nhill College; 
• Principal of St. Mary's Warracknabeal, Julie Leonard; 
• Principal of St. Patrick's Primary School Nhill, Kingsley Dalgeish; 
• Student Wellbeing Leader of St. Brigid's College Horsham, Leigh McDonald. 
   

Mark and Lauren shared the highs and lows of their SWPBS journey and generously shared some of the key artefacts and practices that led them to their current high level of implementation and Platinum Award status.

To view current vacancies and learn more about career opportunities with DOBCEL, please visit our Careers Page and Teachers on Net via the links below.

DS2035 – Stay connected to the Strategy

• Listen to the podcast - Towards 2035
• DOBCEL Strategy 2035 – Full Document (PDF)
• Strategy Portal – Resources, videos, and key messages
• CIRP Page – Details and application form
• Canvas for Student Agency - Resources and recordings from the Student Agency sessions
• DS2035 In Practice - Collaborative Cultures

Catholic Identity & Mission

• Fully Funded Priority Courses for Accreditation 2027 

Wellbeing

• Resources to support young people’s body positivity

Learning & Teaching

• EAL Professional Learning
• Primary Leaders of Learning Network – Register now for Term 4

People & Development

• Professional Learning Guide
• Staff Wellbeing Guide & Resources
• Leadership Competency Framework