Last week marked another positive step forward in our Enterprise Bargaining Agreement negotiations. It appears we are closing in on an agreement and hope to do so by 15 November. When finalised, this deal will deliver the largest pay rise for staff in Catholic schools in Victoria in living memory, recognising the dedication, professionalism and commitment of our teachers and support staff across the state. While there is still work to be done, I am encouraged by the progress that has been made and thank everyone involved in the process.

I would also like to thank school communities for their support of our ongoing advocacy efforts regarding future state funding arrangements. In particular, thank you to everyone who took the time to complete and submit petitions in support of Catholic education. Advocacy remains a critical priority, and in the coming weeks the Victorian Catholic Education Authority will release a scorecard outlining where the major political parties stand against our five key priorities for Catholic education. This will provide valuable information for school communities as we continue to advocate for fair and sustainable funding to keep Catholic education an accessible choice for families.

Today, I have been fortunate to be out visiting schools across the Diocese, spending time with staff and students and seeing first hand the outstanding work taking place in our communities. I visited St Brigid's Primary School, Ballan, St Francis Xavier Primary School, Ballarat East, and St James' Primary School, Sebastopol.

A particular highlight was joining Dr Jean Stiles and Julia Petrov at St Brigid's Primary School, Ballan, to discuss the school's student agency work and learn more about the progress being made in empowering students to be agents of change. It was also a privilege to join the school community at the local Remembrance Day ceremony, providing an opportunity to pause, reflect and honour the service and sacrifice of those who have served our nation.

These visits are always a reminder of the strength of our school communities and the commitment of staff to ensuring every student is known, valued and supported to flourish.

With best wishes,

Tom Sexton
Executive Director

Prayer for Remembrance Day

Loving and merciful God, today we remember with gratitude all who have served their nation in times of war and conflict.

We pray for those who made the ultimate sacrifice, giving their lives in the hope of securing peace for others. May they rest forever in your loving embrace.

We pray for veterans and current members of the armed forces. Bless them with healing, strength, and hope, especially those who carry the scars of war in body, mind, or spirit.

We pray for families who have experienced loss and separation because of conflict. Surround them with your comfort and peace.

God of all nations, teach us to be peacemakers in our homes, schools, communities, and world. Help us to uphold the dignity of every person, to seek justice, and to work for reconciliation wherever there is division. As we remember the past, inspire us to build a future where peace prevails and all people can live in freedom, safety, and hope.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. 

Amen.

Magnifica Humanitas: Pope Leo XIV

On safeguarding the human person in the time of Artificial Intelligence

Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas offers a timely reflection on Artificial Intelligence and what it means for our shared humanity, calling us to place human dignity at the centre of technological change. Drawing on Catholic social teaching, the Pope argues that technology must serve humanity rather than dominate it.

While acknowledging AI’s potential benefits for education, communication, and development, the document warns against replacing human judgment, creativity, conscience, or relationships with machines. Pope Leo cautions against a "technocratic paradigm" that measures human worth strictly by efficiency and productivity, warning that over-reliance on digital tools can erode critical thinking and reduce individuals to data points.

For school communities, this document serves as a powerful call to shape an educational response focused on wisdom, truth-seeking, and responsible digital citizenship. Educators are invited to ensure that technology enhances—rather than replaces—authentic human connection, inclusion, and care.

Key Principles for Educators:

• Dignity Over Data: Treat AI as a supportive tool while safeguarding the inherent dignity of every student and staff member.
• Wisdom and Discernment: Teach students to engage critically with digital tools, fostering ethical oversight and deep thinking over mere speed.
• Relational Learning: Prioritize human connection, deep listening, and empathy over technological efficiency when it counts.

Ultimately, Magnifica Humanitas challenges schools to form individuals who do not merely use AI but use it well—ensuring technological progress advances authentic human flourishing, social justice, and a "civilization of love."

The entire encyclical can be accessed via the Vatican website.

ECSI Masterclass VI: When Extremes Meet on the Post-Critical Belief Scale

25 November 2026 | 4.30pm-6pm

Discover the latest insights into the phenomenon of radical shifts in belief and worldview. This engaging masterclass explores how individuals can move between seemingly opposite cognitive belief styles and presents a new hypothesis for understanding these transformations. Participants will gain valuable pastoral and theological insights to support adults and young people navigating periods of significant change and growth.

Registrations are now open. The Microsoft Teams link will be sent to registered participants approximately one week before the event.

Click on this link for more information. ECSI Masterclass VI 

A wonderful celebration of community spirit at the St. Michael's Primary School fete

“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” – Colossians 3:12

St Michael's Primary School in Daylesford held their school fete on Sunday November 8. It was a wonderful celebration of community spirit, generosity and togetherness, with terrific support from families, staff and the wider community.

Generosity of spirit was evident throughout the day, with many people giving their time, talents and resources to help make the day a tremendous success. St Michael's is also grateful to the wider community who came along to support the fete, as well as the many local businesses and organisations who generously donated money, prizes and produce.

Funds raised will go towards supporting the school and enhancing opportunities for St Michael's students.

Celebrating milestones in Catholic education

This November, DOBCEL school communities are marking significant milestones in Catholic education, celebrating generations of faith, learning and service that have enriched countless lives and helped shape vibrant local communities.

Last Sunday, St Patrick's Primary School, Camperdown celebrated 140 years of Catholic education. We give thanks for the generations of teachers, staff, students, families and volunteers whose dedication and commitment have contributed to the school's rich history and enduring legacy. Be sure to watch the commemorative video and stay until the end for former teacher Sr Pattie's heartfelt reflection, offering both wisdom and humour drawn from her years of service.

Next week, St Aloysius' Primary School, Redan, will celebrate the remarkable milestone of 150 years of Catholic education on 20 November, honouring a long and proud tradition of nurturing students in faith, knowledge and service.

On 22 November, St Mary's Primary School, Clarkes Hill, will gather its community for a special celebration commemorating 80 years of Catholic education. As the school prepares to close its doors at the end of this year, the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on eight decades of cherished memories, lifelong friendships and meaningful contributions to the local community. The celebration will honour all those who have been part of the school's story and offer a heartfelt farewell to a school that has touched the lives of generations.

These milestone celebrations invite us to give thanks for the enduring impact of Catholic education and to recognise the many individuals whose commitment, faith and service have helped carry forward the mission of our schools across the Diocese.

Sacred Heart Primary School officially opened and blessed its refurbished learning spaces on Monday 9 November, marking a significant milestone in the school’s history. The occasion was a wonderful celebration for the school community, with Bishop Mark Freeman, Bishop of Ballarat, leading the blessing and official opening.

The project has transformed some of Sacred Heart Primary School’s original classroom buildings, which have served generations of students and teachers. With the buildings ageing and significant termite damage identified, the school recognised an opportunity to do more than simply repair the existing facilities. Instead, the project provided the chance to reimagine these spaces to better meet the needs of contemporary learners and future generations. 

The vision was to create modern, flexible learning environments that support explicit teaching, collaboration, small-group learning and individual student support. Equally important was ensuring the spaces foster a sense of safety, connection and inclusion for every student, while reflecting the Catholic identity and strong community spirit that underpin Sacred Heart Primary School. 

A Significant Investment in the Future 

The approved project cost was $3.05 million, with $3 million provided by the Victorian Government through the Capital Funding Program 2023–2024 – Election Commitment Project. Sacred Heart Primary School is extremely grateful for this significant investment in Catholic education in Mildura. The funding represents an important commitment to providing quality learning environments and opportunities for students, both now and into the future. 

Bringing the Vision to Life

The successful completion of a project of this scale reflects the collaboration, expertise and commitment of many people. Sacred Heart Primary School acknowledges Jake Mackenzie, Peter Milton and Sarah Ellis from Jointly, who coordinated the project, along with Daniel Manno and Drew Bynes from Energy Architecture, who undertook the architectural design.

The school also extends its appreciation to Brendan Chalmers, DOBCEL’s Capital Works Project Delivery Officer, whose guidance and support throughout the project were invaluable.

A place for community and the future

The official opening and blessing celebrated the theme “Our Place. Our People. Our Future.” This theme reflects Sacred Heart Primary School’s commitment to providing a welcoming Catholic school community and creating opportunities for future generations.

During the celebration, the importance of recognising that beautiful learning spaces alone do not create great learning was highlighted. It is the relationships built, the quality of teaching, the opportunities provided and the sense of belonging nurtured within these spaces that truly make a difference.

These renewed learning spaces will provide places for learning, connection, faith and belonging, supporting the Sacred Heart Primary School community for generations to come.

A wonderful new chapter for Sacred Heart Primary School, Mildura.

Secondary Humanities Network - Student competitions and teacher professional learning

Please see below some opportunities to support student voice, critical thinking and active citizenship, alongside professional learning for Humanities teachers.

UN Youth Australia – The Voice Competition | Years 7–10

Voice challenges students to propose creative, practical solutions to issues affecting their communities and the wider world, then defend their ideas through questions from a judging panel.

• Years 7–8: four-minute prepared speech
• Years 9–10: five-minute prepared speech
• All participants: two minutes to respond to two questions about their proposed solution

A valuable opportunity to develop research, problem-solving and public-speaking skills. Select Victoria on the website to check local competition and registration details.

Explore the Voice Competition
 

Rule of Law Education Centre – Informed Civic Competition | Years 7–10

Students explore Australia’s democratic institutions, rights and freedoms, then create illustrated playing cards that demonstrate their understanding of civic concepts. Free factsheets, classroom activities and templates support participation.

Free to enter. Entries close at 5 pm on Friday 20 November 2026.

Access competition details and resources

Whitlam Institute – What Matters? Writing Competition

An opportunity for young Australians to express their views on the issues that matter to them through writing.

The 2026 competition has closed, but the classroom resources remain available. This is one to keep in mind when planning future opportunities for student voice and writing.

Explore What Matters? and classroom resources

Professional learning for teachers

Student Empowerment – VicSRC

Free online professional learning exploring how teachers can gather, listen and respond to student voice, strengthen student agency and support shared decision-making.

Access Student Empowerment professional learning

Connecting Civics and Citizenship – Parliament of Victoria

Free, self-paced online professional learning covering democracy, representation, democratic institutions and active citizenship, with ideas to support classroom practice.

Explore Connecting Civics and Citizenship

Please share these opportunities with relevant colleagues and students across your school.

Exciting opportunities for rich learning for Languages across the Ballarat Diocese in Term 4 

It has been a rich and rewarding term for Languages in the Diocese of Ballarat.  

In a professional learning workshop, teachers in the Warrnambool Japanese Primary Teacher Network recently explored how cognitive load theory can be applied through the Extensive Processing Instruction (EPI) approach to support language acquisition and student engagement. Participants observed and rehearsed practical teaching strategies with colleagues and took part in an immersive Japanese-language session on classroom routines and macro-skill development, facilitated by Yuichi Deguchi. The collaborative workshop provided teachers with practical ideas and approaches to implement in their own classrooms. 

Pictured are Catholic diocesan teachers from St John's Dennington, Our Lady Help of Christians, St Pius X and St Joseph's Warrnambool.  

Maria Patience from St Joseph's Primary, Penshurst attended the Indonesian Language Learning Ambassador (ILLA) Stakeholder Networking Reception on 26th October in Melbourne, on behalf of the Indonesian Catholic Primary South-West Network.  The Ballarat Diocese Catholic primary cluster was recognised as wonderful and welcoming host schools for the ILLA Ambassadors who have visited St Malachy’s Edenhope, Ss Michael and John’s Horsham, All Saints Portland, St Mary’s Hamilton, St Joseph's Penshurst, St Joseph's Coleraine and St Patrick’s, Ballarat over the past 18 months. 

Damascus College also recently welcomed an official delegation from Indonesia which included representatives from the Indonesian Government and the Australian Embassy in Jakarta to celebrate Damascus' ongoing involvement with the ILLA program (pictured below).

The ILLA program provides Australian Government-funded scholars from Indonesia with an opportunity to directly engage with Australian schools and share intercultural learning through language, culture and customs. ILLA participation across the Ballarat Diocese has been an extremely valuable experience for students and teachers alike. 

Pictured (L-R), Ian and Maria Patience (St Joseph's Penshurst), Ibu Novi Yanti (Ministry of State Secretariat of Indonesia) and Ibu Rini (current 2026 ILLA Ambassador)

Congratulations to Tim Gilbert, Teachers as Co-Learners (TCL) Language Leader at Siena Primary who recently completed his TCL Continued Pedagogical Coaching course with Mr Christopher Thomas, PWRD Leadership. Tim showcased his pedagogical coaching journey, professional growth and commitment to improving teacher practice using evidence. It was inspiring to hear the reflections, achievements and valuable insights shared throughout the presentations. Well done Tim! 

Pictured are Tim Gilbert (Siena Primary, Lucas - TCL Italian) and MACS TCL Language Leaders with Eleonor Palacio (MACS), Lauren Gould (DOBCEL) and Christopher Thomas (PWRD Leadership).   

The National Symposium on Japanese Language Education was held recently in Melbourne, hosted by the Monash University Japanese Language Education Hub and the Japan Foundation.  The two-day event is for the Australian and international primary, secondary and tertiary education Japanese teaching community to come together bi-annually. The Diocese of Ballarat was proud that two of its current Japanese teachers and one former teacher presented at the symposium.  

Nathan Lane, Deputy Primary of Learning & Teaching at St Mary Mackillop College and President of the Japanese Language Teachers' Association of Victoria, presented on research-informed strategies to support students learn Japanese across Years 7 – 10. In her workshop titled 'Empowering Educators through AI', Yoshie Burrows, Faculty Coordinator of Languages at Loreto College discussed her recent journey with the development and implementation of custom-build AI chatbots to support VCE student performance in Japanese. Former St Joseph's Primary, Warrnambool teacher, Yuichi Deguchi, led an entertaining workshop for primary teachers to highlight how different strategies, like music, can be exploited to cater for a wide variety of learners. We congratulate Nathan, Yoshie and Yuichi for sharing their knowledge with conference participants and thank them for their leadership in Japanese language education.  

Pictured are Yoshie Burrows (Loreto College), Yuichi Deguchi and Nathan Lane (St Mary MacKillop College) 

Literary Text Study Units

We have made a small change to the list of Literary Texts for which we will be developing units of study. This adjustment follows some excellent feedback regarding the Year 6 selections, particularly the inclusion of two war-based texts.

In response, we have replaced Once by Morris Gleitzman with Jabberwocky by Lewis Carroll as the Year 6 Term 1 text for 2027. 

If you have any questions about this, please contact Emma: erutherford@dobcel.catholic.edu.au 

Literacy Assessment and Data - Term 4

Thank you for your work throughout what is always a busy Term 4. We know this time of year has so many moving parts!

As Literacy assessments are completed, teachers can begin entering data into the Data Tool to support end-of-year analysis and planning.

The following assessments should now be completed (end of Week 4), with results being entered into the Data Tool at anytime:

• SA Spelling

• PAT-R Adaptive

• PAT Spelling
• PAT Grammar & Punctuation

PAT Assessment Data

• When entering PAT data into the Data Tool, teachers will need to manually enter the Scale Score and Percentile Rank.
• Once these values are entered, the grey cells will automatically populate, so no further entry is required in those sections.
• For PAT-Reading (Adaptive) Teachers will need to select the appropriate Normative Descriptor from the dropdown using the continuum provided. A link is available within the Data Tool to assist with interpreting results and selecting the most suitable descriptor.

Assessments Currently Underway (Weeks 5-8)

• Year 1 Phonics Check

• DIBELS Reading

• DIBELS Encoding

• Writing Task for analysis and moderation

Please ensure that any students who were absent during the assessment period are provided with an opportunity to complete any outstanding assessments where possible.

If you have any questions about assessment administration, data entry, or interpreting results, please reach out to Belinda Chiswell or your Flare Education Officer.

Register for Term 1 -  Primary Maths Leaders' Network 2027

In 2027, the Primary Maths Leaders' Network will build the capability of middle leaders to drive evidence-informed mathematics teaching across our Diocese. Meeting across four zone locations, the network will review and operationalize DOBCEL's Primary Mathematics Position Statement, establish high-leverage teaching practices, and help shape a strongly advised instructional model grounded in the Science of Learning. Through co-designed surveys and baseline data analysis the Network will define targeted professional learning modules focused on core instructional priorities—including fluency, explicit teaching, questioning, assessment, and intervention. The network will establish shared primary numeracy targets and empower leaders to lead meaningful pedagogical change. 

Register at the location that suits you best:

2026 Professional Learning Guide 

We’re pleased to share the updated 2026 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. 

• New – DOBCEL Bushfire Preparedness Briefing 
• Cancelled -  Child Safety Standard 1 (3 December) 

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. 

FIRE Carrier Program and the Opening the Doors Foundation 

Many schools in the Ballarat Diocese may have attended information sessions about the FIRE Carrier Program in the past and have started to complete some of the actions of a FIRE Carrier School.  It is great to hear that so many of you are working towards making their school a more culturally responsive school. Now is a great time to join the FIRE Carrier Program and get started on planning how the FIRE Carriers will look like at your school. This includes selecting your student leaders and staff and get started on your School Covenant so you will be ready to be commissioned as a school in 2027. 

I think we are a FIRE Carrier School but I am not sure? 

To be a FIRE Carrier School there are a number of things that you need to have done as a school. These include: 

• Principal has signed an Expression of Commitment to the Opening the Doors Foundation and DOBCEL  
  The program is a partnership between the Opening the Doors Foundation (OTDF), DOBCEL and the DOBCEL Education Officers: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education.
   
• School has paid the joining fee of $400 for the FIRE Carrier Program from the Opening the Doors Foundation 
  This covers the onboarding process with the OTDF, access to resources for becoming a FIRE Carrier School including starting your School Covenant and consultation with drafts, Commissioning Ceremony, Badges for Commissioned FIRE Carriers, Glass Flame and Commissioning Certificate.
   
• School has paid the annual levy of $400 a year for Secondary Schools and $200 a year for Primary Schools
  This covers the resources in the FIRE Carrier Dropbox, Professional Learning as Popup PLs and access to recordings, badges and other materials, Around the Campfire Newsletter, review of your Covenant and other advice to assist in the embedding of the FIRE Carrier Program.
   
• School has been part of the FIRE Carrier Program Commissioning Ceremony
  This is a special FIRE Ceremony that is completed by Aunty Vicki, Aunty Sherry or the DOBCEL Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Officer. Student and staff FIRE Carriers are presented with their badges on the day. These FIRE Carriers are given the responsibility of passing on the FIRE to the new FIRE Carriers and work on the school Covenant that is reviewed each year. This is also the time when the school receives their glass flame and certificate to commemorate the day. This is to be displayed in an important place in the school so that they can show visitors of their commitment to the FIRE Carrier Program and to furthering Reconciliation.

For more information visit our FIRE Carrier Program Dropbox New FIRE Carrier School Information to access the Information booklet, PowerPoint presentation, Fee Structure and Expression of Commitment and other information about the program. You can also visit our FIRE Carrier Program New School Information on our Google Drive. 

We look forward to your school becoming a FIRE Carrier School in the future! 

For more information about the FIRE Carrier Program email firecarrier@openingthedoors.org.au 

Financial grants for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students 

Opening the Doors Foundation (OTDF) provides grants to help families meet the costs of schooling for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students attending Catholic or independent primary and secondary schools. 

Grants may assist with school uniforms, books and stationery, essential ICT equipment, VET and vocational learning costs, school levies, camps and excursions. Please note that annual school fees, building levies, travel costs and activities outside of school are not eligible for funding. 

When is the 2027 round open 

The 2027 Grant Round is now open and closes on 25 March 2027. Late applications will not be accepted. A link will be provided on the webpage and instructions on how to apply from the open date. Families are encouraged to apply early or before the start of Term 1 to help students begin the 2027 school year with the items they need. 

Important update for 2027 

Due to increased demand, the Foundation’s Trustee will prioritise students with the greatest financial need. The updated criteria and guidelines are outlined on the website Opening the Doors Foundation 

Secondary School Levy Funding – Years 7–12 

For students in Years 7–12, school levies (NOT school fees) may be considered for funding, subject to Trustee discretion (visit website). Further information and support contact the Foundation (details listed below), or Helen Christensen (0467 415 768) or email hchristensen@dobcel.catholic.edu.au for further information.  

Pertinent information:  

Website and guidelines: Opening the Doors Foundation 
Apply online: APPLY NOW 

Email: applications@openingthedoors.org.au 

Respectful Relationships  

The Wimmera South West Respectful Relationships team are running 2x half day workshops on Thursday 10th Dec in Hamilton. Staff can come along to either or both workshops. Please register any interested staff before the 27th Nov as we need numbers for catering purposes. 

Workshop 1 (9am-12pm) : Navigating resistance and tricky questions: 

• Be empowered to respond confidently to challenging questions and resistance related to Respectful Relationships.
• Grounded in evidence-informed practice, this session uses realistic scenarios to explore common questions and concerns from students, families and colleagues.

Register via this link: Navigating Resistance and Tricky Questions in RR (Session 1) 

Workshop 2 (12.30 -3.30pm) : Designing your 2027 RRRR/BRR scope and sequence . 

• Supports school teams to plan a comprehensive and curriculum-aligned scope and sequence for 2027
• Explore evidence-informed approaches to curriculum planning 
• Examine examples of practice from schools 
• Engage in dedicated time to review, refine and develop their own scope and sequence 

Register via this link: Designing your 2027 RRRR/BRR Scope and Sequence Workshop (Session 2) 

For further information, please contact Nicola Grayson nicola.grayson@education.vic.gov.au . 

Congratulations Bernie!

Congratulations to Bernie Tolan on representing our Diocese at the ACU launch of A Pastoral Guide to Consent and Respectful Relationships Education in Catholic Schools. 

Bernie represented our Diocese as a panel member, sharing the resourcing, practices, and approaches being implemented across DOBCEL schools. Through the discussion, Bernie highlighted the importance of this work, emphasising a pastoral approach and the strong collaboration between schools and the Student Wellbeing Team. 

The launch was a wonderful celebration of the significant work being undertaken to support schools in navigating these important, and at times challenging, topics. Through the leadership and expertise of Bernie and the Student Wellbeing Team, a range of high-quality support documents and resources have been developed to guide and strengthen this work across our Diocese. 

Bernie represented our Diocese with professionalism, educational expertise, and a deep commitment to supporting the wellbeing of students and school communities. 

Thank you, Bernie, for your commitment and leadership. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.

International Day of People with Disability - 3 December 2026

The theme for International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) 2026 is "The CRPD at 20: Building on Progress, Advancing the Future." It’s been 20 years since the United Nations (UN) agreed to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The CRPD is an agreement between many countries. Australia is one of the countries that has agreed to it. It says that people with disability have the same rights as everyone else and should be able to take part in all areas of life.

The 2026 theme looks at what has improved over the past 20 years and what still needs to change. It calls on governments and communities to:

• build on the progress made
• remove barriers for people with disability
• protect the rights of people with disability
• improve access to information, jobs and community life
• make communities more accessible and inclusive

The theme also says that people with disability should be part of decisions that affect them. This is the idea behind "nothing about us without us". Additional information, school, workplace and community resources can be found at: School resources | International Day of People with Disability

National Survivor's Day  

Yesterday was National Survivors’ Day. A day which recognises and commemorates the courage and experiences of survivors of sexual assault and institutional abuse.  

See here for ways that you can acknowledge Survivors this week. 

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

Learning & Teaching

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

People & Development

• Term 4 Professional Learning offers
• Professional Learning Guide 2026
• Staff Wellbeing Guide & Resources
• Leadership Competency Framework
• DOBCEL Professional Learning and Events Guide 2027
• New Learning Management System 2027 resource
• Ballarat Diocesan Leadership Program (BDLP)

Career Opportunities

• Careers at DOBCEL
• Teachers On Net