The Mandevillian, 1988, Vol3, No3

5*ke

MDEVILI]AN Registered by Australia Post, Publication Number VBH7636, Vol 3, No 3, October 1988

LORETO INTO THE 1990s In this edition of The Mandevillian we are

taking a closer look at Sunday Seminars.

These events occur once a term and provide parents with the opportunity to discuss

- From a practical point of view, the role of the Principal will be unchanged and parents' access to staff will be the same.

seminar commences with Mass, after which

The general feeling was one of great optimism. Detailed thought and thorough planning ensures that the changeover will

everyone proceeds to the Senior School

take place confidently and gently.

issues which are of interest to them. Each

Staffroom for a Mothers' Association breakfast of croissants and coffee.

This informal element of the seminars often

sets the positive tone for the day. Parents are able to exchange ideas and make personal contacts The more formal part of the Sunday Seminar is frequently comprised of an address by a number of speakers,

WHAT IS

group discussion and concluded by an open question session.

HISTORY FACULTY

TRADITION? - RUSSELL STAIFF,

2..2.k

CO-ORDINATOR The theme for the last seminar was 'Loreto into the 1990s'. It was a time for a realistic

look at Loreto, Mandeville and the changes we can expect with a new Principal. During the day, parents and speakers confronted issues dealing with the future of the school.

We have chosen to present a report from each speaker and a sample of questions raised by parents. In this way not only will the day's proceedings be represented but we shall paint a picture of a typical Sunday Seminar.

The speakers were: Sister Deirdre, in her capacity as the chairperson of the Central Education Advisory Board of Loreto; Jim McCarthy, Chairperson of the Loreto, Mandeville Advisory Board; Mrs Margaret Smith, representing the Mandeville Staff; and Trish Riddell, School Captain speaking on behalf of the students. Mr Russell Staiff chaired the session.

As an historian I am vitally interested in the issues raised by concepts like 'change' and 'tradition'.

What is tradition? How is meaning made of tradition? How does it change over time?

- Mandeville was chosen from the Loreto

parent support groups, financially,

PERSPECTIVE

Church. They would go where there were no other people to do a particular work. It could be argued that the system of Catholic education is now running very successfully, and that the need for religious is in other areas of greater need. This belief has

- SR DEIRDRE ROFE, IBVM CHAIRPERSON OF THE CEAB

world which first gave it form, the

preindustrialize,i Morid 01 1/ m Lentury Europe, is absolutely different from the

world in which we live now. Not only has the world changed but the tradition itself has evolved as each successive generation of Loreto Sisters has carried that tradition on.

Change and tradition then are not antipathetic.

My work in the area of 14th and 15th Century cultural history suggests that a tradition only stays alive as long as it continues to be an authentically lived

experience and this, in turn, means that the tradition cannot be hollow rhetoric but must

substance to a vision. It may be worth

schools to have a lay Principal because of its 'healthy' condition. It is strong in its staffing,

Traditionally, religious have occupied

If we consider a phenomenon like the

continue to inspire and energize by giving This sample from the wide range of questions from the floor indicates the interest and involvement of the parents participating.

THE IBVM

What keeps a tradition alive?

Loreto tradition, we must realise that the

keeping these things in mind as we consider the question of 'Loreto into the 1990s' because one of the things I'm convinced about is that Mary Ward's vision of education for women continues as a lived

experience and continues to inspire,

whether the perspective is that of parents, teachers or students.

academically ... Also there are several other

work with refugees.

Loreto, Mandeville Hall, Toorak. In 1989 a

Given this position, it is unlikely that in the

significant phase in the school's history is beginning with the appointment of Mrs

Anne Hunt as the first lay Principal of the school. Parents and all associated with the

forseeable tuture the order will be able to

provide an increase in the numbers of religious working in Loreto schools. This fact has been appreciated for quite some

school are naturally concerned to know the

time by the Order. As statistical analysis

future relationship between the IBVM and

carried out in 1984 made the trends very clear. A new strategy was called for.

We had several starting assumptions:

the school and what level of commitment in

personnel it can make.

Like most religious orders of women in Australia, the IBVM has experienced a downturn in numbers of religious actively

involved in the school apostolate. This has

1. That the Loreto philosophy of education was worth preserving and was communicable to a wide cross-section of the

school community.

come about from a dual pressure viz the

2. In order to communicate the essence of

absolute decline in the number of women

our approach we needed to reflect on it and

entering the Order (since 1973 only five

record it.

members have been professed i.e. taken religious vows). The second force at work is the re-examination of the work (apostolate) of the order in the light of Mary Ward's charism. Her founding vision was broad: to serve the people of God (particularly

3. The emphasis in communicating this message should be placed on adults: the staff and parents.

These assumptions resulted in the publication of the Loreto Philosophy of

women and girls) through the provision of education and "by any means congruous to

Statement for Schools (1985) and the

the times".

Education Conference in August, 15'96.

inter-Loreto seminars. This year we have South Australia fur a leadership seminar.

The possiblility of staff-student exchange between Loreto schools is also being explored. On the past pupil level, the

enormous influence over their children and

biennial Federation, held at various Loreta

they should reinforce the religious education programme. Should the school be more confrontational with parents in matters of religious practice?

- With reference to the admission policy,

schools around Australia will assume greater significance. It draws together many past pupils as they explore a theme relevant to our society. Finally, the presence of an

the school's integration programme was supported. At present we have students with hearing or visual impairment - because

future will mean that the visible link with

sent twelve Year 11 students to Loreto in

[BVM community on site for the forseeable the Order will be maintained. There will be

religious on staff for as long as is feasible.

The pastoral, prayerful presence which has

the caring nature of the school, we do attract those with learning disabilities.

- Parents felt the need to stand by their

been so much part of Mandeville is a valued quality of which the Order is well aware.

This emergence of the laity to assume greater responsiblity in the life of the Church is a most encourageing sign tor the

beliefs in the school values. The request was

future. The future of Loreto will depend on

made for continuing education of parents in

a strengthening of the dialogue and ties

the school philosophy and the Loreto

between the IBVM and the school

f

members of the IBVM who are now involved in adult education, social work and

they would have a continued interest in the school. Other Loreto schools have principals more recently appointed.

- Problems in the school of peer group pressure which does not reflect the philosophy of the school. Parents have an

with other physical impairments. Because of

certainly affected the thinking of some

Sisters) have owned ancl administered

On the student front, we have a tradition of

of the number of stairs and the location of

pioneering roles in the service ot the

For the last 64 years, the IBVM (Loreto

groups of Loreto Sisters in Melbourne and

classrooms, the school is not suited to those

u..:.A.x;::

Education (1977), the IBVM Mission

organization of the first all Australia Loreto Follow up seminars for staff based on the Mission Statement have been held in the

following teaching areas: English, Geography/Commerce and History, with

one in Pastoral Care planned for November.

Staff from our six schools meet over a two

day period for discussions, reflection and planning.

In addition, the IBVM has in place structures designed to assist all IBVM schools to "Keep the Faith". The Central Education Advisory Board (CEAB) meets six times a year to plan educational initiatives and monitor developments in the field of education as they affect our schools. This has both lay and religious representation.

Each of our shcools now has an IAS

(Institute Accountability Structure) panel, to whom the Principal accounts on twelve

issues (e.g. Curriculum, Staffing, Finance, Past Pupils). This panel meets 3-4 times per year and has proved to be both a support

and a challenge to the Principal. This will continue at Mandeville into 1989.

Other strategies already planned or in place

Mission Statement. The importance of the Sunday Seminars was stressed and the

community as represented by staff and the

are: In-service of the Advis()rv Board in the

parents in particular.

parents expressed a desire to keep them going and to encourage a wider group of

Change is an inevitable feature of any

educational philosophy of thti IBVM; parent

parents to participate.

direction of that change. This will demand constant reflection on our goals and a restating of them wherever needed, in tr:inferring the administration of the

human group. Our challenge is to find the

- The reassurance was offered that the Mission Statement would continue to be

studied during Staff In-Service Days. There was also a suggestion made that Loreto personnel in Melbourne should be invited into the school to take part in school programmes whenever there was an opportunity.

school to its first lay Principal, the IBVM does so with confidence in the school

lim McCarthy, Chairperson of the Loreto Advisory Board, enjoys the Mothers' Association breakfast at the Sunday

community, in its capacity not merely to maintain the school but to assist its growth

Seminar.

in the spirit of Loreto,

initiatives such as the Sunday Seminars and regular staff in-service on the IBVM philosophy.

In the future, the role of religious in schools may be devoted more specifically to the spiritual ministry of the school - in the formal religious education programme of the school, in the development of faith of the students through liturgy, retreats and camps and in the area of adult education of both staff and students.

.Ili-

LORETO TERM 4 1988 OCTOBER 3 Mon

Staff In-Service day

7.30 pm Planning sub-committee meeting 4 Tues

Students return for Term 4

23 Sun

First Communion in St Peter's

Church, Toorak

Bushwalking Club excursion 25 Tues

Inter-School Athletics 1 pm -

4 pm at Doncaster Oval 8 pm School Report night for 1988 28 Fri

Junior School Sports Day Year 12 Final Day

29 SatNov 1 Tues

Mid-Term Break -

Melbourne Cup Holiday

NOVEMBER 3 Thurs

Year 10 Geography in the Yarra Basin

4 Fri

Year 7, 1989 Assessment

morning 6 Sun

9 am Year 10 and 11 Father-

Daughter Mass 7 Mon

VCE Exams commence

Year 9 visit Bicentennial Exhibition 9 Wed

7.30 Oak Parlour

10 Thurs

Inter-House Swimming Sports at

11 Fri

Open morning for Junior School 7.30 'Loreto Rocks' Parent Function

14 Son

Faculty Co-Ordinators' Seminar at St. Mary's College Faculty Co-Ordinators' Seminar at St. Mary's College

19 Sat

Open morning for parents new to Senior School

20 Sun

Year 3&4 Father-Daughter Mass

In-Service for Loreto Advisory Board 25 Fri

Year 10 & 11 Swot Vac

27 Sun

Parents farewell function for Sr Deirdre

28 Mon

- MARGARET SMITH,

SPIRIT

YEAR 12

- PATRICIA RIDDELL,

CO-ORDINATOR

SCHOOL CAPTAIN

We have been fortunate to have had Sr

On reflecting upon a Mandeville Iiall school

Deirdre as our Principal and will farewell

life, it is easy to relive and remember many happy and positive experiences. Indeed, for the vast majority of Mandeville students, the

her with sadness, however, those of us who know Anne Hunt are aware of her

compassion, intelligence and vision and we feel we will have been lucky to have been associated with two such principals.

Nevertheless, change is never a simple matter and almost inevitably brings challenges. Clearly, at this point we need to assess just what does it mean to be a member of staff in a Loreto School.

What in fact is the Loreto tradition?

The change will not just be one involving a new principal, for there is also an awareness

Year 10 & 11 exams commence

IBVM working in the school. We are facing

a diminished physical presence of sisters in

individual and her own enthusiasm to reach

the school.

out and take hold of these opportunities.

The Loreto Spirit is important to the

that there are now fewer members of the

The staff see the sisters as being particularly involved in the following areas: 1. Family Counselling - especially bereavement counselling and support for families in cases of illness and general family problems.

students and is fostered within the

2. Contacts with Past Pupils 3. Involvement with the wider community for example the Turana Programme, the

wider Loreto Community. The Loreto family is extensive, yet strongly bonded by its foundations. These bonds extend through present pupils, past pupils, the national and international Loreto schools, through the staff, the parents and through the Loreto

school support for projects in the St Kilda Parish and, more recently, of the Aboriginal Studies Unit in Alice Springs.

4. Providing a presence on the campus. This presence has meant that a wide variety of

very important one to nurture into the

8.45 and 3.45.

5. Maintaining the wider Loreto network that is, enabling students and staff in other schools throughout Australia and indeed overseas, to feel that they belong to a peculiarly Loreto tradition.

tradition is to be maintained, these functions

1990s and well into the future of the school.

must be carried on, presumably, and

Another important quality of the school, is that it is founded on religious belief. With the change to a lay Principal, it is vital that this sense of being part of a religiously based school does not disappear. For many of the students, it is the strong Christian

increasingly, by lay staff.

In many ways this seems a daunting task.

One source of optimism lies in the support which many staff would give to these traditions. Not all staff will feel equally committed or equally capable of carrying out these tasks but most would agree that we need to plan now. Staff must be helped and given the necessary skills and facilities.

1 Thurs

Year 9 exams commence Year 7&8 exams commence

Year 10 & 11 exams conclude 4 Sun

Loreto Rowing Regatta & Barbecue

6 Tue

Review Day for Year 10 & 11 Year 7-9 exams conclude

7 Wed 8 Thurs

Correction and review days in Senior School. Students not

9 Fri 9 Fri

required 7.30 pm Year 11 Social at

'Number 9 Darling Street' Junior School Concert 10 Sat 12 Mon

13 Tues

Second Hand Book Sale

8 pm Year 12 Graduation Mass & Supper Final Assembly in Senior School. All students in Junior

and Senior Schools required on this day 14 Wed

Staff In-Service Day 7.30 pm Year 12 Graduation Dinner Dance

15 Thurs 16 Fri

Staff In-Service Day

Staff In-Service Day Conclusion of Term 4

WHERE ARE YOU? We do not have current addresses for these

members. If anyone can help us with details please notify Membership Secretary, Mrs Julienne Scarff, 69 Illawarra Road,

Hawthorn, 3122, Telephone 818-7094.

Miss G Lewis

Mrs R Fidge Mrs M Dawson

Mra A T Mullany Mrs D Gleisner Miss C Gleisner

Mrs M O'Shaughnessy Mrs K Ring Mrs M Wilson

Miss Stacey Williams

frameworks for the maintenance of

traditions. These may well need to be training in counselling, such as bereavement counselling, and the school may need to consider the employment of a school

focus of the Sacrament for us is the healing power of the Love of God. We learn that Jesus has given us a recipe for happiness during our brief stay on his Earth - Love the Lord your God with all your I Ieart and

Love your Neighbour as you love yourself.

For those students who are making their First Reconciliation we have had some

reassuring comments from other classmates.

"I feel really good after I have been to Reconciliation and it makes me feel comfortable."

"I was really nervous at first but when I

came out of the room I was happy.

"I think Reconciliation is really nice because

I can let out all my troubles. If I keep them to myself I feel awful. If I tell them to the priest and God they don't blab about it."

Our feelings about the Sacrament can be

summed up by this statement from Chloe Adams:

"When you have a problem your heart

pounds and you feel uncomfortable. There is a lump in your throat, you want to tell someone but you're too scared. That's the

hardest bit, but when you tell someone the lump goes and you feel good all over. It's like rising to a new life, not worrying and you feel that's the best time in your life.

I'm really looking forward to telling the priest everything, receiving God's blessing and then walking out feeling really good."

During the weeks of Year 4's Reconciliation the whole school will be celebrating "Reconciliation Week", sharing with us our joy, excitement and anticipation.

from other schools. Most of the students at

Loreto in 1988 have been brought up in an age of predominantly lay staff. It is these lay staff who have had to carry the responsibility of instilling within the students, the religious beliefs and morals upheld by the Loreto Order. The change to a lay Principal and the reduced number of

IBVM teaching in schools means that the maintenance of the feeling that 'religion is alive at Mandeville' will perhaps rest more

counsellor). Care must be taken in the

heavily on the shoulders of staff, parents

employment of new staff, so that staff know just what is expected of them in terms of

Through discussion with past pupils who

and students into the 1990s.

have returned to Mandeville as members of

FOOTBALL AT MANDEVILLE

regularly after hours, there may need to be

staff, I have found that it is their considered

a revision of their present job specifications

opinion that the fundamental principles of

- CATHY FERRARI,

and salary.

The Social Service programme, started by Sr Ruth and continued by Anne Muirhead, is now functioning well under the leadership

the school have not changed. The Loreto

JUNIOR SCHOOL

of Sarah Winship. I believe this shows how a sister can help lay members of staff to maintain a programme initiated by the

traditions, beliefs and trademarks which

they knew as students have not only been

maintained, they have been further devel()ped and extended. I feel confident that under Mrs Hunt's guidance the needs

SPORT CO-ORDINATOR At 12.30 we would have our chance to play with and meet some of the North

Melbourne players. I didn't go for North

of Mandeville in the future will be nurtured

Melbourne, but it didn't matter.

sisters.

and extended to meet the requirements of

-Bianca Henning

It is clear that we are fortunate to have at

the school community.

Loreto Mandeville a parent body which is

As Mandeville moves into the 1990s, future

most supportive of the school. Perhaps some

development of the school and what it

of these parents will be able to assist in

stands for, rests with the present and future

some of those areas which will eventually

generations of staff, parents, members of

be vacated by the sisters. The running of the

the Order and the students of our extensive

Past Pupils Camps and Reunions could be

Loreto family.

History was made at Mandeville Junior School on a cold and bleak day in August when three special visitors arrived. They were Phil Krakoner, John Longmire and Allistair Clarkson from North Melbourne

Football Club and with their arrival the first

Mandeville Football Clinic began!

one such area.

Teachers in Loreto schools throut:hout

First we asked questions like "Do you have

Australia have been meeting, in tairly small numbers, over the last year or so, to discuss

another job? Where do you train? Do you

the Mission Statement. Soon some Year 11

team?"

students will be going to Adelaide for a

- Alicia Tinetti

leadership training session. In such ways we can help to maintain the Loreto network. We might well be able to strengthen this idea with activities between Loreto schools - e.g. concerts or sporting days with Loreto

Amidst much giggling, fumbling and mud, the Year 5s and 6s spent two afternoons learning all about hand balling, the drop and punt kick and how to mark the

go on a special diet? What is your worst

Ballarat.

ball. The footballers were very

While I feel that Mandeville is indeed

knowledgeable and the girls really enjoyed

fortunate to be getting Mrs Hunt, 1 feel that she too is fortunate to be getting Mandeville. The school seems to me any way, to be in very good shape. I feel that we, as a staff, can approach the 1990s fairly confidently. Of course there will be many changes and these will bring difficulties and challenges. Nevertheless there is a very

Miss R Cass

solid foundation on which we can build and

Mrs J Efthim

as Sr Deirdre has said, the lay staff will receive much help from the IBVM and from the parent body.

Miss G Murphy Miss M Long

will be their First Reconciliation. The main

qualities of Mandeville which sets it apart

counsellor (in addition to our career's

after-hours duties. If staff are to be required

It is with great joy and excitement that both

our Year 4 classes prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. For many of the girls this

family, I'm sure is a feeling noted and

It seems to me that all these functions are

not just something that happens between

YEAR 4 TEACHER

Order. The sense of the extended Loreto

very worthwhile and that if the Loreto

weekends. Education for Loreto students is

Mandeville, they can help lay staff to set up

2 Fri

individuals of Mandeville Hall. It is a deep sense of being one individual, sharing similar experiences with many other individuals and being an integral part of that

cherished by the students. This year, on our Pilgrimage, the mere 'feeling' came to life.

The bonds between year levels, staff and students and volunteers were strengthened this is easy to see and feel even 5 months after the event. The sense of being part of the wider Lotetc) Community gives students a feeling of continuity and stability, and a deep sense of belonging. It is very important for students to be aware of this in this time of change. I think this feeling is a

While we still have members of the IBVM at

DECEMBER

school environment at Lareto has provided them with enlightenment, encouragement, enjoyment and the basis for a bright future.

This has been true of the past, it is true of the present and, no doubt, this tradition will continue into the 1990s and beyond.

It is this traditien of providing girls with an exceptionally well-rounded education, which is undoubtedly one of the most notable and, certainly, favourable trademarks of Loreto, Mandeville Hall. The opportunities stand for every individual in the school. Indeed, the amount of experience gained rests upon the

evenings and particularly during the

parents and students

13 Sun

FOSTERING

IBVM Pastoral Care Seminar in

Sydney 12 Sat

A STAFF VIEW

school activities can be held at school in the

Pastoral Care Seminar in

- SHELLEY SINGH,

INTO THE 1990s

State Swim Centre

Sydney

RECONCILIATION

LORETO

i

A

4 941

sharing their skills and enthusiasm. At the conclusion of the afternoon the girls, covered in mud from head to toe and in a

state of exhaustion, returned to their classrooms.

We did some tackling. It was great fun, but we got in a mess.

-Megan Holt

They now have a greater appreciation of the skills involved in football and the accuracy Red Nose Day in Year 2

involved when kicking a goal!

SENIOR SCHOOL

SISTER HELEN

IN BRIEF

The Junior School has farewelled Sister Ilelen Murphy, who is looking forward to

GYM CLUB DISPLAY

twelve months of study at the Weston School of Theology, Boston. We thank her

SQUAD

for her 18 months of leadership and we

The Lc,reto Mandeville Hall Gym Club is making a name for itself in Melbourne as an entertainment sh(,w piece. There are 50 girls in·the group, aged from 8 - 15, and they perform a spectacular routine which is a combination of gymnastics and dance.

In addition to performing at NBL basketball games, the girls were invited to perform at t3

the half-time break for an international

netball match. The experience of displaying their skills in front of 5,000 spectators at the

Melbourne Sports and Entertainment Centre is no longer unusual to these girls.

This exciting aspect of the gym programme is expected to develop further next year as the girls learn new skills. So keep an eye out for Gym Display activities, and don't miss the next opportunity to see the girls in r'?#.4

action.

CREATIVITY AND

- MAR Y SHEEHAN

and singing parts, but also the orchestra, back stage duties and the lighting, as well as ticket sales, programme design, ushering and selling programmes. Each performance saw a near sell-out, the audience consisting of large numbers of students from both schools and family members.

A veritable army of students from both

None of these worthy activities can

compare, however, with the formidable task, undertaken by the parents at the intervals,

These adverturers are the purveyors of sweets, cordial and hot beverages who are confronted by throngs of students, anxious

to purchase their "goodies" before interval is over. This is an intimidating and terrifying task, not to be undertaken by the fainthearted. Vendors frantically force their brains to cope with mental arithmetic - an activity not experienced under duress

schools contribute to these productions.

They, in turn, are supported by (almost) indefatigable teachers like Mrs Sue Saxon,

frequently enough to be managed with alacrity. The "rush" only lasts for five to ten

Miss Karen Hill and Mr Brad Allan, along

along with the promise of a cup of coffee

with the ever-faithful supporters from St Kevin's such as Mrs Mary Downey and Mr Simon Carroll.

All those involved work long hard hours towards such productions. Parental support is also vital. This involves the transportation of participants to and from rehearsals and performances, the help of fathers in setbuilding, along with the cakes, chips, soft

drinks generally supplied by the mothers for

minutes and it is this knowledge which, once interval is over, sustains the volunteers.

When the jostling crowd has dispersed and the parents sit back to view the production they feel that their brave efforts at the

frontline have contributed to the production.

They realise that the knowledge, experience and friendships which have been the result trauma of the mad crowds at interval.

COMMITTEE One of the biggest tasks facing Victorian

schools at the moment is incorporating the

PLAN OF

RECONSTRUCTION

radical changes in curriculum direction into

- BRAD ALLAN

their own school programmes. Within the next four years the courses and the organization of Years 11 and 12 will change completely as the new VCE is implemented.

The Victorian Ministry of Education has re-

In 1987 Philip Roff and Associates,

vamped the curriculum in primary and

junior secondary in a project known as "Frameworks".

-

THE FIVE YEAR

Educational Management Consultants, was

commissioned by Mandeville to assist the Planning Committee of the Advisory Board with the production of a Master Plan for the physical development of the school for the next five years. As part of my role as client (school) representative for the life of the

All these changes reflect a shift in

reconstruction programme I shall, in this

educational emphasis towards greater access and participation along with a perceived need to more closely dovetail education at all levels (secondary and post-secondary) to the needs of a changing world. The task of a

and future issues of The Mandevillian,

school like Loreto is to assess all of this

able to look back and reflect on the week I

spent as a Work Experience student. I find that I am asking myself 'What is Work Experience?' Literally I am able to answer that it is the chance for the Year 10s to gain

experience in the work force and yet, there was more to it than just the job. It was a

tantalizing taste of a whole new way of life.

From the first day, when we dressed

carefully and arrived a cautious five minutes early, to the last, when we walked out the door with self-confidence and gratitude, we came to realize that life is very different once one has left the safe and protected

confines of school. Up until this time, we

have only been able to imagine life without

Festival bring home the importance of giving students the opportunity to respond creatively, responsibly and independently within the school.

This year was the first time I had been involved with the Drama Festival. As a

teacher, my role was to supervise, to be of support to the Captains and, when requested, to assist with discipline, direction and encouragement. I enjoyed watching the students interact as they prepared their drama production.

The captains/directors led their actors with great confidence and the students cooperated accordingly. Everything seemed well organised and practices ran smoothly.

Isn't it encouraging when we feel that we are empowering our students or children?

When the practices were all completed and the Drama Festival was in full swing, it was a pleasure to sit back and watch performances which were the absolute product of the students.

Congratulations to all the actors and the Drama Captains for their co-operative efforts. The winner of this year's Drama

many of our rosy dreams were shattered but others, more akin to reality, were soon built to replace them.

It was not only a very enjoyable experience, but one that has enabled many to seriously

consider what they want out of life. It has opened up new doors for the future, and for many, created a sense of anticipation and hope.

Work experience enabled us to spend a week in the 'real world'. We spent time worrying over wasting our hard-earned $15

on lunch and enjoyed the freedom of being responsible for ourselves and our own actions.

As Work Experience students, we were

accepted as young adults by our employers and were expected to behave accordingly.

No longer were we pleaded with or bribed, we did as directed, under pain of appearing young and immature. Hopefully, we met with their expectations and found, to our surprise, that it was not as hard as we had expected. In fact, we gained the confidence in our own abilities to be able to cope with a variety of situations.

Today we have some idea of what may stand ahead for us and are further along the path to choosing our future careers.

Festival was Mornane in both Senior and

Junior Sections.

1988 SKIING There were gale force winds and a blinding blizzard at Mt Buller on the day we arrived

THE CURRICULUM

- SOPHIE ADAMS, YEAR 10 As the strong images begin to fade, I am

the disciplines of school. Unfortunately,

of the production will certainly outlast the

the "after-party".

WORK EXPERIENCE

It never ceases to amaze me how our

Arts Festival and the Inter-House Drama

Much time and effort has again gone into another very successful Loreto-St Kevin's musical co-production. The students of both schools coped ably with, not only the acting

look forward to her return in mid 1989.

RESPONSIBILITY students respond to challenge and responsibility. Occasions like the Performing

BEHIND TH E BOYFRIEND

wish her well in her overseas venture. We

for the Interschool Ski Races. The intrepid junior team set off to "Sky Line" for their races, while the senior teams went to

"Summit". Our junior team consisting of Monica Stosius, Michelle Florenini and Kate

Carcuran raced so well they came second as a team. It was a great effort by all, especially Emma Newton-Brown who came third in the fastest girls, senior sections. For fantastic organization, much thanks is due to our Ski Captain Emma Newton-Brown, Miss Dickinson and Mr Schmidt. It was a

wonderful day which we all enjoyed.

- Amy Lally, Year 7

JUNIOR SCHOOL

CHRISTIAN LIVING

CAMPS - GERALDINE CORNALL, YEAR 11 CLASS TEACHER The Year 11 Christian Living Camp has become something of a tradition. It has

several aims: firstly to providk a time for Year 11 students to step aside from their busy routines in order to examine their

relationships with God and with others; secondly, it attempts to give students from

single sex schools an opportunity to mix

and share, in some depth, their ideas and faith experiences arising out of the RE classes at school.

The 1988 programme, which ran from Monday to Thursday, was planned to provide depth and variety. There were boisterous ice-breaking games, serious discussions, free times, trust exercises and

IN BRIEF

the creative challenge of role plays. Each group's programme culminated in a Mass on Wednesday evening and affirmation

As far as the Senior School (Years 7-12) is

PAINT A PLATE

exercises on Thursday morning. Many girls

concerned, the broad aim of the plan is to

The Junior School will be taking part in the

curriculum ferment in terms of our

achieve the most efficient and rational use of

educational philosophy, firstly as a Catholic school and secondly as a school that bases its teaching programme on the Mission Statement and Educational Philosophy of the

existing facilities, where such facilities meet the basic requirements of their intended use.

Where faclities are inadequate, the aim is to renovate using existing physical superstructures, as far as possible. In short,

Paint-a-Plate activity again this year. Nearly all the children are participating and plates will be decorated during art classes. The

valuable part of the camp, particularly that

IBVM.

endeavour to keep you up to date with our own version of the perestoika.

1. What is the basic aim of the plan?

This task of constant evaluation of the

the plan is an attempt lo provide facilities

curriculum and innovation, where

appropriate to the foreseeable requirements of the school over the next five years.

appropriate, has been made the raison d'etre of the newly formed Curriculum Committee.

The Committee which is chaired by the

In the Junior School (Prep-Year 6) physical changes will be of a quite substantial nature,

proceeds will go towards the art room and the computer room, while the plates will no doubt become treasured family keepsakes.

- Sally O'Byrne

SISTER MARIE

appointees and the Careers Counsellor.

choose contract managers to co-ordinate the

One year after Sister Marie's departure for Kenya, she maintains faithful correspondence. She is enjoying her work at Msongari, teaching Standard One, and at the moment acting as bursar. The Junior School children enjoy writing to her and bundles of letters are regularly dispatched. Sister Marie is looking forward to a visitor from the

At present, the work load of the Curriculum Committee is massive. Not only is there the need to be aware of the changes that are occurring in the Australian scene generally, but it has initiated a major curriculum writing project in the Senior School

development programme. After inspections

Junior School in December - Miss Pat

Director of Studies, Mr Robert Dernelley, is

made up of the Principal of the Senior School, two parent appointees, three elected Senior School staff members including one who has taught for less than 5 years, one Junior School staff member, two student

whereby all subject co-ordinators have been asked to write out their syllabi in terms of aims, objectives and specific statements about what is to be learnt, how it is to be learnt and how it is to be assessed. These

statements will then be reviewed by the Curriculum Committee.

Over the next few years, as the new VCE is

fully implemented, this Committee will play a vital and significant role in the life of the school.

including the modification and extension of new buildings after work in the Senior School has been completed.

2. What has happened recently?

Following the acceptance of Philip Roff's Master Plan, the Planning Committee had to

and interview, the Planning Committee

Moylan.

appointed Pizzey Noble Pty Ltd to act as contract managers.

3. What is the first stage in the implementation of the plan?

To begin with, and in line with VCE developments, there will be a location

interchange between Years 8 and 11. Year 11

will thereby be located as close as possible to Year 12. Year 8 will take the place vacated

by Year 11 in the Mary Ward Building. The physical rationalisation of Art and Computer facilites appears to be the starting point for

found the group discussions to be the most of Wednesday afternoon on the subject of

sex role stereotyping. In this session both boys and girls asked questions directed towards discovering each other's attitudes to relationships, love, trust, marriage, sex, family life and school life.

We were all saddened on Wednesday morning to hear of the death of Sally Ericksen's father. Sally was at the Flinders site. Her friends, teachers and classmates at

all camps commiserated with her and we remembered both Mr Ericksen and the

family in our prayers and during the Wednesday evening Mass.

On Thursday afternoon, as we hauled our

bulging sausage bags, projector screens and boxes of equipment into the school grounds, we felt slightly out of touch with regular school life, blue uniforms and end of period bells. In the following week we evaluated

the experience. Maybe the best way to

RED NOSE DAY

convey the girls' own feelings is to quote from some of their written comments

During second term, the Junior School

"The experiences we had and the feelings

decided to be part of "National Red Nose Day", scheduled for 2 September, to raise

and emotions we shared all moulded our

funds for research into Sudden Infant Death

Syndrome. The time lapse between payment and the appointed day seemed very long to little children and there were many requests to know when the red noses would arrive.

lives in some way at this time. Although we did not necessarily learn anything which is examinable, we learnt something much more important - self discipline, openness and being socially aware and comfortable of others around you.

bricks and mortar reconstruction. This work

When at last "Red Nose Day" came, the

The enthusiasm as to the value of the 1988

students and teachers donned their noses

will take place in the area adjacent to the convent and the Mandeville Assembly Hall.

and presented a most quizzical sight in

experience, expressed by both staff and

support of a worthy cause.

students, suggests that the tradition will continue.

BIRTHS

1925-40 REUNION

WOMEN'S VOICE

We congratulate the following on the births

Are you aware that we are represented on the National Council of Women and that,

of their children

through this body, we have the means of having our voice heard in corridors of

Barbara Flynn (Johnston)

Ilelen Curtain (O'Shaughnessy) - twins, Sophie and Annabel

power?

The McArdle family (Liz and Anna) -

r

The committee works to promote and lobby for the welfare of women and families. It

Nicholas

provides a forum for representation of the widest spectrum of women's opinions and is recognised not only by State and Federal Governments, but also by the United

The Borg family (Georgina and 1-Jura) Julie Dynioel< (Pleasance) - Luke Danielle MeDermott (Brown) - Thomas

Nations.

This year, the Council has been working on

MARRIAGES

such issues as X-rated videos, child abuse, the deterioriation of the maternal and child

health centres, the proposed changes to the

Miss Bambi Dunn to Stewart McAuley

9. WA :.

Leanne King to John Anjier

Constitution and the health of women in the

Mary Gaynor to John O'Sullivan

workplace. In June, the Council lobbied the Government. It was apparent that their

i

submission was taken into account at the

meeting of the Attorneys-General in Darwin where, following a lively public meeting concerning Maternal and Child Health, the

Left to Right: loan Crosbie (Barry), Svbil Bryan (Douglas), Elaine Broad (O'Mara), loan Garrett (Hooper), Sr Ruth Winship

proposed review was cancelled and funds

A DAY TO REMEMBER

were injected into the service.

FOR THE REST OF OUR

It can also be seen that the new proposals for the de-institutionalisation of disabled

LIVES

people contain the Council's requirement

rhe 1925-40 Reunion held earlier this year

that a variety of housing options be

-A Proud Veteran, Lyla McCauley "From my class eleven were present out of a pc,ssible eighteen, plus Sister Judith and Sister Lua. Very good after 50 years.

-Barbara Anderson

after all this time, but the day was not only

IBVM. This extraordinary occasion was the

This demonstrates that the voice of the

pleasant but memorable."

-Margaret O'Brien "1 must say I wasn't all that rapt at the

result of months of exhaustive searching and letter writing. As Father John Begley S.J.

ordinary people can be heard in the political arena.

celebrated Mass for the 116 ladies who

Susan Whittington, who is our representative on the NCW of Victoria,

attended, there was a feeling that this was

presently holds the position of Honorary International Secretary, convening the work of the Standing Committees. These are

comprised of people with expertise in areas such as law, education, social welfare, health

welcome, happiness and affection..."

-Irene O'Sullivan.

kitchen the noise level was unbelievable!

and economics. The Committees generally

"What a wonderful, wonderful day! There were girls there I didn't even see. We were hoarse from talking 24 hours afterwards."

The warmth that emanated from all those

meet 3-4 times a year, so that busy people

Mandevillians who were present - the

need not feel that they are taking on an

sisters, the 1925-40 students and the recent

excessive commitment.

-Mollie Buxton

Past Pupils - was most evident when all joined together to sing "O Causa Nostrae"

It is preferable that delegates be replaced with new blood after 3-4 years on the Council, so here is a stimulating opportunity

"Thankyou for one of the nicest days I have spent. Yesterday as I looked at the magnificent Mandeville Hall building, the school, at you, the Sisters, the Past Pupils and the Present Pupils, I realised the tremendous privilege I had been given, to be a part of the Loreto family. Thankyou for

and "Queen of Loreto".

Sister Ruth's attention to details was evident

for readers of The Mandevillian to

throughout the whole day. Among a myriad of preparations were her homemade savouries and the finishing touch of flowers on each table. We must recognise and thank her for her untiring efforts. The importance of the occasion was enhanced by a gesture

participate in one of the more public aspects of the Loreto Past Pupils' Association. Those who are interested in the National Council

of Women are encouraged to contact Susan Whittington (598 5934).

-Sally-Jean Coates Dilena "Such a lovely, lovely day. Everyone was just thrilled with every moment of it. It meant so much to us all and especially to

(Superior) who provided mementos of colour photographs of the interior of Mandeville Hall for each guest.

Each Federation Conference has a theme and the one which has been chosen for the

lives, for it brought much laughter, it

next conference in Adelaide is 'Old Values -

recalled memories and even tears ... I thank

New Visions'. It is hoped that through the conference we may be made aware and be prepared to meet the challenges which will inevitably confront us in the future. By being able to meet in the Loreto tradition of Mary Ward and Mother Gonzaga Barry, we hope to 'capture a vision' and translate it into practical terms.

you all - all the Loreto Nuns and girls who made such an occasion possible ... I would also like to thank those young Loreto girls of tomorrow who so ably attended us. They were wonderful and they served us with such loving care."

fifty years, and others who are lonely, to meet old friends and renew happy times.

Thankyou for a wonderful experience!

-Hiliary Dwyer "

LORETO BALL NICKI HICKS In the fairytale ballroom at the Hyatt on

Collins, weeks of preparation and rehearsals

Conference of the Loreto Federation of

understatement.

Australia. It is being hosted by the Old Scholars of Marryatville in March 1989.

Federation was initiated by Moira Dynon (former Mandeville pupil) in the early 1950s; its purpose is to unite the various

A special magic filled the ballroom that night, as the excitement of the debutantes was caught by everyone else there. The band added to the atmosphere and won many fans by playing music suitable for all age groups. The food and the service provided by the Hyatt were impeccable, but perhaps the most memorable aspect of the

tb

Loreto communities on a national level.

As has been the practice in the past, Marryatville intend to have keynote speakers and anticipate a significant input

evening was the way it was a family event.

from those who left school in the late 70s

Not only were the 31 debutantes and their partners the pride of their own families, but we were all conscious of being part of the larger school family.

and 809.

While those girls were, in a sense, enjoying a

1?

wilI be included in the next edition of the

Lady Clare Anderson (Murphy), mother of Jill, Carol, Barbara and Frances.

Clare Shelley, sister of Sr Angela Kennedy.

"Pray earnestly for the departed friends, for it is in a time of need that true friendship is proved." Mary Ward We have difficulty getting accurate information for the "Births, Marriages and

Deaths" section of The Mandevillian. if you are able to help us in this regard, please send details to the editor - afterall, if you don't tell us the news...we can't print it!

CREDITS Address: "The Mandevillian"

Loreto, Mandeville Hal! 10 Mandeville Crescent

Toorak, 3142 Editorial Committee:

Editor: Gabrielle McKinnon

Community: Sr Carolyn McSwiney Senior School: Russell Staiff Mothers' Association: Marv Sheehan

Past Pupils' Association: Julienne Scarff and Jane Nathan

- BRENDA, LAURIE AND

The Adelaide Conference is the 18th Biennial

accommodation, costs, travel and timetables

Cath MEMahon (McGilton)

Junior School: Pat O'Halloran

were magnificently fulfilled at the Debutante Ball. To say that the evening was an unqualified success would be an

If any young Past Pupils would like to participate in the Conference, Marryatville young Old Scholars are keen to billet.

Details regarding the Conference, including

Sally, Adelaide and Mari

some who had not been back to Loreto for

Following, are some excerpts from letters written after the day: "A day to remember for the rest of our

NEW VISIONS

Torn Ericksen, husband of Julie, father of

a wonderful Reunion."

from Sister Maureen Saunders IBVM

OLD VALUES -

Mrs Margaret Jean (Duck)

Rear Admiral Burrell, father of Lynne, Faye

David O'Callaghan, father of Margaret O'Callaghan, Susan and Sarah Callil

thought of milling around with one hundred or so people, most of whom I have not seen for forty years. However, when I walked through the front door a great feeling of well-being descended and a lovely feeling of

going to be a special day.

Following Mass, pre-lunch drinks were held in the front room and it proved difficult to move the animated group to the dining room for lunch. To those serving in the

of:

and Stuart

"I was a bit nervous about facing everyone

was the brainchild of Sister Ruth Winship,

available.

DEATHS Sincere sympathy to the families and friends

wonderful finale to their years at Loreto, we

all felt that a beginning was also being made - that another generation had come of age.

The Mandevillian at the end of the year. So keep the weekend of March 10 - 13 free for

Left to Right: Nan DonaM (Bume) and Mary Johnston

can feel confident that the future is in good

your trip to Adelaide and Federation!

(Peppar).

hands.

Based on the evidence of this evening, we

We offer our special thanks to the Past Pupils' Association and the Mothers' Asssociation for

their generous financial support of this issue.

Typesetting: The Type Gallery Printing: Vital Instant Print

If you have any suggestions for The Mandevillian, we encourage you to write to the editor.

LORETO FAMILY INTERNATIONAL SPONSORSHIP It is hard to believe that only 18 months ago Colette Burnes, while attending the 17th

Federation Conference in Ballarat, put forward the proposal for a sponsorship scheme to assist the children of Loreto

Convent, Entally, India. As a result of the endorsement of the 17th Conference, and

unbridled enthusiasm and dedicated effort,

we are pleased to be able to report that to date, 190 girls have been sponsored.

While this is encouraging, there are still 80-90 children on our immediate list,

desperately in need of assistance. Individual sponsorship of $175.00 per year completely

LORETO FAMILY

covers the costs of food, clothes, medicines,

INI ERNATIONAL SPONSORS;HIP

4

"Be compassionate and merciful towards the poor

ry Ward)

and ge nerous also if you have the means" (Ma

Wk v

I wish to sponsor a child for

Postcode

Phone

Return to:

Loreto Family International Sponsorship Loreto, Mandeville Hall

Entally and the Loreto Schools at Sealdah

Please make cheqi Je or money order payable to Loreto

lives with the other 10 members of her

Family International

family in one room, while SEEMA aged 10,

A yearly reminder of the date of your next

lives in appalling conditions where there is

sponsorship payment will be forwarded

no stimulation for the children and the

Mr/Mrs/Miss

State

At present, children at Loreto Convent

I enclose my first p ayment of $175.00.

BLOCK LETTERS F'LEASE

City

sponsor.

and Elliot Road are receiving sponsorship, but there are still so many girls who desperately need our help. For example PRITI, aged 7 and her sister were left in the care of their very aged grandmother They are both sickly and are in real need of help, encouragement and love. ANGELA, aged 4,

Loreto Family International

Address

books and other daily necessities. This contribution is envisaged as an ongoing annual financial commitment by each

to you. Our most sincere thanks.

family is weak and depressed.

"Struggling", "dire need", "deplorable city slum conditions't "abject poverty" - these are words which flavour the correspondence that travels between India and Australia. So

10 Mandeville Crescent

many more girls could benefit from our

Toorak, Victoria 3142

support and we look forward to an ever

increasing number of Loreto families in Australia joining us in this sponsorship.