Step Inside FCJ College: A Flying Start to Term 3

If the start of Term 3 is anything to go by, we’re in for another wonderful term at FCJ College. We’ve certainly hit the ground running, with 2026 already proving that Term 3 remains one of the busiest and most rewarding times on the school calendar.

Before welcoming students back for Semester 2, our staff took part in professional learning focused on Tuning in to Students. An evidence-based approach to emotional intelligence that strengthens our commitment to a supportive, caring and connected learning environment for every student.

Our students have returned full of energy, with many enjoying new elective subjects for the first time. Our Student Representative Council also held its first meeting of the term, sharing thoughtful ideas, planning events and using their student voice to make a positive difference around the College. We are incredibly impressed by their initiative and enthusiasm.

There was plenty of excitement as our Year 11 students laced up their dancing shoes for their first Formal dance lesson, stepping outside their comfort zones and building confidence together. We can’t wait to see their improvement and the fun they have over the coming weeks!

In the early hours of Tuesday morning, fifteen of our Year 9 students set off on an unforgettable Red Earth Immersion in Cape York.

This unique experience allows students to live and learn alongside Traditional Owners on Homelands, building meaningful connections while gaining a deeper understanding of First Nations cultures, histories and ways of life.

The group has already completed an epic journey north, settled into camp and begun learning about the local environment, cultural protocols and language with Auntie Lilian and Uncle Richard. They have even caught an eel and turtle as part of a traditional cook-up!

Over the coming days, students will visit Hopevale School, explore Melsonby National Park, experience significant rock art sites and meet with other Traditional Owners. Through these experiences, students will gain a deeper appreciation of the stories, traditions and connection to Country that make this region so special.

We look forward to welcoming them home next week and hearing about the incredible experiences and memories they have made.

Back at school, students in Years 7 to 10 participated in the ThinkUKnow Australia program, delivered in partnership with Victoria Police. The sessions focused on helping young people make safe and informed choices online, encouraging respectful digital behaviour and reminding students where to seek support.

Whether in the classroom, on Country or online, these experiences help our students grow as capable, compassionate and confident young people, living out the FCJ Characteristics of Gentleness, Courage and Confidence, Justice and Companionship. The excitement is only just beginning, with the weeks ahead filled with opportunities to learn, perform, compete and grow.

Our Year 10 students will soon head out on work placements, gaining valuable real-world experience across a diverse range of industries. Each placement reflects the unique interests, aspirations and career goals of our students, highlighting the personalised pathways available at FCJ College.

We’ll also celebrate Founders Day on Friday, 14 August, welcome our visiting students from Sacred Heart Japan, and see students participate in camps, excursions, sporting events and performances that make life at FCJ College so rich and rewarding.

Our students volunteering for BlazeAid will continue, until the job is done. Fire recovery is a long process, and we are committed to supporting our community as it recovers and continues to rebuild following one of the most significant bushfire events our region has experienced.

And, of course, one of the highlights of the term will be our school production of The Addams Family. Be sure to save the date and join us on Friday, 4 September for what promises to be a spectacular show.

Term 3 is shaping up to be one to remember, and we look forward to sharing the journey with you every step of the way. Don't miss a thing—follow us on social media for more highlights, stories and updates from around FCJ College.

‍