Cardijn Connect - a source of news and information for the Cardijn community. The blog will be published every Thursday during the school term with past editions always accessible from the menu.

Congratulations to Year 10 Marcellin student Blake who has commenced a Cert III in Automotive Refinishing at South Adelaide Autobody (Collision Care Group).

Miss Jonas' Year 2 class has been focusing on growing our hearts this Lenten season in the Galilee Cana Garden. 🌱💛

Is your child currently in Year 5 and wanting to start high school at Marian?

This is a friendly reminder that enrolments close for Year 7 2028 on Friday, 10 April 2026 (end of Term 1).

Please note: If you have a child already enrolled at Cardijn, you still need to submit an application for any other siblings wishing to start Year 7 in 2028.

Start the enrolment process here: https://www.cardijn.catholic.edu.au/how-to-apply/

Join us for an exclusive 45min webinar featuring international experts Dr Emma Woodward and Dr Joe Stammeijer, as they share valuable insights into recognising early signs of concern and practical approaches to supporting the wellbeing of young people.

This webinar is Part I of a series, and in this session topics will include:

• Understanding Anxiety and Depression
• Recognising Early Signs
• Supporting Neurodivergent Children

Online, Thursday 19 March, 2026 at 7:30pm.

Register: https://cardijn.catholic.schooltv.me/webinar/sant-understanding-anxiety-depression-part-I

Suitable for: parents, grandparents, carers, educators, and school leaders.

Congratulations to Year 12 Marcellin student Ethan who has commenced a Cert III in Light Vehicle Technology with Auto Surgeon.

Last week, Galilee's Year 8 Environmental Ecologist students visited the Aldinga Washpool, recently renamed Wangkuntila (Kaurna language) - Aldinga Conservation Park.

Students were joined by John from the Friends of Aldinga Scrub and Jeremy from Green Adelaide, who shared their knowledge about the unique environment of the Washpool and the important work being done to protect it.

During the excursion, students learnt about the rare pebble dune system that helps shape the landscape and supports many native plant and animal species. They also explored how the area has changed over time. In the past, parts of the land were cleared and used for farming, but today it is carefully protected as a conservation area so that native habitats can recover.

One of the highlights for students was learning about the incredible migratory birds that travel thousands of kilometres from Siberia each year to visit the wetlands. These birds rely on places like the Washpool as important resting and feeding sites along their long migration routes.

The excursion was a wonderful opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with the natural environment, while also gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance and ecological value of this special local place.

1. Visit https://www.schoolinterviews.com.au/
2. Enter the appropriate code for your child’s year level:
   • Middle School: hd6uw
   • Primary School: rhs4k

Curious Minds is a hands-on extension and mentoring program which strives to ignite girls’ passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Curious Minds - Girls in STEM program - get in contact with your science teacher or Dr Sharma to find out more. 

National Close the Gap Day - Thursday, 19 March 2026

Close the Gap is an important reminder that every child deserves the same opportunities to be healthy, safe, successful and proud of who they are. At Cardijn, this means creating places where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students feel respected, included and supported to thrive.

Education plays a powerful role in helping close the gap. When students feel a strong sense of belonging and connection at school, they are more likely to engage in learning, build confidence and achieve success. Cardijn does this across each campus by creating culturally safe classrooms, embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across learning, and celebrating the histories, cultures and achievements of First Nations peoples.

Families and community are also a vital part of this work. Strong partnerships between home and school help children feel supported and valued. Parents and carers can encourage curiosity, respect and understanding by talking with children about inclusion, fairness and the importance of learning from Australia’s First Peoples. Community events, cultural celebrations and shared learning opportunities also help strengthen these connections. Please keep an eye out for these future events at Cardijn.

As a school community, we can all contribute by listening, learning and showing respect. Small actions such as acknowledging important dates, using inclusive language, and building genuine relationships can make a big difference.

Closing the gap is about working together so that every child feels they belong and has the opportunity to succeed. By supporting one another, we help build a stronger, more inclusive future for all.

Kate Bawden
Deputy Principal