Assistant Principal - Mission & Wellbeing

Uniform - Hair

Recently there have been concerns regarding student responsibilities in adhering to our uniform policy, in the area of acceptable hairstyles. When a student enrols within our College the following responsibilities applicable to uniform apply. The student is: 

• To aim at the highest personal standards in all aspects of College life. 
• To co-operate with the staff and to accept the authority and rules of conduct of the College.

The following comes straight from our uniform policy: 

McAuley Catholic College students are expected to show pride in the College by wearing the school uniform correctly. Wearing of a school uniform is important for several academic, social and safety reasons. Most importantly, wearing a school uniform promotes a sense of identity and respect for the school. Wearing a uniform encourages school spirit and a sense of belonging and pride. It removes competitiveness and class distinction in dress and lessens ‘financial’ barriers between students. In this regard, it can help to reduce incidences of bullying and peer pressure. Additionally, wearing a uniform creates a sense of orderliness throughout the school. It also models behaviour by helping students to prepare for when they leave school and may have to dress smartly or wear a uniform. For parents and caregivers, it cuts down on cost as well as provides protection against the harmful rays of the sun. Furthermore, a school uniform can improve learning by reducing distraction, sharpening focus on schoolwork and making the classroom a more serious environment, allowing students to perform better academically. 

The full College uniform as described in the Student Diary is to be worn to and from school and at all times during the school day. All students are expected to:  

• Wear correct school uniform each day with pride.  

Hair is a part of the uniform policy and should show pride in the College. A hairstyle must meet health and safety requirements as well creating a sense of orderliness and a high standard of personal presentation. Currently, there are many popular styles and trends which do not meet our College policy. 

For both boys and girls, hair is to be well groomed and tidy. Long hair over the collar must be tied back. Ribbons and other hair ties are to be in school colours. Extremes of hairstyle, including extremes of colours, are not permitted. Boys must be clean-shaven.

Mullets, mullets with shaved sides, undercuts, steps, cuts less than a number two, streaks, noticeable dyes and gel or styling products are examples of haircuts that do not meet the requirements of the College policy. 

However, we do realise that we need to take into account the diversity of our students and within our policy we have a clause for individual circumstances. For example, this may apply to religious or cultural beliefs, traditions and customs. 

Any student wishing to seek a modification to our College Uniform Policy will need to apply in writing to the Principal. The Principal will then interview the student and a decision will be made regarding modification.

We ask parents to support the College policy and cooperate with the school to ensure that hairstyles are neat and tidy and meet the College requirements.

Ignite 

Mr Montford, Mrs Doyle, Georgia and Chelsea will be accompanying a group of 16 students attending Ignite for the first time since 2019. Ignite Conference has proven to be a pivotal experience in the faith lives of many of our students since 2009 and this would not be possible without our committed staff who attend. This year across the Diocese there are close to 260 attending in the group.

Unfortunately, the announcement of the public holiday on Thursday 22 September has resulted in some reorganisation of this trip. 

Departure date: Friday 23rd September 2022 5.00am at the school

Return date: Sunday 25th September 2022

A separate note outlining the requirements of the trip will be sent out to students. We wish all students and staff a great time away. 

Catch the Wave 

Our Year 8 students last week attended the Catch the Wave program here at the College. Youth Ministry Officers and the Diocesan Band Wildfire were in attendance and together provided a great day of music ministry and evangelisation. Thank you to Mrs Robinson, Mr Montford and Georgia who worked with our students on this day. 

Mercy Works 

Thank you to the generosity of our College community as we have raised approximately $4000 towards Mercy Works this year. McAuley Day was a huge success and due to the stalls created by our homerooms students and staff were able to show support and purchase items or have a go at challenges set up throughout the College. A lot of fun was had on the day. Thank you to everyone involved in this day and to the students and families who supported so generously.