From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers, Staff and Students,

As we approach the final stretch of Term 2, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the past fortnight and look ahead to the coming weeks.

We are currently in a particularly busy and purposeful period in our school calendar. Week 7 marked the completion of our Mission Review, and I’m pleased to share that the verbal feedback from the review team was overwhelmingly positive. I extend my deepest thanks to the staff, parents and students who contributed so thoughtfully to this important process. We will receive recommendations from the review panel, which we will incorporate into our next Strategic Plan to ensure we focus on and strengthen our Catholic Identity and Mission.

Looking ahead to Week 9, we will undertake our ACER School Review, which will be conducted by a panel of four people, comprising both external and diocesan representatives. The panel members will be immersed in the school for three days and aim to interview at least 85% of the staff, as well as groups of students and parents. I am confident that the spirit of cooperation and dedication will carry us through this process. Any parents who would like to participate in the review can contact Katrina in the College Office. The conversation can take place in person or over the phone. These reviews are invaluable in helping us celebrate our strengths and identify areas where we can continue to grow and improve outcomes for our students. As mentioned above, the recommendations we receive from the review panel will also inform the development of our next strategic plan. 

I’d like to thank our teaching staff for their ongoing efforts with assessment and reporting across Years 7 to 11. This is a time of immense workload, and I recognise the careful attention each person is giving to ensure our students and families receive accurate, fair and constructive feedback on their learning.

We have had a range of excursions and events in the last fortnight, including Art Gallery visits, Cross Country and Soccer competitions, Year 10 Careers Day and ADF visit, Year 11 Biology fieldwork, Volleyball teams in Armidale, History lectures and the Vinnies Sleepout. I am thankful to the many staff who organise and supervise these experiences that enrich the learning of our students, both within and beyond the classroom, helping to develop the whole person.

A special thanks to Kathy Warby, Tom Howard, Jacob Somers and the Mission team for the organisation and celebration of the Family Mass on Sunday 15th June at St Mary’s Church. It was a beautiful reminder of our shared faith and the importance of community.

Over the last month, a number of leaders and teaching staff have assisted me in meeting with prospective students and their parents, as part of the enrolment process, and it has been wonderful to meet so many keen and enthusiastic students who want to be part of our College community. It has been a privilege and a delight to have these conversations and share this experience with my staff. 

One of our key focus areas at the College continues to be the implementation and use of consistent, predictable routines. Staff are asked to ensure they apply the agreed-upon practices in each lesson with our junior students. Research shows that having routines assists students' learning and their overall school experience. These routines help create a safe, ordered and positive environment where students thrive. Consistent, predictable routines can be applied to many aspects of life. I ask families to consider this when it comes to punctuality (to school and class), and wearing the correct uniform.

Thank you to the families who have paid their Semester 1 fees and to those making regular payments. Unfortunately, there are families with outstanding fees. This is a gentle reminder to settle these accounts within the next few weeks or to contact the College office to discuss payment options. It is a condition of enrolment that fees are paid in a timely manner. A reminder to our Year 12 parents & carers that attendance at the Formal is dependent on the payment of fees.

We have begun the Subject Selection process for Year 8 and Year 10 students. Families have received information about the process and subjects offered. We look forward to supporting students as they make decisions that align with their gifts, goals and aspirations.

Finally, our Athletics Carnival is at the end of week 8 - Friday 20th June, at Barnier Park, Junction Hill. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to showcase their talents and support their House with pride and enthusiasm. In week 10, we celebrate NAIDOC Week with a special assembly and the annual Rachel Johnson Memorial Touch Football competition, a great way to end the term. Please note that Thursday, 3rd July, is the last day of term for students, as Friday, 4th July, is a Staff Development Day. This is our spirituality day with a focus on our Mercy charisms and traditions. 

Thank you, once again, for the countless ways in which you support the life of the College. 

All the best for the fortnight ahead.

Kate

Kate Thomson
Principal

“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

Catherine McAuley