From the Principal

Aggiornamento

Open the doors  

And let justice in 

Open the windows 

To the good and the true 

Aggiornamento, take up the call 

Build the world anew. 

Brothers and sisters, working together 

Leading from the heart in all we do.                                                         

(John XXIII College Song)

Recently, one of our very competent staff members, Mr Joel Wynn, used the term ‘aggiornamento’ when speaking to our secondary teachers. Mr Wynn was appointed to the new position of Director of Teacher Professional Growth for 2020. He is doing an excellent job in guiding our teacher professional learning programs. In this context, aggiornamento means ‘bringing up to date’ and reflects the culture of continual improvement we are trying to cultivate with our students and staff.

In the context of the Second Vatican Council, aggiornamento referred to Pope John XXIII’s efforts to open the doors and windows to bring new life to the Church. Our College Song reflects the notion beautifully as we ‘lead from the heart in all we do’ and ‘let justice in’.

There has been a more literal opening of the doors in recent weeks. Our Music Spring Soiree was an excellent celebration of the giftedness of our musicians and their teachers and tutors. Our College Choirs, Bands, Ensembles and Orchestras entertained parents and friends with wonderful performances. The night also included recognition and thank you to 38 Year 12 musicians as their ‘musical time’ at the College approaches conclusion. Our Chamber Choir performing Music Captain Aerin Chai’s original piece, ‘The Passionate World’, was a highlight.

This week we also welcomed our Dads with a Father’s Day Mass. Due to COVID restrictions, we limited invitations to Primary Dads and we still managed a very prayerful and reverent celebration. Thank you to all our dedicated staff and students for making these events a reality.

As our College song attests, ‘taking up the call and building the world anew’ is especially pertinent in 2020. It is great that we can bring our students, staff and parents together for such important events. Best wishes to all Dads this weekend!

Robert Henderson

Principal