From the Principal

Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Staff and Friends of St Norbert College,

The last two weeks have flown by and if we don’t take a moment to consider what has been, we miss some wonderful moments along the way.

On Wednesday last week, the College made our way to Ern Clarke athletics centre for our annual Interhouse Athletics Carnival. It was again, a day to rival all others of this kind – a dedicated focus on House spirit and maximum participation. Whilst there was the ever present air of competiveness, all individual success takes second stage to the joy and excitement of engaging with peers for the House.

Congratulations are extended to Mrs Rogers, who was sadly unwell on the day, to Mr Gherardi for being the proxy-Head of House and to all Tongerlo members for winning the House shield. Accolades must also be shared with Mr McGrath and the Prémontré crew for winning the much sought after ‘Spirit Bear’ for House enthusiasm and spirit. Year level champions will be acknowledged in a full school assembly next week.

It has been a special privilege to participate in the Kairos #30 Retreat for our Year 11 students this week. Kairos means the “Lord’s time” and on this retreat we have been witness to the intensity of God’s presence in our lives. I thank all those in our community who kept us in your prayers and to Ms Margaret Kyd, our staff and student retreatants for providing such a special, enlightening and caring experience for us all. It is one of the most treasured offerings at our College and, as a participant, I hope that all students consider attending a St Norbert College Kairos Retreat. 

Following the carnival last week, the College staff engaged in a day of Faith Formation with Sister Margaret Sharf (OP). Sister Margaret is a Dominican sister and Director of the Centre for Faith Enrichment. Our formation day centred on “Prayer: Being Yourself Before God”. There were many aspects that resonated with me, most notably the “singleness of our purpose” which as a faith community, centres on our efforts to be like Jesus in our world and creating heaven here on earth. 

As this newsletter goes out to our community, I embark on a period of long service leave. I am very grateful to Fr Peter and the Norbertines for the opportunity to take this break and whilst our original travel plans have been restricted due to COVID, the chance to relax and share additional time with my family is something to look forward to.

The College will be ably led in my absence by Ms Sharon Rainford who will serve as the Principal during this time. Miss Carrol Abel will undertake the role of Deputy Principal (7, 9, 11) with Mrs Lyndsey Cardenia as the Head of Kilnacrott House.

I wish you all well and look forward to my return in early Term 4.

“Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”

God Bless.

Mr S Harvey (Principal)