Deputy Principal

Uniform Standards & Punctuality

In barely two terms, Mount Alvernia College continues to excel in all aspects of College life, whether it be what is happening on campus or in organised competition with other schools.  As we continue to celebrate outstanding achievements across academics, sport, debating and the arts, I’m writing with a clear and shared expectation: our students must meet the College’s uniform standards and arrive punctually each day. It is also our expectation they are at school until the final bell at 3.00pm.

Our uniform is not a ‘small thing’. It is a daily, visible sign of belonging and respect. When students wear the uniform well, they represent not only themselves, but also their peers, their families, and the Franciscan charism that shapes our community. We want every student to feel proud to be recognised as a Mount Alvernia girl, in the classroom and beyond the gates.

Our five learner attributes - readiness, aspiration, persistence, agency and scholarship - help us name what great learning looks like in practice. Two of these attributes are especially reflected in uniform and punctuality. Readiness is shown when a student arrives prepared for learning, dressed correctly, and ready to engage from the first moment of the day. Agency is shown when a student takes responsibility for her choices and understands that her actions communicate something about who she is and what she values. Wearing the blazer and a well-kept hat to and from school each day, and arriving on time to school and class, are practical expressions of: “I am ready for the day, and I take responsibility for how I represent my College.”

At present, we are seeing two concerns that we need to address together. First, a number of students are not meeting uniform expectations, particularly with hats that are not being worn to and from school, or are arriving squashed in bags and no longer presentable. Second, many students are arriving late, after our 8:30am commencement, which affects not only their learning but also the learning environment for others. Punctuality matters because it builds good habits, reduces stress, and communicates respect for teachers, classmates and the learning time entrusted to us.

Our preference is not to be punitive. We do not enjoy offering consequences for uniform breaches. We would rather students choose to wear the uniform with pride because they understand what it represents. However, we also have a responsibility to uphold College standards consistently. When expectations are unclear or unevenly followed, it becomes unfair on students who are doing the right thing, and it undermines the culture we are striving to build.

Families can make a significant difference here. We ask that you please check your daughter’s uniform before you hug her goodbye each morning. A quick look: blazer, badges, correct presentation, and especially the hat in good condition and worn appropriately. This sends a powerful message that home and school stand together. If items are worn, missing, or no longer fit for purpose, please review what is currently being worn and support your daughter to reset well. The Uniform Shop hours and access, including an online store, are on the College App and our website.

I thank our Student Captains for their leadership at the gate each morning. Their warm welcome, coupled with peer guidance on uniform pride, is a wonderful example of students supporting students in a way that strengthens community rather than simply enforcing rules. 

As a College, we are excelling in many aspects of school life. Now we need to lift together in readiness, aspiration and agency, so that every student aligns with Mount Alvernia standards in all facets of College life including uniform and punctuality. Thank you for your continued partnership, and for the consistent, calm messages you reinforce at home that help our students thrive.

Michelle Licina

Deputy Principal - Student Development and Wellbeing