Principal's Report

Welcome to the 2026 School Year at O’Connor Catholic College

Dear Parents, Carers, and Members of the O’Connor Community,

It is a pleasure to welcome our students, and staff back for the start of the 2026 academic year. There was a palpable sense of history and excitement as we watched 110 Year 7 students walk through the main gates and down the drive toward the newly renovated Angela Building. As this iconic heart of our college celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, seeing our newest students enter its doors was truly inspiring.

At our first assembly, I shared our Annual Improvement Plan motto for the year: “Empowering Every Learner.” This isn't just a tagline; it is a call to action for every student. I have challenged our students to take full ownership of their educational journey and the opportunities placed in front of them every day. Beyond their own progress, I encouraged them to "Empower the Learning" of those around them through positive actions, attitudes, and application. Being the best "O’Connor Student" they can be and this means:

• Preparedness: Arriving ready for every class.
• Pride: Wearing the college uniform correctly.
• Engagement: Making an active effort in every lesson.
• Community: Showing care and Love for each other “O’Connor students looking after O’Connor students.”
•  

I ask for your continued support as parents and carers in challenging your children to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives.

A very special welcome to our Year 7 cohort, who have navigated their first few weeks of high school with impressive ease. It has been a joy meeting many of them individually or within their  classes . I also extend a warm welcome to the new students joining us across Years 8 through to 11.

We are also thrilled to introduce the following new staff members to the O'Connor family:

• Lauren Spelleken (Mathematics & HSIE)
• Marnie Henwood (HSIE)
• Bodene Barnes (PDHPE & Sports Coordinator)
• Mark Aarts (Languages/Religion & Ursula House Leader)
• Tara Hogan & Lance McNamara (TAS)
• Clayton Thompson (English & HSIE)
• Jayden Goodchild (HSIE)
• Carla Holmes (Librarian)

• Kaylene Johnson, Matthew Towler, & Kirrily Sullivan (Learning Support)

   

Though we are only three weeks in, our calendar has been full. From the Cross and Dux Liturgy through to the Swimming Carnival held yesterday, the energy has been fantastic.

Our recent Engagement Evening was a particular highlight. Despite the wet weather, it was wonderful to see families, staff, current students and prospective students come together. Our Senior Student Leadership team did a brilliant job hosting activities, complemented by performances from our very talented musicians.

During this evening, we officially launched our Annual Improvement Plan for 2026 and the Stage 5 (Year 9 & 10) WIN (What I Need) Project. For those unable to attend, I have included a link to the presentation about the WIN project and our AIP for 2026 below:

Link: WIN Project Presentation PDF

Link: AIP 2026 PDF

As we look forward to a fulfilling year of growth, I leave you with these words from St. Angela Merici:

“You will accomplish more by kind words and a courteous manner than by anger or sharp rebuke”

Here’s to a successful 2026!

Mr. Phillip Gibney

The Fruit of The Spirit is Love