From the Principal

New Pope

We are delighted to share with you the joyous news of the election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as our new pope, taking the papal name of Leo XIV. Born and raised in Chicago, Pope Leo XIV joined the Augustinian order and served as a priest in Peru before being appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo. He was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2023 and was named Prefect for the Dicastery of Bishops. At 69 years of age, Pope Leo XIV pledges to guide the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide as a shepherd and spiritual father.

As we welcome Pope Leo XIV, let us commit ourselves to pray for his wellbeing and peace as he undertakes this great office. We look forward to his papacy being guided by the Holy Spirit and distinguished by an unswerving faith in Jesus Christ.

Archbishop Julian Porteous has expressed his gratitude and joy at this announcement, emphasising the significance of this leadership for the global Catholic community. We join him in welcoming Pope Leo XIV as he begins his journey as the 267th pope.

Reporting 2025

You will notice some changes to our report formats going forward. As we implement Connect, we are making changes to ensure parents, carers and students have the most impactful formative assessment information available. To achieve this, we are providing feedback to students throughout their courses while ensuring parents and carers are provided with a window into this learning so that they remain informed and can actively support their children. Feedback provided through Connect replaces written comments on the mid-year and end-of-year reports. 

We are also re-emphasising the importance of our Parent-Teacher meetings – both the twice-yearly scheduled Parent Teacher nights and the teacher or parent-initiated meetings that occur as required. The twice-yearly written report will provide a snapshot of progress at those given times, but the feedback on Connect and the Parent-Teacher meetings are designed to keep students and parents informed, aware and included in their educational journey through the year.  

Year 12 Mother’s Day Breakfast

The Year 12 Mother’s Day Breakfast was a delightful event held last week at the College, where students and their mothers and special friends gathered to celebrate. The morning commenced with a prayer and an Acknowledgement of Country. Mrs Caroline Wilson-Haffenden then energised attendees with an engaging quiz, creating a lively and competitive atmosphere as mums and students vied for the top prize. 

The highlight of the event was the silent auction, which successfully raised an impressive $2,500 for the Prefect-nominated charity, Tassie Mums. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the College community and local businesses in Hobart and Launceston for their generous contributions. The students should be commended for their efforts and dedication in supporting such a meaningful cause.

Kinder hosts Mother’s Day High Tea

Last Wednesday afternoon, the Kinder students invited their mothers and special guests to celebrate Mother's Day with a delightful high tea. Each student crafted beautiful crowns for their mothers to wear, adding a charming touch to the afternoon. The event featured a lovely tea that everyone enjoyed thoroughly. The highlight of the day was when the students sang a heartwarming song, 'Skidamarink a Dink a Dink – I Love You,' to their mothers, creating a memorable and touching moment for all.