Principal's Report

Dear Parents, Carers, and Community Members,

Welcome back! It was wonderful to see our students return feeling refreshed. Term 2 is already off to a fantastic start, carrying forward the momentum of Term 1 with a series of meaningful events and extra curricular events for our students to get involved in and showcase their talents outside the classroom.

We were honoured to participate in ANZAC services across the New England community and subsequently host our own heartfelt ANZAC Liturgy. These moments offered a meaningful opportunity for our community to reflect on the values of service, sacrifice, and unity, as well as the enduring importance of friendship and mateship.

This term, we also welcomed Mr. Simon Fleming as Assistant Principal – Student Care, replacing Mrs. Bell. Mr. Fleming brings a wealth of experience and a long-standing connection with O’Connor, having previously served as both a teacher and Assistant Principal at the College. After serving as Principal at several other schools, he returns to us to continue his ministry as a dedicated teacher and leader.

I am also proud to welcome Mr. Lachlan Laycock, who has accepted the position of Language Teacher for 2026. He will lead our students through their French studies for Term 2, before shifting focus in the second half of the year to introduce Year 8 to Japanese. Mr. Laycock brings extensive knowledge and a deep passion for Japanese language and culture.

At our first assembly, I took the opportunity to share our theme for Term 2: ‘Getting the little things right.’ This theme focuses on the fundamental habits that build a successful foundation for learning:

• Being prepared for all classes: Ensuring students have the correct equipment, including books, pens, and fully charged devices.
• Punctuality and Attendance: Attending school every day and arriving at every class on time.
• Respecting the learning environment: Entering the classroom respectfully, listening actively while the teacher is instructing, and following directions. This includes showing consistent manners in all interactions with peers and staff.

• Pride in presentation: Wearing the correct school uniform every day and putting forth our best effort in every we do.

   

These are simple, achievable goals that every student can get right 100% of the time, fostering a culture of excellence and mutual respect across the College.

Mr. Phillip Gibney

Principal 

The Fruit of The Spirit is Love