Principal's Report

Dear Parents and Friends,

It has been an absolute privilege to begin my first week as the Principal of Killester and I am so very grateful to the staff and students who have made me feel so welcome, reflecting in action our theme this year of hospitality. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to Ms Leanne Di Stefano who was so gracious and generous with her time and wisdom, and I can only hope that the work we continue reflects the outstanding example she gave as a leader who truly gave witnesses to the teachings of Jesus and the values of a Brigidine Education.

The week began in a flurry of activity with all staff gathering on Monday to reflect on the ways in which we deliver our contemporary and relevant curriculum and how we can ensure that the learning needs of our students can be met. It was fabulous to sit with dedicated educators who are so determined to ensure that the opportunities afforded the students in our classrooms are ones that challenge them to be the best version of themselves. The overwhelming feeling I had as I walked away at the end of the day was how fortunate the students at Killester are to have such a creative and committed team of people working with them. The focus on pathways has continued throughout the week as the young women of Killester have been talked through the myriad of subject offerings provided for them at the College. The key message being presented to the students through these processes has been one that supports students ensuring they choose subjects and pathways that they enjoy and that reflects their skills and capabilities.

My thanks is extended to Ms Emma Neville who gave up a sizeable proportion of her holidays to organise and support the girls participating in the International Netball competition held in the first week of the break. Additionally thanks to Mr Peter O'Neill and a number of our senior students who gave of their time in the Building Bridges Program hosted at Killester this week. The program brings together students from different faith based schools across Melbourne to engage in dialogue, indeed an opportunity to build bridges.

Lastly I thank and congratulate the students themselves for the start they have made to Term Three. The girls have returned to their studies renewed after the mid year break and have shown themselves thus far, to be young women of strength and kindliness.

Sally Buick, Principal