From the Principal

Do not Judge by Appearance 

A letter from St James: James 2:1-5 

Last weekend's second reading from St James talks about the distinction between classes based on appearance and dress. St James asks us not to judge people by their beautiful dresses or shabby clothes. This reminded me of the importance and the protection our school uniform provides for our students who are not as financially well-off as others. Your support in ensuring your son/daughter follows the uniform policy is crucial. 

By creating a standard of dress, our school uniform creates a level playing field for all our students regardless of economic status or personal style choices and creates a more inclusive environment for our students. This reduces peer pressure to “fit in” and students can focus on their education without fear of social isolation.

Our uniform promotes a sense of equity among students and a sense of belonging. While the school uniform is not a cure for discrimination, it is a step towards creating a more inclusive, equitable and focused learning environment. Ultimately, education aims to provide a safe and supportive space where all students can thrive. A school uniform is a practical tool that helps us achieve this, and it begins with parents supporting and ensuring the uniform standard is adhered to each day. Of course, we understand that life can get in the way sometimes, but this can be easily accounted for by effectively communicating with your child’s Leader of Wellbeing.

Attendance Matters

Last week, representatives from the Catholic Schools Office inspected the school attendance procedures. Although our processes met the required standard, attendance rates have not recovered to the pre-COVID level. The importance of regular school attendance cannot be understated. 

1. Academic achievement – there is a direct link between academic success and student attendance. Students who attend school are more likely to retain the material being taught and have a deeper understanding of subjects.
2. Developing Life Skills – the industry standard for most occupations is 10 sick days per year. By attending school regularly, students develop habits of time management, responsibility and self-discipline required for future employment and personal development. 
3. Social development – students with high absentees also have more difficulty building and maintaining friendships and developing communication and collaboration skills. Attending school regularly also provides students with a sense of belonging by being a part of the school community.

Regular school attendance is a critical component of a student’s development. Again, this starts with parents prioritising school attendance and laying the groundwork for their child’s brighter and more successful future.

Student Scholarships and Student Leadership

We are very fortunate to have the support of both Glencore and Bengalla Mine, which offer financial Scholarships for two Year 12 students to assist them with the cost of further education. The quality of the written applications and the student interview skills were most impressive. The interviews focused on their educational success, future career pathway and the student's community service. It was heart-warming to hear the students recount their experiences with InterACTS, working with the disabled in the January school holidays, the Vinnies Sleepout, and serving at the Red Door Community Kitchen. The impact these events have had on the students this year became apparent.

Year 11 students are now in leadership preparation following last month's retreat. Students who nominated for the executive leadership positions will have an opportunity to speak to their peers and staff in the coming weeks before the Year 11 vote for the leaders for 2025. At the Year 12 Presentation night at the end of the term, we will officially hand over the leadership of the 2024 School Captains to the incoming 2025 School Captains. 

Veronica Rolfe

Principal