Principal's Report
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian calendar, commemorating Jesus Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed him by waving palm branches and laying them on the ground as he rode in on a donkey. This event symbolises Jesus' role as the Messiah and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. Palm Sunday serves as a pivotal moment, transitioning from the reflective period of Lent into the sombre and solemn observances of Holy Week, leading up to Easter Sunday. It invites believers to contemplate the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the ultimate redemption it promises.
As Holy Week unfolds, Christians engage in various spiritual practices and rituals to prepare their hearts and minds for the profound events of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. This period is marked by prayer, fasting, and attending special church services that recount the passion, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Through acts of repentance, devotion, and contemplation, believers seek to deepen their understanding of the spiritual journey Jesus undertook and the profound implications it holds for their faith. Preparation during Holy Week is an opportunity for believers to recommit themselves to the core teachings of Christianity, reflecting on the themes of sacrifice, forgiveness, and renewal that lie at the heart of the Easter story.
Academic Achievements:
The NAPLAN assessments for Years 7 and 9 were conducted smoothly, reflecting the hard work and dedication of both students and teachers.
Moreover, our VET students, along with three staff members, successfully completed First Aid training, equipping them with essential life-saving skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
In the realm of STEM education, our Year 7 and 8 students participated in the Science and Engineering Challenge, where they demonstrated their ingenuity and problem-solving abilities by securing a commendable 6th place. Similarly, our Year 9 and 10 students excelled in the same challenge, achieving a remarkable 3rd place.
It is with immense pride that I announce the exceptional performance of our debating teams, who represented our college with distinction. These talented individuals showcased their eloquence, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, setting a high standard for excellence in public speaking.
Their dedication and hard work have truly paid off, and I commend each member of our debating teams for their outstanding achievements. We look forward to witnessing their continued success in future competitions.
Extracurricular Activities:
Our students have been actively engaged in extracurricular pursuits, including chess competitions against Calrossy, and Oxley High School. These events foster strategic thinking and camaraderie among our students.
Our Under 15 girls' netball teams represented our college at Diocese Trials with exemplary sportsmanship and dedication throughout the day. Their commitment to fair play, teamwork, and perseverance truly embodies the spirit of our school community. I commend each member of the teams for their outstanding display of sportsmanship and resilience on the court. Thank you to the staff who attended and also aided in ensuring the girls had a successful day.
Additionally, our Year 12 students had the opportunity to explore various career pathways at the Health Careers Forum, enhancing their understanding of the Healthcare industry.
Community Engagement:
At McCarthy Catholic College, community engagement is not just a value we uphold; it's a cornerstone of our ethos. We celebrate and commend our students' unwavering dedication to serving the community. Recently, our Year 9 and 10 PASS students showcased their compassion and leadership skills at the Diocesan Primary Gala Day through volunteering, and our School Captains attended a Leadership Day with Year 6 students at St. Nicholas, fostering mentorship and collaboration between different year levels.
This commitment to community service not only enriches the lives of those we serve but also transforms our students into compassionate leaders who understand the importance of giving back. By actively participating in events like the Diocesan Primary Gala Day and leadership building , our students not only contribute to the betterment of society but also cultivate essential life skills such as teamwork, empathy, and social responsibility.
Through their involvement in such initiatives, our students become agents of positive change, inspiring others to join in our mission of making a difference in the world around us. As we continue to foster a culture of community engagement, we are confident that our students will carry forward these values beyond their time at McCarthy Catholic College, leaving a lasting impact wherever they go.
In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated staff, supportive parents, and talented students for their contributions to our school's success. Together, we continue to uphold our commitment to excellence in education and community engagement.
Michael Whitton
Principal