Wellbeing Way

The Mt A Way: Growing Young People of Courage, Compassion and Purpose

The 2026 Catholic Education Week theme, “Share your light, inspire others”, invites us to pause and reflect on what makes a Catholic education distinctive. At Mount Alvernia College, our Franciscan charism shapes this into the “Mt A Way”: nurturing young people of courage and joy, grounded in respect and moved to serve others.

Across our recent College assemblies, students quite literally shared their light in ways that inspired our whole community. Last Tuesday, fifty-three students and two staff members cut their hair for the Cancer Council’s Ponytail Project. This generous act of courage and service reflects a Franciscan response: noticing the needs of others and acting with practical compassion, affirming dignity and offering hope.

On Thursday, the nine shortlisted 2027 College Captain nominees delivered their candidacy speeches to staff and peers. Each speech shared a personal story shaping a desire to lead, alongside a clear commitment to learn from and support others. They reminded us that Franciscan leadership is grounded in listening deeply, honouring each person’s story, and walking alongside others — not an individual quest, but a relational call; not about status, but service, lighting the way so others can shine too.

This week’s Academic Assembly also celebrated students who shared their light through academic excellence, growth and perseverance. Their achievements remind us that learning is not only about results, but also resilience, effort and the courage to keep going — hallmarks of the Mt A Way.

These moments are not the exception at Mount Alvernia; they are part of the pattern of our weeks. In classrooms, on the sporting field, and in everyday interactions, we are committed to nurturing the whole person — mind, heart and spirit — because belonging matters. As the Australian Education Research Organisation notes, a positive sense of belonging supports young people’s wellbeing, learning and engagement. Every student has a light, and the capacity to inspire others through courage, joy, respect for others and our world, and service to others.

This week, we give thanks for the partnership between home and school. Together, may we continue to form spirit-filled students who learn well, love well, and serve generously — the Mt A Way.

Sources:

• Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) – Encouraging a sense of belonging and connectedness in secondary schools https://www.aero.edu.au/   
• Catholic Education Week (Australia): https://catholiceducationweek.catholic.org.au/