Dear Parents and Carers,

I trust you all had the opportunity to take a mid-week breath with our EKKA holiday this week. It has been a week of celebration, gratitude and reflection at Mount Alvernia College, as we marked two extraordinary milestones in our 70th Anniversary year.

Our 70th Anniversary Garden Party was truly something special. Welcoming more than 300 alumnae, parents, future parents, special guests, Missionary Franciscan Sisters, Board Directors, and current and former staff to our beautiful College grounds was a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and spirit of the Mount Alvernia College community. There was a sense of warmth, connection and joy that is difficult to describe, yet unmistakable to all who attended. It was a celebration not only of our history but of the relationships, values and shared experiences that have shaped Mount Alvernia College over seven remarkable decades.

Three days later, on the Feast Day of St Clare, our 70th Anniversary Mass at St Stephen's Cathedral provided a deeply moving and poignant opportunity to gather in faith and gratitude. As we reflected on the legacy of the Missionary Franciscan Sisters and the countless individuals who have contributed to the life of this College, we were reminded that Mount Alvernia's story is one grounded in faith, courage, service and hope. Fr Stephen Bliss, our College Leaders and Choir ensured that this Eucharist was experienced with meaning, joy and a sense of deep veneration. Together, these two milestone events have been a fitting celebration of all that is Mount Alvernia College.

Occasions like these do not happen without the dedication and commitment of many people. I would like to sincerely acknowledge Emma Velthuis and Alex Marron from our Engagement Team, whose vision, creativity and meticulous coordination brought the Garden Party to life so beautifully. My thanks also to our Maintenance Team, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the College looked picture perfect for our guests. Similarly, I extend my gratitude to Deputy Principal Bobby Bracken, assisted by Liz Feltrin - who thoughtfully curated such a meaningful and memorable Mass for our community on Tuesday. Their collective efforts have enabled us to celebrate this anniversary year with the significance and reverence it deserves.

While we have enjoyed these celebrations, teaching and learning have continued uninterrupted. I would like to acknowledge our teaching and professional staff, who have maintained their unwavering focus on high-quality learning throughout a year of significant building activity and during what has been a particularly challenging cold and flu season. Their professionalism, adaptability and commitment to our students are deeply appreciated.

Our Year 12 students recently celebrated together their 100 Sunrises milestone. It was a joyful occasion and a timely reminder that the final chapter of their formal school education is approaching remarkably quickly. As they prepare for upcoming trial examinations and final assessments, we encourage them to continue to persevere, maintain healthy routines, prioritise rest and wellbeing, and support one another through this important period. We wish them every success in the weeks ahead.

Incoming Principal

As you will be aware, our College community received and shared the exciting news that Ms Sharon Collins has been appointed as the next Principal of Mount Alvernia College, commencing in January 2027. Alongside the College Leadership Team, I look forward to meeting with Sharon and warmly welcoming her into our community in the months ahead.

In conjunction with the Board, I am committed to ensuring a smooth and thoughtful transition with Sharon as she prepares to begin her tenure and lead Mount Alvernia College into its next chapter.

Sabbatical Leave

On a personal note, I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have recently undertaken sabbatical leave. Commencing with the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools Global Forum in Toronto – it was an honour to see our very own educator and philomath - Leah Heath present the culmination of her research to international peers. Completing the Global Institute of Leadership fellowship as only one of 15 - globally. Congratulations Leah – you were an inspiration.

Studying at Oxford University was a genuine bucket-list experience and a privilege I will treasure. The course was stimulating, challenging and deeply thought-provoking. After many years in education, it was both humbling and refreshing to be a student again. Learning alongside people from diverse professions, cultures and countries broadened my perspectives and enriched the experience immeasurably.

Yet, of all the remarkable experiences during my travels, the highlight remains my visit to Umbria and the beautiful cities of Assisi and Perugia. There is something almost other-worldly about Assisi. The Franciscan spirit is palpable in every stone, street and sanctuary. It is a place of profound peace and inspiration, and one that continues to shape my understanding of faith, leadership and community. It remains, without question, my favourite place on earth.

For all our Formula One Fans out there (I know there are a few of you!) I was also fortunate enough to attend the Silverstone Grand Prix. Again, another bucket list tick. While there was sadly no victory for McLaren or our Australian star Oscar Piastri, an unexpectedly close encounter with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc certainly provided some consolation!

I take this opportunity to publicly express my gratitude to Acting Principal Kerry Jell and the College Leadership Team; Bobby Bracken, Paulette Corkery, Michelle Licina and Simone Roche for supporting the College in my absence.

As we continue through this significant anniversary year, I am reminded once again that Mt A’s greatest strength has always been its people. Thank you for the many ways you contribute to our vibrant community and for helping us honour both our rich history and our exciting future.

In the days following the Feast Day of St Clare of Assisi – it is fitting to include my favourite words attributed to her. I read these words as I sat outside her birthplace (photo below).

“We become what we love and who we love shapes what we become. If we love things, we become a thing. If we love nothing, we become nothing. Imitation is not a literal mimicking of Christ; rather, it means becoming the image of the beloved, an image disclosed through transformation. This means we are to become vessels of God's compassionate love for others."

Peace and all good,

Samantha Jensen

Principal

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