Wellbeing 

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As we come to the end of another very busy term, I would like to commend most students for the manner in which they have completed Term 3.  Most students have continued to show resilience, maturity and growth in many aspects of College life. 

I do ask parents and guardians over the course of the break to find some time to discuss ‘decision making’ with their daughters.  ‘Decision making’ really does play a crucial role in every aspect of our lives and is a fundamental life skill that goes beyond academics.  And whilst we know and understand that young people may make wrong choices occasionally, developing the ability to make thoughtful, well-informed decisions is crucial for a number of reasons, including but not limited to academic success, personal growth, building confidence, developing relationships, individual and community emotional well-being, achieving goals, role modelling, managing challenges, future opportunities and leaving a legacy.

Part of this conversation might also include some gentle check-ins about how your daughter is spending her time outside of school hours, in the evenings and on weekends. Knowing who she is with, where she's going, and what she's doing, isn't about mistrust but rather it's about giving her the context and support she needs to make sound decisions when you are not there to guide her in the moment.

Mercy Day

Mercy Day was celebrated on Friday, 11 September.  It is the highlight of the College calendar and brought together the community in a special and most profound way.  The day began with the Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral.  At the Mass we celebrated our Catholic identity as a Mercy school founded upon the very values which we espouse and live each day – courage, compassion, hospitality, justice, respect and service.  After Mass, staff and students returned to the College for a BBQ lunch and entertainment (DJ in the Hall and activities organised by House Advisors), followed by The Mercy Day Concert where performers representing Frayne, Goold, McAuley and Sherlock entertained us all.

I would like to acknowledge and thank all members of the Academy community for their participation, organisation and extremely successful execution of the day and in particular all the parent helpers for all their support in preparing, cooking and serving the BBQ lunch and then assisting with the clean-up and pack-up afterwards. Everyone’s hard work ensured a wonderful day of celebration of our Mercy story.

Summer Uniform Changeover 

A reminder to all families that next term we change back to the Summer Uniform. Students may wear either the summer or winter uniform in the first TWO weeks of Term 4. However, the summer uniform is compulsory for all students from Monday, 19 October. Can I please ask all students to use the holidays to tend to any summer uniform issues, especially the length of dresses and ensure they return for Term 4 being respectful of the College expectations around this and wear their uniform correctly but also with pride.

Please note that scarves are not part of the Summer uniform.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all parents for your continued support throughout this term and for the support you offer the College and to your daughters.  I hope that the September holiday period is a safe and happy time for all your families and I look forward to continue working in partnership with you in Term 4.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me should you need any assistance or to raise any points of concern.

Kind regards,

Sam Di Camillo

Deputy Principal Wellbeing & Operations