A Word from the Principal

Loving God,

We thank you for the gift of our diverse and vibrant world. 

You created each of us in your image, 

with different cultures, languages, stories and gifts. 

Help us to see these differences not as barriers, 

but as beautiful reminders of your creativity and love.

During this Harmony Week, 

teach us to be people who welcome others with open hearts. 

Guide us to listen with kindness, 

to speak with respect, 

and to treat every person with dignity.

Inspired by the example of the Sisters of Charity 

and the vision of Mary Aikenhead, 

may we show compassion to those around us 

and ensure that everyone in our community feels valued and included.

Bless our school, our families and our wider community. 

Help us to build a world where everyone belongs, 

where peace grows in our hearts, 

and where together we live in harmony.

We make this prayer through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Harmony Week: A Time to Celebrate Welcome and Belonging

Each year across Australia, Harmony Week provides an opportunity for communities to celebrate the richness of our cultural diversity and the values that bring us together. It is a time to recognise that every person belongs and that our differences make our communities stronger, more vibrant and more compassionate.

At Mount Carmel Catholic College, Harmony Week reminds us of the importance of creating a school where every student and family feels genuinely welcomed. Our community is made up of many stories, cultures, traditions and experiences. When we take the time to listen to one another, show curiosity about our differences and celebrate what makes each of us unique, we help build a community where everyone can flourish.

In Australia, Harmony Week is celebrated each year around Harmony Day on 21 March. The week highlights the message that everyone belongs, encouraging schools and communities to recognise the many cultures that shape modern Australia. It reminds us that respect, understanding and kindness are essential to living well together.

These values resonate strongly with the charism of the Sisters of Charity, whose legacy continues to shape our College. The Sisters of Charity were known for their commitment to hospitality, compassion and service, particularly to those who felt on the margins. Inspired by the vision of Mary Aikenhead, they believed that every person should be received with dignity and care. Their example reminds us that a welcoming community does not happen by chance - it is created through intentional acts of kindness, openness and inclusion.

During Harmony Week our students will participate in activities that celebrate culture, friendship and respect. These moments help our young people understand that welcoming others is not just something we talk about for one week of the year; it is something we practise every day through our words, actions and attitudes.

As a Catholic community, we are called to ensure that every person who walks through our gates knows they are valued and respected. When we make space for one another, listen deeply and celebrate our diversity, we truly live out the message that together, we belong.

Harmony Week is a wonderful reminder that when we welcome one another with open hearts, our community continues to grow stronger.

Extended Family Holidays and Schooling Arrangements

From time to time families may plan extended travel during the school year. While these experiences can be valuable for families, it is important that parents and carers are aware of the requirements regarding school attendance and educational arrangements during this time. Catholic Education Tasmania (CET) schools are not registered to provide distance or online education programs. This means that when families are planning an extended holiday longer than one school term, alternative arrangements for their child’s education must be considered.

Families who intend to travel or be away for an extended period are encouraged to contact the Office of the Education Registrar to discuss options for home education. The Office can provide guidance about the process and requirements for registering for home education while your child is away from school. Families can contact the Office of the Education Registrar via email at registrar@oer.tas.edu.au for further information.

It is also important for families to understand that schools are required to accurately record the daily attendance or absence of every student. Holidays taken during school terms must be recorded as unauthorised absences in accordance with attendance requirements. If a student is absent due to a family holiday for a period longer than one school term, the school will be required to cancel the student’s enrolment in line with the Attendance Policy of the Catholic Education Commission Tasmania. In this situation, families will need to submit a new enrolment application for their child upon their return.

Additional support and resources for families considering home education can be accessed through the Tasmanian Home Education Advisory Council, whose website provides helpful information and guidance for families.

If you are considering extended travel during the school year, we strongly encourage you to discuss your plans with the College as early as possible so we can provide advice and ensure the appropriate processes are followed.