Principal Reflections

Dear Parents/Carers,
I’ve had the privilege of attending several sporting events over the past few weeks, and it’s been a true joy to watch our students represent our school with such passion and integrity.
On the basketball and netball court, our students have shown incredible teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship. These are the moments that truly make me, as the Principal, proud. Our students aren’t just excelling in their sport; they’re also embodying the core Catholic values of our school.
I’ve been particularly impressed with how our students have handled themselves, especially when a call doesn't go their way. It’s a testament to their character that they continue to play fairly and to the whistle, regardless of the outcome.
In sports and in life, there will always be challenges and moments of frustration, but responding respectfully and representing our school at the highest level is what truly matters.
A big thank you to all the parents and staff who have come out to support our teams. Your cheers from the sidelines make a huge difference and create a positive and encouraging environment for our competitors. It's great to see our community come together on such special occasions. P.S. WE LOVED THE SHIRTS!
University of Notre Dame Prac Students
Last week, Olivia, Ben and Jasmine joined the ACS team and other Notre Dame students for a road trip to visit schools across the Armidale Diocese. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the vibrant and diverse communities that make up the Armidale Catholic Schools system.
The tour included visiting: Sacred Heart Boggabri, St Francis Xavier's School Narrabri, St Joseph's School Walgett, St Joseph's Primary School Wee Waa, St Mary's College Gunnedah, St Xavier's Primary School Gunnedah, McCarthy Catholic College Tamworth, St Joseph's Primary School West Tamworth, St Edward's Primary Tamworth and St Nicholas Primary School Tamworth.
It was a fantastic opportunity to learn and share. During their visit to St Ed's, Mr Millman was able to gift the prac students with our published book.
The future of the teaching profession is in great hands!
️Keystone Leadership
The Keystone Leadership Program, facilitated by Catherine Jackson from Leopard Tree Consulting, is an intensive course designed to cultivate future senior leaders and assist new school Principals. Offered by Armidale Catholic Schools for the past three years, this program has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for its comprehensive approach. This year, Mrs Sally Clarke, Mr Andrew Millman and Mrs Belinda Barry-Cupples attended the course. Over several months, they engaged in one-on-one goal-setting, shadowed experienced leaders, and received mentorship from senior diocesan staff. The agenda encompasses a broad range of essential topics, including leadership mindset, emotional intelligence, building trust, and high-impact strategies, all designed to grow inspiring leaders for our schools.
Until next week,
Keep smiling,
Alison Hatton
(Principal)