Year 10 

I would like to commend the class of 2020 for a memorable year.

Despite the curve balls that 2020 threw, everyone rose to the challenge. They adapted to the remote learning program and incorporated digital technologies into their learning. They Zoomed and chatted on Teams. They forgot to unmute to respond to questions or mute when they should have known better. They have proven themselves mature, thoughtful, kind and considerate. They have adapted to the numerous challenges this year has forced upon them. They have supported each another throughout the year. 

Our theme for the year was “Great things are possible”. These young men have proven, despite the challenges and obstacles, they are capable of achieving great things! They managed to compete in the Swimming and Athletics Carnivals, as well as contribute to our Social Justice activities. They donated their time to the Joeys Van and raised funds for the St Vincent de Paul Easter and Christmas Appeals. 

I would like to thank the young men for their efforts. All students contributed to the Social Justice appeals in the knowledge they would never see the positive impact it will have on the families in our parish this year. The money raised went towards making life a little more enjoyable in a difficult year. 

St James said: ‘faith without good works is dead’. This group of young men have demonstrated through their good works that their faith is alive and well. They should be proud of their individual and collective achievements. 

The successful contributions to our limited activities were largely due to the hard work of our College Captains, Lewis Desmond and Joshua Dudley, and the Year 10 leadership group. They encouraged all students to get involved and have a go across all areas of college life. As a result, they can look back on their time in Year 10 with a sense of pride and accomplishment. 

The success of the next few years will depend entirely upon how each of them responds to the challenges which lay ahead.  I hope they use some of the knowledge and insight gained during this year to achieve that success. I would like to acknowledge the parents and guardians for their wonderful efforts this year. During the most difficult of circumstances, they also rose to the challenge of remote learning. Their support, guidance, encouragement and patience ensured the young men were able to get through the lockdown. This year has highlighted the importance of working together to nurture the spiritual, personal and academic growth of the young men. 

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of their teachers. Their efforts at engaging the young men during the most difficult of learning journeys were commendable. The Year 10 team did an awesome job. Ms Natalie Bates, Ms Mary Atwell, Ms Kate Brierty, Mr Martin Callanan, Mr Roger Grech, Mr Simon Donlen, Mr Patrick Janes and Mr Barry Wood worked tirelessly to ensure the boys are prepared for the future. I have no doubt the boys will achieve great things using the skills, talents and resilience they have developed this year.

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.

Justin Shepherd

Year 10 Coordinator