From the Principal 

Our Continuing Lenten Journey 

Lent is the 40-day season of preparation for the Paschal Triduum (Holy Thursday to Easter Sunday). The word “Lent” comes from the same root as the Anglo-Saxon word “lengthen”. It was a word for springtime when the daytime lengthens rapidly. Therefore, Lent is in essence the Church’s springtime.

We are encouraged to look at this period of Lent as a journey. Lent reminds us that this is the season to turn away from our worldly distractions and journey home to God. This should be a time of inner reflection, and at the end of the Lenten journey, we should expect to find ourselves at a different place spiritually than when we started. 

At the end of our Lenten journey, if we have truly humbled and submitted ourselves to the Lord, the grace of God working in our lives should have conformed us more perfectly to the image of Christ, who is, himself, the image and likeness of God the Father.

During this period of Lent we have challenged boys to look beyond themselves and to consider ways in which we can do more for others and to stretch themselves spiritually during Lent. This can be very simple acts of kindness and care for others including visiting a neighbour or family member, going without a treat and donating money saved to Caritas or being considerate of others. It is through these simple acts that we are brought closer to the eternal love flowing from the merciful heart of the Father.

“During this season of Lent, let us renew our FAITH, draw from the “Living Water” of HOPE, and receive with open hearts the LOVE of God who makes us brothers and sisters in Christ.” 

Pope Francis 

Community Consultation for the Appointment of a New Principal for St Virgil's College 

Tomorrow all members of our community will receive a consultation survey from Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) regarding the appointment of the next Principal of St Virgil’s College. This survey will come in the form of a link within an EdSmart notification. 

The aim of the survey is to establish the personal and professional characteristics of the next leader of the College as well as the strategic and leadership challenges perceived by members of the wider College community. Surveys will be sent to students, parents, staff and Old Virgilians. Please take the time to contribute to this important process which will help to shape the future leadership  of St Virgil’s College. 

Term Dates

I would like to remind our community that Term 1 concludes on Thursday April 1 at the normal times on each campus. 

Students will return to class on Tuesday April 27. 

Parent, Student and Teacher Conferences

On Monday April 26, the Parent, Student and Teacher conferences will be held on both campuses. This is a great opportunity for parents to engage with their son’s teachers to discuss progress to date and to set learning goals for the term ahead. 

A reminder that these discussions involve parents, students and teachers so I ask that your son please attends so he can be a part of this critical learning partnership. Specific details about booking procedures will be sent at the end of term via EdSmart. 

Enrolments, Open Days and Principal's Tours

Next Thursday, March 11 is the Open Day at Austins Ferry from 9am to 5pm. We look forward to welcoming all who are able to attend. 

The Junior School Open Day is Wednesday March 24 from 9am to 4pm.

If you would like to tour the Austins Ferry campus but are unable to attend the Open Day, the next scheduled Principal’s Tour is Friday March 19 at 9.00am. Bookings are essential by contacting the College Registrar – mnugent@stvirgils.tas.edu.au

I would like to remind parents interested in enrolling a student into Kindergarten for 2022, that applications close on April 30, 2021. 

Please complete the Expression of Interest through the College website if interested in Kinder enrolment.

Our New Website 

After months of community engagement, research and hard work we are excited to launch our new website and newsletter tomorrow (Thursday) at 10.30am! Should the codes - and stars align, the website will be accessible from 10.30am at www.stvirgils.tas.edu.au

Please check it out and tell us what you think @ Website Feedback

The website will integrate seamlessly with our App so please make sure you have downloaded it to your phone. 

Please note that from Friday, Canteen orders will only be able to be placed via the Qkr App. Details about how to download and use the App are on the old and new website. 

We trust you enjoy the new Website and that it helps better connect you to the life of our connected, engaged and caring community.