From the Principal

Wellness Programs

As part of our Master Planning process discussions have occurred on attending to ‘wellness’ programs for students and staff. In all facets of life there is now a greater awareness of promoting mental health and ensuring that initiatives are developed to look after well-being.

At John XXIII College we are keen to explore ideas to support student learning and promote mental health. Tonight, I am joining a panel of Dads at a Men of John XXIII event which will consider ways guidance can be provided for our young people.

This year I have had my eyes opened as a parent of a Year 12 student. My youngest daughter is the first of my three children to experience external Year 12 exams given my older children studied in a different education system. It has been interesting to observe the stresses associated with our assessment regime and the support that is required. My older children are studying at University and seem far more relaxed with final examinations. It has been good learning for me as a Parent and a Principal.

Engagement with the Plenary Council

In the coming weeks and months our students and staff will have an opportunity to engage with the questions being posed by the 2020 Plenary Council. It is important to provide an opportunity for members of our opportunity to present ideas on the future of our Church.

This week I read a lovely reflection from a colleague reflecting on his twenty year tenure as a Catholic Secondary Principal across two states:

‘The greatest reward for me over my time as an educator has been the privilege of journeying with young people in their great adventure called life.  Young people now are more in touch with their spirituality than ever before.  One of the most urgent and confronting challenges we face as faith and educational leaders is the challenge to give them a model of faith, spirituality and church that avoids the traps of an abuse of power and safeguards them from the sin of clericalism.  As leaders, we need to provide an alternative model of leadership that is not dominated by hierarchy and control.  Our young people need to be empowered to create for themselves a future whereby they know they are truly loved and accepted for who they are, regardless of their race, gender, colour of their skin or their sexuality.’

Some excellent food for thought for all of us involved in Catholic education!

Robert Henderson

Principal