From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,

I hope this message finds you and your family in high spirits, in what is the end of Week 5, Term 4. As we near the end of another successful term, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements and progress our students have made, and to remind everyone of the importance of staying focused as we approach the upcoming final assessments for our Year 7-11 students.

Firstly, on behalf of the entire staff, I would like to express my utmost pride in our students' exceptional efforts throughout the term. They have embraced challenges, expanded their knowledge, and showcased their talents in various areas. It is truly inspiring to witness their growth, both academically and personally. This weeks’ Leadership Assembly, which signalled the official transferral of leadership from our 2023 Year 12 Captains to our incoming Captains for 2024, was a wonderful reminder of our core purpose and vision as a College. I am truly grateful for the enduring legacy that our 2023 leaders have left us and I am equally inspired by the energy, compassion and service that our class of 2024 are certain to bring.

As you will know, our teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to provide all of our students throughout the year, an engaging learning environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and personal development. Through their dedication and commitment, they have empowered our students to reach new heights and exceed their own expectations. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every member of our school community for their unwavering support and we thank the Parent Partnership Panel (and in turn our entire parent/carer community) for their generous gift of a coffee/hot drink from La Cucina in honour of World Teachers’ Day Last week. These small gestures mean so much!

As we enter the final stretch of the term, it is crucial that our students remain focused and determined. The upcoming examinations provide an opportunity for them to demonstrate their understanding of the subjects they have studied and the skills they have acquired. Encouraging them to stay motivated, manage their time effectively, and adopt healthy study habits, including appropriate sleep, hygiene and screen time, will greatly contribute to their success. 

We also know that as the end of year approaches, the potential for malaise, and disorganisation and sloppiness is palpable for some! Stay strong students!

Lastly, I would like to remind our students that finishing well is not just about their academic performance. It is also about displaying good character, demonstrating kindness, and supporting one another. Let us encourage them to be compassionate and understanding towards their peers, as we believe that success is not solely measured by grades, but also by the positive impact they have on those around them.

Together, as a united school community, we can ensure that our students finish this term with pride and accomplishment. I have full confidence in their abilities and know that they have the determination and resilience to excel.

As a Franciscan community our prayers continue to be with those devastated by the ongoing events in the middle east.

Ms Lifshitsz (a released hostage from the crisis) offers this:

“But in these bleak times, Ms Lifshitz offers an important lesson: that a small gesture of kindness towards a person who represents your enemy can stop time, can show in an instant that we are all human, as opposed to an impulse for revenge that reinscribes the past, setting off an endless chain of attack and reprisal.”

Warm regards,

Samantha Jensen