PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

This week we gathered as a school community for assembly and took time to reflect on some of the values that sit at the heart of our school life: perseverance, resilience and compassion. 

In the busy rhythm of the school term it can be easy to move quickly from one task to the next. The assembly offered us an opportunity to pause and remind our students that challenges are a natural part of learning and growth. At different times throughout the year students will encounter work that stretches them, situations that test their patience, and moments that require courage. These experiences are also where resilience is formed. 

I encouraged our students to remember that perseverance means continuing to try, even when something feels difficult. Every step forward — every effort to improve, every willingness to try again — helps build the confidence and strength that will serve them well beyond their years at school. 

We also welcomed two new teachers, Mrs Dyna Pacinos and Mr Marlon Andres, who will commence with us on Monday. Joining a new school community can be both exciting and daunting, and we are delighted that they have chosen to become part of our community. I know they will bring great enthusiasm, talent and care to their work with our students. I ask all members of our school community to extend a warm welcome as they begin their journey with us. 

My reflection at assembly also connected strongly with our school theme for the year: Conscious Compassion. This theme invites us to be deliberate in the way we care for one another. Compassion is most powerful when it is intentional — when we actively notice the needs of those around us and choose kindness, patience and understanding in our daily interactions. 

We also celebrated a special honour for two of our students, Thomas Kennedy and Harrison Bowd, who have been invited to attend the Ordination Mass of Bishop Mark Freeman in Ballarat on 19 March. They have also been invited to personally welcome Bishop Mark at this significant moment in the life of the Church. This is a wonderful opportunity for these students and a proud moment for our school community. 

There is also plenty of excitement building as we look ahead to next week’s Athletics Carnival. For us it does feel unusual as our Athletics Carnival is usually held annually in August. This event is always a highlight of the school calendar and a wonderful expression of house spirit and community participation. I encourage all students to get involved — whether competing, supporting their peers or simply enjoying the day together. 

Finally, during this season of Lent, we continue to support Caritas Australia through the annual Project Compassion appeal. I thank our students and families for their generosity so far and encourage continued support in the weeks ahead. The contributions we make help support vulnerable communities around the world through education, healthcare and sustainable development. 

As we move further into the term, I encourage our students to keep striving, to show resilience in their learning, and to live out our theme of conscious compassion in the way they treat one another each day. 

Michelle Haeusler

Principal