From the Principal

Ms Sharon Rainford

Dear Parents, Carers, Students, Staff and Friends of St Norbert College

Last Sunday, we celebrated the solemnity of Pentecost, the birthday of the Church. Occurring 50 days after Easter, Pentecost Sunday commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ. It is a time of reflection on the power of the Holy Spirit. Pope Francis reminds us that with the presence of the Holy Spirit guiding the Church, we are never alone if we are open to His presence. The gifts of the Holy Spirit, received by many who made their Confirmation last weekend, allow us 'to accomplish that for which us, alone, would have otherwise been impossible'. 'The Holy Spirit, if we let Him', the Pope reassured during his homily on Sunday, 'inspires, helps and supports us' in this effort, so that 'our moments of struggle can turn into occasions of growth, healthy crises from which we can emerge better, stronger, and capable of loving others with greater freedom'.

Congratulations to cast and crew of our College production, Just Macbeth! The professional performances and boundless energy brought Andy Griffiths' adaptation of Shakespeare's classic tale to life in a truly captivating and fun way. A special thank you and acknowledgement to Ms Karen Cassidy (Head of Learning Area - Arts), who as the Director was instrumental in bringing together the dedicated staff and talented students who poured countless hours into rehearsals, ensuring that every scene and every challenging line, resonated with passion and humour. Ms Cassidy was supported by Mrs Kathryn Crocker (Choreography), Mr Craig Mecham (Set Design), Mr Luke Di Labio (Music), Mrs Kate Aylett (Marketing), Ms Tania Harvey (Administration), Ms Jennifer Rigg (Set), Mrs Laura Marsden (Costumes) and all staff who assisted in preparation and during the performances. The commitment and hard work of all involved ensured an outstanding production. Stay tuned for 2025!

We have been advised that our photographer for school portraits, Academy Photography, has gone into liquidation. We are fortunate that our College community has not lost any money as our photographs were scheduled for later this term. As such, the scheduled College Photo Day on Wednesday 19 June is cancelled. We will advise the new date in Term 3 when we secure a new photography company. We have been assured that the liquidators will secure any data held by Academy Photography including any previous photos taken at schools.

Farewell to the following staff:

Mrs Cynthia Villarosa leaves after 17 years at St Norbert College teaching Italian. Mrs Villarosa will be remembered for her exciting classes that included cooking demonstrations and the annual spaghetti eating competitions during Languages Week. She was also responsible for dance lessons for our Year 11 students before the Dinner Dance. We wish Mrs Villarosa every blessing as she moves to Salvado College which will be closer to home and her young children.
Mrs Bridget Kamazizwa joined at St Norbert College as a relief teacher before taking on the important role of Learning Support Co-ordinator. During her 15 years at the College, Mrs Kamazizwa has created new procedures to support our students who learn differently. We thank Mrs Kamazizwa and pray for God’s blessings to her and her family as she takes a break from teaching.
Miss Rebecca Haderbache came from New Zealand to join us at the start of this year. She is leaving the College to enable more flexibility as she enjoys life in Western Australia. Best wishes from our community.

Welcome to the following staff:

Mrs Michelle Hoffmann who has returned to the College in the role of Head of Learning Support.
Mrs Katrina Lucas to her role of Student Services.
Ms Sally Beattie to the role of Receptionist.
Mrs Alison Roberts who is now our Enrolments Officer.

Please continue to pray for our Year 10 to12 students during this examination period.

Thank you to the Parent Committee for hosting a wonderful Mother’s Day Breakfast in Week 4, it was a truly engaging community event. We are all looking forward to celebrating St Norbert Day on Friday 14 June. All members of our College community are invited to join us for Mass at 9.30am in the Fr Peter O'Reilly Centre. Please be seated by 9.15am.

God bless.

Ms S Rainford

(Principal)