Principal's 

Message

Dear Parents, Carers, and Students,

Welcome back to Term 2. I hope the school holidays offered time to rest, recharge with family and friends, particularly over the Easter period, and prepare for what is set to be a busy and significant term across all year levels.

During our first week back, the school came together to commemorate Anzac Day in a solemn and meaningful way. We were honoured to welcome the Hon Matt ThistlethwaiteMP as our guest speaker. His words offered a poignant reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and legacy of our servicemen and women. Anzac Day is an important moment for all of us. It reminds us of the deep sacrifice made by those who fought for their country. It calls us to honour the courage, resilience, and mateship that the Anzacs showed — values that still inspire us today. As a College we reflected on what Anzac Day means personally and how we can live out those values in our everyday lives.

Last week also marked a significant moment in our faith community as we farewelled our beloved Pope Francis. Pope Francis has been an inspirational, loving, and compassionate leader — a true example of humility, wisdom, and care for the poor and vulnerable. Often called the "People’s Pope," he touched the hearts of millions, especially young people, with his words of inclusivity and hope. As we await the conclave and the announcement of a new Popestarting May 7, let’s keep Pope Francis in our prayers and carry forward his legacy of love and service.

In the Catholic calendar, May is the Month of Mary, a time dedicated to prayer, reflection, and honouring the Mother of Jesus. We encourage all members of our school community to take time this month for spiritual reflection, and we will be offering opportunities throughout May to come together in prayer and devotion.

We began the Term with a productive Staff Development Day, where our teaching staff engaged in collaborative planning to design engaging and future-focused programs aligned with the ongoing curriculum reform. This work is essential as we ensure our students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and learning experiences needed for a changing world. The energy and creativity displayed by staff was truly inspiring.

I also had the great privilege of attending the Annual Ex-Students Association lunch—a treasured tradition that celebrates our rich school history and enduring community connections. This was a valuable opportunity to collaborate with ex-students of the College and celebrate how the community embraces  all ex-students of Brigidine College. It was truly inspiring to hear stories from the Brigidine Sisters and their achievements throughout the years. One of the great things that the ex-students do is raise money to help those less fortunate; and the Ex-Students Association is an organisation all students should aspire to be a part of. The College continues the great work started by Sr Sheelah and continues to raise money for bursaries for Kenyan students at the Bishop Delany school. A recent letter from Kenya expresses their thanks.

“Thanks to the Brigidine College students. Thanks to your annual commitment to raise bursary funds for Bishop Delany School in Kenya. You have helped very needy girls from very humble background. Thanks to Sr Sheelah Mogan for the initiative. We look forward to your continuous support to our needy girls in the school. May the Lord bless the students for their selfless help."

 

Brother Walter Otieno

Principal

Bishop Delany School-Kenya

I had the privilege of meeting Sr Sheelah for the first time and the enthusiasm and excitement from a 96-year-old Sister who has worked tirelessly for others is to be commended and should be a part of all our lives.

This week, Year 12 students received back their exam papers and feedback. This is an important time for them to reflect on their progress, identify areas for growth, and make clear plans to maximise their performance in the months ahead. As I often remind them: this is the time to do the hard work. There’s not long to go, and their commitment now will make all the difference.

As part of this process, we are currently analysing student data, and I will be meeting individually with each Year 12 student to support their preparation and ensure they are tracking for their personal best in the lead-up to the HSC. Our goal is to help every student finish strong and with a sense of achievement.

Term 2 is a time for focus, growth, and reflection. I wish you all the very best for a fantastic start to Term 2. Let's approach this term with energy, strength and gentleness to ourselves and to each other.

Be Brave, Be Brilliant but be Brigidine!

God Bless

Adrian Eussen

College Principal