ACTING PRINCIPAL 

Transition Days

Last week we welcomed Year 6 students from our feeder primary schools to St Mary MacKillop College for their transition days. These visits mark the beginning of the students’ journey at our school over the next six years. During their time with us, students participated in a range of activities including Cooking, Japanese, Mathematics, PE, Science and Woodwork.

Year 12 Formal

Last Friday our Year 12 students celebrated the 2026 Year 12 Formal. It was a memorable evening and one that students will carry with them as part of their final year at St Mary MacKillop College. Thank you to the staff members who supported the event, particularly Suzy Haley, Senior School Coordinator, for her excellent organisation.

Halfway through term 2

The end of this week marks the halfway point of Term 2. We know that students get the most out of their schooling when parents/guardians are actively involved, show an interest in their learning, and place a strong value on education.

Having a conversation with your child about their day at school is a powerful way to show that their learning matters and that school is valued at home. Asking more specific questions can often encourage a fuller response. For example:

• What is one thing you learned today?
• What was the most interesting thing you learned today?
• What was the highlight of your week?
• What is one thing you are looking forward to at school next week?

Each term, students receive a progress report for each subject, with learning habits assessed through the professional judgement and observations of their teachers. Students also receive an end-of-semester report. I encourage parents/guardians to have conversations with their child about the story behind these reports. They provide a snapshot of student learning and progress to date. 

More detailed information regarding assessment task results can be accessed through PAM. Conversations about assessment results and teacher feedback are also important in supporting student growth and achievement.

Discussions about learning provide opportunities to celebrate success while also identifying areas for improvement. Meaningful conversations can make a real difference to a child’s confidence, motivation, engagement, and overall success at school.

Our vision statement for teaching and learning states that ‘we have high expectations of our students’. We encourage all students to strive for their personal best in every aspect of their learning. Approaching school with a positive attitude, along with genuine application and commitment, are important ingredients for student achievement and success.

Laudato Si’ Week 2026

This week, we join Catholic communities across Australia and the world in celebrating Laudato Si’ Week 2026. This is a global moment of prayer, reflection, and action inspired by the late Pope Francis’ encyclical on caring for our common home.

Laudato Si’ is not simply a theme observed for one week each year at our school; it is embedded in the life of our College community. We have a very active Environmental Committee, along with other student leaders, who develop initiatives throughout the year to foster a culture of ecological stewardship.

For further information on Laudato Si’, please go to: https://laudatosiweek.org/.

2026 Subject Expo

Next week we turn our attention to our 2027 subject selection process as we hold our annual Subject Expo on Wednesday 27 May. Conversations with your child about their subject choices for next year are very important. I encourage all members of our community to support the Subject Expo and attend the relevant subject selection information sessions for Years 9/10 and Years 11/12. I also encourage students to connect with our Pathways Team and their teachers for support and guidance throughout the process.

Wishing everyone a blessed and productive fortnight ahead. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our school community.

Nathan Lane

Acting Principal