Principal's Report

As the end of Term 3 approaches, there is much for us to be grateful for and much to celebrate across our College community.

Our students continue to excel in so many areas of College life - on the sporting field, on the stage, in public speaking and, perhaps most importantly, in the way they show Strength and Kindliness to those around them. Building good character is an ongoing journey. It is found in the small moments, in the challenges we face, in the way we celebrate success and, just as importantly, in the way we respond when things do not go our way.

There has been considerable media and social media coverage in recent weeks about Catholic schools, the negotiations surrounding the new teacher agreement and the potential impact on schools. I want to reassure our community that St Joseph’s College is in a strong position as we look towards 2027. We continue to attract and employ staff of exceptional quality, we value the strong conditions we are able to offer our staff, and our resources are being carefully and responsibly stewarded. We enter our planning for 2027 with confidence and a clear sense of purpose.

Our Year 12 students will use the term break to undertake their trial examinations. This is an important opportunity to test their knowledge and skills, identify areas for further focus and prepare for the final weeks of their secondary schooling. They are entering an intense period of study and preparation, and we wish them every success as they approach this significant milestone.

Meanwhile, 29 of our Year 10 and 11 students, accompanied by six staff, have headed off on our Greece and Italy Study Tour. We wish them every happiness and adventure as they explore these remarkable places, learn beyond the classroom and create memories with their friends. I must admit, there is more than a little bit of jealousy from those of us staying home!

It also gives me great pleasure to announce our 2027 College Captains, Indi Kervin and Eden Thomson, and our Living Justice Living Peace Leaders, Zarah Mendoza and Meaghan Gould. Congratulations to these students on their appointments and for their tremendous courage, willingness to challenge themselves and genuine desire to contribute to the St Joseph’s College community. I have great confidence in the positive impacts they will make and the examples they will set for others. I look forward to working with them as they take on these important leadership roles.

Our Brigidine House Leader application process is currently underway, with these leaders to be announced early in Term 4.

As we reach the end of another busy and rewarding term, I would like to thank our students, staff and families for the contribution each makes to the life of St Joseph’s. It is the strength of these connections - the way we support one another, celebrate together and share in the everyday life of our College - that makes our community such a special one.

I wish all members of our St Joseph’s community a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break. I look forward to welcoming everyone back for our final term of 2026.

Ms Anne Marie Cairns

Principal