Wellbeing 

Recently I had the privilege of attending The Marist biennial conference in Perth. There I encountered a keynote speaker by the name of Professor Francis Campbell, who is a distinguished diplomat academic and philanthropy executive. He began his career in Her Majesty's diplomatic service, serving as a policy adviser to Prime Minister Tony Blair at 10 Downing St and later as Deputy High Commissioner to Pakistan in 2005. He made history as the youngest UK ambassador to the Holy See and the first Roman Catholic in the role since the Reformation, famously orchestrating the 2010 papal visit to the UK. Transitioning to higher education, he spent over a decade as vice-chancellor, leading strategic growth, governance modernisation and internationalisation at Saint Mary's University in London and the University of Notre Dame, Australia.

Professor Campbell spoke about the fact that Catholic education was not an academic factory but a holistic mission dedicated to forming the whole person and cultivating character and viewing every student through the lens of human dignity. He reflected on Catholic Education, that at its heart, rather than retreating from the secular world or becoming culturally stagnant, Catholic schools are called to confidently claim their place in the public square. By remaining deeply rooted in their unique faith ethos, educators drive social mobility, foster mutual respect, and ensure that the pursuit of truth always goes hand-in-hand with the formation of the heart.

I think there are times when we feel as though we need to apologise for being Catholic; however, with the support of community, a community that chose our school for its values, we continue to educate the whole person through academic, physical and spiritual mediums. This can only continue with the ongoing support of all families. We cannot pick and choose what we support and what we don’t. We must be ‘all in’ or there will be a weak link in the chain and the outcomes for our young people will be affected.

Professor Campbell’s final message on the last day of the conference, whilst a member of the keynote speakers panel, was equally engaging. He felt that the world for our young people had never seen them so lonely, nor unable to find meaning. He said that often that meaning was found in the wrong places and that we as a community of faith needed to help fill that void in building connection and providing meaning.

A very impressive individual with a simple but effective message – we must all play our role as links in the chain of education and spirituality to allow our young people to thrive and grow and have the opportunity to reach their potential. 

Assembly 

Our recent assembly saw our student leaders take charge and organise a wonderful celebration of student achievement. Student Voice was a key focus of this whole school assembly. Abdul Hanafi and Lucas Lenne confidently delivered a presentation on Child Safety, highlighting the importance of creating a safe, inclusive and supportive school environment for all students. Through their presentation, they demonstrated leadership, responsibility and advocacy, while reinforcing the school's commitment to ensuring Student Voice plays an important role in decision-making and promoting student wellbeing.

Importance of Civics

We continue to ask our students to meet our civic behaviours threshold and I would like to congratulate the majority of the student body who take great pride in wearing their uniform, attending classes on time, and meeting our school-wide expectations of Respect and Responsibility. Thank you for your continued support of our processes and standards.

Phone Pouch trial

Phones and technology continue to be a topic of much discussion in the world of education. We have undertaken trials of phone pouches with our Senior students to gauge their effectiveness and receive feedback from a student’s perspective. As you would understand, this has had its challenges however, many students have undertaken the process with integrity. We will share feedback and next steps around managing phone use to minimise its impacts on our young people's learning. Please see below a link to a special report about mobile phone separation anxiety.

Uniform

Just a reminder for all students wearing pants that they must wear grey socks. Our winter uniform policy has now been changed to reflect this. Strikes will be issued for those in the incorrect uniform and for those not wearing Blazers or who are not wearing the uniform correctly (Shirt tucked in and hair and tie done up). Three strikes in a week results in an after-school detention. Staff would much rather have learning and general conversations than discussions around uniform and other civic behaviours. Your support in encouraging pride in our school is much appreciated.

Bullying No Way Week: 17 - 21 August 2026

This month, our school will join thousands of schools across Australia in recognising Bullying No Way Week 2026, Australia's leading bullying prevention initiative.

This year's theme, "Small Acts, Big Impact," reminds us that creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful school community is everyone's responsibility. While bullying can have a significant impact on a person's wellbeing, confidence and sense of belonging, small positive actions can make a real difference.

A friendly greeting, inviting someone to join a group, checking in on a friend, speaking up when something isn't right, or showing kindness to someone having a difficult day are all small acts that contribute to a stronger, more connected community.

At our school, we are committed to fostering an environment where:

• Everyone feels safe and respected.
• Diversity is valued and celebrated.
• Positive relationships are encouraged.
• Bullying behaviour is not accepted.

• Students feel confident seeking help when they need it.

   

Throughout Bullying No Way Week, students will be encouraged to reflect on the impact their words and actions can have on others and consider how they can contribute to a culture of kindness, inclusion and belonging.

We also acknowledge the important role families play in supporting these conversations. Parents and carers are encouraged to talk with their children about respectful relationships, empathy, online behaviour and the importance of standing up for others.

Imagine the difference we could make if every member of our school community committed to one small act of kindness each day. Together, these actions can create a school where everyone feels welcome, valued and connected.

For more information, you can visit the Bullying No Way website: 

If you or your child has concerns about bullying or student wellbeing, please contact your child’s House Leader or the Wellbeing Team on 5143 9700.

Driving to School

Another reminder to students who are driving to school. Could they please make sure that they have completed the Driving to School form located at Student Services.  We have had contact from the Wellington Shire Rangers department around students parking in 2 hr parking zones. Students may be fined if this continues to occur, and we encourage them to find all-day parking off-site, such as the spaces west of the Caltex/Woolworths service station on Cunninghame Street.

School TV

Our School TV link is available on our SIMON platform, providing families with access to information discussed by qualified educational and Allied Health specialists. This information covers topics that challenge our young people and their families. Please see the link below for access.