Principal's Report

Dear Parents, carers and community members.

We have now moved into the second half of term 2. Term 2 is always a very busy time with so many things happening especially moving towards completion of important learning tasks and the 7 to 10 reporting period. As a school we have started the process of planning for the 2025 school year, that includes reviewing staffing, Year 7 enrolments , determining what subjects that will be offered in Year 11; reviewing, updating and writing teaching and learning programs for syllabus’ to be implemented in 2025. All while ensuring, we continue to provide a quality education, opportunities for students to engage in the learning process and continue their development as young people, to be successful and a future full of hope.

Students this term have been actively participating and excelling in a diverse array of extracurricular pursuits, such as the Ethics Olympiad, Armidale Eisteddfod, football, futsal, netball, and the Schools Equestrian Expo, among others, with remarkable success. Personally, I take great pride in the exemplary representation of our students. Despite being a smaller secondary school compared to many others, both public and private, our students consistently demonstrate that dedication, hard work, and a commitment to excellence in any challenge, enables you to succeed in any environment.

Importance of School Attendance.

The College Leadership team have become increasingly concerned with student attendance. With an increasing number of students missing whole school days or arriving late or leaving school early. School attendance is a fundamental building block of a student’s education and to be successful. Regular school attendance goes beyond just physical presence; it sets the stage for a myriad of opportunities for cognitive, social, and personal development that contribute to a well-rounded individual. 

Consistent school attendance is directly linked to academic success. Attending classes regularly enables students to engage with the curriculum, grasp new concepts, and participate in interactive discussions. Missing school days hampers the continuity of learning, making it harder for students to keep up with lessons, learning opportunities and assessments. This gap in knowledge can lead to academic struggles and a lack of confidence, potentially resulting in lower grades and reduced enthusiasm for learning.

School attendance also fosters social interactions and emotional growth. It is within the classroom and school environment that students build friendships, develop communication skills, and learn to work collaboratively. These interactions contribute to the development of emotional intelligence, empathy, and conflict resolution skills. Frequent school absenteeism can isolate students, hindering their ability to build these essential life skills and potentially leading to feelings of loneliness or alienation.

Regular school attendance also instils a sense of routine and responsibility that carries over into other aspects of life. By adhering to a school schedule, students learn time management, punctuality, and the importance of meeting commitments. These habits are transferrable skills that are highly valued in the professional world, contributing to a student's preparedness for future career endeavours.

School attendance can cultivate a curiosity for learning. Engaging with teachers and classmates in a structured setting may spark questions and intellectual exploration. Students who attend school consistently tend to develop a genuine thirst for knowledge that extends beyond the classroom. This mindset of lifelong learning becomes a driving force for personal growth and continuous self-improvement.

Education is a stepping stone to a successful future. Opening doors for a myriad of opportunities to access a variety of career pathways, that may include higher education at university, TAFE, and other educational colleges both here and overseas, to apprenticeships, traineeships and other work opportunities. Moreover, it prepares students for the challenges of adulthood by equipping them with critical thinking skills and a broad knowledge base.

As the principal of this great College I ask parents and carers to support the school in ensuring that your child attends school regularly and therefore can make the most of the opportunity to learn and become the best of themselves. 

“Each day missed is a missed opportunity for growth and enrichment.”

Kind Regards,

Mr Phillip Gibney

Principal, O'Connor Catholic College