Principal's Report

The Fruit of the Spirit is Love

Dear Parents, Carers and Members of the O’Connor Catholic College Community,

Welcome to Term 4. We are now three weeks into the final term of learning for 2025, and I am pleased to report that both students and staff have commenced the term with enthusiasm and commitment.

Year 12 HSC Examinations

Our Year 12 students are now well underway with their Higher School Certificate (HSC) examinations, which commenced on the second day of term. Understandably, many students experienced some nervousness prior to their first examination, English but they quickly settled into a productive and focused routine.

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, and the NESA exam supervisors have commended our students on their exemplary conduct, punctuality, and overall approach to the examination process. The HSC period is drawing to a close, with the final exams to be completed on Friday, 7 October.

On the evening of Friday, 7 November, we will celebrate the Year 12 Formal at the Services Club. This special occasion marks the culmination of our students’ secondary education and provides an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and celebration. The evening is always a highlight of the school year, filled with stories, laughter, and shared memories of camps, retreats, sporting carnivals, Founders Day, and many other memorable school events.

Senior Leaders Commissioning Mass

On Wednesday, 22 October, we celebrated the Senior Leaders Commissioning Mass, officiated by Fr. Elino Comanda. This was a significant and proud moment for our school community, as parents had the honour of presenting leadership badges to their children who will serve as the student leaders for 2026.

Each of these students has undertaken a thorough selection process and has been appointed to a specific leadership position. They will play a vital role in guiding the student body and continuing the strong tradition of leadership established by the 2025 team.

2026 Student Leadership Team

College Captains

• James Everett
• Madaline Cowley

House Captains

• Benilde: Nicholas Miller and Anna McClelland
• LaSalle: Regan Nugent and Rhiannon Heagney
• Merici: Caitlin Montague and Evie Howlett

• Ursula: Bella McKay and Elizabeth Shepheard

   

Faith and Service Captain – Sienna BastianArts Captain – Paige PattersonSports Captain – Jessica Race

Each of these students has demonstrated dedication, integrity, and a deep sense of commitment to O’Connor Catholic College. We congratulate them on their appointments and look forward to the leadership and example they will provide in the year ahead.

The Importance of Attendance

Every Day Counts: Why Consistent Attendance Matters

We recognise that balancing family routines, early mornings, and occasional absences can be challenging. However, one of the most significant contributors to student success is consistent school attendance.

It can be easy to view an absence as “just one day,” but these days accumulate quickly, leading to gaps in learning that can be difficult to overcome.

When a student misses school, they miss more than a lesson; they miss a vital part of the learning sequence.

• Building Foundations: Core subjects such as Mathematics and English build upon prior knowledge. Missing the introduction of a concept often results in confusion and frustration in subsequent lessons.
• The Value of the Teacher: Notes from peers may convey information but cannot replicate a teacher’s explanation, demonstration, or immediate feedback.

• Catch-Up Challenges: Regular absences often lead to increased stress and anxiety as students struggle to catch up, which can further impact motivation and engagement.

   

Attendance is not only essential for academic progress but also for social and emotional wellbeing. School provides students with opportunities to:

• Develop a Sense of Belonging: Regular attendance fosters connections with teachers, peers, and the wider school community.
• Build Life Skills: Punctuality, reliability, and responsibility are lifelong skills that begin with attending school consistently.

• Form Friendships and Enjoy School Life: Participation in extracurricular activities, teamwork, and shared experiences all contribute to a student’s personal development and happiness.

   

If your child is experiencing difficulties with attendance, please reach out to their Year Coordinator or the College Office. We are committed to working together to identify any barriers and provide the necessary support to ensure every student can succeed.

Gratitude and Closing Remarks

As we approach the conclusion of another busy and rewarding year, I wish to extend my sincere thanks to our entire community—parents, carers, staff, and students—for your ongoing support and dedication to O’Connor Catholic College.

Our teachers and support staff continue to work tirelessly to provide the highest quality education and pastoral care for all students. Your partnership and encouragement are vital to the continued success of our College.

May the remainder of Term 4 be a time of focus, growth, and achievement for every member of our community.

Warm regards,

Phillip Gibney

Principal