Principal

Dear Members of the Academy Community,

As we move into the middle of Term 3, the busyness of school life continues unabated.   Term 3 is a term of both reflecting backwards and looking forward – reflecting on study habits and achievements of the first half of the year and devising an appropriate study plan for the remaining months ahead of this quickly galloping year.   Term 3 is also the time to think about the forthcoming year in terms of subject choices.  Hopefully the  recent VCE Subject Expo was of benefit to our senior students and the subject selection interviews clarified possible subject options.

Both this week and again next week, parents, accompanied by their daughters, have the opportunity to liaise with teachers at the Student/Parent/Teacher Conferences, where achievements will be celebrated and learning opportunities identified. 

Thank you to the parents who attended the recent Information Evening  in preparation for  the Study Tour to Italy.  There was palpable excitement on the night as the itinerary was explored and questions posed and addressed.  It was so pleasing to know that Academy students had already connected with the students from our Italian sister school, Ruffini High School.  Fledgling friendships have already been formed which we hope will evolve into  ongoing  connections.  We extend our best wishes to all involved in the Study Tour.  The students will be well cared for by the staff accompanying them – Mr Sam Di Camillo, Deputy Principal, Wellbeing and Operations; Ms Elena Camera, Italian teacher; Mr Michael Molony, Year 8 Wellbeing Leader and, Ms Tanya Vajda, Learning Leader Health and PE.

Mercy Education has appointed a new Chief Executive Officer, Ms Louisa  Rennie.  As one of her first actions, Ms Rennie visited the Academy and met with the Leadership Team and a number of students.   

Ms  Rennie’s Commissioning Mass takes place next Tuesday at St Patrick’s Cathedral where representatives of the 13 schools under the governance of Mercy Education will be present.  Academy’s Director of Music, Ms Mirelle Morris, will conduct the combined  choir, and our choir, AMICCI will sing the Communion reflection.   We welcome Ms Rennie into the Mercy family.

Last Tuesday, Year 9 Barak prepared the Tuesday morning Mass.  Their prayers were very meaningful and I have included some of them below.  

Heavenly Father, 

We ask you to open our eyes and our hearts to the privileges we possess.  With your help we shall realise how much we have in our life.  We are eternally grateful for all the blessings you bestow upon us.  You inspire us to serve this wonderful Academy community.

In your name we pray,

Amen

Dear God,

Thank you for your kindness and support in caring for us in the Academy community. Thank you for caring for us throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and allowing us to turn to you in times of need.  May your support carry on for the weeks, months and years ahead to ensure that we have a healthy life filled with joy and momentous occasions.  Watch over those who protect us, so that we may protect them in the future. 

Lord hear us.

Dear Lord,

We pray for our teachers and all their efforts and sacrifices they make for us students. 

They work endlessly to support and prepare us for our futures by offering their knowledge and guidance.  We are so fortunate to have these role models and an education which will allow us to thrive.  May you give them the strength required to finish the year strong. 

Lord hear us. 

Dear God,

We ask for you to protect and help the people facing difficulties and dangers in their country.  Innocent people of the world are dying in war and other violent events right now. Women, men and children around the world are the victims of war crime and horrendous violence.  We ask for you to grant your peace and hope over the world.  We pray for and help these people whose lives are being destroyed.

We pray for those who have evil in their hearts and chose to start wars, to transform their hearts and make them see the pain they put into the world.

Lord, hear us.

Every Blessing.

Sr Mary Moloney rsm 

Principal