Principal's Report

This week, our College community came together to acknowledge National Reconciliation Week through our Reconciliation Liturgy and Campus Assembly. The theme for 2026, "All In" for Reconciliation, challenges each of us to actively walk together in the spirit of understanding, respect and unity.

As a Kildare Ministries school, we are called to walk alongside our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander brothers and sisters as we continue the journey towards reconciliation. It is a journey grounded in truth-telling, compassion and hope. We recognise the injustices of the past and the realities that still exist today, and we remain firmly committed to promoting justice, dignity and opportunity for the future.

Throughout our liturgy and assembly, there was a strong sense of reflection and shared responsibility. We were reminded that reconciliation is not simply acknowledged during one week on the calendar, but through the choices we make every day - in the way we speak to one another, the way we challenge racism and prejudice in all its forms, and the way we place kindness, understanding and inclusion at the centre of our actions.

A particularly meaningful part of our celebration was the induction of our new FIRE Carriers (Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education). These students and staff have committed themselves to helping foster awareness, learning and action within our community, and we thank them for their leadership and courage.

This week also marked the beginning of Year 10 & 11 examinations. Exam periods can bring both challenge and opportunity, and we encourage all students to approach this time with determination, balance and self-belief. Success is not only measured by results, but also by the willingness to prepare thoroughly, respond positively to feedback and continue striving for personal growth.

As we move towards the conclusion of Semester One and prepare for the commencement of Semester Two, it is an important time for reflection. A new semester often brings new subjects, new teachers and fresh opportunities. It invites each of us to ask: What can I improve? What can I do differently? How can I continue to grow? Small changes in mindset, organisation and effort can make a significant difference.

In all that we do, may we continue to live by the simple but powerful words from Luke 6:“Treat others as you want to be treated.”

These words remain at the heart of who we are as a St Joseph’s College community.

Anne Marie Cairns

Principal