The Exec Address

Executive Principal Address 

Dear MCHF College community,

 We have journeyed together through another year and it has been a challenging but also rewarding one. As we come to the end of the academic year we recall all that happened and give thanks to God.

The year has seen a major focus on Master planning and renovations. Our new H block that will house Kindy and Year 1 has neared completion and next year will be in use. We have also knocked down the block of units in Weston Street to make way for a playground which will be completed for next year. Future planning includes an underground staff carpark and a large auditorium but that will be in a few years, once we get our Master Plan approved. As you can see our College is growing in enrolments and hence the need for new spaces.

This year we had a spending spree on new equipment for TAS department, a new rooftop playground in B block, extra gym and sporting equipment, a new woodwork room, reading resources, extra professional development training for staff, upgrading of Wi-Fi, new laptops and iPads for student use, extra Commboxes, and the list goes on. It is necessary we are constantly purchasing resources to better deliver syllabus outcomes.

Learning this year saw students taking the PAT test, as well as Naplan, in order to measure their progress in learning. We have continued with an accelerated Maths class in Secondary and we have introduced new AIS Maths testing in Primary to track student progress. We have also introduced Duke of Ed this year which is a way to challenge extend students and it has been very popular.  The program will continue next year.

On the sporting field we have had success in rep sport, winning a number of Grand Final, including the Parramatta Eels Cup. Both Primary and Secondary students have participated in Gala days and have been successful in their competitions.

This year we introduced social justice initiatives including sandwich making, donating books, nursing home visits as well as our usual Christmas hamper appeal, and donations to Lebanon.

All these activities cannot happen without the support of all.

I thank the Executives, teachers, support staff, admin team, business services, for the day to day running of the College. I thank all parents and guardians who have volunteered in any capacity or who have supported College events. I thanks all students who have worked hard and challenged themselves with a growth mindset.

May the Holy Family continue to watch over us and bless you all over the Christmas and New Year.

Sr Margaret Ghosn

Executive Principal

Reaching New Heights: Celebrating a Year of Growth and Achievement

Dear MCHF Community,

As we come to the end of another memorable school year, it is with immense pride that we reflect on the theme of our year: A Journey of Growth. This year has been one of learning, perseverance, and transformation for all of us. This theme was taken from our mission which is to accompany our students in the realisation of their potential through the inspiration of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated achievements, and embraced the many opportunities that have come our way.

To our students: This year, you have grown in countless ways. Whether through academic accomplishments, personal milestones, or the development of new skills, you have shown resilience and determination. Every step you took has contributed to your journey, and we are incredibly proud of all you have achieved. We hope you carry the lessons learned this year with you, continuing to grow and explore your potential in all that you do.

To our parents and guardians: Thank you for your continued support and trust in our College community. Your partnership has been vital in making this year a success. From helping with homework to attending events, volunteering, and encouraging your children every step of the way, you have been an integral part of their journey. We are grateful for the active role you play in their education and growth. For those families leaving our College, we wish you all the very best in your future endeavours and ensure to keep the Holy Family as a centre of your life.

To our dedicated staff: Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students. Your hard work, passion, and dedication have made a lasting impact on every student’s growth and development. You have not only taught lessons, but also instilled confidence, fostered curiosity, and created a nurturing environment for each child to thrive. Your efforts make all the difference, and we are deeply grateful for all that you do.

Farewell to Staff

At the end of this year we farewell the following staff members: Fr Ron Hassarati, Ms Clare Thorpe, Mr Rabeeh Khoury, Ms Sarah Sheehy, Ms Denise Alam Mawad, Ms Caroline Hajjar, Ms Tanya Chaouka, Ms Jasmin Matouk.

We also farewell Ms Naydeen D’Cunha and Ms Louise Hajje as they commence their parental leave preparing to become mothers.

We wish all our staff all the very best in their respective future endeavours.

Welcome to New Staff

In 2025, we welcome the following staff to our College community:

• Ms Emma Dettling as our new Head of Teaching and Learning. Ms Dettling comes to us from Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese with extensive experience in teaching and learning.
• Primary Staff: Ms Angelina Portolesi (Year 1 Teacher), Ms Patricia Mouawad (Year 6 Teacher), Ms Chantal Katrib (Year 5 Teacher), Ms Lara Elkhoury (Primary Student Learning Support Officer). Ms Dianne Naboulsi also returns to use from her leave.
• Secondary Staff: Mr Martin McConville (HSIE Teacher), Ms Natalie Haddad (Maths and PDHPE Teacher), Ms Jessica Esaid (HSIE Teacher), Ms Souzi Tanios (Relief Teacher)

Staffing Changes

Additionally, in 2025 the following staffing changes will occur:

• Ms Claudia Bou-Melhem has been appointed Engagement Coordinator K-12.
• Mr Michael Cunningham has been appointed English KLA Coordinator from K-12.
• Ms Angel Dagher has been appointed Stage 3 Advisor.
• Ms Jeannie Gahdmar has been appointed Secondary HSIE KLA Coordinator (History and Geography).

As we break for the summer and Christmas holidays, we encourage everyone to take time to reflect on the progress made and recharge for the next chapter of our journey. We are excited for the continued growth that the coming year will bring, and we look forward to seeing everyone in 2025.

Wishing you all a blessed Christmas filled with joy, peace, and cherished moments. May this Christmas season bring happiness to you and your loved ones, and may the new year be bright with new opportunities.

Mr Elie Asmar

Head of College

Term 1 2025