From the Principal

Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Staff and Friends of Mazenod College,

“I want to come to Mazenod College because it’s a Catholic school, it’s a great place, and I heard the teachers and students are really friendly. There are so many great things happening here, and I’d love to come” (Year 5 student).

One of the great joys of being a Principal is to engage with young primary students and their parents seeking enrolment at high school. Members of the College Leadership Team have conducted a week long period of enrolment interviews for the incoming students hoping to join our Year 7 group in 2027. These students may go on to form the graduating Class of 2032 – a title that many of the parents haven’t considered at this point!!

It is a true privilege to be able to sit and talk about primary school experiences, the hopes and dreams of the future and to share how our College can contribute positively to the future of the young man in focus.

It is common in these interviews to ask the parents why they are hoping for enrolment of their prized possession at Mazenod College. Most common among the answers are the Catholic and spiritual nature of our school, the programs, the facilities and the opportunities afforded our young men. I always feel very proud of the compliments afforded our school but what makes me even more proud is when parents, families and members of the community, share the experiences and interactions that they have had with our current or past students in their personal or professional lives. It is so very common to hear that in meeting our students, so many people are impressed by the sincerity, maturity and respect shown by Mazenod students.

Our reputation flourishes by the work of our young people and for that we are very grateful and proud.

These feelings extended to our Welcome Sundowner for parents last Friday night. It was one of the highlights of the year to date, a Moment of Grace, to be able to share the evening with a greater number of parents than I have previously experienced at this gathering. And again, I was immensely proud to listen to parents sharing how grateful they are for the tireless work of our staff and the direction they feel the school is heading, building on the foundations of those who have come before us. To hear that we are clearly demonstrating the values of respect and dignity for all, values that St Eugene and the Oblates hold most dear.

Thank you to those parents who attended last week, to our Parent Association for hosting such a pleasant event and to those staff members who assisted in ensuring a welcoming atmosphere of comfort and connection.

I would finally like to highlight two events, one past and one impending, that draw attention and awareness to the inequalities in our world. Last Saturday the global world, and on Wednesday here at Mazenod, we marked International Women’s Day. It is terrific to participate in such an event to celebrate the achievements of women and to highlight the continued need for equality across so many aspects of our society. On behalf of Mazenod College, I thank all of the women in our College community for the courage, strength and inspiration you provide for all. 

Next week, we will celebrate Harmony Week and in the spirit in which this occasion is intended, we hope to enjoy a celebration that embraces our diversity and unites Australians from so many different backgrounds and walks of life. It’s about fostering inclusiveness, respect, and a shared sense of belonging for everyone. I thank our organising staff and students in advance, and all who come with an open mind and a generous heart.

“Unity of the spirit in the bond of peace” (St Eugene De Mazenod) 

God bless.

Simon Harvey

Principal