From the Principal

Graduation and Farewell to the Class of 2026

Over the last two weeks, we celebrated and farewelled the students from the Class of 2026. When these graduates arrived as Year 7s in 2021, they wore masks for the first few weeks as we faced the challenges of COVID-19 which now seems so long ago. The students are to be congratulated for making it through those early years and for being so resilient. Farewells were conducted first in their Houses, then by the whole College in an assembly, but the highlight of events was the celebration of mass followed by the graduation ceremony and supper with families. I would like to acknowledge the contributions of so many that ensured a beautiful and meaningful celebration and farewell to our Class of 2026. The dedication, hard work and service of our Pastoral Care Team, in particular Mr Paul Murphy, Mr Patrick Ah Fong, and Mrs Leon Rogers, Mrs Lyndsey Cardenia, Mrs Mel Robinson and our Graduation Committee of students and staff. Thank you to Mrs Karen Gonsalves and Mrs Anna Garton for the co-ordination of the supper. We are very grateful to Fr Peter, Fr John, Mrs Jenny Palermo, Ms Margaret Kyd and Mr Luke Di Labio who always orchestrate such lovely Eucharistic celebration. 

At the Year 12 Farewell Assembly, we were ‘surprised’ by a visit from Olympian Peter Bol (Class of 2012). Our graduating students were in Year 7 when Peter came fourth in the 800m at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. They should remember the excitement and buzz at the school leading up to the Olympics. Peter generously gave up his time to recount some of his memories at the College, that included his time in the Specialised Basketball Program and running and winning his first 400m race at Ern Clarke which uncovered his talent for running. Peter also provided advioce for our students when faced with disappointments in life. I was grateful Peter was in Premontre House! 

Peter, continues to live out our College values of EXCELLENCE-COMMITMENT and COMPASSION. He has never forgotten his culture and humble beginnings and this is highlighted in his children’s book “Yalla! Let’s Go!”.  I hope that our students were inspired by Peter and could see his humility in his accomplishments, his gratitude to others who are part of his journey and the importance of resilience when challenges and disappointments are faced. 

Australia celebrates World Teachers’ Day TODAY - Friday 30 October 2026.  

You are invited to Shine a light on the teachers at St Norbert College who inspire, support, and empower your children and young people every single day. 

From lightbulb moments to helping someone find their way, teachers make a difference in ways big and small. This World Teachers’ Day, we’re putting that impact in the spotlight. I’d love you to acknowledge and thank a teacher or teachers that have made a difference and help Shine a light on the amazing work they do. Email or Direqt Message a teacher this weekend!

I thank the Parent Committee for sponsoring a delicious morning tea for our staff on World Teachers Day.

Please read this lovely message from CEWA Executive Director, Annette Morey.

Presentation Night

A reminder that due to the ongoing renovations at the Perth Concert Hall, our annual Presentation Night will be broadcasted on Sunday 15 November at 7pm. Details about how to watch the awards and entertainment will be published closer to the date. I hope that you will share this with family and friends all over the world so they can join in celebrating our wonderful College. 

Singa Cup

Specialised Football students leave for their tour of Singapore on Sunday 1 November with Mr Jacob Aquino, Mrs Mel Robinson and Coach Rama Kabwe. Best wishes to the boys as they compete in the Singa Cup.

Remembrance Mass

In the Catholic church, the month of November is dedicated to remembering the faithful departed.  An inaugural mass on Saturday 7 November at St Joseph’s Priory Church at 7:45am, will be celebrated by Fr Peter to remember and honour staff and students who have passed away. The College is reaching out to families of students who have been included in our Garden of Remembrance. All are welcome, and light refreshments will be served after mass. 

Congratulations

It has been a long drought since 2010 for the Premontre penguins but it was broken last week. Congratulations Premontre (Home of Olympians) for winning Champion House for 2026. Let’s hope that the Fremantle Dockers follow this up with a premiership in 2027! I’m still sad and processing what happened. 

The end of the school year is looming. I encourage students to prepare for the impending assessments ahead. Set goals, plan and use your time wisely to ensure that your reports reflect your best efforts.

God bless

Ms S Rainford

Principal