Principal

Dear Members of the Academy community,

As we navigate through these challenging global times, with the ongoing conflict between Iran and the USA weighing heavily on our hearts, I am reminded of the powerful words of Pope Leo XIV in his first address as our new Pope: his immediate call for peace.  These words resonate deeply with our school community as we witness the complexities of our interconnected world.

While we cannot change the entire world, we can certainly change our world through how we choose to live and interact with the people around us.  This fundamental truth guides everything we do as a school community.

This term has been filled with incredible learning opportunities and challenges that have stretched our students academically, personally and spiritually.  I am very proud of our students, not only for their dedication to learning but also for their outstanding commitment to social justice initiatives.

Our young people continue to demonstrate that they understand their role as global citizens, showing compassion, empathy and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the world.

A key event next term, is the "Feast for Freedom" fundraising event.  This important initiative will support two organisations that embody our values of service and justice:

Jesuit Refugee Services, Cambodia - Supporting refugees and displaced people in Southeast Asia, providing essential services to some of the world's most vulnerable populations.

Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, Melbourne - This vital organisation provides direct support, advocacy and services to asylum seekers and refugees who have made Australia their home.

These organisations represent the perfect example of thinking globally while acting locally.  By supporting both international and local refugee services, our students are living out Pope Leo XIV's call for peace in practical, meaningful ways.

Next term will bring two study tour opportunities:

Justice Immersion Experience - Our students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and history of Cambodia firsthand, while gaining deeper understanding of the region's history and current challenges.  The Cambodian connection to our "Feast for Freedom" fundraising for Jesuit Refugee Services will add profound meaning to this educational journey.

Study Tour to Japan  - At the end of Term Three, students will depart for Japan where they will enjoy meeting staff and students from our sister school in Kyoto - a 30 year relationship.  They will be immersed in the hisotry and culture of Japan and will spend a number of days at Nishiyama High School, further developing their Japanese language skills.

These tours represent our commitment to developing truly global citizens who understand their place in the wider world.

As we near the end of this term and look forward to all the events of Term 3, I encourage all members of this wonderful community to embrace Pope Leo XIV's message of peace. Let us continue to support one another, reach out to those in need and demonstrate through our actions, that positive change begins with each of us.

Thank you to our dedicated staff, supportive parents and most especially to our students, who inspire us daily with their commitment to learning and justice!  Together, we are changing our world, one act of kindness and justice at a time.

Every Blessing, 

Sr Mary Moloney rsm 

Principal