Assistant Principal -

Wellbeing

Supporting Learning and Fostering a Respectful School Culture

At O’Connor Catholic College, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to learn in an environment that is calm, respectful and purposeful. The Living Well, Learning Well framework reminds us that students learn best when they feel safe, respected and ready to engage, and that this can only occur when everyone takes responsibility for their behaviour.

Respectful behaviour in the classroom is not optional; it is essential. Students must understand that their choices—whether to listen, follow instructions, or arrive on time—directly affect not only their own learning but also that of their peers. Disruptions, off-task behaviour and lateness interrupt lessons and result in lost learning time that can never be regained. Over the course of a term, this adds up to hours of missed opportunity.

Persistent lateness to PAC and classes continues to be a concern. Arriving late disrupts teachers, unsettles classmates, and disadvantages the students themselves. In addition, failure to wear the correct school uniform sends a message that standards and expectations are negotiable. The uniform is not just clothing; it is a visible sign of pride, belonging and respect for our Catholic community. Students who choose not to meet these expectations undermine the positive culture we are working to build.

As parents and carers, your partnership is vital. We ask that you support us by reinforcing at home the importance of punctuality, respectful behaviour and correct uniform. Simple habits—such as preparing uniforms and bags the night before, setting alarms earlier, and ensuring students leave home with enough time to arrive punctually—can make a significant difference.

Success in this area requires a shared commitment between the school, families and students. By holding firm to clear expectations and supporting one another, we can ensure that all young people at O’Connor learn well, live well and represent their College with pride and dignity.

Leadership into 2026

This week we announced our Student Leadership Team for 2026. These young people have been chosen not only for their abilities, but for their character, service, and dedication to our college community.

Leading the team as our College Captains are James Everett and Madeleine Cowley, who will guide with vision, integrity and responsibility. Supporting them are our specialist leaders: Jessica Race as Arts Captain, Sienna Bastian as Faith and Service Captain, and Paige Patterson as Sports Captain.

Our Houses are also blessed with strong leadership. Anna McClennan and Nicholas Miller will lead Benilde; Regan Nugent and Rhiannon Heaney will guide LaSalle; Caitlin Montague and Evie Howlett will inspire Merici; and Isabelle McKay with Elizabeth Shepheard will lead Ursula.

Together, this team represents the values of courage, compassion, and service. We look forward with confidence to the year ahead, as they work to ignite school spirit, strengthen faith, and inspire their peers to live fully the mission of our college.

We look forward to working with such a strong team!

With every blessing,

Mellissa Bell

Assistant Principal Wellbeing