Principal's Post

Celebrating Excellence

Friday was a day of rolling Year Level Assemblies which included the acknowledgement of award winners in the categories of Christian Leadership, Commitment and Perseverance and Academic Awards. The following explanations were presented to the students at the assemblies to clarify the intent and criteria for the two categories of awards.

The Christian Leadership Award is designed to recognise any student who through their actions has lived out the Gospel values of Jesus Christ in being a positive role model for others in the community. There are many ways that students can demonstrate their eligibility for a Christian Leadership award including the following:

1. Participation in liturgical ministry
2. Witness in participation in social justice activities
3. Witness to the Good News of Jesus Christ in their social interaction

The Commitment and Perseverance Award is for those students who enthusiastically embraced the Mazenod Guiding Principle of “Be a burning flame not a smouldering wick”. 

Award winners were nominated by Mazenod staff for dedication and commitment to their studies in a number of subjects. The award winners made a genuine attempt to achieve personal excellence and reach their full potential in all aspects of the school community in Semester 2. 

Congratulations to the students that have received these awards for semester 2.

Time & Space

On Monday evening, November 25, Year 12 students of 2025 and their parents/carers took the opportunity to take "time and space" to have a one-on-one conversation with their son as a central part of the growth of the whole person.

In the last few decades, the context in which education systems find themselves has fundamentally altered. Within this larger context, Mazenod College has a unique role to play. This is to create nurturing and inclusive environments where your sons are respected, their voices are heard, and they are safe and feel safe.

Mazenod also has a heritage of significant rituals to mark a student's time at the College. Each year we offer an opportunity for Year 12s and their parent, carer or mentor to come together. Thank you to Bill Jennings, the Founder of Time & Space, who leads a special Year 12 parent/carer experience. 

ACC Leadership

The ACC Leadership Evening was held on Wednesday November 27 at St Bernard’s College Essendon. Students presented on their College’s Charism and identity. Students and staff leaving the function were appreciative of the respective stories and histories, but also mindful of the common purpose and themes that permeate through the 14 member Colleges that educate over 16,000 students. 

Themes and open discussion about building masculinity that benefits and serves men and women in our society; the prominence of social justice programs; the continual need to empower young men to understand and respond to Respectful Relationship Programs; the desire to proactively address the issues of sustainability; the openness to reflect on the shattering consequences that can impact families, friends and young people if mental health issues become overwhelming, all featured in the sensitive and thought provoking student presentations. The most common theme central to the presentations was the congregational founder of the respective Colleges, who demonstrated leadership to address the social injustices of his time and spread the Gospel message to those in their communities.

Junior Gala

Congratulations to all our musicians who performed at the music recitals in preparation for the Junior Gala. The music gala event is a wonderful celebration of talent and creativity, an example of how music transcends boundaries and touches each of us here. We have artists, that are both seasoned and emerging, and who poured their hearts out. Thank you to all parents for the support of your sons through many hours of dedicated rehearsal. 

Australian Volleyball Schools Cup

Best of luck to our 6 teams representing the College at the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup, which begins on Monday in the Gold Coast.

Annual Oblate Cricket Carnival

The Oblate Cricket Carnival is an annual event. Mazenod College (Victoria) are being hosted by Mazenod (Western Australia). We wish all students and staff a safe trip and positive experience. Best of luck to squad of 14 students across Years 8-11 representing the College which begins on Monday.

Welcome to New Year 7 Families

Many thanks to the Parents and Friends Association for hosting a meal for the new Year 7 Families and students of 2025 last Monday evening. The food was spectacular and enjoyed by all the families that attended. A special welcome to new families of Year 7 students 2025. 

While this is the last newsletter for 2024 our students will be continuing to represent the College in various activities and relevant information will continue to be uploaded on our websites and newsfeeds. Our cricketers are competing in the Oblate Cup and our volleyballers in the National titles.

On behalf of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the College Staff I would like to wish you and your families every blessing and joy for Christmas. I would also like to wish you a restful and enjoyable holiday and thank you for your support throughout 2024. 

All the best, 

Dr Paul Shannon

Principal