Principal's News
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Dear Parents & Parishioners,
Last Wednesday evening I attended MACS' launch of the Vision for Engagement. At the launch, Dr Ed Simons - Executive Director - referenced the 2019 OECD Report where, "Australia was ranked 69th out of 76 countries in terms of disciplinary climate, indicating that our country's classrooms were considered among the most disorderly compared to other participating nations". He went on to say, "While school leaders are demonstrating high levels of resilience and commitment, they are facing increasing stresses including mental health concerns for their students and staff, threats to safety and challenging workloads." (ACU 2025)
The Vision for Engagement, is the companion document to Vision for Instruction, and aligns with the MACS 2030 strategic plan. It communicates MACS system-wide, evidence-based approach to supporting students to be actively engaged in their learning. It is MACS commitment to nurturing calm, respectful and inclusive classrooms in which every student can thrive academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually.
So, where our Vision for Instruction (launched in 2024) focuses on what we teach and how we teach it, the Vision for Engagement focuses on the conditions essential for learning.
For your reference, you might like to read the following Short Guide to Vision for Engagement. It is a one page document that summarises the intent behind MACS' system-wide approach.
First Eucharist
This weekend marks the beginning of our First Eucharist celebrations. The students, supported by their peers, have been prepared by their teachers and members of the parish team for this significant sacrament of initiation.
After Jesus nourishes us in the Eucharist, we are asked to go out to be “bread for the world.” Eucharist calls us to help feed those around us who are hungry. Some people are hungry for food, others are hungry for love, or care, or friendship.
We ask you, Lord, to bless all our students as they prepare to receive the Eucharist for the first time.
Please refer to the Education in Faith page for the names of the children who will celebrate the sarament this Saturday evening.
Winter Solstice BBQ
It was a cracking Winter evening to celebrate the OHR Winter Solstice on Saturday. Thank you to the Jackson's for opening up their home for this occasion. Cam relished the opportunity to barbeque a large pig over the flaming coals of a homemade spit. The spit took pride of place in the backyard. A well-stoked chiminea kept bodies warm., while others nominated to stay inside and mingle. Approximately 45 parents turned up throughout the night.
2025 OHR Public Speaking Competition & Years 3-6 Australian Maths Competition
Please refer to the Learning & Teaching page for details of this year's OHR Public Speaking competition and the Years 3-6 Australian Maths Competition.
Wishing everyone a great weekend,
Frank Dame