PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools (AJASS) Principal’s conference in Newcastle. We were met on Tuesday 11th June by Sr Jan Tranter, at the Newcastle foreshore, where she described Fr Julian Tenison Woods’ arrival in the area.  It was difficult to imagine in a modern environment, the ship and foreshore that Fr Woods would have experienced.

Over the course of the week, I learned so much more of the work and missions that Fr Woods completed during his time in the Newcastle, Maitland and Lochinvar areas. The Sisters of St Joseph in this area were established with the support of Fr Julian Tenison Woods, and although of the same charism, were separate from the Sisters of St Joseph that sprang from the works of Fr Woods and Mary MacKillop at Penola. It was wonderful to learn more about the history, work and continued dedication of the Sisters, particularly from Sr Jan, Sr Patricia and Sr Maureen.

The following quote set the scene of our conference:

“We are but the instruments in the hands of God and must never act as if we were more.  A musician takes a flute which has nothing in it and of itself produces no sound.  He breathes into it and the sound which issues he modifies by the keys he touches.  This is an imperfect image of the way God uses us, the inspirations He gives us and the impressions He produces our senses.” Julian Tenison Woods, 1870.

This week at our formal assembly 60 commendation certificates were presented to students for their efforts in demonstrating our school theme of Intentional Inclusivity, our school values and success in academics, sport and other areas of the school. It is wonderful to see the recognition from our teachers and staff for the great efforts of our students. Well done to all the students who received a certificate.

At the assembly, Emily Hall spoke on behalf of the Student Forum about their review of our school Child Safe Policy. The Student Forum, with the support of Catherine Howison (Deputy Principal), has created a child friendly version of this policy. The student leaders should be very proud of their work and congratulations to Emily, who explained this so clearly to the students at the assembly.

We have had a large number of Enrolment Applications submitted for Year 7 in 2025. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 16th July. There are a number of siblings of current students that have not yet submitted applications. If your intention is for them to attend St Mary MacKillop College in 2025, please ensure that you submit your application by the closing date.

The end of term is only one more week away, and students will end the term on Friday, 28th June at 2:15pm. The first day of term 3 is Monday, 15th July.