From the Directors

Thank you to the many families who responded positively to our recent communications regarding the importance of consistent student attendance and participation at key College events. Your support is greatly appreciated.

We share a common goal, to uphold high expectations for student attendance, engagement and achievement. Our partnership is vital in forming young people of character, compassion and commitment. That partnership includes your full support in ensuring your child is present, engaged and accountable in all aspects of College life.

Student attendance and participation in extracurricular activities provides students with an increase in their self-confidence which positively impacts their academic lives and connection to the College, supporting students to feel more comfortable in expressing their ideas and more resilient in the face of academic challenges.

One of the greatest advantages of taking part in extracurricular activities is the opportunity to develop strong time management skills. By committing to activities beyond regular school hours, students learn to balance their academic responsibilities with other interests. This process fosters organisation, prioritisation, and the discipline to follow a schedule. These are essential skills that will benefit them well beyond their time at St Monica’s College.

Participation and attendance in the many activities offered by the College, provides students with opportunities to meet new people, work in teams and develop social skills. For students who feel isolated or have difficulty making new friends, this is a great space to connect with likeminded peers and build connections with students in other year levels and at times, other campuses.

As parents, you might be pleasantly surprised to know that extracurricular activities can boost a student’s academic performance, rather than take away from it. Research consistently shows that students who participate in activities beyond the classroom often achieve stronger academic results and display higher levels of engagement with their learning.

Why is this the case? Skills such as time management, focus, and commitment—nurtured through sport, the arts, leadership roles, or community service often flow directly into a student’s study habits. The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) has found that involvement in extracurricular activities is linked to enhanced cognitive development, including sharper attention, stronger problem-solving skills, and greater perseverance.

In essence, balancing schoolwork with extracurricular pursuits encourages discipline, builds resilience, and fosters a sense of purpose, all of which contribute to both academic success and overall wellbeing.

At St Monica’s College, we understand the impacts of extracurricular activities in a student’s development and growth. We encourage our students to explore their passions, develop leadership skills, and learn to manage their time effectively – all within a supportive environment that helps them thrive academically and personally.

Ms A Xerri 

Assistant Principal (Campus Director DRC)

Miss N Meade 

Assistant Principal (Campus Director DSC)