The Exec Address

Principal's Address

Dear MCHF community

There were two very important events we celebrated recently: The Beatification of Patriarch Elias Howayek and our inaugural reunion night.

On 25 July the Maronite Church welcomed Patriarch Elias Howayek into the ranks of the Beatified. The 72nd Patriarch of Antioch, Elias Howayek, was instrumental in the pastoral, political and ecclesial spheres. He showed care for the people of his homeland, ensured the proper formation of priests and ongoing spiritual formation of Bishops. He built numerous churches across Lebanon and ensured Lebanese migrants were cared for overseas. A formidable figure, he stood against the oppressive regime of the Ottoman Empire and fought for Lebanon’s Independence. Perhaps his fondest achievement was establishing the Congregation of the Maronite Sisters of the Holy Family, to educate those children in secluded villages, who would otherwise never receive an education. The Patriarch also insisted on care for the hungry, for the sick and the elderly. For the Sisters, this was an important occasion and we thank all our staff, parents and students who continue the ministry that the Blessed Patriarch Howayek envisioned. 

The reunion night of OLOL / MCHF students, staff and parents, took place on 31 July 2026, and was an opportunity to see familiar faces, remember moments of laughter, challenges that were overcome, lessons learnt, and friendships that have stood the test of time. The reunion reminded us that every community is strengthened by its people. As we build upon the legacy laid before us, may we always remember that the strongest communities are those that remain connected - not only through memories, but through active care, support, and commitment to one another.

As we enter deeper into term 3, we give thanks for the many opportunities to gather and celebrate. May we continue to be a community who values Maronite spirituality, the Lebanese culture and the honest way of Australian life. 

God bless you all as we journey together throughout this term.

Sr Margaret Ghosn

Principal

Deputy Principal: Teaching & Learning 

Dear MCHF Community

People often posture, ‘can you believe the year is already half over’? However, from a teaching and learning perspective, we like to envision all the learning still left to be conquered in the latter half of the year.

We started the Term with ICAS testing and NAPLAN results. The data from these two testing frameworks has confirmed we have a population of students who are capable of high attainment. To address this as a teaching body, we are targeting students to go beyond often mediocre standards they set for themselves, and to realise they are, and they deserve to be, counted among the brightest in the State. We will continue extensive focus on observing each other’s explicit teaching practice in Term 3 to ensure we push each student to achieve slightly (or hugely) beyond their conceivable realm of achievement and push them to be the smartest version of themselves.

We also are at the pointy end of the academic year for our Year 11 and 12 students. Trials began in Week 3 for our Year 12 cohort which means they enter an intense period of revision and preparation for their final HSC exams which is approaching in October. Year 11 are currently preparing to sit their final exams for the Preliminary course also. While these periods are traditionally characterised as being stressful and worrying, the MCHF community should view this period as being one of opportunity, and a time when we can demonstrate everything that we are. Therefore, Year 11 and 12, go and have fun with these exams, and by ‘fun’, we mean show off all that you are and that you can be. Show the world what an MCHF student can be.

So, to all facing these challenges, please go forth with strength and confidence in oneself and one’s abilities because the entire community believes in you – all you have to do is see what we see.

God bless,

Emma Dettling

Head of Wellbeing 

As we begin Term 3, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all members of our MCHF community. 

We hope that families enjoyed a restful break and that students have returned refreshed, motivated and ready to embrace the opportunities for learning, growth and connection that this term will bring. We look forward to another productive and rewarding term as we continue working together to support the wellbeing and success of every student.

This term has also provided an opportunity to acknowledge and reflect on Bullying Awareness Week. 

Throughout the week, students participated in age-appropriate learning experiences that reinforced the importance of kindness, empathy, respect and positive relationships. These conversations are a vital part of helping our young people develop the skills and understanding required to contribute positively to their community.

At MCHF, we maintain a clear and unwavering stance on bullying. Bullying in any form is not tolerated. Every student has the right to feel safe, respected and valued, and we remain committed to fostering an environment where concerns are addressed promptly, fairly and consistently. Our approach focuses not only on responding to incidents but also on educating students to make positive choices, build healthy relationships and demonstrate respect for others in their daily interactions.

We would also like to remind parents that any matters concerning their child or children at the College should be addressed through the College's established communication and wellbeing processes. In the first instance, concerns should be raised directly with your child's class teacher, who is best placed to understand the circumstances and provide support. The class teacher will then consult with the Leader of Wellbeing and other relevant staff members, as required, to investigate, address, and resolve the matter appropriately.

Please be assured that the College has robust systems, procedures and support structures in place to manage concerns effectively. Where matters require further attention, they are escalated through the appropriate channels and handled with care, professionalism, confidentiality and a commitment to achieving the best outcomes for students.

As a Maronite Catholic learning community, we are guided by our values of faith, respect, compassion, service and responsibility. These values underpin every aspect of College life and shape the way we interact with one another. We firmly believe that meaningful change, student growth, and a truly supportive culture are achieved when parents, students, and College staff work together in a spirit of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration. Through this shared commitment, we can continue to nurture a community where every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Ms Claudia Bou-melhem

Head of Curriculum 

Dear MCHF community, 

Welcome back to Term 3. I trust that all students, parents and staff enjoyed a well-deserved break and are feeling refreshed and ready for what promises to be another busy and rewarding term at the College.

Term 3 is a significant term in the academic calendar, with several important milestones for our students. For our senior students, the focus is firmly on preparation, perseverance and building strong habits that will support success both this year and beyond.

Senior School Focus

Our Year 12 students will commence their Trial HSC Examinations on Monday of Week 3, with examinations concluding on Monday of Week 6. These examinations are extremely important as they are designed to closely replicate the HSC examination experience, allowing students to practise their examination techniques and preparation strategies under authentic conditions. In addition, Trial HSC examinations contribute 30% of the final mark submitted to NESA and therefore play a significant role in students' final outcomes.

Later in the term, our Year 11 students will undertake their Preliminary Examinations, commencing on Friday of Week 8 and concluding on Friday of Week 10. These examinations are equally important as they can contribute up to 40% of the final course mark submitted to NESA. They also provide valuable preparation for the rigours of the HSC course and offer students the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the year.

Adding to the significance of the term, we will also celebrate the graduation of our Year 12 cohort. Graduation is always a special occasion as we recognise the achievements, growth and commitment of our students throughout their schooling journey. We look forward to celebrating this important milestone with students and their families.

Building Strong Work Ethic

As we move through Term 3, I encourage all students to place a renewed focus on developing positive study habits and a strong work ethic. With the academic year concluding next term, now is the ideal time for students to establish routines that will maximise their learning and academic growth.

Parents play a vital role in supporting this process. Three practical strategies that can help students improve their work ethic include:

1. Establish Consistent Routines

Encourage your child to set aside a regular time each day for homework, revision and assessment preparation. Consistency helps students develop self-discipline and reduces last-minute stress.

2. Break Tasks into Manageable Goals

Large tasks can feel overwhelming. Helping students break assignments and study goals into smaller, achievable steps allows them to experience success regularly and maintain motivation.

3. Create a Distraction-Free Study Environment

A dedicated workspace free from unnecessary distractions such as mobile phones, gaming devices and television can significantly improve focus, productivity and the quality of learning.

Small improvements made consistently over time often produce the greatest results.

Stage 6 Subject Selection

Our Year 10 students are currently finalising their subject selections for Stage 6 and will be signing their Stage 6 contracts later this term. This is an important step as students begin planning their senior studies and considering future pathways. We encourage students to select subjects that align with their strengths, interests and post-school aspirations while committing to the expectations of senior study.

Exciting Learning in Primary

There has already been some fantastic learning taking place across the Primary School. Year 6 students recently showcased their understanding through their Solar System Science Projects. Working collaboratively in groups, students designed and created their own habitable planets, demonstrating creativity, scientific understanding, critical thinking and effective teamwork. It was particularly impressive to hear students confidently articulate their learning and explain the scientific principles behind their designs.

Book Week will provide another wonderful opportunity to foster a love of reading and literature. Students in Kindergarten to Year 2 will have the privilege of meeting acclaimed Australian author Zanni Louise, known for books including Archie and the Bear, Errol!, Mum for Sale and Hazel's Treehouse.

Students in Years 3–6 will meet bestselling children's author Andrew McDonald, creator of the hugely popular Real Pigeons series, including Real Pigeons Fight Crime, Real Pigeons Eat Danger and Real Pigeons Nest Hard.

Year 6 students will also participate in their first transition session into High School this term. This session will have a curriculum focus and provide students with valuable insight into the expectations of secondary learning. They may even discover that homework increases as they move into Stage 4!

Beyond the classroom, Primary students will be engaging in a range of exciting learning experiences through excursions. Year 3 students will visit The Australian Museum, while Year 4 students will explore The Australian Pioneer Village, providing authentic opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences.

As always, I am excited to see the learning, growth and achievements that Term 3 will bring. I encourage all students to embrace the opportunities ahead, challenge themselves, and strive for continual improvement.

I wish all students, staff and families a successful and rewarding Term 3.

Ms Dalla

Head of Curriculum

Head of Risk and Compliance

Social Media and Online Safety Reminder

As part of our ongoing commitment to protecting the privacy and wellbeing of our students and staff, we ask all families to be mindful when sharing College-related photos, videos, and information online.

While we understand the desire to celebrate achievements and special moments, content shared online can be copied, altered, shared, and viewed far beyond its intended audience.

In order to help safeguard our community, parents, students, and staff are not permitted to post images or videos of students in College uniform, or any content that identifies the College through logos, signage, branding, or recognisable College locations.

Please take time to review your social media privacy settings and limit access to trusted family and friends. While privacy settings can reduce risk, they cannot prevent content from being copied, screenshot, or shared by others.

We also request parents use this opportunity to discuss responsible social media use with their children. Students should be mindful of not posting identifiable images of themselves, other students, or staff members alongside information that could reveal their school, location, routines, or personal details. Reviewing privacy settings, follower lists, and friend lists together is a simple but important step in promoting online safety.

In today's digital world, seemingly harmless posts can reveal a person's identity, the College, location, and daily routines. When combined, this information can increase the risk of privacy breaches, impersonation, image misuse, or unwanted contact.

Online Safety Tip!

Before posting, ask yourself: “Does this image identify a person and the College?” If the answer is yes, do not share it online.

By working together, we can help keep our students, staff, and wider College community safe online.

Thank you for your continued support safeguarding our community.

Judy Slattery

Head of Risk and Compliance