Principal's Report
Thank you
I offer enormous public thanks to those staff who served the College in my absence during the first four weeks of this Term. In a large and busy secondary College, it takes especially dedicated and talented people to have the generosity and commitment to step into higher duties. I am personally, deeply appreciative of the work of Mrs Sally Sparke (Acting Principal), Mrs Raelene Maxworthy (Acting Assistant Principal - Curriculum), Mrs Heather Burke (Acting Leader of Teaching & Learning) and Mrs Kerry Ackhurst (Acting Leader of Mission, Spiritual Formation and Religious Education).
Catholic Schools' Week
Catholic Schools' Week has come and gone with students across the Diocese participating in either in-class reflection activities or attending the regional masses with the Bishop of the Armidale Diocese - his Lordship Michael Kennedy. At McCarthy, we were well represented at the Southern Deanery Mass held at Mary Help of Christians Church, by our very well-behaved Year 11 students. We were also privileged to have our College choir lead the singing and responsorial Psalms at the mass. Congratulations to choir leaders Ms Katherine Harvey and Mr Tim Godden on their preparatory work.
Enrolment Information Evenings
The compulsory Year 7 Parent and Student Enrolment evenings have now concluded. Applicants for Year 7 in 2020 from Armidale Diocesan Primary Schools, and/or siblings of currently enrolled McCarthy students, attended and received a clear message about values, expectations and opportunities available at McCarthy Catholic College. Applicants from other schools will be contacted for face-to-face interviews in the coming weeks.
Debutante Ball
Congratulations to all involved in the 2019 St Nicholas' Catholic Debutante Ball held last Friday night at the Town Hall. It was a wonderful night and the students impressed the Bishop and invited guests with their accomplished dancing skills. Without being too biased, I would have to say it was the best quality I have seen in my time in Tamworth. Thanks again to Mrs Shirley Chandler (who came out of retirement for one last hoorah), Mrs Jane Burt, Mr Damian Kenniff and Mr Michael Larkin for preparing the Year 12 students for their debut and/or leading the proceedings on the night. A long standing local tradition, their hard work and support is deeply appreciated by the students, their families and the College.
Captain's Dinner
Another long standing tradition, the College Captains attended the Regional Captain’s Dinner last Tuesday night. The venue, for such an event, is rotated annually amongst the regional Colleges and our location this year was Oxley High School. I offer deep thanks to the Principal, Simon Bartlett-Taylor, and his staff and students for their hospitality and entertainment. The opportunity to build collegiality amongst the secondary education institutions of Tamworth and surrounds is a rich and rewarding opportunity.
Staff News
Long-term support staff member, Pat Hobson, has tendered her resignation from McCarthy after many years of dedicated service to Catholic education in Tamworth. Her work behind the scenes in the office and book rooms of Christian Brothers' College, Our Lady of the Rosary College and McCarthy Catholic College for over 34 years was first rate; a reflection of a person with a huge heart, who always wanted the best for students and staff. She was also instrumental in ensuring that McCarthy Basketball teams were well resourced with playing apparel via a long-term investment started by previous Principal, Brother Jeff Regan. We wish her the warmest of wishes on her well-deserved retirement.
Winter Uniform
Students have been reminded that they are only to wear McCarthy uniform and jumpers during the winter period. We are permitting the McCarthy ‘hoodie’ as well as the regular McCarthy jumpers and jersey top. Students who choose to wear non-McCarthy jumpers and hoodies will be asked to remove them. Note that NSWCCC jumpers and hoodies are not classified as McCarthy issue.
Pupil Free Days June 11 and 12
A reminder to all families that the College will be closed next Tuesday and Wednesday as designated Pupil-Free Days while all staff in Armidale Diocesan Schools attend the Pastoral and Wellbeing Conference. Classes resume on Thursday June 13 at 8:45am.
Mr Geoff McManus - Principal