Pastoral Care News

This week, members of the C.A.T met to finalise the details of some exciting programs and initiatives which will be launched in the upcoming weeks. The enthusiasm and commitment to promoting social justice and implementing change for those in need was clearly demonstrated as the students; led by their year 10 leaders, Jayden Skirving, Pria Cerrato, Alice McRae and Georgia Minato spoke about the “BElieve in YOUrself” new skill competition where students have the opportunity to win up to $500 in community cash. Students have been encouraged to step outside of the comfort zone and adopt a new skill; sending through a short video of their progress and achievements to Mr Neville by the end of week 9 for judging.

Mr Neville is excited about the number of entries he has already received and the level of new talent being developed by the students. There are multiple prizes to be won so everyone is to be encouraged to participate.

Some students have taken the opportunity to collect a knitting kit and adopt this timeless art as their new skill. The level of interest has provided the catalyst for recommencing the knitting club next Wednesday. Students, and staff are invited to join us in the Marra Marra; where yarn and needles will be provided, mentors available and together we will create squares that will ultimately become blankets /wraps which will be given to those in need. Students do not need to know how to knit; and are most welcome to attend on their own as they will have the chance to meet many other students. 

In addition, the students are completing a submission to apply for a grant to be used to promote healthy living here at MCC. The students are required to submit a short video as part of their submission promoting the activity and explaining how they would use the grant for the benefit of the physical wellbeing and health of the students. Final submissions are required by June 5th and it is hoped that if successful we can launch in the next edition of the school newsletter.

During the meeting students were also asked to “Rise to the challenge” and asked to volunteer to take on the reasonability to providing care or service within both their school and local environments. Students were asked to create a roster of volunteers who would collect and transfer all recyclable bottles etc here at MCC for collection by CAREVAN reps. Due to the COVID 19 we are limited in the level of support we can currently give however the recycle program directly raises much needed funds for this vital service. By the students excepting reasonability for the collecting of the bottles ensures that the program is sustainable and our support is consistent. Please consider CAREVAN as a worthy recipient at either of the “Return and Earn” stations locally if you have your own recycle program at home.

Finally, students were asked to create a roster and volunteer to care for and serve our neighbours at the near by Legacy units. The simple task of taking out full garbage bins can be a difficult task for the frail aged or those unsteady on their feet. The students (with parental permission) will take out the garbage bins prior to collection and return directly back to school to continue their lessons.

The students were enthusiastic about the thought of helping others and left the meeting with the goal of bring more items for discussion at our next meeting. Following the philosophy of St Vincent de Paul see, think and do all members have a different perspective and passion therefore we always have many items presented and open for discussion.

The CAT always welcome’s new members and if you or your child would like additional information or would like to attend a meeting please do not hesitate to contact me. 

In closing, I would like to acknowledge the significance of this week; “Reconciliation Week” and pay my respects to the Elders past, present and future. The C.A.T is also committed to continue to support programs and activities that promotes mutually respectful relationships between the nation’s first people and non-indigenous people.

I hope that you all have a wonderful week end and stay safe and stay healthy 

Regards Sue Hone (Pastoral Care Worker)