From the Desk  of the Principal

Dear Parents and Caregivers

It is with much pride this week that we witnessed our community come together to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer.  Together alongside our brothers at Padua College, our neighbours at Delamore Retirement Village, and our favourite ‘little people’ at Molly’s House, we stood beside Year 12 student Megan Reid in her personal journey, and supported her in her fundraising initiative for this important cause.

My sincere gratitude goes to our Year 12 Captains who, with considerable commitment, energy, flair, and organisation, planned Tuesday’s special day and painted the College yellow (literally!)  I am in awe of their compassion, integrity, and support of each other and, of course, their classmate, Megan.  Well done, Captains, and thank you to everyone in our Franciscan community and beyond who supported Megan and the College on Tuesday. #TeamMeganStrong

Following on from the indulgence of two consecutive long weekends, it is now time for us to find our rhythm and stride!  In previous weeks I have addressed the students on the importance of maintaining high standards of uniform and self-respect, and to pursue (always) improvements and personal bests.  Recently, I have been privy to some data which clearly highlights that this effort has been reaping clear rewards in senior English results.  We know that a sense of accomplishment is key to building further confidence and wellbeing – it is contagious.  This is one contagion we want to seek more of in 2021! My congratulations go to every student who is seeing improvements in 2021, no matter how big or small.  I am confident that the upcoming Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences will also provide further information for parents and students on the tangible next steps to be taken for your daughter in order for her to continue to flourish and grow in her learning.

Those parents of students in Years 10 and 12 will have already heard the great reports of our Careers Immersion Day held a fortnight ago.  A truly stunning and impressive array of professional women (many of them Mount Alvernia Alumnae) addressed the cohorts, sharing their experiences of their chosen career paths and the journeys taken.  The speakers were informative, entertaining, honest, and constructive in their advice and storytelling.  I have absolutely no doubt that some significant seeds of inspiration were planted on this day for many of our girls.  I thank the Futures Hub staff for their efforts in curating this invaluable day for the students.

Today is a significant date in the life and traditions of Mount Alvernia College.  On 6 May we commemorate the death in 1894 of Elizabeth Hayes, Franciscan woman and founder of the Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception.  Elizabeth Hayes lived a life steeped in the Franciscan tradition of St Francis and St Clare of Assisi.  In her faith she was ever reverent of all creation, and sought justice for the poor and marginalised. This week as we honour the legacy of Elizabeth Hayes, let our hearts and minds continue to be reminded of what and who we can be for others.

Peace and all good

Samantha