Principal News
An Easter Thought
This Easter let us remember that is was ultimately love that triumphed over hate. Despite the work of evil to destroy all that is good, it did not win. Christ, the most holy was desecrated, the inviolate was violated. The most loving was outraged. All the evil and hatred and violence and cruelty that have tormented the world from the beginning were focussed here, too. Instead, goodness and beauty and love won out. Take some time to gaze at the crucifixion and let it touch you. Then we can follow Jesus to his resurrection and find hope and power to work for change.
Let us also remember that in our broader community there also is a lot of loving kindness around; there is a lot of silent, courageous heroism; there is a lot of simple, sincere goodness and holiness. People are being hurt; but many are being loved into health; many grieving hearts are being consoled. Many hearts are celebrating the joys and memories of their lives. So “just as sin reigned wherever there was death, so grace will reign to bring eternal life.”(Rom 5:21). God is alive and well; and at work. We need to remind ourselves of that.
Lord, My heart will be buoyed up and I’ll be the sacrament of your presence if I keep in mind the good things you are doing. Lift up my heart so I choose to direct my attention to all that is alive and growing in the people around me. May your Easter joy be something that radiates out from me. Amen
Dear Parents, Students and Friends
Term One concludes today and everyone moves to a well-deserved two weeks break. I thank all parents and students who followed up with teachers last Wednesday evening to review their academic progress. Being involved in their learning is critical to student success. I don’t mean placing unreal expectations on your child but encouragement and support where and when needed, such as booking a time at Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences and discussing the conversation afterwards and coming up with realistic goals is a good place to start. Having moved these meeting to Zoom sessions means that family life is less disruptive and feedback has shown that this is preferred to the traditional evenings at the College Hall.
The Biennial MCC (Marian Club Cabaret) was held last Friday and Saturday nights. Both shows were sell-outs and the talent on display was amazing! There are photos of the performances in this newsletter. The show was once again of a high calibre. The efforts behind the scenes are also worth mentioning from office staff sales to hospitality staff and students’ food preparation and serving. Thanks to parents, families, staff and friends who gave their time to help. We are blessed to have you here at the College. Thank you for your generosity of sharing your talents and time!
The last two weeks has seen quite a great deal of building activity at Marian. I enclose a few pictures of the scaffolding erection of the Staff Centre and Administration Block. The concrete slab pour and steelworks of the TAS Block will take place over the holidays. I also encourage everyone to view the “flythrough” of the completed TAS Block on the College website. Click here It is really impressive.
The College is looking for applications for suitable Teacher Assistants to commence work next term. There is also Canteen position vacant. The advertisement link is here. https://www.teachers.on.net/vacancy/search?positionType=19&positionType=32&positionType=34&subject=&contractType=&searchLocationType=NEAR&country=¬Country=&state=&postcode=2680&distance=5
We are also seeking suitably qualified tutors to support a NSW Government Covid Intensive Learning Support Program. Applicants would ideally be degree holders with tutoring experience or teaching experience. It might also suit those studying at university.
Please contact the College office on 69692400 to book an appointment meeting with the Principal to discuss the program. Meetings will take place early in Term Two with tutoring commencing soon afterwards. This program ceases at the end of 2021.
The College Parent Council AGM was held last week. Welcome to the following new members Simon Aventi (Allira-Yr 11), Tanya Feltracco (Isabella – Yr 8), Richard Carnell (Michael-Yr 8).
Returning members are – Stewart McMaster (Jessica-Yr 10), Anthony Salmon- Secretary (Georgia Yr 8, Isabella Yr 12), Ralph Twaddell-Chairperson (Liza-Yr9, Callum Yr7).
The full 2021 Parent Council Committee includes Fr Andrew Grace representing Chaplain-Fr Paul), Mr Gabriel Abdala-MCC Staff Representative, Mrs Joanne Smith –MCC Business Manager, Mr Alan Le Brocque-Principal.
This was the final meeting of retiring Chairperson Mrs Lindy Golden. Lindy has served on the Council for seven years and the last two as Chairperson and five as Secretary. Lindy’s leadership over this time has been of great benefit to the College Her calm demeanor, and professional manner organization has seen the College thrive during her time. On behalf of the Marian community I thank her for her dedication and service and wish her well for the future.
The first day of next term is a Teacher Professional Learning Day. Students return on Tuesday 20 April. There will be two weeks of optional winter or summer uniform changeover as the weather settles plus families can get the last minute items if needed from our Uniform Shop.
Enjoy the Easter Break!
Peace and Best Wishes
Alan LeBrocque