Principal's Message

This time of the year is very special. A couple of weeks ago we stopped to appropriately farewell our Year 12 students. Although it was a change from our usual format the Year 12 Graduation Celebration was held on 29 October. Presented online to the families the night was a combination of an acknowledgement of the spiritual journey the students have experienced as a recognition of the academic and personal achievement of all the graduands. The liturgy was led by Father Jude Pirrotta and he was supported by the College student leadership representatives and the theme was based on the effort required to overcome adversity and most importantly to place your faith in God. The students also received their graduation certificate as a testimony of the efforts over their time at the College. It was also fitting that Sr. Louise Cleary csb read a commissioning that reminded each student of the values that they have been exposed to as being a member of a Brigidine and Kildare Ministries community. I congratulate all the students and staff who were involved in the organisation and presentation of the night.

The next morning, 31 October, the Year 12 students gathered for their Celebration Day activities where activities were organised to signal an end to their formal classes at Marian. Their was a fantastic feeling of friendship, many stories of wonderful experiences as well as a few tears shed. These occasions are an important rite of passage for young people and assist the realisation that the next stage of life's journey is upon them. We wish them well. On 10 November the VCE students returned to school to begin the VCAA Written Examination period. They certainly seemed prepared and ready for the challenge. For this period, too, we offer our best wishes.

The other exciting aspect of this time is the handing over of the student leadership mantle to the current Year 11 students. Anyone who read the written applications and took part in the interviews for the 2021 Lampbearer would have been impressed with the student's understanding and commitment to the Kildare Ministries Core Values and the value that they place on being people of faith. Another notable and consistent reflection of all applicants was the gratefulness, respect and admiration for their families and all the sacrifices that their families had made to provide for them. The College is in great hands with all those students who have placed themselves forward for leadership positions. I congratulate them all and I especially acknowledge Renee Scothern and Noami Bawi Tha Khun Thang Eng for their appointment as Lampbearers 2021.

Raymond Pisani

Principal