Principal's Post
Dear Parents,
Spirituality refers not just to an aspect of life that is ‘religious’, but rather to the search for God’s presence in every dimension of one's personal living (NCEC, 2018). St Eugene de Mazenod read and interpreted the Gospels, mindful of the moral, social and political realities of his day. St Eugene fostered and developed his spirituality through celebrating the eucharist, spiritual reading, prayer, reflection and service. In practical terms, he recognised the plight of the children of his town and looked to restore their dignity through a process of liberation through personal care and service. St Eugene’s love of God was found in the interpersonal service he gave for the least of God’s children, the poor, the hungry and the dispossessed.
The week started with the Mission Action Day Concert held in the Provence Centre. It has been a year since the ensembles gathered to perform. Their repertoire delighted the audience and considering the lack of preparation last year and the beginning of this year the performances were excellent. The night raised funds for the Missions and entertained all in attendance. Congratulations to everyone on the night, especially students performing for the first time.
The week concluded with Mission Action Day. The generosity of families once again is amazing. On behalf of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, thank you for assisting your son and encouraging him to support the missions of the Oblates and the MAMI organisation. At the time of writing the newsletter, final figures had not been realised. Thank you to the Year 12 Students for all their hard work and leadership. Thank you to the staff for their guidance and direction and for their enthusiasm and passion for the program.
STAFF NEWS
The College bids a fond farewell to Aylene Robinson today, after almost 16 years, of performing various roles as Registrar, Office Manager and Executive Assistant to the Principal and Rector. Aylene has been an invaluable source of history and knowledge for the College and her boundless energy, cheery manner and cheeky sense of humour will be sorely missed.
COVID NEWS
The Victorian Government has announced that it is extending the rapid antigen test (RAT) screening program for the first four weeks of Term 2. The Department of Education and Training will make RATs available for any vacation programs that operate at your school and for any families who need a top-up for the school holiday period. The screening recommendations will remain the same next term for students and staff. It is recommended to test at home twice a week (Wednesday and Sunday evening).
Included is a letter from Lieutenant General John Frewen, Coordinator-General National COVID Vaccine Taskforce and Prof Paul Kelly, Chief Medical Officer, encouraging parents and carers to fully vaccinate their child.
NEW CHILD SAFE STANDARDS
In July 2021, the Victorian Government announced new Child Safe Standards to further strengthen child safe environments and protect children from abuse. The new standards come into effect on Friday, 1 July 2022.
The new standards include requirements to:
- involve families and students in efforts to keep children and young people safe.
- improve governance, systems and processes to keep children and young people safe.
- focus on safety for Aboriginal children and young people.
- better manage the risk of child abuse in online environments.
CALENDAR CHANGES
A reminder that Tuesday, April 26 2022 will be a student free day. This will be an opportunity for staff to participate in Professional Learning in relation to the College’s Visible Wellbeing and Visible Learning strategies.
THANK YOU
Thank you for everything you have done this term to keep Mazenod open and safe and to also provide your son with opportunities to participate in camps and co-curricular activities they have missed over the past two years. I hope you have a well-deserved holiday break and a blessed and happy Easter period with your family and friends.
All the best,
Dr Paul Shannon
Principal