Welcome to Term 2. I hope you all enjoyed the Easter break and had the opportunity to spend time with family and friends.

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the Commissioning Mass and ceremony for Dr Andrew Watson. Andrew was previously the secondary education consultant and Deputy Director at Catholic Education Ballarat until his appointment to the position of Director Catholic Education Wagga Wagga.

Andrew began his new role at the beginning of this year. The Commissioning Mass took place at St Michael’s Cathedral in Wagga Wagga and was celebrated by Bishop Mark Edwards.

The event brought together staff from the schools and education office in the diocese of Wagga Wagga with staff from schools and the office in the diocese of Ballarat. It was inspiring to see so many dedicated educators speak so passionately about catholic education.

Andrew spent time representing the Ballarat Diocese on our College Board and was also a former principal of Mercy Regional College in Camperdown and it was fantastic to see him appointed to such a significant position. The diocese of Wagga Wagga is certainly in good hands.

Staff and students who attended the Year 11 Top End Tour returned on Saturday after a thoroughly enjoyable two weeks away. The staff gave glowing praise about the way the students represented Trinity College on the trip and how they supported each other and showed respect and gratitude at all times. I am sure the trip has provided lifelong memories and experiences for those lucky enough to attend.

Just as we welcomed back one group from a camp, we farewelled another. Our Year 8 students have their camp this week and half headed off to Bacchus Marsh this morning for two nights with the remainder of the cohort heading off on Wednesday.

The students heading to camp on Wednesday spent all day on Monday cooking meals for St Vinnies and the students currently on camp will cook on Friday.

In total our year 8 students will provide St Vinnies with about 700 meals that will be provided to families and individuals in the Colac community who are currently experiencing financial hardship.

I would like to congratulate all students involved in these camps and the staff who have given up their personal time to provide these experiences.

I would like to thank all families who supported the student learning conversations that took place last week. Despite some internet connectivity problems that were beyond our control, the event went smoothly and allowed families to have a meaningful discussion around their child’s learning. We will be seeking feedback from our families about their experience of the event to enable us to continue to improve the family school partnership that is so vital.

With most COVID-19 restrictions now not in place, we do have the option of moving the next student learning conversations back onsite, however we are also aware that the remote platform does provide flexibility to many parents and carers.

On Thursday evening this week our Year 7 Time and Space event is taking place. This event brings mothers or significant female carers together with their child to take part in an organised activity led by staff and older students. The event was a huge success last year and provided a special experience for those who took part.

I am sure those who take part in this year’s event will find it worthwhile and remember it as a special time spent with their children. The event is deliberately scheduled to take place close to Mother’s Day.

Finally, I would like to wish all our mothers and female carers a wonderful Mother’s Day on Sunday. I hope you are thoroughly spoiled and celebrated for the selfless care and love you provide your family.

Kind Regards

Paul Clohesy, Principal

TCC Through the Lens