From the Principal

Loreto primary school

This week’s announcement of the closing of Loreto Primary School at the end of 2023 has understandably provided significant uncertainty for their school community. Loreto is a feeder Catholic school for our College, and we have always maintained an excellent relationship with Loreto Primary School. Our shared Mary Ward charism means there has been a unique bond between our schools. We also especially recognise the remarkable Loreto Sisters who have been engaged in Catholic education in our state since 1897.

In our discussions with Loreto Ministries Limited and Catholic Education Western Australia, we have reiterated the following:

• Loreto families will retain their John XXIII College enrolment priority as they move onto other schools.
• Our Primary School is full for 2023 so we cannot take any additional students next year.
• An important strategic priority for the future is the consideration for a third Primary school stream in the next decade. This is purely a ‘consideration’ as distinct from a ‘decision’.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Loreto Primary School community, and we will provide whatever support we can to the extended Loreto community.

Celebrating our students

The past few weeks have been a celebration of student life at the College. In addition to formal Year 12 graduation events, we have conducted Years 10, 11 and 12 Music Recitals, Media Night, Art Exhibition and Sport Awards evening. This week we conducted our Magis celebration breakfast. The depth and breadth of talent amongst our senior cohort and younger year levels is immense.

I congratulate all students engaged in these wonderful programs. It is also interesting to witness the participation of many students across both our artistic and sporting endeavours. The contribution of our staff in all these areas is especially important as so many of our teachers contribute well beyond their learning areas.

We also welcomed our Year 7 2023 students this week and we look forward to inducting them into the full life of John XXIII College.

Robert Henderson

Principal