From the Principal

Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Staff and Friends of St Norbert College

The St Norbert College Community respectfully acknowledges the past and present traditional owners of this land on which we meet, the Whadjuk people. It is a privilege to be standing on Noongar country. We acknowledge the contribution of Aboriginal Australians and non-Aboriginal Australians to the education of all children and people in this country we all live in and share together – Australia.

This Acknowledgement of Country is a gracious attribute at the commencement of all College events. Whilst seemingly small in effort, it is grand in the spirit in which our students and staff often deliver this acknowledgment. This forms a wonderful base from which we can continue to educate our young people to work together for a future, which Kevin Rudd 10 years ago as the then Prime Minister suggested, is “based on mutual respect, mutual resolve and mutual responsibility”.

Ten years ago, Prime Minister Rudd proclaimed that “we honour the Indigenous peoples of this land, the oldest continuing cultures in human history” and in doing so expressed a National Apology to the Stolen Generation. In a previous newsletter, I stated that we, as a Catholic community at St Norbert College, are committed to working with the survivors of the Stolen Generation and their families towards truth, justice and healing.

I believe the significant link between our campus and traditional ownership gives us much cause for acknowledgement and reflection. In the coming months of this year, we will embark on appropriate initiatives which we hope will reflect the importance and significance that we place on this connection. We are very lucky to have Mrs Geraldine Martin, our Aboriginal Teaching Assistant here at the College to assist our students, staff and community to enhance our cultural competence in this regard.

The end of this week saw a much anticipated College event – our annual Open Day in which we welcome members of our community, past, present and prospective. My sincere thanks to all involved especially Ms Rainford and the Open Day Committee, for all of their efforts in bringing the day together. I would also like to acknowledge our Student Tour Guides who provide such a wonderful first impression for our guests, giving them with a glimpse of that which we are most proud of here at St Norbert College.

At the commencement of the tours, I have the privilege of welcoming those in attendance and I take much pride in announcing what it is that I hope each person will witness. I felt it worthwhile sharing what it is that is evident here at our College and witnessed by all present.

My hope for all in our community is that they see the buildings and appreciate what and whom contributed to having these facilities, but more importantly, feel the atmosphere and sense of community that permeates our College. My hope is that we feel and experience students and teachers passionate about learning and enthusiastically proud of their College, students who strive to constantly develop their holistic selves. My hope is that we all witness the visible signs of the strength of our community, our dedication to our College motto Ad Omnia Paratus, demonstrating that we are all of one mind and one heart.

God Bless

Mr S Harvey (Principal)