Secondary News

Richard Clark

Last week I had the pleasure of accompanying Year 8 on their excursion to The Myall Creek Memorial.  This excursion is a compulsory field trip as part of the HSIE curriculum.  Joining us on the day were Mrs Sharon Cook and Aunty Noelene Briggs-Smith.  It was a moving experience and a wonderful opportunity for our students to gain some insight into colonial history.  The memorial to the victims of the massacre consists of a granite rock and plaque overlooking the site of the massacre. A ceremony is held each year on 10 June commemorating the victims.  A Sound Trail and a number of information points helped the students to gain a better understanding of the events surrounding the massacre.  Our thanks to Mrs Cook and Aunty Noelene for their support on the day.  The students were a credit to us in the mature and respectful way they completed the activities on the day.

Last Monday all of our Secondary students attended a presentation by Nic Newling from The Champions (http://www.thechampions.org/), which is a network of experienced and passionate people who champion sharing to help improve mental health.  St Philomena’s was joined on the day by senior students from Moree Secondary College. Nic’s presentation was based around his personal story with the core message being that talking about mental health and well being is the first and best step to dealing with issues. This event forms part of St Philomena’s Annual Plan goal to achieve a shared understanding of pastoral care and wellbeing.