Principal's Post

Dear Parents,

Thank you for tuning in online at the recent Parent Information Evenings. We wish we could see and meet you in person. We are hopeful that this will occur more often than not in 2022. We were delighted to welcome students last Week. There is a sense that they have settled in well for the academic year.

In the last few decades, the context in which education systems find themselves has fundamentally altered, particularly with COVID. We are conscious that for the last two years, teaching and learning at school has been very disruptive. It is within this context that we aim to create nurturing and inclusive environments where your sons are respected, their voices are heard, and they are safe and feel safe.

We are committed to providing a holistic education for your son and we place a strong emphasis on Visible Wellbeing and Visible Learning. At the recent Parent Information Evenings we shared information about how these are intertwined to provide the best possible support for your son. I’ve already observed the sound interpersonal relationships between the teachers and your sons and how they show warmth towards one another. Hopefully this provides a safe, inclusive and warm school environment where your son experiences a sense of belonging and connectedness.

Your Homeroom Teacher will form your main point of contact at the College. We hope that your son develops a good working relationship with his Homeroom Teacher and feels free to discuss school or personal matters if the need arises. Don’t forget - A problem shared in confidence with your Homeroom Teacher may be quickly resolved and have him back enjoying success at school. Equally, your subject teachers can help you with your learning and advise you on many other matters throughout the year. It is especially important to talk to your Teachers if you sense that life at school is not as peaceful, enjoyable or as successful as it should be.

Your son should approach his Year Level Co-ordinator or Assistant if he feels the need for extra advice. It is possible to talk to them about more serious or sensitive matters that need to be settled. It’s important that your son feels comfortable enough to inform them on matters which may affect his performance at school.

The Mazenod College Counselling Service is also available within usual school operating hours. Parents or students may wish to discuss the possibility of counselling support by contacting our College Psychologists via email counsellors@mazenod.vic.edu.au

One adjustment to our schedule for 2022 is that our Inaugural Mass will be celebrated at the College in the Provence Centre on Friday February 25 instead of our traditional pilgrimage to St Patrick’s Cathedral. Limits on numbers in the congregation as well as restrictions with singing and music, convinced us this arrangement is the preferred option for this year. More details will be forwarded in due course.

Thank you to the Mazenod Sports Department and all staff who organised a very successful House Athletics Carnival last Friday. This was a wonderful community event – congratulations to all students who entered into the spirit of the day. The final results, as well as the Year level champions are below:

Thanks to all families and students who have made a great start to the academic year. My hope is that your son graduates from Mazenod as a young man who is curious, creative, compassionate and has the courage to make a difference.

All the best,

Dr Paul Shannon

Principal