Principal' s Address

Hi Everyone,

During this term I have had the opportunity to spend a lot of time within classrooms and engage in conversations with students regarding their learning and wellbeing. This has been a great opportunity to tap into the youthful enthusiasm of our students and to see how engaged they are in their learning. It was also affirming in witnessing the energy and dedication of our teachers and support staff who do an amazing job in leading learning within the classroom. 

Reflecting on this, it reminded me of one of my favourite books, The Resilience Project, by Hugh van Cuylenburg. The main theme of the book is centred around three key pillars for any organisation or individual. The research is clear; the more positive emotion you experience, the more resilient you will be. We are encouraged to focus on three key pillars that have been proven to cultivate positive emotion; Gratitude, Empathy and Mindfulness (GEM). 

Gratitude - Paying attention to the things we have right now, and not worrying about what we don't have. We practice gratitude by noticing the positives around us.

Empathy - Putting ourselves in the shoes of others so we feel what they are feeling. We practice empathy by being kind and compassionate towards other people.

Mindfulness - Our ability to be calm and in the present moment. We practice mindfulness by slowing down and concentrating on one thing at a time.

These are three key aspects of life that we all should nurture and encourage, no matter how old or young you may be. I have had a moment to reflect on how GEM impacts me;

I am grateful for the Presentation Sisters who attended our Founders Day Mass. Their presence brings such a positive reminder to who we are and where we come from at Mater Dei.

I have such empathy for the homeless and less fortunate in our society. I am so pleased that as a College community we strongly support the Vinnies Winter Warmth Appeal. 

In the busy nature of my Acting Principal role, I am mindful to take time and sit in and among our students within the classroom. It is an important reminder of the need to be present. 

Our students - our staff

I would like to focus on the excellent commitment that our students and staff make to extra curricular activities at the College. I continue to be amazed at the energy and passion that is given to rehearsals or training, and equally impressed by the talent, skill and effort of our students.

As mentioned in the last Newsletter I spoke about the lead up to the Live and Loud Performance Music production at the Riverina Playhouse. The production itself was a massive success and shows were performed over 3 days and nights with great reviews by parents and the community. Led by Director of Music, Mr David Saxon and supported by fellow music teacher Rebecca Saxon, the students were so passionate and talented in their performances. Well done!. A report is included in this newsletter. 

Last week also saw the culmination of a big week in sport. Mater Dei had made the respective Final in the Tracey Gunson Netball [Jnr and Snr], Girls AFL [Jnr and Snr] and Boys AFL [Carroll Cup]. The time and commitment to training sessions and lead up games is enormous and both staff and students should be commended for their efforts. We were winners in three of the five finals and they are to be celebrated.

However, the most pleasing part is not the winning but the attitude and effort applied to each game. It is all about the ‘Mater Dei Way’, which simply implies, play hard but fair and be a good sportsperson. I am very happy to say that all teams who represented the College did so in this manner. Well done!

Pentecost Sunday

With Pentecost Sunday celebrated on Sunday May 28, it is important to reflect on the significance of the day. It reminds us of the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Just as the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, we too experience His guidance and strength. Pentecost encourages us to be open to God's spirit, who helps us make good choices, brings comfort in difficult times, and empowers us to show compassion and serve others.

Pentecost teaches us about unity and diversity. The miracle of speaking in different languages reminds us that God's love is for everyone, regardless of their background or their culture. It calls us to embrace diversity and build bridges of understanding and friendship with people from all walks of life.

Pentecost encourages us to be bold in sharing our faith and spreading kindness and compassion. It reminds us that we have a purpose to bring light and love to others.

I hope everyone has a great weekend.

Keep smiling,

Mr Daryl Lawrence | Acting Principal