Principal's Message

Dear Parents, Students, Teachers and Friends,

As the school year draws to a close, it was fitting that, on Wednesday evening just past, we enjoyed a celebration of learning and noted academic success. There were a number of Academic Awards presented on the evening and it was  important that our award winners were suitably recognised. It was, and always will be important that the whole school community stops and celebrates their success with them. A faith based education where learning is our core purpose, is the reason why Mater Dei exists, so it makes sense that we endorse the efforts and achievements of those students who received awards.

On Wednesday evening we awarded the first ever “Application Cup”. The Application Cup was awarded to the House which had the most number of students, across all year groups, to receive the most Effort and Application Awards. Because we value effort and application, each semester those students who ALWAYS apply themselves across a number of areas in all subjects for the semester, are recognised with and Effort and Application award. During Semester 2, 2014, the House which had most students engaged in that activity was…… Rosarie House.

Looking back on 2014, it has been another great year in the life of the College. We have been committed to being an authentic Catholic learning community by striving to “LIVE GOD’S MESSAGE”. We have also rigorously pursued our College Vision in which we strive to be a nurturing community which

·         is founded in Catholic faith, justice and love

·         is inclusive

·         is learner centred

·         seeks excellence and wisdom

We have enjoyed our sporting successes each and every time they came around and saw the Musical, “Back to the 80s”, performed at the Civic Theatre.

As a school we continue to  enjoy a fine reputation in the local Wagga community and the wider educational community; hence why I have been both privileged and honoured to call myself Principal of Mater Dei Catholic College for the last seven years. I have enjoyed my time here at Mater Dei and here in Wagga. I have much for which to be thankful.

Firstly to Bishop Hanna, “Thank you” for your wonderful support of the College and active presence. It is much appreciated. To Father Bernie Thomas who, as College Chaplain, supports and leads Catholic life  at the College through the celebration of Eucharist, his attendance at Retreats and many other ways. Thank you Father Bernie. To Sister Barbara, the Presentations and Christian Brothers, thank you for your continued support of, and presence at the College. Your humility and trust in staff to keep alive the spirit and charisms of both Nano Nagle and Edmund Rice is humbling.

I am thankful for the support of the Catholic Schools Office, in particular to Mr Chris Smyth. As the Assistant Director and Secondary Schools Consultant, both the College and I have benefitted greatly from his intellect around learning and knowledge of School Improvement. I wish Chris well in his future endeavours as Director of Catholic Schools In Armidale knowing he will be sadly missed by the College and the wider Diocese.  Thank you Chris.

I thank you the parents for your wonderful support of the directions of this College and I thank you sincerely for entrusting your child to be cared for and educated by us. As the leader of the College I consider it an honour that you send your child to Mater Dei. And, of course, you send your children here to learn and grow. With a staff of 85 we come full of imperfections but I know, without doubt, collectively our teachers and support staff are committed to supporting parents, as the primary educators, to nurture your child to become a confident adult with the moral compass ready for the world which awaits them. I thank the teachers and support staff for their commitment to working with students, day in, day out. It has been a privilege to witness many special things occur. I have been very fortunate to work with a staff that has an open mindset to change and great courage to take risks. I will miss that dearly!

And lastly to the students, thank you for your contribution to the College. Thank you for understanding there is a need for standards and there is a need to remain committed to learning. There have been a number of times when my day wasn’t going that well. The one thing that lifted me most, was spending time in the yard or getting into a classroom. Your energy and drive, but mostly your happy faces, have given me far more than I can hope to give you. 

Speaking of students, there are two students, ex-students in fact, I need to thank; they are Rebecca Miller and Alison Miller. It is never easy being a student at school when your mum or dad teaches, but to be the Principal's daughter comes with its own set of challenges. I have admired the way they have held themselves and maintained a balanced approach to their life at school. I thank them dearly as I do their mother and my wife. Jen has always been there for me, providing her unconditional love and unqualified support of me in my role as Principal. “Thank you” is not enough. To our son Christopher who regularly asks, “And how is Mater Dei goin’ Dad?” Your interest has been appreciated.

In looking ahead, Christmas is just around the corner. May I encourage you to get to Mass because Christmas without Christ is just not the same. The message of hope that comes with the story of Christmas is one that hopefully permeates your family, friends and wider contacts throughout the festive season. May you all enjoy a restful break and my hope for students is that they stay safe over the holidays.

In conclusion, I can confidently say, the College has established itself as a quality learning environment by way of excellent teaching, dedicated students and supportive parents. Long may this wonderful three way partnership continue.

Many Blessings for the future.

Greg Miller

Principal