“Let the little children come to me; do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs”. Mark 10: 2–16.

Over the last few weeks, I have continued to come onto the College site on a roster with our Leadership Team to ensure that learning and teaching continues to be given the support it requires during lockdown. I had also sent a few videos to the students over the last six weeks to show them how much they are missed. The quote above which comes from the Gospel on October 3, reminds us that we should be like children if we are to share in the benefits of the Kingdom. When we spend a great deal of time with our children, or anyone for that matter, it is often easy to focus on the things that they do that upset or frustrate us. As educators, this may be their reluctance to participate or to engage with their learning and our frustration lies in the fact that we can see potential that is being underutilised. When there is an absence however, as we are experiencing onsite, the beauty of the interactions and the value of the person is highlighted. The idea that we need to be like children to fulfil our role in a Christian community is not about acting or thinking simplistically but is about accepting that there are realities we cannot change. We are required to work within these realities or aim to influence those things that we can improve. When parents go to the shops, we often see their small children following without any real understanding of where they are going or why. It is this faith in their parents to care for them and their futures that God is asking of each one of us with Him. We trust that God will care and look after us but that includes our responsibility to care for and look after ourselves and each other.

As you are aware due to the impacts of COVID, there have been a number of events that have been cancelled or postponed until the new year. Our finance office has been working to apply credits to fees for these. On your next fee instalment, there will be a number of credits applied for these events and also for the sport and bus contributions that have not been accessed during term 3. During term 4, we will also apply credits for events that will be cancelled during term 4. These amounts will vary between year groups and students depending on what you had been charged for and what has been cancelled. Please feel free to contact the office should you have any questions. 

The Western Sydney University has published some short facts sheets on literacy and numeracy assistance, wellbeing, and support suggestions for HSC students. This is part of their Education Knowledge Network (EKN). I have included the link here and suggest it is well worth referring to: 

https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/schools/soed/ekn/ekn_home_school

As we head into the Term 3 holidays, I encourage our students to take a break from their studies but to look to see how you can also give your parents and families some assistance so they too can stop and ‘breathe’. This may be to take over a few more responsibilities or chores at home or simply to offer to help out when needed. The two weeks is a great opportunity to reconnect without the pressures of schoolwork. I wish you all a relaxing break.

As always, a very big thank you to the staff, students and parents for your flexibility and ongoing support during remote learning.