“If there is anything you need, pray for it, asking God for it with prayer and thanksgiving, and that peace of God, which is so much greater than we can understand will guard your hearts and your thoughts, in Jesus Christ”. (Phil 4:4-7).

As we approach Christmas and our attention turns to celebration we can give thanks for a year where growth has occurred in ways that we never imagined. It is always a point of hope to know that God looks after us and will help us to get through whatever may be presented. As in the quote above from this Sunday, the peace of God will be given when we need it. We must remember that this does not necessarily mean we will get what we want, but may get what we need. This peace of Jesus Christ guides and strengthens us and remains with us on our journey.

This week I would like to announce a number of staffing changes that will take place at the end of this year. 

We farewell two staff who are retiring; Ms Christine Hogarth who has been at Mount Carmel for 22 years working as a support staff member in our student services. Ms Kathleen Phillips has worked in our book room and been with us for 17 years. Both Ms Hogarth and Ms Phillips will be enjoying some well-deserved family time. 

Two permanent staff are moving to promotions positions at other schools. Mr Igor Pletikosa has been appointed to Christian Brothers Lewisham and will be moving to the role of Religious Education Coordinator. Ms Sarah Bowen will be moving to St Clare’s College Waverley as a House Coordinator. 

Five staff are moving on following the conclusion of their temporary contracts; Ms White will be moving to Chevalier College, Ms Whitworth will be moving to De La Salle, Mr Kawa is moving to St Gregory’s College, Ms Jeffries is going to Marcellin College and Ms Hulme to Magdalene.

I would like to thank all of these staff for their dedication and work during their time at Mount Carmel. They have all made valuable and positive contributions to our community and we wish then all the best in their new endeavours. I will announce the new staff joining us next year at the start of 2022.

Next Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning we will be holding our usual Parent/Teacher/Student meetings via zoom. These are a valuable opportunity to discuss any concerns that parents may have or to raise any questions about how your child might improve. Whilst it may appear too late in the year to make any changes, this can be a good way to review what has occurred in order to begin with a positive mindset in 2022.

As this is the last full week of the year, this will be the last newsletter for 2021. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all students, parents and staff for the work that has occurred during this tumultuous year. There have been many disruptions but with an optimistic view, there have been enormous opportunities for growth. I have personally gained great energy from the many students who have taken the opportunity to say hello to me in the yard and the staff who are constantly asking themselves and their colleagues how they can support students for better results. Thank you for all your efforts

On behalf of the Mount Carmel staff, I wish you all a happy and holy Christmas break filled with the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas.