At the outset this week, I take the opportunity to congratulate our Year 12 students for their application towards their Trial HSC Examinations over the past fortnight. Although there is still one day to go this coming Monday, as a cohort, their approach to these assessments have placed them in a strong position as they continue their preparations for the HSC at the start of next term.

I also take the opportunity to congratulate the Year 11 cohort for their participation in the Mount Carmel Leadership Program over the past two days. This program is designed to assist the discernment process among our students whether it be in regard to their own preparedness to consider a leadership role, or in determining the team of students that will represent them in their own HSC year in 2023. Having spent time with this cohort over the past couple of days, I am extremely confident that we will have an exceptionally strong Student Representative Council that will act on the behalf of all students next year.

A reminder that as per our Compass Calendar, our Term 3 Staff Development Day will be taking place on Friday August 26. The focus on this occasion will be on the Pastoral Care and Wellbeing of our students. I thank those parents and carers in our community that are required to organise alternate supervision on this day so that all staff can participate in these worthwhile professional development opportunities.

Earlier today, students in Years 7-10 were issued with their latest supply of RAT kits. Students are encouraged to use these if they are experiencing any flu-like symptoms or if they are in the same household as a positive COVID case.

Finally this week, I remind everyone of our COVID-safe reporting measures for Term 3. These stipulate that whilst household close contacts who have no symptoms may continue to attend school, they must adhere to the following requirements:

• The school is notified that they are intending to return as a close household contact
• They must wear a mask indoors except when eating or exercising
• Once positive cases have completed their 7-day isolation period, they should wear a mask for an additional 3 days (for days 8 to 10)

Please note that students who test positive for COVID-19, or who are unwell or showing COVID-19 symptoms, must continue to isolate at home.

All the best for the week ahead,