The Gospel this Sunday speaks of the encounter of Jesus with the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4: 5-42). Jesus has a discussion with her about water but, specifically the ‘living water’ that He offers through His message of peace and love. Water is life-giving (and this theme is introduced in the first reading). The gathering at the well includes a woman who is a Samaritan and who is on her own. Each of these three things was notable in the timeframe of Jesus. They represent groups of people that were considered less important within society and who were often avoided or treated as outcasts. By Jesus sitting with her, speaking with her and offering her the ‘life-giving water’, He is challenging the accepted values and social norms of the times. In our preparation for Easter, we are challenged to consider how we care for the dignity of those around us and how we support our neighbours.

Last Wednesday evening, our Year 7, 2024 information session was held in the College Hall. Parents and prospective students began to arrive from around 5:45 and were treated to complimentary drinks by our Hospitality students and staff. They were then invited to tour the College guided by our Year 10 students and visit subject displays hosted by our teachers. The evening gave prospective students and parents an understanding of what Mount Carmel is and what we stand for. The evening was attended by around 700 people who gathered in the hall to hear from our College Leadership Team. Thank you to the many staff and students who were involved in the setup and presentations on the evening. Particular congratulations to the Visual Arts, Drama and Music students who performed or worked on their major projects as our visitors walked around.

Enrolment packages were distributed on the night and can still be collected from the College office. These are due to be returned to the College by 2pm April 6 (the last day of Term 1).

Next week our Year 7 and 9 students will undertake their NAPLAN testing. This is earlier than in the past to ensure that schools receive results earlier in the year so that they can more easily be used to improve student learning. Since these tests are a snapshot of a student’s numeracy and literacy skills, the College does not give any specific focus or special attention to NAPLAN teaching but is interested in the broad skills that students currently have. Please speak with your child if they are in years 7 or 9 and encourage them to give their best but not to become overly anxious about the tests.

Ite in Veritate

Mr Steve Lo Cascio