Dear Mount Carmel Parents and Carers,

Welcome to the commencement of another exciting school year at Mount Carmel Catholic College. I would like to welcome our Year 7 families to our community and also welcome the families of the nine students who have joined us across years 8 -11. I do hope all Mount Carmel families had a very safe and enjoyable break.

At the first College Assembly of 2024, I asked our students to reflect on the essence of being a Mount Carmel student, embodying the spirit of our College Motto - Ite in Veritate, "walk in truth."

At Mount Carmel, we transcend individuality to form a united community founded on shared values, respect, and an unwavering commitment to inclusivity. As Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Coordinators, we stress the importance of embracing these values daily.

"Walk in truth" is not merely a phrase but a way of life, the Mount Carmel way. It involves living our shared beliefs, values, and actions, acknowledging our responsibilities within our Marist and Carmelite family. We encourage our students to foster an atmosphere where everyone feels respected, safe, and has the opportunity to excel.

Creating a safe and respectful environment extends beyond words. Adherence to College rules ensures the wellbeing and success of all, fostering an atmosphere conducive to learning, growth, and personal excellence. We offer each student opportunities for personal excellence, encompassing academic success and character development. We ask our parents and carers to support us in encouraging our students to strive to be the best versions of themselves, not just for personal benefit but for the betterment of the entire community.

Student choices contribute to the collective identity of Mount Carmel. We ask each student to uphold our values, be mindful of their impact, and commit daily to "walk in truth," fostering a community where every person is valued, respected, and feels safe pursuing educational opportunities.

Some general reminders given which you can reiterate to your children:

• The College Student Diary must, at all times, be with the student. Parents are encouraged to read the diary to support the organisational skills of their children.
• Students must be seated in Pastoral Care Class by 8:45am. Late arrival to school requires sign in via the front office.
• Students must adhere to uniform and grooming policies for a positive college identity and culture.
• Classrooms are for learning; there is no room for professional distractors.
• Mobile phones and airpods must be switched off from 8:45am - 3:15pm. Any communication with your child can be made via the College front office.

We look forward to working alongside you as your children, our students, navigate their wellbeing and learning over the course of 2024.

Best wishes for a safe and healthy year.

Miss Rebecca Toogood and Mrs Theresa Moore

Acting Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Coordinators