In weeks 3 & 4 of this term I had the privilege of traveling to the Religious Education Conference with Mrs Meharg and a number of other Principals and Religious Education Coordinators from Wollongong Diocesan schools. The conference gave us the opportunity to attend workshops by world renown speakers on mission and faith formation as well as youth ministry development. Outside of the conference, we were able to visit two Catholic schools and a number of cathedrals and local sites. There were a number of learnings from this conference that I will look to implement over the next 12 months but most of these are tweaks to what we already do rather than anything overly expansive.

One of the main takeaways I gained was in discussion between workshops with some members working with the Carmelites. In one of their publications, they expressed in a simple way, the three main pillars of their charism. These are prayer, community and service. As members of our own Mount Carmel community, these help to clarify our mission in conjunction with the Marist characteristics. Combined, these charisms translate for us into a calm and contemplative community designed to foster a love of God. Simply put, a Christ-centred community providing opportunities for excellence. I thank Mr Huntly and Mrs Moore for directing the College during my absence and for the staff who gave their support.

On Tuesday Feb 27, we held the Parents and Friends’ AGM. I thank the outgoing P&F Executive and have the great pleasure to announce the incoming P&F executive and look forward to a fruitful partnership for 2024;

Today was a staff development opportunity devoted to students’ learning and how our teachers might use approaches that help to get the best out of their classes. We were fortunate that our initial session was delivered by the famous educational psychologist Dr Andrew Fuller. Staff were then given time to consider their strengths in teaching and what they might work on improving. Thank you to the staff for their enthusiasm but particularly to Ms Miller and the College Leadership Team for their organisation and direction.

Next Wednesday (March 6), we will be holding our Year 7, 2025 Enrolment Information Evening. This evening will be an opportunity for anyone interested in enrolling into Year 7 next year to come in and see the College and hear some short presentations. Please spread the word to anyone who you know might be looking for enrolment so that they might attend. From this year, enrolments will be completed online and can be accessed through the College website. I would encourage anyone interested to register through the website and come in on the evening. The evening will commence with tours of the College from 6:15 and a short formal presentation from 7 in the Champagnat Centre. All are welcome.