As we begin to settle into the 2024 school routine, I congratulate the students on the way they have engaged in the opportunities that have been offered both in and outside of the classroom. There has been great energy, life and vibrancy in many facets of College life, and students have exemplified what it means to be a Mount Carmel student.

This week we saw the launch of Project Compassion. Through Project Compassion we are given the opportunity to support those in need by contributing our loose change. Working together as a community we are able to raise funds that will support people who are experiencing significant difficulties in their lives. Project Compassion is also an opportunity to raise awareness about important issues, and a chance for our community to take part in a social justice action. Everyone who contributes is empowered and able to stand in solidarity, with the communities we serve and those who benefit from our actions. I encourage students to consider during this Lenten period how they may be able to give a little for someone to gain a lot. Our College goal is to raise $5000 for those in need.

On Wednesday we celebrated as a community the start of the Lenten period with Ash Wednesday. Thank you to Mrs Kristina Borg, Miss Jenny Nguyen, and all the students involved in the preparation, organisation and presentation of the Ash Wednesday Liturgy. It was wonderful to gather as a community and I congratulate the students for their reverence and participation in the liturgy.

On Thursday evening we welcomed our newest members to the College community, our Year 7 students, their parents and carers at the annual Year 7 Meet and Greet evening. This event allowed for an opportunity to connect face-to-face with our Mount Carmel families, allowing us to forge meaningful relationships —a crucial step towards fostering continuous positive communication and support throughout the entirety of 2024. There was amazing hospitality provided at the end of the evening to the families who attended. A big thank you to Mrs Trimarchi, Mr Daniels, and Mrs Cox for their work here. A great evening working towards fulfilling a sense of community and belonging. Thank you to all who attended this event. 

In the coming week the College will again see a number of significant events and activities that promote learning and growth, and build upon our sense of community. On Thursday at 9:15am, we will celebrate the College Commencement Mass. We warmly welcome parents and carers to join us as we celebrate the start of the 2024 school year and officially welcome our newest students, families and staff to the Mount Carmel Community. On Friday we will hold the annual College Swimming Carnival. This is a competitors only event and we look forward to some fantastic results in the pool. Friday morning period one we will host Year Assemblies continuing our Pastoral Care and Wellbeing program.

Traffic around the College & Bus Safety Week

19 to 25 February

To ensure the safety of our students on College grounds especially during the peak periods of morning arrival and afternoon departures, parents are asked to adhere to the following:

• Students are to be dropped off in the parent car park, which is immediately on the left after entering the College gates, or on Spitfire Drive.
• No parent is to drop off students in the bus turning circle between 7:30am and 8:40am.
• Cars are not to turn right out of the College driveway between 3:15 pm and 4:00pm. Turn left and use the round-a-bout.
• Remain aware, be vigilant, and drive slowly while on and around school grounds.

Key messages for families for Bus Safety Week –

• Families have an important part to play in keeping children safe around roads.
• Never drop off or meet your child on the opposite side of the road to the bus stop or call them across the road.
• Always drop them off or meet them on the same side of the road as the bus stop.
• Remind your children to always wait until the bus has gone before choosing a safe place to cross the road
• Talk to your children about Stop! Look! Listen! Think! every time they cross the road:
• Stop one step back from the kerb – Look continuously both ways
• Listen for the sounds of approaching traffic
• Think whether it is safe to cross and keep checking until safely across.

For more information visit: Transport NSW Be Bus Aware.

Thank you to all staff who were involved in the numerous events and activities that took place this week. Thank you to the parents and carers for your continued support of your children and the College.

Mrs Theresea Moore