This Sunday is the fourth Sunday of Lent in the church calendar. Lent is a period of preparation for the commemoration of the events that occur in Holy Week and the Passion of Christ. Similar to Advent which occurs just before Christmas, Lent is an opportunity for each of us to reflect on our lives and to prepare for something more. In Advent, it is preparation for Christmas, but in Lent it is preparation for Easter. The Solemnity of Good Friday is a precursor to the celebration of the Risen Christ that is celebrated on Easter Sunday. Lent gives us an opportunity to take time to consider how we might improve but also how we might recognise the sacrifice that God gave us and how that is a reflection of a loving God. 

In some very uplifting news, we have been informed that one of our ex-students, Grace Roodenrys (2018 HSC) has just been awarded the Clarendon Fund Scholarship at Oxford University enabling her to complete a Masters in English. We are very proud of Grace and congratulate her on this outstanding achievement. Grace was placed first in the state in Advanced English in the HSC and worked closely with Mrs Murphy in Extension 2. A fantastic effort for Grace and a credit to the staff who assisted her in building foundations.

Last Wednesday we held our Year 7, 2025 Enrolment Information Evening. This evening had over 700 people in attendance and enabled prospective students to view the College. There were many positive comments from our guests, particularly around the way that our student guides interacted and were such a positive influence. Many of the visiting students were enthralled by the demonstrations and were excited to pass by our almost completed STEM building. At the presentation in the hall, visitors were able to hear about the College and the enrolment process was explained. From this year, enrolments will be completed online and can be accessed through the College website. Applicants are encouraged to ensure all documentation is included with the application prior to it being lodged. The due date for applications is 2pm on April 12 (the last day of term 1).

Today we farewell Ms Sue Turnbull as she leaves us to take up a position closer to home. I thank Ms Turnbull for her efforts at Mount Carmel and for stepping up in a number of middle leader positions whilst at the College. Mr David Elias will commence on Monday as a full-time member of the PDHPE department. I welcome Mr Elias into our community.