Dear parents, friends, staff and students,

This week we started Lent and the preparation toward Easter. The Gospel this Sunday (Luke 4: 1-13) recounts Jesus’ experience in the desert before He began His public ministry. During this time, the devil appears to Him three times in order to tempt Him. Jesus wandering through the desert for 40 days is reflected in our own journey toward Easter which also lasts 40 days. It is an opportunity for us to clear our mind and reflect on our own spiritual journey. We might do this by prayer, sacrifice and good works. The placing of ashes on our forehead on Ash Wednesday, is an acknowledgement of our values and lifestyle but also a powerful symbol to others that we are willing to be seen as Christian and standing with the teachings of Christ. Over the next 5 weeks, we have the time to consider how these values might be lived and expressed in our everyday interactions with others.

Last Wednesday we opened the College to visitors who may be considering submitting an enrolment application for Year 7, 2026. We estimate that we had in excess of 600 visitors and they were escorted around the College by students from Years 8 – 12. They then attended a formal presentation in the Champagnat Centre outlining our values and processes. Applications can be submitted online and are due by the last day of term 1 (April 11). Please spread the word for anyone who may be considering Mount Carmel for Year 7, 2026.

On Tuesday March 4, our Parents and Friends held their AGM and first meeting for 2025. At this meeting, the P&F Executive was elected and I have pleasure in announcing the team for 2025.

The P&F is a vital contributor to the College both financially and in policy direction. I thank the outgoing executive for their support and look forward to working with the team for 2025.

Tomorrow (Friday March 7) is our pupil free Staff Development Day. This day will focus on staff spirituality and specifically will be designed around the theme of pilgrimage. Our staff will be visiting St Mary’s Cathedral and Mary Mackillop Place and will be coming together as community whilst allowing people to journey in their own way. As always, I recognise the importance of the support we get from parents and students to have these days and I thank you for enabling us to take time together to develop those connections and skills that will improve us as teachers and support staff.