Welcome back to the start of Semester 2 and I trust that all students, families and staff had the opportunity to rest and recuperate after a busy first semester. This week has allowed our College to celebrate through liturgy our connections to our Carmelite founders. It provided an opportunity for our community to recognise the contribution of a number of staff for their service to Mount Carmel Catholic College. As we did at the Mass and Awards ceremony earlier today, I would like to thank each of those staff members for their contribution to the College throughout their association, both in terms of supporting learning and also the role modelling that they provide for students and staff with respect to their care and concern for all members of the College.

As we get back into the routine of our third term of learning, the past week has seen a number of activities take place that enhance the learning and wellbeing of our students. Tuesday saw session 1 of the “Youth Aware of Mental Health” (YAM) program for Year 9, conducted by staff from the Catholic Education Office of Wollongong. Thanks to our presenters, to Mr Sullivan for organising the event and for the participation, engagement and cooperation of our student body.

As is often the case at the commencement of each term, there are some matters that students and carers need to be raised with respect to learning and wellbeing. The College has received some concerns about the manner that students are crossing the road in the afternoon when school finishes. Could all students and carers be reminded that there is no designated Pedestrian Crossing on Spitfire Drive or on St Andrews Road and that students need to be vigilant when crossing each of these access routes and take the appropriate care when departing the College in the afternoon.  

Also, with respect to Bus travel, could students please remember to use their Opal cards when travelling to and from school each day. We received a reminder from our provider earlier this week, which outlined the following key messages:

• Students must carry their Opal card at all times when using public transport.
• Opal cards should be tapped on and off for every journey.
• Tap-on data helps assess demand and plan reliable school bus services.

Prior to our next Newsletter, there will be a number of significant events that will take place to support a range of learning and wellbeing initiatives. These include:

• Year 9 YAM will continue during weeks 2 and 3
• HSC Trial exams will commence on Monday 4 August
• Year 11 2026 Course selection Interviews will be held on Wednesday 6 August
• Year 11 Studies of Religion excursion on Wednesday 6 August
• Year 9 YourChoicez Respectful Relationships presentations on Wednesday 6 August
• Year 10 PDHPE BeStreetSmart Road Safety excursion on Thursday 7 August
• Year 11 Leadership Day on Friday 8 August

Thank you to all staff involved for their contribution to the planning  and supervision of each of these activities.

As always, thank you for your support and cooperation with your child’s learning and wellbeing and in particular, the smooth return to school over the past week.

Mr Simon Huntly