Principal's Report
Last Wednesday, we celebrated the commencement of Lent with our Ash Wednesday Liturgy and Project Compassion Launch. The theme for this year is “For all future generations” and calls for a renewed commitment towards environmental stewardship and the ongoing care, concern and support for the less fortunate and marginalised within our community and beyond. I had the pleasure of accompanying Mr Collins and two of our Year 10 leaders, Adelaide Bell and Aaron Secheny, to the launch of Project Compassion in Wollongong last week. At the launch, Bishop Brian Mascord challenged those present to consider the role that they can play, big or small, in securing a brighter future for each generation beyond our own. He also delivered a powerful testimony recounting a recent visit to Fiji with his fellow Bishops from around Oceania, where they visited what was once a cemetery, yet is now located some 30m out from the shore and into the ocean as a result of rising sea waters.
God of all generations,
We thank you for those who have gone before us,
especially those who have cared for your earth
and who inspire us to help respect your creation and contribute to its healing.
We thank you for those with whom we share our lives today,
especially those who work for justice and peace.
May we welcome the opportunity that Lent brings to walk more closely with you,
especially through fasting, almsgiving and prayer.
We thank you for the challenge of the future.
May the cross of Jesus remind us that only love finds a way forward.
As we work with big hearts, may we join with Mary Magdalene in her hope and witness
that from now on all generations will experience the great things you will do through us.
We ask this in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
As you would be aware, earlier this week we hosted our Open Afternoon for Year 7 2024. As a College we were thrilled to host over a thousand guests who had registered to visit the College and take a tour of our great facilities. I am particularly grateful and would like to thank the 200 students who remained at school beyond their regular finishing time to either run faculty displays or lead tours throughout the evening. At Magdalene, we are conscious that our students are our greatest advocates and there was no better example of this than on Monday night.
I also remind parents and friends of the College that enrolment applications are now being welcomed via the College office. When you submit your application, you will receive a booking slip which will allow you to make an appointment for your enrolment interview. Booking opportunities are offered on a first come, first served basis so I would encourage you to return your forms as early as possible to secure your preferred timeslot. All enrolment applications are due back by 3pm on Friday 31st March.
Last week, we hosted the first P&F Meeting for the year, as well as the AGM for 2023. We had significantly more attendees than what has been typical over the recent Covid-impacted years which was pleasing to see given the return to face-to-face meetings. I particularly thank, congratulate and acknowledge the P&F Executive that were elected on the night:
President: David Cornett
Vice-President: Erika Astudillo
Secretary: Carly Cosmo
Treasurer: Craig Harley
The P&F have been instrumental in supporting countless initiatives over the years, including the provision of air conditioning in a number of rooms across the College, the purchase of a College minibus, sponsorship of a number of sporting and representatives teams and individuals, as well as hands-on support for a number of College events, such as Monday’s sausage sizzle at the Open Afternoon. Our next P&F Meeting will be held on Tuesday 16th May and all are welcome.
Over the last few weeks, the College has been considering ways that we can celebrate our 25th Anniversary Year. In order to select the most appropriate event to mark this occasions, I would invite any interested parents or carers to complete the simple Survey Form, offering a preference of one of two events:
- Magdalene 25th Anniversary Dinner, Friday 5th May (6pm-10pm) - $80pp. A sit down, three course meal in the Alan McManus Hall.
- Magdalene 25th Anniversary Twilight Showcase, Friday evening in Term 3 or 4 (6-8:30) - $15-$20. A showcase evening with finger food/canapé options and student major works and performances on display.
Please follow the link below to complete the survey.
David Cloran
Principal