Dear parents, carers and students, 

In last week’s Gospel reading, we heard of Jesus giving his disciples a new commandment, “to love one another as I have loved you”. He explains that this demonstration of love is one crucial way that others would recognise that they are followers of his. The same can be said for us in this day and age. It is in the way that we care for, and support each other, particularly those who are most marginalised, that we may also be recognised as followers of His. 

Earlier this week we saw the inauguration Mass for Pope Leo XIV take place in St Peter’s Square in Vatican City. Given the age of Pope Leo, it could indeed be an event that we do not see again for another 20 years. Having been influenced by the papacy of Pope Francis over the last 12 years, especially in the areas of social justice and environmental stewardship, as a school community, we eagerly await the impact that the new Pontiff has on us and the work that we do. 

At our College assembly last week, I took the opportunity to update students on a couple of focus areas that we have been addressing this year. Specifically, I spoke about our efforts to further improve attendance and punctuality. In highlighting the importance of regular school attendance, I was very pleased to discuss the 30% reduction in absences that we have seen this year. Additionally, compared to this time last year, there has been a 50% reduction in late arrivals. I mentioned that this equates to fewer interruptions when students enter classrooms and a greater focus on the learning taking place. I thank all members of our community who have contributed to this improvement and look forward to even greater improvements moving forward. 

Earlier this week, we held our Term 2 Parents and Friends Meeting here at the College. Attendees had the opportunity to hear about a number of initiatives and opportunities  that are taking place this year at the College, including our involvement in the International Space Station Design Competition in Florida and our participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award program. I thank those who attended and once again invite parents and friends of the College to our Term 3 meeting on Tuesday 12th August. 

As I mentioned in our last newsletter, we are once again participating in the Learning Bar survey this year. This survey is designed to offer the College feedback on areas of strength and identify areas for improvement. This survey can be accessed here and will remain open until this coming Friday 30th May. Thank you to all parents who have taken the time to complete this already. 

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead. 

David Cloran

Principal