As many of you would be aware, the eyes of the Catholic world turned to St Peter’s Square in Vatican City on Sunday, to mark the canonisation of St Carlo Acutis, who became the first millennial saint. At the time of his passing in 2006, he was just 15 years old, yet had left a remarkable legacy that led to early calls for his sainthood. After teaching himself computer programming, he famously created a website cataloging Eucharistic miracles around the world, a project that has since been translated into multiple languages and used by parishes globally. His sainthood sends a powerful message that holiness is not only achievable in the digital age but can also be expressed through it. In marking this significant event, it was with great joy that the Catholic Education Office in Wollongong announced the establishment of a new K-12 school that will be opening in the coming years, St Carlo Acutis Catholic College in Leppington. 

St Carlo Acutis, Pray for us. 

Earlier this week, the College was delighted to host our annual Father’s Day Breakfast. Attended by over 200 fathers and father figures, the gathering also gave us as a College the opportunity to thank our parent community for their ongoing support. I take the opportunity to thank all those who attended and for the staff who led the arrangements for such a large event. 

On Thursday of last week, I had the great pleasure of attending the annual Bishop’s Student Excellence Awards in Wollongong which was hosted by Bishop Brian Mascord and Mr Peter Hill, Director of Schools. This annual event celebrates one student from every secondary school in the diocese based on a range of criteria including their commitment to learning, their contribution to the faith lives of their schools, and the way in which they express their values through the relationships that they foster within and beyond the school community. I take the opportunity to congratulate Adelaide Bell of Year 12 who was this year’s recipient from Magdalene. Adelaide has made exceptional contributions to all aspects of College life, particularly with regards to major College events and her leadership of a range of social justice initiatives throughout her time at the College. Congratulations Adelaide. 

By the time the next College newsletter is circulated, our Year 12 students will have officially graduated from Magdalene, with just their final HSC exams to follow in October. I ask all members of our community to keep these students in your prayers as they take their final classes in the days ahead. I would also like to pass on my thanks and gratitude to our College Captains Sophie McMonigal and Oliver Bromley, and Vice Captains Bella Stevens and Cody Wooden for their outstanding leadership this year and look forward to recognising their efforts further during Graduation Week celebrations. 

A reminder that the last day of Term 3, Friday 26th September, is a Pupil Free Day here at Magdalene. I thank the members of our parent community who will be making alternative supervision arrangements on this day so that staff can remain available to continue their preparations for the 2026 school year. 

Wishing you all the best for the week ahead, 

David Cloran

Principal