On Wednesday night I had the pleasure in presenting at the Churches Together Dinner about the religious life of our College, which we call LYF – Living Your Faith.  In preparing for the night I spent a lot of time in reflection about how our Catholic identity is lived out at the College and the considering the ‘why’ of many things we do at the College.  One part of my presentation was to ask the many people gathered if they have a connection to our College’s story.  It was a joy to hear the buzz in the room, as they shared stories with each other about their involvement as students, parents, staff, grandparents, volunteers, ministers and community members of our College.  We have such a rich history and connection in town and it was celebrated by their discussions. 

National Volunteer Week is currently being celebrated and I would like to thank all who currently volunteer in our College.  Your assistance in our tuckshop, classrooms, on excursions, coaching, umpiring and supporting our students and teachers is greatly appreciated.  Your contributions lighten the load for our staff and your children love having you at the College.

Walk for Edmund – Rice Day 2024

Thanks to Rice House for raising $334.60 for the Edmund Rice Foundation.

Ecumenical Service

On Friday 31 May, we will celebrate an Ecumenical Prayer Service as a whole College community.  We acknowledge the rich diversity of faiths in our College families and gather to celebrate this.  All families are encouraged to join us at 9:00am in the MPC for this prayer celebration.  We praise the love of God in our lives no matter our faith background and we value the contribution of all religions to enrich our Catholic College.

Report Cards

Reporting to parents is one of the most important things we do as teachers.  This semester we are beginning a trial which will involve progressive changes to our ‘reporting’ processes.  A detailed letter was sent home last week outlining several changes to our report cards and reporting process. This letter is also available on Parent Portal. A big change for everyone will be the opportunity for Learning Discussions in Week 10 with your child’s teacher/s.  These 10 minute discussions will be for parents and teachers (students optional) to discuss progress so far this year and opportunities for growth.  These are not compulsory for parents and if you have been communicating with your teacher about your child’s progress you may not feel it is necessary to attend these. We can allocate particular times for these formal Learning Discussions.  For our teachers in Year 7-12, that teach multiple classes and students, we ask that you consider which teacher/s you wish to have discussion with and prioritise booking with these. Bookings for these discussions will be via Parent Portal and will remain open until after you receive your digital copy of the report card.  Please be mindful that parents are always are encouraged to reach out to teacher/s to discuss your child’s progress throughout the year. 

As mentioned previously this year report cards will only be issued digitally via the Parent Portal App, paper copies will not be printed and distributed by the College.  If you need support with Sentral for Parents App – Parent Portal please contact the office.

This trial is a time of change and readjustment for our staff and parents, and we thank our amazing community for their flexibility and willingness to embrace change and work towards a better way of reporting for all.  It is our aim in 2024 to continue gathering feedback about our report cards and make improvements to ensure they are meeting the needs of the parents they are written for.  So, if at any time you have thoughts and ideas with regards to Student-led conferences or Report Cards, please email these to me or your appropriate Sector Assistant Principal.

Cate Brennan

Deputy Principal Religious Education