Welcome Back to Term 3
I hope all in our community enjoyed a restful break and are ready to embrace the rhythm of school life once again. As we gathered for our staff briefing on Monday, we reflected on the unique opportunities that each new term brings—a chance to start afresh, a time of expectation and the possibility to reset and renew our commitment to purpose.
This year, as we explore the theme of Hope: promise, purpose, and possibility, the start of a new term is indeed a time filled with hope. Many of our students have embarked on new semester-based subjects, and our Year 12 students are beginning to look towards the culmination of their secondary education. There’s a palpable sense of renewed energy as we return to our work. We welcome to our teaching staff Ms Fiona Lyons and Ms Lucille Peran.
Reflections on Rest and Mission
This week, I listened to a podcast reflecting on the upcoming Sunday gospel. The speaker highlighted the importance of rest—not merely for its own sake but as a time to nourish our spirits, find space to continue our mission, and work towards proclaiming the gospel, serving others and striving for justice and peace. She stated how the rhythm of mission and rest is akin to the simple act of breathing in and out—both are essential. As we start this new term, we are renewed not only in our educational efforts but also in our commitment to our mission through the educational endeavours we undertake here at the College. May this period of rest bring greater wisdom, renewed energy, and an increased capacity for compassion, creativity, and imagination as we work through mission towards a hope-filled future. https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/australian-women-preach/id1568531858?i=1000662162929
Timor-Leste Travellers Return
We joyfully welcomed back our travelers from Timor-Leste, who returned early in our school holidays. Conversations with the students reveal that it was a life-changing experience, offering them a new perspective on the world. We eagerly anticipate learning more about their experiences and how they witnessed hope coming alive within the community, especially in Viqueque, where our College and the broader Geelong region generously support educational initiatives.
The Addams Family Production
I trust you have secured your tickets for ‘The Addams Family’ production, starting next Thursday evening at the Geelong Arts Centre. With final rehearsals in full swing, the orchestra and cast are adding the finishing touches to props and costumes. The excitement is building, and I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing the joy and promise of what is sure to be a fabulous show. This production offers our young people a platform to showcase their talents, which they will courageously and generously share with us on stage. It’s a monumental effort to coordinate a production across four Colleges, and I want to commend the staff involved for their dedication. I wish our team and cast the very best for the upcoming shows and hope our community will show strong support for this year’s event. Tickets are available at The Addams Family – Geelong Arts Centre
Engaging with Our Educators
A further highlight of our week has been the meaningful engagement with our teaching staff during their annual review meetings. These discussions provide a valuable opportunity for reflection on the Australian Institute of Teaching and School Leadership standards. Our teachers have demonstrated impressive depth in their reflections, a robust approach to discussing practices, and a clear vision for their professional development moving forward. It’s been a joy to witness the collaborative spirit among our staff, supporting one another in practice, and their deliberate efforts to enhance the learning experience for our diverse student body. I trust sharing this insight into school life with our community builds a sense of appreciation and confidence in the work of our teachers, as it underscores the professionalism that characterises our teachers’ approach to education.
Strategic Planning Survey: A Heartfelt Thank You
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the families who participated in our strategic planning survey. With over 100 responses earlier this week, our facilitators at Tatu have noted the encouraging turnout. The combined insights from staff, students, and families will provide a robust foundation for the next phase of our school improvement planning process. I look forward to keeping you updated on the forthcoming developments of this important process.
A Reminder for a Successful Start to Term 3
As we embark on Term 3, I urge families to revisit the operational letter distributed during the holidays. It contains important reminders about our expectations for a successful term start—wearing our uniform with pride, punctuality, and readiness to learn from day one, and adhering to safety practices in our science labs. Your attention to these details is greatly appreciated and contributes to the positive atmosphere we strive for at our College.
Blessings
Luci
