Principal's Update - 28th August

Welcome

Over the past week, we had the privilege of joining Catholic educators from all over Australia at the ACEC Conference in Cairns. To be gathered as a national community of faith and education was truly inspiring — especially as we celebrated 150 years  under the jubilee theme of hope. This was no ordinary hope: not wishful or passing, but one anchored in faith, strong in conviction and purpose, a hope that looks forward with confidence to the future we are shaping together. The opportunity to celebrate mass with over 1400 educators and 1000 students was a truly special moment and brought home the uniqueness of Catholic education in Australia.

The spirit of synodality flowed strongly through the conversations and liturgies of the conference — walking together, listening deeply, discerning wisely. It was a reminder that Catholic education is not a solitary task but a shared mission, enriched when we bring our voices together and remain open to the Spirit’s guidance.

We were challenged and inspired by leading educators and researchers. Dylan Wiliam reminded us that “teaching is only effective if it leads to learning.” His keynote sharpened our focus on the core work of every classroom — ensuring that learning is visible, meaningful, and connected for every student. His insights encouraged us to continually reflect on practice, always asking how our teaching helps students move forward in their understanding.

Simon Breakspear pushed us to wrestle with the growing influence of artificial intelligence in education. Drawing on Yuval Harari’s work, he highlighted the real risks if we get this wrong — particularly the danger of cognitive offloading, where we hand too much of our thinking and problem-solving over to machines. His message was clear: while AI has potential, our task is to ensure it enhances rather than diminishes human learning and wisdom. Used poorly, it risks hollowing out the very capacities — critical thinking, discernment, creativity — that education seeks to nurture.

Steve Constantino’s work on family engagement reinforced that strong partnerships are essential. His Five Simple Principles highlight that engagement must be cultural, communicative, empowering, and participatory — always reaching beyond the school gates to embrace the wider community. The Grattan Institute’s research further challenged us to equip students with rich schemas so they can tackle complex problems, collaborate deeply, and learn how to discern high-quality knowledge in an age of information overload.

Being in Cairns with such a passionate group of Catholic educators was a moving experience. Together, we were reminded that Catholic education is alive with faith, hope, and purpose. As we return to our own communities, we carry with us a renewed sense of commitment: to nurture hope that is anchored in faith, to strengthen family and community partnerships, and to ensure our teaching and learning continually lead our students toward fullness of life

Student Led Conferences

We extend our sincere thanks to all families who braved the cold to attend our recent student-led conferences. It was wonderful to see students sharing both their successes and the challenges they have worked through. Providing students with the opportunity to explain their learning journey, reflect on their progress, and celebrate achievements is an important part of developing ownership and confidence in their learning.

We also acknowledge the significant effort of our teachers in preparing students for these conferences. Their guidance and support ensure that students are well equipped to reflect meaningfully and share their learning with pride.

Experiencing success through challenge is one of the most powerful motivators for perseverance, and it was inspiring to witness this throughout the evening.

Arts Festival

With the Arts Festival fast approaching, the specialist teachers and parent committee are busy preparing all elements of this event.

We are asking for parent helpers to volunteer in our kitchens to sell home made food items. If you are available to help, please list all times you're available. You will receive a text message with the time slot you are allocated closer to the day.

Food items will also need to be made and bought in by volunteers. Please allocate below what items you would be able to provide. - Options are still available.

Raffle tickets are also available to purchase via the link below. 

Fathers Day Celebrations

We are excited to celebrate Father’s Day with our school community on Friday, 5th September. 

Event Details

• Time: 8:55 am - 11:00 am - Invitations will come home with your child soon with all the details!
• Who: Dads, grandads, and/or special father figures are warmly invited.
  
• RSVP: Please register HERE if you or a family member will be attending. For catering purposes

Dress as Dad!
Students are invited to come dressed as their dad or significant role model for the day on Friday, 5th September. This might include:

• Wearing a work uniform or something that represents their job (e.g. hi-vis vest, tie, sports top).
  
• Dressing in casual clothes similar to what Dad wears at home.
  
• Bringing a prop (cap, favourite footy scarf, tool belt, etc.).
  

This is a fun way to honour the dads and special father figures in our community and celebrate what makes them unique.

Father’s Day Stall

Our Father’s Day Stall will be held on Tuesday 2nd September. Students will have the chance to purchase a gift for their father or father figure in their lives. Gifts are all $5 each. Online payments via Quickcliq or cash on the day will be accepted.

Photos 

We kindly request you to send us a recent digital photograph of you/father figure with your child(ren). 

These photos will be featured during the liturgy to honour and recognise the cherished relationships within our school community.

Please upload your photo here. Cut off date is Sunday 31st August.

Community

Important Dates - Term 3

Important Dates - Term 4