Last week, I was privileged to participate in an Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools ‘Journey to the Heart’ pilgrimage to Penola. This pilgrimage was developed to allow principals like me in Josephite schools the opportunity to deepen their faith, and to know and connect more with Mary MacKillop, Fr Julian Tenison Woods and the Sisters of St. Joseph’s faith, charism and story. Mary was a woman of great faith, a woman who never faulted in her love and devotion to Jesus Christ despite the many obstacles that were presented to her throughout her life. As co-founder of the Sisters of St Joseph, Fr Julian Tenison Woods, along with Mary, had great faith and dedication to establishing an order of sisters committed to God and to serving others, in particular those less fortunate than ourselves. The pilgrimage was a wonderful faith and spiritual experience that has enriched me both personally and professionally.

As you will be aware through the media and correspondence that we have provided throughout the year, there is a real issue regarding vaping and young people. We have had to deal with several incidences of vaping here at the College and have provided students and staff with vital information in regard to the dangers of vaping. I would ask that you have a discussion with your child/children regarding this issue and support us if we need to address instances of vaping with your child/children. We will continue to work with you and our students to address this issue.

I am excited to announce that after a thorough tender process, we have appointed Y2 Architecture to work with us in developing an updated Building Masterplan. This is an exciting time for the College as we commence this journey. Over the coming months, staff from Y2 Architecture, along with an educational consultant, will work with students, staff, and parents to help us develop a masterplan to meet our needs for the next ten to fifteen years.

It has, as always, been a busy and productive term and I thank students and staff for all their hard work. On Monday 17 July, Semester One reports will be available to parents via the PAM portal. Please take the time to discuss the report with your child/children and assist them in developing meaningful academic goals for Semester Two. If you wish to discuss any elements of the report, please do not hesitate to contact the relevant staff.

I wish everyone a restful break over the holiday period and I look forward to a productive Term Three.

Kate Dishon - Principal