From the Principal
For International Women’s Day
This day is a celebration for women all around the world,
Ladies who’ve dared to dream big, ever since they were little girls.
For the diversity and talent that lie within a feminine heart,
For the courage and determination that prevents us falling apart.
We can raise families and build businesses and be proud of all we’ve achieved
Where once over, visions of that scale, could never have been believed.
Ladies, stand up and be counted, smile at how far we have come
And Cherish every single day, as daughter, wife, companions or mum.
Don’t let anybody tell you that there are set paths for you to follow
As a little girl with a passion, is an inspiring woman of tomorrow.
So celebrate all women, and acknowledge the great things they do
And tell a lady close to your heart, just how much she means to you.
Loving God,
We celebrate your faithfulness and love. On this day we commit ourselves to the promotion of the full humanity of all women everywhere. We know that whatever denies, diminishes or distorts the full humanity of women is not of God. Help us to be faithful to your call of love. Amen.
Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for us.
International Women’s Day
At our assembly last week I spoke about the importance of coming together to honour International Women’s Day. A day that holds deep meaning for each and every one of us. It is a day to reflect on the progress we’ve made, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the work that still lies ahead in the journey toward gender equality.
As we gather within the walls of our all-girls’ school, we are reminded of the incredible power and potential that resides within each of us. Here, in this nurturing environment, we have the unique opportunity to shape the future—not only for ourselves but for generations to come.
The powerful theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, “Inspire Inclusion,” resonates deeply within our school community. It reminds us that inclusion is not just about numbers or representation; it is about creating a culture of belonging where every voice is valued and every perspective is heard.
In our school, when we inspire one another to understand and cherish inclusion, we are laying the foundation for a more equitable society. We recognize that true progress is achieved when we work together to break down barriers and challenge the status quo.
As we celebrate this day, let us reflect on the incredible achievements of women who have paved the way for us. From trailblazing scientists and activists to groundbreaking artists, sportswomen, mathematicians, doctors, politicians and leaders, their contributions have shaped the world we live in today.
Nano Nagle, a woman of immense courage and compassion, serves as a guiding light for our College community. Let us draw inspiration from Nano’s legacy and commit ourselves to fostering inclusivity and empowerment for all.
But our celebration today is not just about looking back; it is also about looking forward with hope and determination. It is about recognizing the potential within each and every one of us to make a difference, to stand up for what is right, and to inspire positive change.
Here, at Domremy, we have the power to be agents of change. We can challenge stereotypes, break down barriers, and create a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Let us embrace this opportunity with open hearts and open minds.
On this International Women’s Day, let us remember that inclusion knows no bounds. It belongs to everyone, everywhere. It is our shared responsibility to raise awareness, take action, and drive positive change within our school and beyond. I believe our school theme for 2024, “In the Fireworks, Find your Flair!”, lends itself to the theme of inclusion as it encourages each young woman to embrace her uniqueness and self-expression. This theme celebrates diversity and individuality within our community, likening each person to a firework, with her own distinct qualities to offer.
As we imagine a world where the inclusion of women is not just a dream but a reality, let us remember the impact of our collective efforts. Together, let us inspire inclusion, empower one another, and shape a brighter future for all. Many thanks to our Senior Leaders, in particular Aoife, for organising our wonderful guest speaker, Ms Hannah Darlington.
Thank you, and Happy International Women’s Day! Let us lead the way as champions of equality within our beloved Domremy.
Open Day, College Tours and Try Domremy for a Day
Our enrolment season is well underway and on the back of the amazing response to our feeder Primary School visits and our Open Day, we are very busy with the enrolment process.
Open Day: I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every member of our community for the spectacular day we experienced last Sunday at our Open Day. Our College was alive with activity, radiating a vibrant and welcoming energy. Our students exemplified the spirit of Domremy with pride, and our staff demonstrated excellence in showcasing their talents. I believe we had upwards of 2000 people come through.
I want to express my gratitude for all that each of you contributes to our remarkable Domremy community.
I would like to personally thank our parent representative, Mrs Hahnel, for speaking so beautifully and from the heart about her, her daughter’s and her family’s experience with Domremy. Thank you also to our student leaders, Mireille and Sophia, who presented at the Open Day addresses, and to Penelope in Year 8 who spoke with courage and confidence about her experience at Domremy.
Thank you also to the parents who volunteered to assist with the BBQ on Sunday. They were busy the entire day, and notwithstanding the heat, continued to cook and serve our many visitors and they were an asset on the day!
We will be conducting College Tours throughout the year, together with our Try Domremy for a Day program for primary students in Year 4, 5 and 6. All these are accessible on our website and advertised through the Parent Weekly and our social media. Dates and more information can be found in the links above mentioned. Please invite family and friends to register for both if they did not get a chance to attend our Open Day and if they have a daughter in Years 4, 5 or 6 and would like to attend Try Domremy for a Day. We have had a phenomenal response to date to the Year 5 day on Friday 5 April with more than 80 registrations – registration is a prerequisite.
Building on Year 7s confidence through Learn to Learn
As our Year 7 students begin their first year in secondary school, it is the perfect time to begin to establish good study habits and organisational skills. It is equally important for us as educators to assist them to build upon their confidence in learning. Later in this issue you will read what our students have been working on in our Learn to Learn program. It isn’t enough that students simply understand what they need to do in their study, the challenge in any study skills program is getting students to use and apply the skills they learn with confidence. Our Year 7 students have given very positive feedback on the program and made some interesting observations on the value of the program..
On a final note…
Before I conclude, I want to publicly thank and acknowledge all the Year 8 & 12 students who came along on our primary school visits over the last few weeks to promote our Open Day. They were all brilliant! As you all know, this Sunday is a huge day and you will shine brightly as always and I thank you in advance for all that you do on this day!
As we advised, please remember that tomorrow, Friday 15 March, is a day in lieu for Open Day for our community and as such the College will be closed – no staff or students will be in attendance.
Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.
Blessings on you and your families.
Mrs Antoinette McGahan