From the Assistant Principal

Attendance

Attendance in class is one of the most critical aspects of learning. Deep learning is relational and relies on the interaction between the learner and the teacher, and the learner and other learners. Not being in class has a significant impact on how the learner is able to process new knowledge and skill acquired, and then to process in such a way as to be able to draw significant meaning and understanding. Being in class is not just a legal requirement but an essential element in the learning process.

Further to this, punctual attendance in Tutor Group each day is expected and valued at our College. This time is important for students and Tutors to connect with each other.

Parents and carers are asked to be active in the monitoring of their daughter’s attendance and punctuality at school and classes. If there are difficulties for your daughter in attending school regularly, please don’t hesitate to contact your daughter’s Tutor or House Coordinator.

Sydney Catholic Schools attendance policy can be found here

COMPASS Student Card

It is a College expectation that all students have their COMPASS student ID card with them everyday. The card is used in particular for students to tap in and out of the College for late arrival or early departure. I ask for the support of parents in ensuring that your daughter/s have this with them everyday.  If students have misplaced or lost their student ID card it is a requirement that the card is replaced. Please see below for how to order a new card online.

School Buses

It is imperative that students at the College are using their OPAL Cards when using buses to travel to and from school. Current statistics of bus usage by the students are not representative of the numbers of students relying on buses for transport to and from schools and there is a significant shortfall in the statistics.

The statistics that are gathered does have a significant impact on the number of buses services that are provided to the College and we need to be sure that students are using the OPAL Cards if we are to maintain the number of bus services allocated to the College at this stage; and to increase the number.

I ask all parents and carers to talk with their daughters about this important issue. Should you have any concerns related to the travel of your daughters on the buses, I welcome the feedback. Added to this, I ask that you, too, provide feedback to Transport NSW  raise your concerns with them.

Tapping on and tapping off is so important, even for school students with free travel! It helps Transport for NSW know how many students are using the service, and plan better bus services to meet demand. To apply for a school Opal card visit https://transportnsw.info/school-travel-apply.

Ms Melinda Alvarez, Assistant Principal

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8