From the Principal
Congratulations and Best Wishes to our 2023 Graduating Class !
This week we have celebrated and acknowledged our Year 12 students as the Graduating Class of 2023. Back in 2018, they began in earnest as young Year 7 girls and now they are graduating as young Marist women equipped with their Marist Compass to take them on the next stage of their life journey.
We acknowledge that their middle couple of years (COVID impacted) were certainly challenging ones for our girls. However in spite of this, they developed an admirable courage and resilience. Consequently, as they graduate this week, we are filled with much hope for what their future will bring. They have also nurtured a bank of gratitude and determination as well as the skills to ‘take life in both hands’ and be ‘Marist women of action’.
It is great to hear that so many of our Year 12 have already received early entry into their chosen area of study. Over the past couple of weeks, it has been enjoyable to watch them reflect on their time at MSCW, listen to their funny stories and reminisce over the special memories of school that will remain with them forever.
During the week, the girls were excited when gifts arrived from our feeder primary schools. These gifts were very special as the primary school students had taken time to write personalised cards to the Year 12 students. The thoughtfulness and prayers of the Primary schools for our Year 12 students are very much appreciated. The Marist sisters also sent a card of best wishes to each student to wish them well as they graduate from the College.
Wednesday commenced with our formal Graduation and Awards Assembly acknowledging every student as they graduate from the College. The Assembly also included academic and special awards. Congratulations to the Year 12 students who received awards this year! A full list of award recipients can be viewed later in the newsletter, under the Leader of Learning’s article.
Thursday began with the Year 12 Concert. This showcased the creativity and fun-side nature of our Year 12’s. Formal House/Tutor Farewells followed, allowing the Tutor and House to thank their Year 12 students, for their support and care, particularly as their ‘big sisters’. It is these ‘sisterly relationships’ that are a special feature of the family atmosphere here at MSCW. These farewells included our traditional Carnation Ceremony and Guard of Honour. Each of these events have allowed us to acknowledge and celebrate the many achievements of our 2023 Year 12 students and give thanks for their time at Marist Sisters’.
As Year 12 conclude their time at MSCW, I would like to thank those who have encouraged and cared for the girls over the past six years: their parents and families, the Marist sisters, Fr Brian, Fr Aliki, Fr Greg Morgan, and other priests from our feeder parishes, the College Leadership Team, House Coordinators, Subject Coordinators, Tutor teachers, subject teachers and support staff.
Many thanks to the large team of staff who contributed to the organization of the many formal events to recognize and farewell Year 12. Special thanks to our Year 11 Parent Engagement Group who hosted the Year 12 Graduation Supper on Wednesday evening. It is this type of enthusiastic support that allows our parents to come together socially while also giving back to the College.
I wish Year 12 calm minds and peaceful hearts over the coming weeks as they continue to prepare for their HSC. Many have registered for the HSC workshops in the holidays. These will continue to provide a structured focus in preparation for their HSC. I remind our Year 12 students to also look after their wellbeing with plenty of sleep, good nutritious meals and regular exercise as part of their study program.
Cape York Indigenous Immersion
Safe travels to our staff and students who will be travelling to Cape York in the holidays to support an Indigenous Community. This type of event allows those involved to see firsthand ways of giving back to communities in need and leaves lasting memories. I especially thank Ms Stephanie Dito for her oversight and planning of the Immersion, and Mrs Rachael Colreavy and Ms Grace Spurr for supporting the students on this adventure.
Mary’s House Walk
Mary’s House provides services for women and children who have experienced domestic and family violence, enabling them to be safe, hopeful and empowered to rebuild their lives.
Support the Mary’s House Walk
Date: Sunday 29 October
Marist Service hours: claim 4 hours
Scan the QR code to register.
Long Service Leave
At the beginning of Term 4, I will be taking 5 weeks Long Service Leave. I am extremely grateful to Mrs Melinda Alvarez who will be Acting Principal and Mr Justin Hodges who will be Assistant Principal during that time.
As we begin this holiday period, I wish the entire College community a safe and well-earned break. I look forward to seeing you when I return in Term 4.
