Assistant Principal – Karen Shawcross

Dear Students, Parents and Carers,

Welcome to another year of learning at OLM. I hope that every member of our community enjoyed a restful Christmas break and has returned refreshed for the year ahead. The term has commenced with a busy schedule for all, and it has been a pleasure to see our students returning to their studies with such positive energy.

Year 7 Camp: Building Connections

Our Year 7 students have already experienced their first major milestone of the year: the Year 7 Camp. While stepping into a new environment and meeting new people can be a challenge, the girls found that embracing new experiences can be incredibly rewarding. I would like to thank the Year 7 cohort for their high level of engagement and for making the two-day experience so enjoyable. My sincere thanks also go to the teachers who dedicated time away from their own families to ensure the girls had such a supportive and rewarding introduction to the College.

College Assembly

At our opening College Assembly, we spoke to the students about the importance of our shared identity and the standards that define our community. Our uniform is a visible representation of these values, and I ask for your support in ensuring it is worn with pride and respect. Please ensure your daughter adheres to the guidelines outlined in the College Diary, specifically regarding skirt length, make up and jewellery. Starting the year with these details right sets a tone of excellence for every other endeavor.

Diary

At the assembly I also spoke about the College Diary as an essential tool for the learning journey. We encourage all students to use their diaries to build structure and organization into their daily routines. By recording deadlines, extracurricular commitments, and study routines, students develop the self-management skills necessary for academic success. I suggest that parents take a few moments each week to review the diary with their daughter and sign in the allocated space; this simple habit helps reduce the stress of “hidden” deadlines and fosters a proactive approach to learning.

School Photos 

Please note that school photos will be taken on Friday, 13 February. It is essential that all students are in full compliance with the College Dress Code to have their photo taken. This includes correct skirt length, jewellery, and grooming. Thank you for your assistance in ensuring the girls are prepared to look their best for these important keepsakes.

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Opportunities

Throughout the term and the year, there will be many opportunities for students to experience learning outside of the classroom. Whether through sport, the arts, or social justice, I encourage every girl to “have a go” and experience everything OLM has to offer. Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones, and these varied avenues of schooling provide invaluable life lessons. 

A wonderful opportunity is available to our Year 9 and 10 students as we have secured ten additional places for our Red Earth Immersion this year.   This immersion provides a unique chance for students to engage with remote Indigenous communities, deepen their understanding of culture and Country, and contribute meaningfully through service and connection.

Program Details Website: https://www.redearth.edu.au/

Dates: Thursday 4 June – Wednesday 10 June 2026

Cost: $3,150 + flights

Estimated flight cost: $500–$800

The itinerary is attached in this link for your reference.

If you would like your daughter to be considered for one of the remaining places, please email Karen Shawcross at the College on karen.shawcross@syd.catholic.edu.au to express your interest.

I look forward to a productive and successful term for all our students.

Karen Shawcross, Assistant Principal