Message from the Principal – Christine Harding
A Lenten Prayer
Our Lenten Journey has begun. Lent is called a ‘gracious gift’ and a ‘sacred time’ because it is a helpful and quietly joyous season when we ask God to pour out his grace upon us and transform us more and more into the people God has called us to be. We use this time of prayer, penance and practical acts of charity to ask God to foster in us all the virtues and values that resonate with the gospel values of God’s Kingdom.
During Lent let us be guided by Jesus, listen to Him and be not afraid of loving Him, following Him and being a witness for Him. Remember the words of God “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am pleased; listen to him” (Matt 17:5).
Open Evening – Tuesday 3 March
Our recent Open Evening on Tuesday 3 March was a tremendous success, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the many new OLM families who joined us. I extend my congratulations to our student tour guides, who spoke with respect, confidence, and genuine pride about our school. Their contribution played a significant role in making the evening memorable for our visitors.
Our dedicated teachers were also on hand to demonstrate their commitment to delivering a high quality education. Families expressed their appreciation for both the expertise of our staff and the excellent facilities that support a broad range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. I am especially proud of the students who volunteered to assist throughout the evening. Their willingness to share their experiences highlighted the vibrant and supportive community that defines us at OLM.
International Women’s Day – Sunday 8 March
International Women’s Day is recognised around the world as a time to honour the achievements and contributions of women across all areas of life. Originating from early 20th century labour movements in North America and Europe, it has grown into a global call to acknowledge women’s leadership, advocate for equity, and celebrate progress toward gender equality.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, Give to Gain, encourages a spirit of generosity, collaboration, and shared responsibility. It reminds us of the importance of coming together as a community to recognise the remarkable accomplishments of women locally and globally, and to continue working toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
Sydney Catholic Schools Public Speaking Competition
A huge congratulations to Sienna Lauro (Year 8), who triumphed in the qualifying finals of the SCS Public Speaking Competition last Friday evening at Bethany College. She will be competing in the Grand Final this Friday night at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, Kensington. More than 75 high schools from across Greater Sydney are involved, with over 500 students competing this year, a great achievement for Sienna.
Year 12 Half Yearly Examinations
We wish our Year 12 cohort all the very best as they prepare for their upcoming examinations. This is an important period where students should be working diligently to update their study notes, complete past papers, seek feedback from their teachers, and refine their understanding of each subject. With exams beginning in just two weeks, consistent preparation and sustained effort are essential. Hard work now will set them up for success.
Contacting your Daughters during School Hours
We kindly remind families that if you need to contact your daughter during the school day, please phone the school office. Our staff will ensure any message is promptly and reliably passed on.
As you are aware, mobile phones are banned onsite for students. When parents contact their daughters directly during school hours, often through messages that also appear on their laptops, it can unintentionally disrupt learning, not only for the individual student but for others in the class as well. While we understand the convenience of sending a quick text, we ask that these messages be kept to outside school hours. For anything urgent, our office staff are always available to assist.
Christine Harding, Principal