Last Friday, we held a Student Free Day. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our parents and carers for your support and understanding. These days are invaluable opportunities for our staff to come together, reflect, and strengthen our shared commitment to providing a safe, nurturing, and high-quality learning environment for all students.

A significant focus of the day was our review of the Victorian Child Safe Standards. As a Catholic school community, the wellbeing and safety of every young person entrusted in our care is paramount. Staff engaged in thoughtful discussion about how these standards are implemented in our daily practice, ensuring that our policies are not simply documents, but living commitments that guide our actions and interactions. This work reinforces our responsibility to create an environment where every student feels safe, respected, and supported to flourish.

In addition, staff spent time becoming familiar with the new wellbeing curriculum that will be introduced across all CESL schools from 2027. This curriculum places a strong emphasis on respectful relationships and positive education, equipping our young people with the skills, knowledge, and dispositions needed to build healthy connections and navigate the challenges of life. It was encouraging to see the enthusiasm of our staff as they explored how this curriculum will continue to enhance the holistic development of our students—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

Last week, I had the privilege of attending the Principal Association of Victorian Catholic Secondary Schools conference. The theme, Catholic Schools and the Church of Tomorrow, prompted rich reflection and important conversations about the role of Catholic education in a rapidly changing world.

We were challenged by Professor Tracey Rowland from the University of Notre Dame and Professor Robyn Horner from Australian Catholic University to consider the evolving trends in people’s connection to the Catholic faith. Their insights encouraged us, as school leaders, to think deeply about how we continue to nurture faith, belonging, and purpose in our school communities, ensuring that our schools remain places of hope, meaning, and authentic encounter.

A reminder to families that next Tuesday is the General Achievement Test (GAT) for any students undertaking a VCE Unit 3 and 4 sequence.

The GAT is an important component of VCE and plays a valuable role in ensuring the accuracy and fairness of assessment outcomes. I encourage all students involved to approach the day with a positive mindset and to do their very best.

Please also note that next Tuesday is our transition day between Semester 1 and Semester 2, and will be a pupil-free day for students who are not required to sit the GAT.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our Media team for the wonderful work they do each day in showcasing life at the College. Through their images and stories, we are able to glimpse the rich tapestry of experiences that make up our community—from the daily activity in the canteen, to the care of the animals at Emmaus, to the energy and excitement of our sporting events. These snapshots not only celebrate the achievements and involvement of our students, but also help strengthen our sense of connection and pride as a College community.

Enjoy your week and stay warm!

Emma Reynoldson - Acting Principal.