Welcome back to Term 2. As we begin this next chapter in our academic year, we are reminded that 2025 has been declared a Year of Jubilee — a sacred time of renewal, forgiveness and hope in our Catholic tradition. The theme, People of Hope, resonates deeply as we continue to nurture a culture of courage, compassion, and community in the hearts of our young people.

In the spirit of Jubilee, we encourage our students to embrace new opportunities with boldness and faith — to take risks, to step into the unknown, and to challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones. This is a season not only of personal growth but of communal renewal. Let us all be beacons of hope in our classrooms, on the sporting fields, in the arts, and in our everyday relationships.

This term began with a strong focus on growth and collaboration, as our dedicated staff engaged in professional learning to deepen their practice and strengthen outcomes for all students. I am grateful for their commitment to ongoing development, ensuring that our classrooms remain dynamic, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of our students.

I also extend my thanks to the many families who took the time to connect with their student’s classroom teachers during the recent subject interviews. These conversations are a vital part of the partnership between home and school, and we value your involvement in supporting your student’s learning journey.

Last week, and again on Monday, some of our students participated in ANZAC Day services, honouring the courage and sacrifice of those who have served — and continue to serve — in the defence of peace and freedom. We gathered in prayer and silence to give thanks, reflecting on the legacy of service and the call to live lives of gratitude, justice and peace.

We also join the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a shepherd whose legacy will endure through his compassion, humility, and unwavering advocacy for the marginalised and the planet. His call for a Church of mercy and his vision of a world united in love and solidarity will continue to guide and inspire us.

We are delighted to announce the launch of our St Brendan’s Program at Dunnstown, with students from classes 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 beginning their learning journey in this unique setting. This initiative offers a rich opportunity for students to step outside the traditional classroom environment, take risks in their learning, and engage with new experiences that will challenge and inspire them. We are excited to see how this innovative approach will unfold and shape our learners throughout the term. A heartfelt thank you to Karen Goonan for her outstanding leadership and Rachel Thompson, Fiona MacKenzie, Katrina McMahon, Paul Crabtree, Roger Barrow, Nissa Phan and Marion Leith in bringing this program to life.

I would also like to welcome the following staff to the College. Loren Murphy, Roger Barrow, Samuel Renouf, Taryn Heinrich, Rohan Evans, Paris Govan, Nissa Phan, Marion Leith, Paul Crabtree and Peter Buszko.

As we journey through Term 2, may we all continue to live as People of Hope, trusting in God’s providence and one another. We are excited for the learning, events, and opportunities that lie ahead, and we encourage all students to give their best and be open to transformation.

With every blessing