Week two of the year has been very busy and productive. I would like to start with congratulating former Yr13 student Callum Donaldson, who achieved a L3 scholarship in Biology. This is an outstanding result for Callum, and our school. I would also acknowledge the work of Mr Steggles in supporting him with this. We wish Callum, along with all of 2020’s Year 13 students, all the best with their futures that they are about to embark on, many of which will be heading towards universities in the coming days.

Today we celebrated our opening school Mass. It was great that Coadjutor Archbishop Paul Martin could celebrate this for us. I also thank Fr Mathew and Fr Tang for their support. Archbishop Paul elaborated on our bible quote of the year ‘Love one another as I have loved you.” He encouraged us all to show and give real kindness.

For the last three days our Year 13 students have been on a leadership retreat in Hanmer. This was very positive, and I can see there is amazing leadership amongst these young people. There is also a real sense of support for one another. We look forward to the great ideas and energy these leaders will give our school this year. I wish to thank Ms Lindsay, Ms Pope and Mr Mulcahy for the great work with organising and being part of this leadership retreat.

Wednesday next week is Ash Wednesday. This marks the start of our Catholic Lenten journey towards Holy Week and Easter. Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are the two days our church asks to fast. We are encouraged not to eat meat on these two days.  At school next Wednesday morning we will all be receiving the ashes during a morning liturgy.

I finish by thanking you all for your continued support, and ask for your continued prayers for Mr McCarthy.

Nga mihi nui

God Bless

Mr Sullivan