Over the weekend we had our second PTFA Christmas Market at the college. Although the weather this year tried to dampen things, the day was an outstanding success. The Christmas Market was a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together with over 2500 people attending the event. Oak Tree lawn was transformed into a magical environment that buzzed with Christmas joy and cheer as people perused the stalls, while many also appeared to enjoy the champagne terrace that was moved into the staffroom due to the weather. Close to $15,000 was raised through the event and this will contribute to enhancing the outdoor environment for our students.
The Christmas Market was made possible by our amazing school PTFA. Parent members – your vision, time, passion and dedication ensured this event was a huge success. I know each of you have other commitments, but you made this event a priority for our students and our community. The college truly appreciates all you have done and the continuing work that the PTFA does to support and provide opportunities for our students.
A big thank you to our Student Reps. Your service to the college and our community in ensuring the market was a success was noticed and appreciated. Last, but certainly not least, thank you to our staff PTFA rep, Karen Mitchell.
To our students and staff who also contributed, thank you. In Year 7, students and staff created a Christmas grotto with each class creating and decorating trees. In Year 8, Joy jars were made and sold and our students in Year 9&10 contributed to an extremely delicious bake sale. Finally, a big thank you to all those who donated goods for the raffles. The college appreciates and values your support.
As we come to the end of the year and Christmas and other celebrations begin, we are also reminded of our duty to assist those in our community who are less fortunate. On this note, we have had a request for support from De Paul House. De Paul House is in Northcote and they provide emergency housing on the North Shore for families in need. Currently they are supporting over 230 children and 167 adults and over 18 year-olds. They are looking for Christmas treats to compliment the gifts and vouchers they hope to provide to every child, teenager, and adult, as well as the usual items to keep their foodbank stocked for AFTER Christmas and over the holidays. Baskets to collect donations will be in the RE department foyer until the end of school (7 December).
The week ahead will be busy for our students in Years 7-10 with Year 10 camp and a range of other exciting activities planned. I encourage all students to participate and make the most of the many opportunities that our staff have organised. It is in taking part that they develop the skills and attributes to be equipped and empowered to pursue their personal excellence, where they will develop and will be prepared to challenge and shape the future, whilst being a young woman of Mercy who acts justly, loves tenderly and walk humbly with our God.
