Tena koutou katoa. Nga mihi atawhai nui.

‘When I first came here, I was timid and shy but look at me now – I’m talking to all of you’.

This was part of the presentation from Piper, one of the Year 7 students who spoke at our Open Afternoon last week. In a little over 14 short weeks, Piper and Defne were confident enough to talk to a hall full of parents and potential students for 2023 about their experiences of coming to Carmel at the beginning of this year.

We had Year 13 student leaders talking about their seven years at Carmel and then these Year 7 girls – those at the beginning and those nearing the end of their time at Carmel – and they were all able to convey their genuine appreciation for a Mercy education.

The parents and their daughters were then able to explore our vibrant learning community – from the badminton girls in the gym, the actors, musicians and baristas in the atrium, the K-pop dancers in the courtyard, the calligraphers, the debaters in various rooms, the chefs and designers in Tech and all the subject specialists showing everyone why Carmel should be the next stage in their learning journey.

It was a delight to mingle with the crowds and hear the very positive feedback and to listen to students confidently answering their myriad of questions.

This is a college I have been very privileged to lead and it was the highlight of my year to see the rich diversity of skills and opportunities that we have to offer all of our learners.