This week, as we acknowledged and celebrated Culture Week at the college, Mrs Karen Mitchell challenged staff at our morning briefing by asking, “What is culture?”  She went on to explain, in reference to a reading from The Education Hub, that ‘culture is the complex phenomenon that includes the changing world views, knowledge, values, traditions, beliefs, capabilities, and social and political relationships of a group of people that give meaning to, and influence their life and actions’.

Culture, therefore, is not just about the visible elements like food or clothing; it also encompasses the subtler aspects of social interactions, communication styles, and underlying beliefs.  Culture is a collective experience that’s passed down and shaped within groups, whether they’re defined by history, geography, language, religion, or social class.

Mrs Mitchell challenged staff to reflect on what we do as a college, and within our classrooms, to support our students’ culture whilst we strive to empower them to pursue their personal excellence.  However, what is also of importance is the way we extend our classroom to draw from the wider community to enhance our students’ learning.

Last night we experienced such a connection as the college held its cultural evening where students performed dances, songs and music from their own culture.  What they performed and shared on stage wasn’t something that we teach at the college within our school timetable, yet it provided a place to allow our young women to share a part of who they are, what has shaped them and what influences them.

As this week comes to an end with the cultural dress day tomorrow, I want to thank all those involved in the events.  The cultural concert held on Wednesday evening brought many students to the stage and we were able to enjoy and experience a wide range of performances.  To the parents and whānau who have imparted their culture and values to their daughters, we extend our deepest thanks.  At Carmel, we strive to embody the words of Catherine McAuley, who inspires us to be “a shining lamp giving light to all around”.  At the concert our young women illuminated our school hall and therefore our community through their performances, showcasing their diverse cultures and celebrating their heritage.  This collective expression not only honours their individuality but also strengthens and enriches our community.

We are also grateful to those who worked tirelessly behind the scenes during the week to make celebrations possible.  Whilst I cannot name everyone, there are three that deserve recognition.  Our Heads of Arts and Culture, Chelsea Gardner and Roseline Son, and Mrs Anna O’Farrell.  Thank you for being the driving force behind the week and the cultural concert.  We are all very grateful for the wonderful opportunities and experiences that many were able to participate in and enjoy.

Next week will see the sports Winter Tournament begin.  We have 74 students competing in a number of competitions including hockey in Whangarei, equestrian in Taupo and our netball, hockey, basketball and skateboarding teams based in Auckland.  To all of our young women who are competing, we wish you all the very best as you pursue excellence in your sporting fields, and thank you to all of those who have supported our teams with fundraising, planning, training and coaching in preparation for Tournament Week.

As we celebrate Father’s Day on Sunday, it is important to acknowledge and celebrate that it is the parents who are the first teachers of their children and that parents will continue to teach and guide their daughters long after they have left our school grounds.  So, to our parent community, thank you.  Thank you for being the base and an integral part of our community.  Thank you for supporting the staff at Carmel who work with and alongside your daughter to ensure that she develops the skills and attributes to be equipped and empowered to pursue her personal excellence so that she 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.

A prayer for all the fathers in our Carmel community for Sunday;

God our Father,

We give you thanks and praise for fathers young and old.

We pray for young fathers, newly embracing their vocation;

may they find courage and perseverance

to balance work, family and faith in joy and sacrifice.

We pray for fathers around the world

whose children are lost or suffering;

may they know that the God of compassion

walks with them in their sorrow.

We pray for men who are not fathers

but still mentor and guide us with fatherly love and advice.

We remember fathers, grandfathers, and great grandfathers

who are no longer with us

but who live forever in our memory

and nourish us with their love.  Amen