The final few days of Term 2, like the previous 9½ weeks, have remained extremely busy in and around the College. Whilst this Term has had its many challenges with students being off school site at various times, last Friday the school came together to celebrate The Church Feast of Our Lady of Mt Carmel.

In last week’s newsletter, I commented how this day is central to what it means to be part of the Carmel community, and through our motto, ‘Mana Maria’, we are encouraged to embody the virtues of Mary, a woman of faith, courage and compassion. The Mass in the morning was celebrated by Monsignor David Tonks. During an engaging and celebratory Mass, Monsignor reminded us that we walk a path of mercy, and in doing so, when we see a need or hear a call for help, it is our duty to understand and act for the good of our community. 

This message was of particular relevance as four members of our community were recognised and acknowledged for their contributions to Carmel. The recipients were Deborah Goudie, Lorna Bryce, Peter Beckett and Leanne Chinnery. The citations that were read during the Mass are included in this newsletter, but to each recipient, again we thank you for your continued support and the contribution you have and continue to make for our school community.

Following our Carmel Day Mass, the school gym came alive as each House performed their Carmel Day dance with the theme being ‘through the decades’. The performances were outstanding and it is important to acknowledge the huge amount of time and effort that House leaders put into preparing for Carmel Day, especially trying to coordinate sectional rehearsals which became a necessity due to rostering home. The engagement from all involved, the courage that all found to get up and perform, students and staff alike, was truly phenomenal and highlighted the passion and commitment that our young woman have to embrace and celebrate what it means to be a part of our Carmel community.

As we head into the Term break, I ask that you continue to support our young women by encouraging them to reflect on what has worked well this Term and what hasn’t, and look at reasons why. By reflecting and discussing the highs and lows of the last 10 weeks, there are opportunities to learn and develop strategies which can then be put into practice as our students prepare for Term 3.

I challenge our students over the next two weeks to find a balance between rest and recuperation, and preparation and self improvement. Yes, our girls need to have a break, but they also need to ensure that each day they are doing at least 30 minutes of physical activity, at least 30 minutes of reading, and unplugging from devices at least 30 minutes before bed to ensure they return to school reinvigorated, refreshed and ready to make the most of the continuing opportunities the college has to offer.