Dear Carmel Community,

I have written and spoken about the life and vibrancy at Carmel many times and no where has this more evident than over the last two weeks. In the last fortnight we have had: Nara Ikuei School Visit; NRL School Boys Cup; AFLQ Schools Cup; QUOTA Music and Dance Eisteddfods; Catholic Education Week Mass where we welcomed Star of the Sea, St Mary Mackillop, St Luke’s and St Anthony’s Year 6 students; Bayside Athletics Carnival; SECA; Immunisations for Yr 7 & 10; The Carmel Chop with over $42,000 dollars raised; Mackillop House Mass; Senor Leadership Cluster day; and a Pupil Free Day for teacher planning. All of this has taken place alongside our day-to-day business, regular teaching, learning, and assessments.

Last week was Catholic Education Week, and I believe we celebrated it in great style simply by being ourselves and doing what we do best. Even though the week has passed, I encourage everyone to reach out and thank our staff, who continually go above and beyond to provide both great learning but also enriching experiences beyond the classroom.  Gratitude is a significant practice of a positive mindset and like all things one that must be taught to our young people.  If your child has been involved in any activities over the past two weeks, check in with them to see if they have made a point to seek out and thank the person or people who made it possible. 

Term 3 Parent Forum

Our Term 3 Forum will focus on our future schooling project and explore possible initiatives into the future.  Please mark Tuesday the 26 August to your calendar for this important meeting.

Staffing

Sadly, next week we farewell Ms Sarah O’Hehir who is highly regarded in her role as counsellor and will be sorely missed.  We wish her every success as she sets out on a new adventure overseas.

It is my pleasure to announce Ms Shannon Shaloub as our new Middle Leader Learning and Teaching for VET Pathways.  Ms Shaloub comes to us with great experience from a similar role at Chisholm College. 

Later this term , we also welcome Ms Danielle McGuckin who will join the Arts department as a Music specialist.

Please join me in welcoming them to Carmel.

Attendance

Unfortunately, our attendance rate has dropped below 50%. However, 284 students, which represents 23% of our College, have attendance rates between 85% and 90%. With minimal effort these students could lift our overall rate to nearly 70%.  Additionally, 151 students are in the 80% to 85% range, and with a little more effort, they could help us reach our yearly goal of 80%. Consistent attendance is important and is directly linked to engagement, achievement and wellbeing. If you need any support to improve your child’s attendance, please contact their Pastoral Care Teacher.

God bless,

Mr Stephen Adair

Principal