We have reached the end of a long term; one filled with many events and learning opportunities for students in the very full academic and co-curricular life of OLMC.
Our theme this year is ‘Varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit’ (1 Corinthians 12:4). In so many ways we have seen students excel in the classroom using their gifts in the pursuit of excellence, led by a team of teachers whose gifts have been freely shared with all students, as well as in the extensive co-curricular opportunities on offer.
It is pleasing to see so many students living our values of courage and joy as they take up the challenge of going beyond the everyday to participate in something they are passionate about. It is a privilege for us to be present as they share their gifts.
Students have given themselves whole heartedly to participation in so many individual and team pursuits. Our GSV sporting teams have once again experienced success. Students working in Music and the Performing Arts have been part of the very successful Senior Production of Chicago – Teen Edition along with opportunities in Music. Our Social Justice team has led some wonderful initiatives throughout the term and engaged with all students to help support others. Our Science students have been successful in the STEM competitions. This week an exhibition of the work of students from the Visual Arts was on display in the Frayne Design Art and Technology Building.
On Monday evening this week Year 7 Music students performed for their families and others in their first concert for the year. The evening was a chance to celebrate the gifts of students shared with family and friends. They were supported by their instrumental music teachers; Jo Mileto, Instrumental Music Coordinator; and Gabriella Russo. Our College Arts Captain Lillian was our MC for the event and she helped the audience appreciate the performance of every student. It was an evening where our values of courage and joy were evident amongst the students.
Year 10 students have this week been engaged in a program specifically designed to support them in the discernment of their post-school options. They have been engaged by a variety of speakers and presentations, along with discussions and workshops. In Term 3 they will be making choices about their VCE pathway and this week has been very important for them.
As a Mercy community we share a charism and values that unite us. A group of students this week had the opportunity to attend the Australasian Mercy Secondary School Association (AMSSA) Student Conference being held in Bendigo and Kyneton. They have joined with students from all over Australia to learn more about the shared spirit that goes far beyond the walls of OLMC. We are looking forward to working with them and learning about all the ways they see that we could become stronger.
Throughout Semester 2 all students will be involved in making choices about their learning program for 2025. They will be challenged to consider their strengths and talents along with their hopes and ambitions. There are opportunities provided throughout this time for students and families to access information and support. I encourage all students to make the very most of the support available.
As we go into a much-anticipated break I hope that all students have the chance to rest, rejuvenate and get ready for another very busy and eventful Semester 2.