This week we have celebrated Reconciliation Week; a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can contribute to reconciliation in Australia. We have heard throughout the election a lot spoken about the support for the Uluru Statement of the Heart. We pray that now our politicians will lead truth telling in Australia in both their words and actions.
We encourage our students to be active and engaged learners. We want them to be challenged by the learning opportunities we provide and we want them to challenge themselves. We want our students to be engaged in their learning in such a way that they are always looking to do or be the best they can. The remaining weeks of Term 2 are challenging, but they are an opportunity for students to see the outcomes of their pursuit of excellence and to build their repertoire of experiences, skills and knowledge.
Year 7 students will depart for Phillip Island next week and their first camp with OLMC. We hope that they find the opportunity to meet others from the Year Level that they are yet to engage with along with enjoying some wonderful experiences and time away from school. We are praying for good weather especially for the Penguin Visit. We hope all the staff and students have a wonderful time.
Exams will begin for Year 10 and 11 students and Year 12 students will participate in finalising their assessments for the semester. I hope that your child takes time to reflect on the learning gains made over the semester and also the improvements or new work habits that have enabled growth and success. This year, reflecting on the things that have enabled us to be successful has new meaning because it has been a while since we have experienced a school year like this. Understanding the strategies that have been successful this year will be helpful in the years to come.
I also hope that there is much to celebrate for students in all year levels, but whatever the results, it is important that new goals are set so that your child can extend their learning journey. Everything at this stage is a learning opportunity. I hope the students recognise and take advantage of these opportunities to build their skill and knowledge.
Over this semester, some of our Year 9 students have participated in the Horizon Camp and others will have this experience in Semester Two. The three-day program for the Year 9 Horizon Camp is challenging but often the highlight of the term. The camp is a very important part of the whole Horizon experience and it is a chance to put to the test, many of the problem-solving skills they have developed over the term. It is also a chance to extend themselves and build confidence in their ability to be successful in managing challenges as they face them. As we adjust to a more familiar rhythm in our school year many of the learnings from Horizon will be skills students can draw upon for the remainder of their education.
Term Two has been the term where we welcome back audiences for live performances. This has been a very busy term for our Instrumental Music and Performing Arts programs. The senior production of ‘Matilda’, has been an outstanding success and I congratulate our staff for the commitment and dedication they have shown to ensure that the show went on. To all the students from both OLMC and Marcellin College who were involved; congratulations. You were outstanding and we were both honoured to watch you and thoroughly entertained. Both Colleges are lucky to be blessed with such talented and generous staff and students.