We recently hosted a visit from the new Principal, Mrs Mary Leask. It was lovely to have her join staff for morning tea on Friday and to then present her to the girls at the Tuesday assembly. She spent some time meeting the students and chatting with staff across the two days. I am sure she would have been very pleased with these early experiences at the College and I am grateful for the hospitality extended to her by all in our community. She will be a wonderful addition to the community from 2024.

The girls have achieved some exceptional wins over the last few weeks. The Mock Mediation team won the NSW competition last week. This was an outstanding outcome. Well done to the Mock Mediation girls. The Year 9 and 10 Commerce girls were recognised for their achievements in the UNSW Playconomics competition. Prizes were presented by the University representatives at our assembly on Tuesday. Ava C was selected to take part in the National Schools Constitutional Convention next year. The Year 10 CSDA winners of the Sydney debating will be up against the regional teams next Friday at the College. This will be a fantastic debate so I encourage girls to come and support our Year 10 girls.

This week we hosted the Year 6 girls in preparation for their start into high school next year. It is always a delight to see their enthusiasm and energy as they prepare for their jump into a new school experience. I asked the current Year 7 girls what advice they would give the new Year 7 girls. It was full of wisdom and care, borne out of experience of the journey. I will share it with you now as I will with Year 6 on Thursday.

Friends:

• Make friends particularly with people in your class
• Don't hang off your primary friends and be willing to make new ones
• Put yourself out there
• Hang out with people that make you feel comfortable

Culture:

• Have a go at everything
• Be open to criticism
• Keep locker clean
• Don't get involved in drama
• Be friendly
• Enjoy yourself
• Be yourself
• Remind yourself you're not alone

Organisation:

• Stay organised
• Plan your time
• Use your diary
• Take it 1 day at a time
• Have a routine

School work:

• Stay on top of homework
• Don’t be too scared of homework and assignments
• Always do homework and assignments straight away so you have relaxing time
• Don't procrastinate when doing homework
• Try your best in all subjects

Teachers:

• Teachers will show you around, you won’t get lost
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions
• Listen and be open to advice given

Sage advice for all girls across all years really.

I will leave you with a prayer used at the recent recognition of the new Superior and Leadership Council for the Sisters of the Good Samaritan. 

Blessings,

Sue Lennox

We thank you, O God,

for this great company of witnesses

surrounding us with their unseen presence.

To Christ their gaze is turned.

May our eyes also be fixed on him

with whom we will one day be united

with all the Benedictine saints

for ever and ever. Amen.