In the words of Mary Mackillop about giving generously (1875),

“It is not those who can pay us well that we should first seek, but rather the poor and neglected where we can find the means of supporting them".

There have been so many positive experiences lately where we have seen people give to others. Whether it be time, money, patience, gifts, a home or just presence to support others.

Seirei Peace Exchange Program

Firstly our Seirei Host Families who opened their doors to 22 Seirei students, a big thank you. Your involvement in our Peace Exchange Program has ensured that after a number of years of not being able to run the program, we resumed with great success. Thanks also to Takahiro Hayashi for ensuring the program ran smoothly.

JJAMM Week

Secondly the involvement of students and staff in JJAMM Week. Thanks to Anne Severi and the student leaders for their work ensuring the week was a great success. I cannot say I enjoyed being dunked in that cold water but happy to say the funds raised are all going to a great cause.

Bullying No Way

Last week we celebrated Bullying No Way Week.

We had a focus for each day. Last Monday’s focus was challenging stereotypes and biased beliefs (including ones we may not even realise we have!). By embracing and respecting everyone's differences, bullying will struggle to find a place.

Student Leadership Opportunities

We have again begun the process of interviewing the new leaders for the senior and junior Student Leadership Teams. It is always pleasing to see students put up their hand and take a risk applying. Likewise, we are able to see the growth of the current leaders as they are part of the interview process.

Child Safety Committee

Our Child Safety Committee that includes students, staff and parents met last week. The group utilises the child safe standards and have a focus for each term. This term our priority is physical safety. One of our primary concerns here is around safe travel on public transport. We are fortunate to have a train station within 100 metres of the school. However, students need to be reminded of safe travel. This includes where to stand on the platform and being respectful of all members of the public on the train. We have an upcoming Metro Presentation for students so they can be reminded of how we can improve their safety. Similarly, catching a school bus requires students to be mindful of where they sit, stand and place their bags.

Uniform

Wearing the MSJ school uniform is not optional and we ask that all parents familiarise themselves with the requirements. There are spot checks done and we don’t apologise for seeking high expectations on this. Can we ask that you ensure your child wears the right black lace up shoes with the school endorsed white socks, the dress length is to the knee and only wearing the PE uniform on days when they have scheduled PE classes. There should only be Year 11 and 12 PE students wearing the PE uniform on days when they have the scheduled practical experiences as determined by their teacher. VM students are not to wear their PE uniform.

Stacey Bourke - Deputy Principal, Student Wellbeing