Taylor Joyce

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the end of Term 1, I want to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support and to acknowledge the fantastic efforts of our Year 9 students. Their enthusiasm, leadership, and participation in recent school events have been truly commendable.

Year 9 in Action

Our students demonstrated incredible school spirit and leadership at the recent Swimming Carnival and as participants of our International Women’s Day celebrations. Many put in their best effort in the pool and around the College, while others cheered on their peers with great enthusiasm. It has also been heartwarming to see Year 9 students supporting younger year groups in navigating our evolving campus spaces. Their kindness and respect have not gone unnoticed.

A huge congratulations to all Year 9 students on completing their final NAPLAN assessments. I am incredibly proud of how they conducted themselves in a formal exam setting. A special thank you to Mr. Matthew Klopper as the test administrator, as well as our Year 9 inclusive pedagogies team, Lyndsay Klopper and Vanessa Peterson, for their invaluable support. If your child experienced any anxiety during this process, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we want to ensure they feel confident as they move into future examination periods.

Student Expectations and School Environment

We have recently noticed an increase in litter being left in the yard, and I would like to remind students to take responsibility for keeping our school clean. Additionally, chewing gum is a banned item at school, and any student found with it will have it confiscated.

Uniform infringements are also being monitored closely. As per College policy, three uniform breaches will result in a restore session. If this occurs, you will receive an automatically generated email informing you of the issue. Thank you for your ongoing support of College policies and procedures.

Wellbeing and Learning

In their recent LEA sessions, students have been focusing on the negative impacts of vaping, as well as completing their NAPLAN assessments. As we progress through the term, I encourage parents to check in with their child about their organisation and workload. If they require additional support, please reach out to their classroom teachers or Leaders of Learning.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

Water Walk: Raising Awareness and Support

On Thursday, 3 April (Week 10), McAuley students are invited to participate in a Water Walk to raise funds for Project Compassion and to stand in solidarity with those around the world who lack reliable access to safe water.

Event Details:

• Time: 6:30 AM departure, returning by 8:30 AM for a light breakfast at CMCC
• Location: Walk from CMCC to Medowie Creek (35 Ferodale Road, Medowie)
• Purpose: To raise funds and awareness for those who must walk long distances for clean water
• Fundraising Goal: $1,000 for Project Compassion
• Special Incentive: If we surpass our fundraising goal, our SLT has agreed to be dunked in a bucket of water at the end of the event!

How You Can Help:

• Please complete the RSVP form and indicate if you are available to assist with the event: RSVP Form
• If you are unable to attend but would like to contribute, please consider donating to our Project Compassion page: Catherine McAuley Catholic College • Project Compassion 2025

The Importance of Cocurricular Activities

Engaging in cocurricular activities is a valuable way for students to develop essential life skills such as time management, teamwork, and leadership. It also helps them build positive peer connections and discover new passions.

At our school, we offer a variety of activities, including sports teams, performing arts, academic competitions, and environmental groups. We also encourage students to explore new opportunities or even initiate their own projects. Some of our lunchtime clubs include music, connection club, Blazing Belles, and various diocesan sports teams.

I have included some resources below on the benefits of extracurricular involvement. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s wellbeing and engagement at school, please feel free to reach out.

Yours in Mercy,

Taylor Joyce