The Christmas story is of profound significance, symbolising hope, love and the potential for positive transformation. The arrival of the Christ child is a testament to divine intervention in human history, bringing with it the promise of peace on Earth and goodwill toward all.
While celebrating Christmas we are faced with a challenge: will we remain indifferent to the needs of those around us and their struggles? Or, rather, will we reject passive observance and actively seek opportunities to spread love, foster understanding and contribute to the wellbeing of others?
Recognising Effort
While we recognise and celebrate our students’ outstanding achievements, which have led to the many successes mentioned, the real measure of success isn’t necessarily the accolade. Instead, it is the hard work behind it. Many students have worked exceptionally hard and have not necessarily been recognised. Their efforts, sometimes without affirmation, are truly admirable.
Various writers, including Daniel Coyle author of The Talent Code: Greatness Isn’t Born. It’s Grown, argues that we should “use the language of rewarding effort and not talent” and that “it is best to acknowledge the efforts to master small tasks”. He goes on to say that “Being a prodigy is an unreliable predictor of long-term success”. The achievements and successes of the year are the culmination of persistence, overcoming adversity, learning from failure, discipline, dedication and sacrifice. What we celebrate are these qualities. It was done so well in our Junior School ‘Celebration of Learning’ event yesterday, and will be celebrated in the Senior School next Wednesday.
Recent article regarding Vaping
Please take the time to read the article below, particularly as we head into the holiday break, when young ones have more unsupervised, unstructured times. I would encourage you to discuss this with your children (age appropriate) as the key is education to stopping this typical vice for our young people. Feel free to share with any adults whom this article may also assist. You can read the article in the images below.
Gratitude
As this is our final newsletter for 2023, I wish to thank several people. To the parent volunteers, whom we had a chance to share a Principal’s Thankyou function with on Wednesday, again I greatly appreciate your efforts towards the College.
To the families, many thanks for your ongoing support of all we are trying to do with your special children, to make our community, and indeed society, a better place.
To our incredibly gifted and dedicated staff. When reviewing 2023 and all the events that were held, it truly is remarkable. To those working quietly behind the scenes, to the teachers, front and centre, I say thank you. I would encourage you to remind your children the importance of showing gratitude and take the time to see those who have made a difference to their year.
I look forward to seeing many of you at the numerous functions next week and a reminder that our Christmas Mass commences at 11am on Wednesday 6 December.
May Mary Our Good Mother and St Marcellin and St Gregory continue to watch over our community over the festive season.
Mr Matthew Brennan
College Principal K-12
