Last week was indeed a busy week in our college calendar with our Year 8 students participating in camp and Reflection Days and our Year 10 students engaging in Work Experience, Reflection Days and the Melbourne Experience. Each day l try to explore the College and engage in learning observations to see how we are embedding our Instructional Model – the 5 E’s. l am impressed to see how our teachers adapt the teaching to suit the aspect of the lesson structure. It is apparent to observe what the teacher is up to according to the type of activity. It is always interesting to see how students evaluate their own learning.

I'm excited to share details about our Bright Futures Pathways Panel & Breakfast event on Thursday, June 6 at 7am. This event offers students insights from current and former students on their success journeys. Join us for a continental breakfast and gain valuable knowledge to guide your student's subject choices and future career discussions. Learn more about the event and secure your ticket for a morning of inspiration and guidance towards our students' bright futures. Bright Futures Pathways Panel & Breakfast

Student voice and agency have been key aspects of our College culture, and this is evident in our student's participation in the Drama Program and BAS sport. On Thursday afternoon, l observed the steady rehearsal of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.” I thoroughly enjoyed our students responding to Andrew Seeary’s direction and feedback and witnessing how the play and characters transformed to create an intense production. In the Intermediate BAS basketball that was being played in the JSC, l again observed how Belinda Dwyer was giving our basketballers intense and direct feedback for improvement. We can only improve if we are open to feedback and the person providing the feedback is honest and direct. The feedback l observed being given was open, honest and direct, and our young people could hear and respond.

On Friday, I had the privilege of attending our Child Safety Community meeting, a crucial gathering that included staff, students, and parents. One of the key agenda items was inappropriate behaviours. The team engaged in a thoughtful discussion to ensure everyone in our community is heard and respected. As a Catholic community, we believe that we are all made in the image and likeness of our god, and it's our collective responsibility to uphold these values in our interactions.

This Sunday was Pentecost Sunday, the day the Church celebrates the 50th day from the Harvest; it is the day we celebrate our covenant with God as God’s people. As God’s people we offer hope, compassion, love and justice: "Peace be with you," the greeting we offer each other at every Eucharistic celebration, needs to be lived each moment and each day. Adolescence is a time of change and growth: it is both a period of confusion and affirmation. As adults, we need to support our young people in recognising behaviours that are life-giving and rewarding. If we want our world to be a safer place and to create real justice, we need to challenge attitudes, actions and behaviours.

As members of the Ballarat community, it is crucial that we encourage our young people to strive for their best and speak out against any behaviour that is sexist, racist, or disrespectful to human dignity. I urge all families to stand with the College and the community in actively identifying and addressing unacceptable behaviour. Some ways to effectively call out misogyny and poor behaviours are:

• Name the behaviour: Clearly identify and label the behaviour as misogynistic or inappropriate. Use specific language to describe what was said or done and why it's harmful.
• Express your feelings: Share how the behaviour made you feel or how you perceive it affects others. Personalising the conversation can help others understand the impact of their actions.
• Use assertive communication: Be firm and direct in your communication without resorting to aggression or hostility. Maintain a respectful tone while making it clear that the behaviour is unacceptable.
• Offer alternatives: Suggest alternative ways of expressing themselves or engaging with others that are respectful and inclusive. Sometimes, we can use humour that is putting others down
• Be an ally: If you witness misogyny or poor behaviour directed at others, speak up in support of the person being targeted. Show solidarity and offer assistance if needed.
• Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries for what behaviour is acceptable in your personal or family environment. Enforce consequences for repeated misconduct.
• Lead by example: Model be respectful. Be mindful of your language and attitudes towards the other
• Seek support: If calling out misogyny or poor behaviour becomes overwhelming or unsafe, seek support from trusted friends, colleagues, or organisations dedicated to gender equality and social justice.

By actively challenging misogyny and poor behaviour, we can contribute to creating a more inclusive and respectful society where everyone feels valued and respected regardless of gender.

May we continue to be people who live in the light of our Christ and model the kingdom of God today and everyday.

With every blessing