From the Principal
It's difficult to believe that the end of the school year is here. Although each school year is similar in routine and procedure, they are also as unique and as individual as are fingerprints.
I would like to congratulate all the students on their achievements and hope that they have all enjoyed 2024; on their behalf I would like to thank all the staff at St ¹û¶³APP for their ongoing nurturing and support in giving our students the best possible experiences.
On Monday night we celebrated our Annual Celebration Evening. It was a night of both celebration and reflection – a night where students from all year levels were honoured for their dedication and hard work. It was truly a great occasion – enjoyed not only by students but by parents, staff and special guests.
On behalf of the College community, I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to all staff members who will not be at the college in 2025; reasons vary from retirement, leave and the taking up of other employment opportunities – farewell and thank you to Michael Chesser, Mary DeBono, Arina Mizuno, Stefan Odachowski and Alan Kong.
There are two teachers who are retiring this year:
Rina Prinzi, an Italian, Mathematics and Religious education teacher, who not only taught, for 37 years at ¹û¶³APP, but was also a former student.
And Brian Brooks, Languages and English teacher, who taught at ¹û¶³APP for 39 years.
We and so many families, are deeply grateful for your dedication, your wisdom, and for the countless ways, you have both shaped the community of ¹û¶³APP. You have left a lasting mark, and for that we are extremely thankful.
In the coming weeks, students will receive this year’s College Yearbook, which highlights the many celebrations and successes the students have achieved and contributed to in 2024.
On Sunday we commence the advent season; Advent Sunday is the first Sunday of the liturgical year. It is also the beginning of the season of advent.
As a school in the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy, we embrace this time to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Christ—celebrating His birth in Bethlehem and looking forward to His promised return.
The themes of hope, peace, joy, and love, symbolised by the candles of the Advent wreath, align with our Mercy values, inspiring us to act with compassion, justice, and service during this special season.
Finally, I would like to wish you all a very safe, healthy and Merry Christmas and may the blessings of the Season be upon you and your loved ones this Christmas. To all our students, be careful and enjoy yourselves and come back refreshed and renewed for 2025, a new year for us all to witness and enjoy!
Mary Farah
College Principal