Dear McAuley Families

We continue to race towards the end of the 2023 academic year.  It is pleasing to note the smooth transition to their Year 12 studies our Class of XXIV have made over the last few weeks.  The cohort continue to impress me with their growing maturity, good sense of fun and the strong bond they have with one another.

This week began the groundwork for the delivery and installation of 3 of 4 modular classrooms behind the McAuley Hall.  The last unit will be installed during January and will be a fitted science and general-purpose learning area.  This investment of more than $1 million is again a sign of the faith being placed in us by the local community and the support of CECG as we grow and expand into an exciting future.

Following the issuing and confirmation of contracts and appointments we will be excited to announce our new staff members for next year.  We have had interest from high quality, expert teachers who are very keen to join our school and community.

We are currently recruiting for a Secondary Science teacher.  Please refer anyone you know who is qualified and keen to work at our College to the Catholic Education Canberra Jobs website for more detail.

As we staff, resource and plan for 2024 I ask that all families who have students who are not returning to McAuley in 2024 to please let us know via email of your directions for next year.  Our paperwork for the office and NESA needs to notify student destination schools.  We also need to have a good idea of class numbers as we are full (with wait lists) in most grades now. Please contact the office: office.mcauley@cg.catholic.edu.au to advise us of your plans for next year.

I was intrigued by this article by Hendry, Hawkes and Fuller “The Relationship Quotient – creating successful relationships” which outlined various steps we need to take in building our emotional intelligence (EQ) or that of our students and children.  One important factor is showing forgiveness.  To really forgive and move on isn’t easy for any of us when we are hurt, disappointed, and let down by others.  This paragraph is powerful in describing to us how forgiveness can help shape our character…

“Forgiveness simply means that you “give-for” the relationship to continue to grow. When trust is tested, forgiveness enables trust to be regained with respect and dignity. Forgiveness expresses unconditional faith in the other person. It re-establishes trust when it is threatened. Giving for others and ourselves enables growth.”

Our boys and girls watch and listen very carefully to us all.  It’s important that our emotional skills and EQ is high.  People make mistakes and as a Catholic College grounded in Mercy values, we must commit to showing forgiveness and mercy to those most in need.

Next Thursday (30 November) is our final Community Council Meeting for 2023.  During this meeting there will be a Teams call from CECG Governance and Legal teams to highlight and explain the new Community Council Constitution which is being rolled out across the Archdiocese.  I encourage all to attend and take part as our Community Council commence heir planning for next year.

Mary our mother, Look after us.

Eamonn Moore

Principal