From the Principal
Dear McAuley Families
Welcome back to Term 3. I trust all families enjoyed a winter break from the routines of school, sport and study and feel energised about the return to normality.
Of course, the big news is our relocation (or decampment as the architects call it!) to our new primary facilities. The move has been very smooth, and I remain so grateful to our teachers, support staff and students for their flexibility and patience. It was great to see so many take on the task of hefting boxes, bits and pieces and making the move into our new spaces.
Over the break we received delivery of many items of new furniture for our administration and classroom spaces which has helped brighten our rooms already. Please feel free to make a visit and ask your child for a tour. I spoke with the primary students on Monday and shared in their pride and excitement at their “new” school. Next, we will learn about moving in and out of the spaces and new areas.
The next stage of works will involve connections to Capper Street, disability access, fencing, sandpits, covered play areas and fixed equipment spaces. This work should begin towards the middle of the term as contactors become available. We will also investigate watering systems and soft landscaping around the rest of the site. Our Community Council will no doubt be keen to be involved and we look forward to their fabulous support and efforts as we complete this next stage of major work.
As always, please be sure to get into a good rhythm of study and good organisation as the term begins. There is a comfort in knowing what is happening and when, as we get into regular patterns and routines. This is especially important for our Year 11 and 12 students who very soon will be facing trial exams and the “business end” of their schooling.
The University Admissions Centre has some excellent advice for our Year 12s at this time in preparation for what is to come (see www.uac.edu.au).
- Be proactive and consistent – study HSC material asap!
- Prepare with past exam papers – find the study method that best suits you.
- Don’t let a bad grade worry you – keep pushing through!
- Make a timetable for study and play – schedule study, friends, hobbies & exercise equally.
- Keep it balanced – have some free time too.
- Prioritise mental health – you can’t give 100% if you are 50%.
- Seek help – talk to someone you trust.
- Start planning your path to university now – start looking at options.
- Keep on top of due dates – keep a 12-month calendar.
- Apply for early offers – there are countless opportunities.
- Follow your passions at uni (and work) – use your brain and your heart.
- Remember you are more than your ATAR!
Mary our mother, look after us.
Eamonn Moore
Principal
Photos of New Primary Campus
