I would like to extend a very warm welcome back to all members of our Caroline Chisholm Catholic College community as we start Term 4 very positively. I hope the term break provided an opportunity for rest, renewal and quality time with family and friends as we prepare for what is always a busy and rewarding final term of the year.

October is a significant month in the Catholic calendar. It is traditionally dedicated to the Holy Rosary, inviting us to reflect on the life of Christ through prayer and contemplation. During this month we also celebrate Mission Month, a time when Catholics throughout the world are called to support those most in need and to reflect on how we can be people of service, compassion and hope. As a faith community, these celebrations remind us of our shared responsibility to live the Gospel through our words, actions and commitment to others.

During Mass this morning, we were reminded what it means to be salt of the earth. We were challenged to live the Gospel in all we do, and to live compassion through actions.

I would like to sincerely thank our parents and carers for the partnership you continue to share with the College. The support, encouragement and trust you place in us are vital to the success and wellbeing of our students. Education is most effective when school and home both work together, and I am deeply grateful for the way our families engage with and support the life of the College.

As we enter the final term, I encourage all parents and carers to remain actively involved in their child's learning. Simple conversations about school, attendance at College events, reviewing progress and celebrating effort can have a significant impact on a young person's confidence, engagement and success. Your interest in their learning sends a powerful message about the value of education and helps students remain focused on their goals.

At the same time, we are mindful that not all members of our community are experiencing an easy journey. We continue to hold in our prayers those who are facing illness, grief, family challenges, uncertainty or personal struggles. May they draw strength from the support of family, friends and our College community. I also ask that you keep these members of our community in your own prayers, as together we seek to be a community of hope, compassion and care.

A particularly important group this term is our Year 12 students as they prepare for their final examinations and graduation. This marks the culmination of many years of learning, growth and perseverance. We are incredibly proud of the resilience, commitment and character they have demonstrated throughout their time at the College. On behalf of our entire community, I wish each of them every success in the weeks ahead. May they approach their examinations with confidence, knowing that they are supported by their families, teachers and peers.

As we journey through this final term together, may God's blessings be upon our students, families and staff. Let us continue to work in partnership, support one another and strive to make a positive difference in the lives of those around us.

I wish every family a successful, productive and faith-filled Term 4.

Dr Napoleon Rodezno
College Principal

Term 4 Dates

Monday 2 November: School closure day
Tuesday 3 November: Melbourne Cup public holiday
Friday 27 November: Whole College Mass and Afternoon of Excellence, last day for Year 10 and 11 students
Friday 4 December: Last day of classes, Year 7 - 9
Friday 18 December: College closes for summer holidays

IMAGINE Exhibition

Our IMAGINE Exhibition will open next Tuesday 13 October. We invite all families, friends, staff and students to see the incredible work of our Art and Technologies students, from 4.30pm in the Visual Arts wing!

Year 12 Celebrations

A reminder that the week of the 19th of October is our final week for Year 12 students, and as a result there are some changes to in-class timetables. Details are available on Compass. 

Mental Health Week

For our first week back, the College celebrated Mental Health Week at the College, where we recognised the importance of caring for and supporting good mental health through a range of mindful activities.

Students across both campuses participated in yoga, mindful colouring, making friendship bracelets, chalk drawing and more, taking time out of their busy schedules to connect, reflect and prioritise their wellbeing.

A Prayer for the Beginning of Term 4

Loving God,

As spring unfolds around us, we are reminded of the beauty of new life, growth and renewal. The days grow brighter and creation reminds us that new beginnings are always possible.

As we begin Term 4, we give thanks for the gift of our College community, for the opportunity to return refreshed, and for the people who journey alongside us each day.

We remember St John Henry Newman (October 9), whose journey of faith was one of searching, learning, courage and trust. His life reminds us that our journey is not always a straight path, but that when we place our trust in you, you continue to guide us towards who we are called to become.

We also remember our College patron, Caroline Chisholm, whose deep faith inspired her to see a need and respond with courage, compassion and action. She reminds us that faith is not simply something we hold in our hearts, but something we live through the way we welcome, serve and care for others.

As we enter this new term, help us to follow her example.

Help us to grow where you have planted us, making the most of the gifts and opportunities you have given us.

Help us to notice those who may feel unseen, to welcome those who may feel alone, to stand up for what is right, and to offer our time and talents generously in the service of others.

May our College community continue to be a place where every person is encouraged to flourish, where differences are embraced, where kindness is lived and where our faith inspires us to make a difference in the world.

Lord, as spring brings new life to the world around us, bring new life to our hearts.

Help us to trust the journey, embrace the season we are in, and remember that wherever you have planted us, there is an opportunity to grow, to serve and to bring your love to others.

May we begin this term with gratitude, journey with hope, and live each day with faith and love.

Amen.