Published on: 30 May 2024

  • National Reconciliation Week
  • Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
  • Kooringal
  • Mid-term break

The past week has been a celebration of an important date in our national calendar – National Reconciliation Week. The week began with a fantastic weekend of sport against Guildford and the First XVIII wearing specially designed jerseys for the Indigenous round. On Monday morning, members of our community gathered for a flag-raising ceremony with Year 10 Bidjara, Ghangulu and Iman Balladong, Wadjuk and Yued student Jeeo McGuire and Year 9 Kulkagul and Wongatha student Keiyon Billy explaining the symbolism and significance of the flags to attendees. Students in the Senior School took turns to participate in this year’s art project during Tutorial time. This year the students painted an Aboriginal flag in their handprints, which will be displayed around the school in various locations once completed. One of the School’s four core values is ‘respect’ and all students demonstrated this in abundance throughout the week as they participated in activities and discussions that enhanced their knowledge about shared histories, and cultures and how they can contribute to achieving reconciliation in our country.

This morning Christ Church staff are sharing a delicious array of their homemade treats for the Cancer Council’s Biggest Morning Tea in an effort to raise funds and awareness for cancer research. This is undoubtedly close to many of our hearts within the Christ Church community. By participating in this important initiative, we not only support vital cancer research but also model empathy and collective action to our students.

I am delighted that our students are visiting Kooringal once again after the Nanga Brook bushfire earlier this year. Our students have been looking forward to reconnecting with nature and engaging in educational outdoor activities. As students return to Kooringal, we are reminded of the importance of conservation and the fragility of the Australian bushland. Instilling a sense of responsibility towards the preservation of our natural environment is an important part of our Outdoor Education programs and students will understand this first-hand as they observe the changes to Kooringal’s landscape since their last visit. Year 9 Craigie students returned yesterday and you can view photos of their camp experience here.

Curtin University recently announced that it will no longer require Western Australian students to pass ATAR English for direct entry into most of its undergraduate courses. This decision, which allows students to gain admission with an A grade in General English, has raised significant concerns in the education sector. 

As Year 11 and 12 exams come to a close, students can take a well-deserved breather. The upcoming mid-term break offers the perfect opportunity to rest up and recharge their batteries. Whether it’s spending time with family, catching up on sleep, or simply relaxing with a good book or film, prioritising wellbeing is key.

Alan Jones
Principal