From the Principal – Issue #12

Acknowledgement of Country

Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,

Welcome to Term 3, with a special welcome to our midyear Reception starters and their families. The girls are settling into school life well with the help of their teacher, Sasha Champion, and a host of support staff. Seeing them find their way around the campus in this fortnight is a great reminder of how capable children are before they join us, and how important relationships are in building a sense of belonging. We look forward to seeing them grow and flourish here at SAC.

Speaking of growth, the cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory have grown enormously in their roles across the course of this year, under the steady guidance and encouragement of Lucy Dilger, Fiona Turner and the many staff who have worked alongside them to bring the story to life. The College Musical every second year is one of the most memorable experiences for many students, where the culmination of months of rehearsals is so impressive. What the girls learn through collaboration and teamwork on this production are invaluable life lessons that will serve them well in their future endeavours. My thanks to everyone who came along to see the show, including the Chair of Mercy Education, Georgina Smith, who will attend tonight’s performance. Georgina’s lifelong love and support for the performing arts is greatly appreciated, especially at SAC.

The old scholars’ choir, led by Kate Lewis, was in full voice in the Heritage Room last Friday night at our annual SACOSA Cocktail Party. Past students from many decades came together to share memories and build new connections. Many thanks to those who braved the cold on a wintery night to be present, and thanks to old scholars and current staff members Gaby Kinsman, Maddie Kelly and Meg McDonald for organising the party, and to the SACOSA Committee members for their unwavering support at these events.

We are preparing to launch the new uniform in November this year. The selection of styles and fabrics has been highly consultative, and I am sure that students and families will appreciate the new designs. I would like to acknowledge the work of Deputy Principal, Jacqui Mcilroy, who has led this significant project and ensured that we will have a fantastic suite of uniform items to serve this community for decades to come. Thanks also to the many students, staff and parents who have participated in the consultation. We hope everyone enjoys the return to purple, which has been one of the signature colours at SAC for many generations.

Senior students will be making important decisions this term as part of the Subject Selection Process. The development of student agency, which begins in Reception, is very evident when you see students approaching these decisions with confidence and clarity. Students explore the possibilities, both at school and at home, in an environment of support and encouragement. Thanks to Deputy Principal, Jacqui Jury, and the curriculum leaders for their work on last week’s Subject Expo, where staff and students were able to answer questions and share resources to further enhance decision-making for 2026 and beyond. We know that conversations with families are critical in supporting good decisions, and the Curriculum Handbook, which is now available online on the College website, is a great source of information.

I hope that the warmth of community and connection helps to stave off the chilly winter weather!

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

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