From the Principal – Issue #2, 2026

Acknowledgement of Country

After a very hot start to the school year, the cooler weather brought welcome relief this week. Thanks to the many Reception to Year 7 parents and carers who braved the heat last Thursday to come and meet their children’s teachers, and to the Year 12 parents and carers who joined us on Monday. When opening up the theme “Animated by Love” in my year 12 Religious Education class, it was evident that families are the source of unconditional love that animates the lives of our students, and we appreciate the clear and strong communication between home and school that underpins each student’s success.

The Beginning of Year Mass at the Cathedral on Wednesday was a joyful and energising celebration. The music always lifts the occasion to another level and the student leaders for 2026 were presented with their badges and a blessing. We are grateful to Father James McEvoy and the staff at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral for making us feel so welcome in this sacred space. Thanks also to Genevieve Pelekani and the Liturgy Committee, who always strive to seek new ways to engage young people in the Mass. We look forward to marking important moments in the life of our College at the Cathedral throughout the year.

This term, we welcome 13 students from four schools in Tokyo – Mita International, Mejiro Gakuen, Tokyo Joshi and Yokohama Futaba. The students have been placed in Years 9 and 10 and have been enthusiastically embracing all the possibilities of SAC life. Lifelong friendships are often formed during these visits, and we know that many of our students and their families have caught up with their study tour buddies when visiting Japan. We celebrate the first of many opportunities for intercultural learning that will be happening at SAC in 2026.

Speaking of embracing life’s possibilities, I would like to encourage all students, and especially those new to our community, to participate in some of the diverse Curriculum Extension Activities at the College. Sport and music clearly have an enormous array on offer, and there are many more things happening at lunchtimes and after school each week. These “extras” often create some of the most memorable moments and bring kids together with like-minded peers. There is something for everyone!

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

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