Paddy From the Principal – Issue #14

Acknowledgement of Country

Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,

The Australian Catholic Education Conference was held in Cairns last week with the theme “hope, anchored in faith”. The program included high-quality keynote speakers and relevant and inspiring workshops and attracted almost 1500 delegates from across the country. It was a privilege to be there alongside my Mercy Education colleagues from Victoria and WA. I was particularly moved by Sr Nathalie Becquart’s synodal vision for Catholic Education, which prioritises listening and creates a home of hope within our schools and parishes. She encouraged us to build bridges and cultivate dialogue so that our schools are always welcoming. I hope that every student, family and staff member will experience this welcome at SAC.

Back in Adelaide, staff and students moved deftly from the adventures of Science Week, with all its experiments and engaging activities, into Book Week, with guest speakers, a morning tea and a book week parade to name just a few of the activities on offer. Thank you to the many families who came along to the parade, and to our fabulous Library team and primary staff, who brought it to life (the Alice in Wonderland staff costumes were incredible!). Year 12 students decided to use the parade as an opportunity to honour Angel, the student they sponsor at the School of St Jude, by coming to school dressed as angels themselves. I think this sponsorship shows how much they value the transformational power of education and enables them to look beyond themselves and demonstrate mercy in action. I appreciate the generosity and leadership of the Class of 2025 in sponsoring Angel.

Science Week and Book WEEK showcased creativity in action!

Dressed as angels for Book Week, the Class of 2025 shines through their sponsorship of Angel, a student at the School of St Jude in tanzania

Our Year 10 Student Representatives are also showing great leadership, attending the Active Citizenship Convention at Adelaide Oval last week. It was a great opportunity to mix with like-minded students from other schools and share their passion for justice. Here are some reflections from Eva and Gianna on this experience:

“Attending the Active Citizenship Convention was a valuable experience for me. I gained a deeper understanding of how young people can actively participate in democracy and realised that our voices are genuinely important and valued when shaping decisions. Hearing from many leaders and being a part of the discussions encouraged me to stay involved in issues that affect our futures and community.” Gianna

“The Active Citizenship Convention was truly an eye-opening experience that has encouraged me to continue making a difference in my school environment. From the learning experience, I was left feeling inspired to make a positive impact through both the community inside and outside of school. It was a valuable opportunity to connect and interact with other schools to see their different opinions and ideas.” Eva

TAKING Action at Active Citizenship Convention

Fourteen students from Years 4 to 6 celebrated the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Communion at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral last night. Many thanks to Ms Isabella Formichella, who prepared the students so beautifully for the sacraments, and to their teachers who attended to support them. Accompanying young people as they strengthen their faith is such a privilege, and the partnership between home and school is at the heart of this mission. Thanks to all the families who entrusted us to walk this journey with them.

I look forward to seeing many dads and significant men in the lives of our students at next week’s Father’s Day Breakfast!

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Communion at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral

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