A Joyful Beginning: Our Journey of Transformation Continues
The first two days of a new school year always carry a special energy, and as I have walked our grounds this week, I have been filled with gratitude, pride and hope. They are days that remind us why we do what we do – welcoming young people into a community where they are known, loved and called to grow.
Our Youngest Learners: A Landmark Day
This week marked a landmark moment for our youngest members of the community, as both our Pre-Kindergarten students (our three-year-olds) and our Kindergarten students began their formal learning journey with us. For many families, this was the first time entrusting their child to our community, and for our students, a significant step into a wider world of learning, play, and discovery.
It was wonderful to see our youngest learners arrive with a mix of excitement and courage, supported by caring staff who ensured these first experiences of school were gentle, joyful, and reassuring. These early beginnings matter deeply. They lay the foundation for a love of learning, strong relationships, and a sense of belonging that we hope will carry our students through their entire journey at Holy Cross College.
Year 7: A Confident and Settled Beginning
Our Year 7 students have begun their middle school journey with confidence and joy. The success of our Year 7 Transition Program has been clearly evident. From the moment they arrived, students were calm, settled and eager to learn. They have embraced our standards, routines and expectations, and most importantly, they have already begun to experience what it means to belong to a welcoming and faith-filled community.
It has been wonderful to see new friendships forming and a sense of belonging growing. These early days matter, and our Year 7s have shown us that with the right support, encouragement and care, young people flourish.
Service in Action: Year 8–11 Leadership and Care
I would like to sincerely acknowledge our Year 8–11 students who came in a day early to support our new students. Their generosity of spirit and willingness to serve was a powerful example of living our College value of service. Whether it was offering directions, reassurance or simply a friendly face, they embodied what it means to look beyond ourselves and care for others.
This quiet leadership speaks volumes about the culture we continue to build together, one where students lift one another up and take responsibility for the wellbeing of the whole community.
Year 12: The Final First Day
For our Year 12 students, these past days marked a significant milestone, the beginning of their final year of school, their last first day. There was a sense of maturity, purpose and pride evident as they stepped into their leadership role within the College.
Their Year 12 Ball was an incredible celebration. We received glowing feedback from staff at Caversham, who went out of their way to acknowledge the exceptional manners, respect and behaviour of the Class of 2026. This affirmation from the wider community is a testament to the character of this cohort and the values they carry with them beyond our gates.
The Year 12 Welcome Liturgy, attended by parents and caregivers, was a deeply moving experience. It provided a sacred space for the Class of 2026 to reflect on their journey so far and to look ahead with intention. Together with their parents and caregivers, students set goals for the year ahead, acknowledging that this final chapter of schooling is a shared journey.
One of the most powerful moments was the handing over of the leavers’ jackets by parents and caregivers. This symbolic gesture represented a rite of passage. It was a visible sign of trust, partnership and shared commitment as students step into their final year. Even as we sweltered through 40-plus degree temperatures, our Year 12s proudly wore their leavers’ jackets, determined to mark the commencement of their final year with pride and gratitude.
A Community on the Journey Together
As we begin this new year, I am reminded that transformation does not happen in a single moment. It occurs day by day, through small acts of kindness, moments of challenge, shared prayer and the steady commitment of students, staff and families walking together.
Thank you to our staff for the care, professionalism and dedication shown in these opening days, to our students for the way they have embraced the year ahead, and to our families for the trust you place in us. May this year continue to be one of growth, hope and deepening faith as we journey together.
Kind regards
Albert Borrello
Principal