Welcome to the 2019 academic year!

It really is wonderful to be a part of your community.  Thank you so much to those parents and children who have made me so welcome.  I really do appreciate it. 

In staff discussions, as well as our whole College Assembly and the Commencement Mass today, we have focused on leadership.  One message I have been very emphatic about is the importance of everyone in the wider school community identifying themselves as a leader.  Leadership is always about much more than just control, authority or visibility, although those things do factor.  In the context of a Catholic school, and very much at Mary MacKillop, leadership is about service. 

In the context of a Catholic College, there can be no greater role than servant leadership.  Servant leadership is a philosophy and set of practices that enriches the lives of individuals, builds better organisations and ultimately creates a more just and caring world.  The goal of the Catholic school is to ensure that all lives are enriched and kindness, care and justice are key behaviours.  In the Welcome Assembly to the whole College on Wednesday, I spoke to the students about the importance of their own choices, their actions and their willingness to serve.  I quoted St Teresa of Avila, who said, “Christ has no hands, but mine” – meaning that the message of peace, love and justice that He spread can best be maintained by our actions – not just our words. 

I would like to say a huge thank you to Mr Griffiths, our new Sports Coordinator, who planned and oversaw the year 4 to 6 Swimming Carnival this week.  I was only able to be present for the first couple of hours, but I was overwhelmed by the outstanding conduct, spirit and determination of all the young people there. 

I am in the process of initiating a number of in-school projects that will enhance parental communication, teaching and learning, behavior and wellbeing and the leadership of Mary MacKillop.  I would really welcome the chance to share those with you as parents – so please do watch this space regarding a February twilight date where I can present to you my vision for the College. 

I sincerely thank you again for welcoming me to Highfields and Mary MacKillop Catholic College. 

Mr Gabbett

College Principal