Principal's Report
Celebrating Catholic Schools Week
This week we joined Catholic schools across the Diocese in celebrating Catholic Schools Week - a time to reflect on the unique mission and identity of St Clare’s. On Wednesday we celebrated this occasion with a special liturgy under the direction of our Leader of Liturgy, Karen McCann. We reflected on the values that guide us: faith, learning, service, and community acknowledging that Catholic education is more than just academic excellence; it’s about nurturing the whole person - spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually. We gave thanks for the gift of our school, our shared faith, and the vibrant community that makes it all possible.
Celebrating 40 Years of Service
We would like to acknowledge Mrs Sheena O’Doherty, who marked an extraordinary milestone in April - 40 years of teaching and service at St Clare’s. A valued member of the Science faculty, Sheena brings a deep passion for education and a strong appreciation for the culture that defines our school.
Community Spirit Shines Bright After the Floods
In the wake of the recent floods, our school community has once again shown the strength, compassion, and resilience that define us. From students rolling up their sleeves to clean out homes, to others cooking meals, donating essential goods, or simply being a supportive friend - every act of kindness has made a difference. Staff, too, have gone above and beyond, offering their time, resources, and hearts to help those affected. It has been a powerful reminder that in times of hardship, we are never alone - we are a community. If you have been affected by the floods, please reach out through your child’s Leader of Wellbeing so that we are able to support you and your family during this difficult time.
Celebrating Our Successes
Amidst the challenges, we’ve also had much to celebrate this week across the school. Last night I had the pleasure of attending DioSounds at the Civic Theatre in Newcastle where our students performed All I know so Far by Pink under the direction of Amanda Brooks and Victoria Merillo. This bold anthem of truth, courage and vulnerability highlighted the incredible talents of our musicians and vocalists in addition to capturing the spirit of the showcase: different voices, one purpose – to rise, to support and to inspire.
Last week our Open Girls Basketball team also triumphed at the state level, bringing home the championship title - an incredible achievement that reflects their dedication and teamwork.
Laurent Gonfond (Teacher/Coach) Callie Gillard, Colbie McCabe, Ava Gillard, Charlotte Cooper, Sienna Cooper, Makayla Quillan, Adele Whitehouse-Miotto, Denise Ryan (Accompanying Teacher/Manageress). Absent from the photo Alondra Martinez-Leeson
Congratulations also to Lin Zhao LimSchneider, who won the prestigious ASPIRE Scriptwriting Competition, showcasing her creative talent within our school.
I am also thrilled to celebrate the creative talent of Myra Gupta who is amongst a group of 60 finalists in the 2025 University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize for her work titled House on the Water. This is an amazing achievement given there were over 500 art entries this year from 50 schools.
Furthermore, four of our Year 11 students Nina Davy, Molly Trotter, Ramona Ljumanovic and Jamieson Neal have been successful in gaining a place in the National Art School’s Intensive Studio Practice Course. This course offers a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a dynamic and creative environment, working closely with experienced artists and peers who share their passion.
Meanwhile, our SRC Environmental Group, Tiana Macinnis, Hayley Ainley, Maria Vulic and Evie Solomon have been awarded the Coastline Bank School Environmental Project grant, which they will use to rejuvenate the Year 12 area. Their project, titled Our Power, Our Planet, is a call to action for all of us to nurture and protect our environment - a legacy that will inspire future students.
Emmaus Awards Recognition
We are also proud to share that our school received the Catholic Community Award at the Emmaus Awards in Newcastle. This recognition celebrates our eight-year partnership with the Community Kitchen, led with unwavering dedication by Carol Healey and Denise Ryan. Over the years, countless students and staff have volunteered their time to serve those in need, embodying the values of compassion and service that lie at the heart of our mission.
In times of challenge, it’s the strength of our community that shines the brightest. And over the past few weeks, the community of St Clare’s has definitely shone bright! I feel incredibly proud and humbled to be part of such a special community - one that lifts each other up, stands strong together, and continues to inspire every day.
Christine Harmer
Principal