Dear Parents, Carers and Community Members

I hope you and your family are safe, well and enjoying the start to the warmer spring weather. 

We are quickly coming to the end of Term 3 and this time of year is a very busy time for not only teachers, but especially for our Year 11 and 12 students. 

Over the past fortnight our HSC students have completed their trial exams and have begun the final few weeks of secondary education.  Several students have sat their oral language exams, while others have or will be submitting major works for Industrial Technology, Drama, Textiles, Visual Arts, Extension Science, Extension 2 English and Society & Culture. 

In the past week NESA examiners have marked and assessed Industrial Technology Major Works and Drama performances with Music to follow shortly onsite at St Clare’s. 

My thanks to staff that have given up many extra hours to ensure their students had every assistance to complete their projects.  A big thank you to the students for the positive way in which they have faced the challenges of not only undertaking trial exams, but completing major works in a very short period of time. 

Year 11 are in the final stages of completing the Preliminary course and undertaking their end of course examinations occurring this week and next week.  The completion of these examinations and the impending results will provide the students and their teachers with a clear picture of where each student is and where improvement is needed as they start the HSC course in Term 4. 

In the last two weeks of term, as a school community, we will take time to recognise Child Protection week, R U OK? Day and in the last week we will come together as a community to recognise and celebrate the completion of school life with the HSC cohort of 2023. 

Important dates for Year 12 celebrations

• Wednesday, 20 September - the much-anticipated annual boys’ vs girls’ netball game will be contested.
• Thursday, 21 September will feature the final Year 12 Assembly for the cohort followed by an afternoon at Stoney Aqua Park.
• Friday, 22 September– Year 12 Graduation Mass and Investiture of 2024 Senior Leaders.  After the Mass a gathering for Year 12 students, their parents/carers and St Clare’s staff will occur at the Hospitality Centre, with food and refreshments available.

Thank you, Mr Nicholls

Friday, 8 September the school community came together to recognise and give a heartfelt thank you and farewell to Mr Peter Nicholls, Principal of St Clare’s for the past 10 years.  The gathering was organised by our school SRC with support from Mrs Davidson and Mrs Lovern. 

Below I have included a copy of the speech I gave at the Farewell assembly today in recognition of Mr Nicholls:  

Mr Nicholls you have been an integral part of our school for the past 10 years and during this time, have shown an unwavering passion, dedication, and commitment to the betterment of this great school St Clare’s.  Under your leadership, our school has achieved remarkable milestones, you have tirelessly worked to enhance the quality of education, foster a culture of inclusivity, and create an environment where students could be successful, academically, spiritually and personally.  Peter, you have been a driving force behind countless initiatives that have made St Clare’s a shining example in the community. 

Of particular note, is the Josephite Learning centre, I know personally you worked tirelessly prior, during and after the building was built, to ensure the students and staff of St Clare’s had access to a high quality, modern learning facility for today and in the future.  The building is now the centrepiece of all learning that occurs within the school, for teachers, students, parents, and the wider community.  It has definitely become a beacon of change. 

Peter, your passion for education, tireless work ethic, and unwavering belief in the potential of each student and teacher has left an indelible mark on all of us.  You have been a mentor to all staff, a confidant to students, and a friend to parents.  Your willingness to listen and empathise have made you a much-loved figure in our school community. 

As we bid farewell today, we also express our gratitude for your selfless service, dedication, and the countless hours you have invested in St Clare’s.  We will miss your leadership, wisdom, and warm presence. 

On behalf of the entire school community, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to you Peter for your outstanding contributions and wish you all the success, happiness, and fulfillment as you move into the next phase of your life. 

In closing, let us remember the words of the great educator, Nelson Mandela, who said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."  Peter, you have wielded this weapon, or should I say in your case BAT with grace and dedication, and you leave behind a legacy that will continue to change the lives of countless students for years to come. 

Thank you, Mr Peter Nicholls for your exceptional leadership and for being an inspiration for all of us.  Farewell, and may you and Maureen enjoy your time with your granddaughter and family.

The Captains' speech for Mr Nicholls' is included below:

Farewell Mr Nicholls

As we gather here today, our hearts are filled with mixed emotions.  On one hand, we are excited to welcome a new chapter in our school's history, and on the other, we bid a fond farewell to someone who has played an invaluable role in shaping the very foundation of our community.  Today, we say goodbye to you, Mr Nicholls, with both gratitude and admiration. 

Your 10-year tenure as principal has been nothing short of remarkable.  Throughout your years of service, you have not only demonstrated unwavering dedication to our school, but also shown us what it means to be a true leader and educator.  Your passion for fostering a nurturing and inspiring learning environment has touched the lives of countless students, teachers, and staff members. 

Under your guidance, our school has seen tremendous growth and development.  Your visionary leadership has helped us navigate through challenges, implement innovative teaching methods, and create a culture of excellence.  You have always believed in the potential of every student and encouraged them to dream big, work hard, and achieve their goals. 

As you move on to new adventures and challenges, please know that your legacy will continue to thrive within these walls.  The values, principles, and lessons you have imparted will forever be a part of our school's identity.  We will carry your teachings forward and strive to uphold the standards of excellence that you have set. 

Though we bid farewell today, please remember that you will always be a part of our school family.  Your contributions will never be forgotten, and your presence will be missed dearly.  We hope that your journey ahead is filled with success, happiness, and new opportunities. 

In closing, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your tireless dedication to our school and its community.  You have left an indelible mark on all of us, and for that, we are eternally grateful.  Farewell, Mr Nicholls, and may your path ahead be as bright and fulfilling as the legacy you leave behind.

On behalf of the entire St Clare’s community.
From the bottom of our hearts.
Thank you, Mr Nicholls, and enjoy your retirement.

Connor Clarke, Mariah Radburn, Brady Lambert & Karma-Anne Van Der Merwe
2023 School Captains

 Connor Clarke, Mariah Radburn, Mr Peter Nicholls, Brady Lambert & Karma-Anne Van Der Merwe

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Kind Regards

 

Phillip Gibney
Principal