Welcome back to Term 2
Term 2 is often a busy one, and already there have been many activities taking place across the College. At our recent Term 2 Assembly, I encouraged students to hit the ground running in their lessons each day – arriving ready, prepared and organised for every class. I reminded them of the importance of being respectful and responsible learners, and of using this term as an opportunity for academic growth. The girls were asked to apply themselves consistently: to listen to teacher feedback, ask questions, and remain open to growth; to take advantage of the many opportunities on offer at the College; and to challenge themselves to do their best in every lesson and every activity.
As we commence Term 2, it is also timely to reflect on our traditions and why we are all here as part of this school community. We are reminded of St Brigid, our patroness; a fiercely strong young woman who, despite many challenges, particularly in relation to her gender, forged a new path for women in Ireland.
We are also reminded of our founders, the Brigidine Sisters. In particular, the pioneering Sisters; six Irish nuns who, in 1883 over 140 years ago, travelled for two months by ship from Ireland to Sydney, then by boat to Newcastle, and finally by horse-drawn cart to Coonamble in the Central Western Plains of NSW. Imagine what that journey would have been like: sleeping rough, enduring extreme heat, facing isolation, and navigating significant health risks along the way. We have these six pioneering Sisters to thank for their determination, courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in their mission and their willingness to take risks and challenge themselves for the greater good. Like St Brigid, they forged a new path and we are the beneficiaries of their vision and the beautiful mission of our College today.
At last week’s assembly I asked the girls what they thought those pioneering Brigidine Sisters would say about our world today. I imagine they would be both shocked and surprised by many aspects of modern life. They may also feel disappointed by the way some world leaders treat others, and saddened by the use of language of hate over language of love.
I also asked what they thought the Sisters would think about our school today. Are we fulfilling the mission they envisioned over 140 years ago? Would they see our traditions alive and well? Would they see young women of both strength and gentleness?
This year, I have introduced a new initiative; a series of Year 12 ‘Lunch with the Principal’ gatherings. These provide an opportunity for me, as a new Principal, to meet with each Year 12 Mentor Group, share a meal, and engage in meaningful conversation. I have now held two of these lunches and, during each, I asked students three questions: What have you loved most about your time at Brigidine? What is something you think I should know as Principal? And what goal have you set for yourself for your final months at the College?
I have been deeply impressed by their thoughtful and honest responses, and I thank these young women for sharing so openly. Many spoke of the value of their Mentor groups and the positive impact of those relationships over time. They reflected on the strong, inclusive and harmonious culture at Brigidine, noting how it has strengthened throughout their years at the College. Many Year 12 students also shared goals of achieving their academic best while maintaining balance and making the most of every opportunity available to them. I believe the pioneering Brigidine Sisters would be very proud.
My message to students this term is to follow the example of St Brigid and our founding Sisters; to forge their own path, to pursue their dreams with courage, even when they differ from the crowd, and to challenge themselves, knowing they are capable of more than they realise. And, importantly, to be kind and gentle, both to themselves and to others.
Tomorrow, the College has the pleasure of hosting our first home round of basketball in the new Cill Dara Centre. I warmly invite our community to come along, enjoy a morning of girls’ sport, and see our magnificent new sports facility in action. It promises to be a great event.
I wish everyone a wonderful Term 2.
Kate Quinane
Principal
