From the Dean of Pastoral Care…
Mother’s Day Dinner
Uniforms
The annual Mother’s Day Dinner was held at Villa D’Oro this year and was a great success. Gifts of all sorts were donated by many generous sponsors for our silent auction and raffles.
Thank you for your patience with the delay of our winter uniforms. I realise that this has not been an optimum situation, but unfortunately the delay has been out of the control of the college and uniform shop. I understand that the majority of girls now have their winter uniform and should have made the transition. The uniform shop is keeping me updated with the arrival of the final pieces. With the onset of the colder weather I encourage you to ensure that your daughter is wearing the blazer to and from school. The college scarf and jumper should be worn if required. Please be aware that non-regulation scarves are not permitted and students will be asked to remove them. A reminder also that uniform length is mid-calf. It is expected that short hems are adjusted in a prompt manner and any delay is notified to the Year Coordinator by a note.
Communication Parents are reminded that the Student Diary is the primary tool of communication. These should be signed weekly and monitored for your daughter’s progress. The diary is a valuable indicator to you as parents and I encourage you to take time to review it and discuss the week’s events with your daughter. Notes relating to absence or lateness should be provided on the first day of return, or on your daughter’s arrival to the college should she be late. In relation to Friday Sport, participation is compulsory. It is disappointing to see when parents have arranged other commitments during this time. Although it may seem practical this is not an appropriate time for medical appointments or other events which impact on attendance.
The food was delicious, the company scintillating and the entertainment provided by our special guests Rachel Bate and Melissa Sullivan was a real treat. Rachel sang a number of songs accompanied by Melissa, both of whom are ex-students of the College and extremely talented in their fields. We look forward to next year’s celebration and hope to see you there! Marie Pulford
Quota Student of the Year Rosie Gardiner and Tayla Howard of Year 11 recently competed against students from other Illawarra schools. The girls were first interviewed by a panel of judges on their knowledge of current affairs, citizenship and community involvement and leadership potential. This was followed by a speech night where they presented a prepared four minute speech on a topic of their choice and delivered a one minute impromptu speech. The standard of competition was very high. Rosie spoke about “what makes young people tick” and Tayla spoke about “her hero, her younger sister”. Both speeches were clearly delivered, well organised and meaningful. Although neither of the girls were placed, both gained valuable experience and enjoyed this opportunity. Congratulations to Rosie and Tayla for being excellent ambassadors for our college. Thank you to Annalise Farrugia, from Year 12 and the 2010 winner of this competition, for mentoring both girls, Mrs Morris and Mrs Pulford for helping the girls with their speeches and Mr Selby for his support. Liz Davis
Our college mums having a wonderful time at the Mother’s Day dinner
Lee Bate and her Mum Elaine
Debutantes wanted St Mary’s Gerringong 129th Annual Ball – Saturday 13 August – Gerringong Town Hall. Girls over 16 years of age from the Municipality of Kiama, who would like to take part in this year’s Debutante Ball are asked to contact Diane Allison at allis4@bigpond.net.au or phone after 6pm on 42342 664 for further information. Expressions of Interest required by Friday 10 June. Dance practice to begin late June.
From the P&F…
Punctuality Unfortunately, it has come to my attention that a number of girls are arriving late to school on a regular basis without a valid reason. School begins at 8.45am and it is expected that students are ready for Tutor Group at this time. Please be aware that if your daughter is regularly late for no reason she will face appropriate consequences to make up for the time missed. Emma Magill Mrs Liz Davis and Mr Scott Selby with Rosie Gardiner and Tayla Howard
Formal Fashion Parade and Expo 8 June The P&F committee is pleased to announce that tickets have gone on sale for the Holy Spirit and St Mary’s second formal fashion parade and Expo to be held at Holy Spirit College, Bellambi. Doors open at 6.30pm - tickets are $5 each and are available from the Student Office and Senior students. For more information, see advertisement that accompanies this newsletter. (See college website for P&F minutes) Helen Bow (President P&F Association)