Acting Principal

2022 created many challenges as we adapted to a new way of living with COVID-19. Semester 1 was a difficult time to navigate for schools and families with online learning, quarantine periods and general absenteeism. However, as these challenges presented, the St Michael’s community once again was resilient and adapted so we could provide quality teaching, learning and wellbeing across the College.

This was also the year schools effectively re-opened with many activities resuming, including camps, excursions, assemblies, Masses and whole school events including Mission Action Day. Being able to bring both Campuses together on De La Salle Day, with Br John Pill (former College Principal) in attendance, was a highlight of the year. These activities are important in cohesion and are the fabric of our Lasallian Community. I am very proud of our staff and leadership teams who have led the College in re-establishing these important activities this year.

I will conclude my time as Acting Principal at the close of the 2022 school year and will return to my role as Head of Primary. As an old scholar of the College, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time leading the College and thank the staff, students and their families for their support. One of the most rewarding aspects of the role was further connecting the staff and students at the Primary and Secondary Campuses. Many of the programs are now well established and I look forward to them continuing into the future.

2022 Graduation Ball

Last Saturday evening the College farewelled the graduating ‘Class of 2022’. The achievements of this class have been many. There are some excellent musicians, athletes, actors and talented young people among this cohort.
The outstanding achievements and values of these young people have been complimented by positive decisions to participate in the life of the College. It is the choices we make today that determine the character of tomorrow. We are proud to be a Catholic community in the Lasallian tradition and to be guided by Community, Challenge and Choice as part of the Mission and Vision. We have become great servants to one another and have shown great care and compassion.
To each one of the graduates of the Class of 2022, we thank you for your hard work and support for our community over the years. It has been greatly appreciated. Inclusivity and caring for one another has been a highlight. You will look back fondly on the importance of the Retreat, Seminar Days and being able to use the LEC at break times!
Much of education is around learning and wellbeing and cannot happen without the keen interest of others – staff in particular. May I thank, on behalf of the students and parents, all the teachers and support staff at the College for the wonderful role they have played in your education and formation.

We are proud of each and every student, as individuals, your accomplishments and commitment you have given to the College. I want you to know that we, as staff are proud of you. Know that the results you receive at the end of the year do not define or limit you. What really matters and counts is not only your success at school but how you live your life from now on. It is the choices you make as a graduate of St Michael’s College that counts and will be remembered.

Missionaries of the Sacred Heart – Farewell Mass

On Sunday 4 December Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish farewelled the Missionary of the Sacred Heart (MSC) priests. Archbishop Patrick O’Regan celebrated the Mass to give thanks to the MSC priests who embraced the Henley Parish in 1958. He also acknowledged the De La Salle Brothers and Sisters of Mercy and their connection with the parish. It was a wonderful celebration attended by many MSC priests who have served the St Michael’s community over many years.

Mr Damian Patton, Acting Principal