Last week I had the privilege of attending Year 10 Camp with an amazing and inspirational group of young people. Not only did we challenge ourselves on a 23 metre abseil drop, climb stacks of crates and learn a bit about how not to add spices to our bush cooking, the group also visited Parliament House, the Australian War Museum, Questacon, the Art Gallery and many more of our national icons. I was most impressed with the way that the students encouraged each other, treated each other with respect and were willing to move outside their comfort zones to try something new. Our focus for the camp was leadership as we move into the final years of the students' school and the senior years at the College. I congratulate all students on their resilience and attitudes on the camp and thank the staff who organised and supervised events and activities.

Year 7 camp was finally held at Collaroy last week after delays due to COVID guidelines. Students made some incredible memories and bonded together over some great activities. By far the highlights were being able to finally see the ocean on beautiful days and swimming in the beach pool and Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Kayaking. These opportunities certainly do not happen without the dedication of the teachers who organise these and I am so grateful to the House Leaders and teachers who support these initiatives - taking time away from their work and families to attend.

This weekend we celebrate the Cherry Festival and we are so pleased to be joining with St Mary’s Primary school to promote our Catholic School community in Young. We would love to see you down there supporting us and you are more than welcome to join us last minute if you would like to.

Next week I will begin the review process of the current Uniform Policy. The first of this process was to present the Uniform Policy to the Community Council, our next step will be to involve students in the review, our third step will be to consult the staff and finally the suggestions will be taken to the College Executive to make final decisions. No items of clothing will be changed, the focus of the review will be on items such as jewellery, hair and makeup. The student consultation will be held on Monday in Break 2 in D Block.

As part of our commitment to the promotion of discussion around Mental Health, Hennessy Catholic College are actively supporting the Young Local Health Advisory Committee. Next year we will launch with the Head to Health program at the College and students will be able to access the services through QR codes provided. For more information and help, especially in the upcoming holiday season please visit https://www.headtohealth.gov.au