Yesterday, we gathered for our final school assembly of 2025 which is always a bittersweet occasion. It is a time to celebrate all we have achieved together, but also to bid farewell to our senior students. For those leaving, it marked their last assembly, a step closer to the next chapter of their journey. The mix of excitement, anticipation, and nerves made the moment both joyful and touching.
Our student leaders delivered their final addresses with heartfelt wisdom. Seeing these young women, who represent their cohort, stand before the assembly, empowered and ready to leave Carmel, was truly inspiring. They are prepared to challenge and shape the future with confidence and purpose.
The Mass held on Friday, 10 October to commemorate 175 years of Mercy in Aotearoa was a truly special and significant occasion, one that I hope will be remembered fondly by all who took part. The Sisters of Mercy who joined us were deeply proud and grateful.
Sharing this celebration with 3000 students from Mercy schools across Auckland was a powerful reminder that our Mercy story extends far beyond our own community, connecting us to a wider community of Mercy that continues to inspire compassion, service, and faith.
Over the past fortnight, we have celebrated the remarkable achievements of our students in both sport and music. We are proud to recognise the following prize winners from the Year 9–13 Sports and Music Awards:
Major Sports Winners:
- Junior Sports Girl of the Year: Elyse Llewellin
- Senior Sports Woman of the Year: Maisey Lendrum
- Team of the Year: Junior Volleyball
- Commitment to Sport: Isobel Houliston
- Service to Sport: Kirra Redfern-Hardisty
- Outstanding Sporting Achievement: Tessa Clinton
- The Going Cup (Outstanding Achievement & Consistent Performance): Nadja McGoon
Major Music Winners:
- Outstanding Contribution to Music (Junior): Amelia Devlin
- Junior Musicianship Cup: Zoe Gan
- Chelsea Devine Cup for Vocal Music: Amber Lee
- Liturgical Music Leaders Cup: Yoana Ho
- Senior Musicianship Cup: Romy Lee
- Outstanding Contribution to Music (Senior): Helena Lee
- Spirit of Carmel Music: Helena Lee
Long Service Recognition (≥5 years in one ensemble):
- Amber Lee – 5 years of service to Choir
- Helena Lee – 7 years of service to Orchestra
- Anya Poe – 7 years of service to Orchestra
- Tina Tan – 5 years of service to Orchestra
- Ava Waterhouse – 5 years of service to Choir
We are grateful for the dedication and commitment these students have shown in both music and sport, enriching our school community and setting an inspiring example for others, and whilst not everyone who participates can be formally recognised, I hope all of our students who have participated in extra curricular activities have been able to reflect on what they have learned, and the skills that they have developed and will continue to make the most of the opportunities available at the College.
Please be aware that industrial action continues, with a planned partial strike for all year levels on Tuesday, 5 November, from 1.15–3.15pm. NCEA exams will continue as scheduled, as they are not facilitated by teachers.
As the 2025 academic year draws to a close, we acknowledge and celebrate the growth, resilience, and contributions of our senior students, and wish them every success as they prepare for their final exams before they embark on the next chapter of their journey. For our junior students, Term 4 still offers many opportunities to learn, grow, and shine, and we look forward to seeing them complete the year to the best of their potential.
