Term 3 is off to a fantastic and energetic start and we’re only in Week 3. There’s been a wonderful buzz around the school as so many exciting events have already taken place.
We’ve watched some of our talented young women shine on stage at Starlight, the North Shore Parishes talent show, enjoyed our very first PJ Day, and celebrated baptisms on Sunday following a vibrant and joyful Fia Fia Night. Meanwhile, Year 12 and 13 parent-teacher interviews have taken place, and we’ve welcomed families of students who will be joining us in 2026. All of this has been happening alongside a busy winter sports season.
It’s been fantastic to see so many of our students getting involved whether performing, participating, or simply showing support. The energy and enthusiasm across the school are truly inspiring.
As I write this, our Options Evening is in full swing in the school hall, and over at Rosmini College, an exciting new initiative from the Rosmini Pasifika Komiti is taking place. This event offers students the opportunity to explore a variety of career pathways, discover study and training options, and connect with industry professionals.
If you are reading this now and had hoped to attend one of these evenings, unfortunately, they have now passed. However, at our assembly I spoke about the importance of keeping subject choices broad and to choose options with an open mind. We don’t always know where our interests and opportunities might lead us and often, unexpected paths can turn out to be the most rewarding.
A perfect example of this was shared in our recent newsletter by Mia Boothroyd (Class of 2019), who reflected on her experience at the prestigious Vatican Observatory Summer School (VOSS) in Italy. Mia was selected to join 23 astronomy students from 22 countries, an extraordinary achievement.
Having been in recent email communication with Mia, she shared that it was only through her time at Carmel and a visit from Br Guy that she even learned about the Vatican Observatory and its summer school program. Her story is a wonderful reminder to our students: be curious, try new things, and don’t be afraid to explore unfamiliar subjects, you never know where they might lead.
Although we have begun looking ahead to 2026 there is still plenty of valuable learning to take place, especially as our senior students begin preparing for their practice exams in Weeks 8 and 9. It is a busy and important time, and we encourage all students to stay focused, seek support when needed, and make the most of every opportunity.
