Dear Ave Maria College Community,

Term One Congratulations

As we draw near the end of Term One, I am delighted to extend my warmest congratulations to all our students for their remarkable achievements thus far. Your dedication, hard work, and resilience have truly shone brightly, reflecting the spirit of Ave Maria College and the Franciscan tradition we hold dear.

First and foremost, I want to express our profound gratitude for the commitment shown by our students towards their academic pursuits. Your academic achievements, whether large or small, are a testament to your dedication and perseverance. Whether it be mastering a new concept, excelling in an extracurricular activity, or demonstrating outstanding character, each accomplishment contributes to the vibrant tapestry of our school community.

We are immensely proud of the achievements of all of our students, but today I would like to acknowledge and congratulate students who have excelled in the sporting and debating arenas. We would like to congratulate the following students:

• Lola Jocic of Year 7 and Chiara Hutchinson of Year 12 who have been selected from our CGSAV Swimming Carnival to represent CGSAV at the Victorian Schools Associations Swimming Competition (VSAC). 

• Brigette Murray of Year 11 who has been selected for the Melbourne Victory Senior Women's Development Squad. 

• Monique Failla, Tessa Kendall and Mia Reddie all of Year 9 for winning round one of DAV Debating.

I would also like to wish the cast and crew of High School Musical who will be rehearsing over the holiday period all the best. Thank you to Katie Houghton and Cassandra Hutchison for their leading role in making this opportunity possible for our students.

Child Safety @ Ave Maria College

At Ave Maria College, we are not only committed to academic excellence but also to the safety and wellbeing of every child entrusted to our care. As part of our ongoing dedication to child safety, we continue to implement robust policies and procedures to ensure that our students thrive in a nurturing and secure environment. Together, we strive to create a community where every individual feels valued, respected, and protected.

As part of these policies and procedures the College has a Child Safety Reference Group which includes both student and staff representation. This group meets regularly throughout the year. The College also has a number of nominated child protection officers, from our Sub-School Leaders and Counselling teams. Our senior child protection officers include:

• Ms Leonie Rushbrook, Assistant Principal (Students and Engagement)
• Mrs Natalie Meddis, Acting Assistant Principal (Community and Partnerships)
• Mr Dane Calleja, Executive Deputy Principal (Learning and Operations)

Parents and carers who wish to access more information regarding child safety at Ave Maria College are welcome to visit the Child Safety section on our College website in the ‘About’ tab.

Democratic Principles and Values for Education

Furthermore, Ave Maria College stands firm in its commitment to democratic principles and values for education. We believe in fostering an inclusive and participatory learning environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated, and every voice is heard. Through open dialogue, critical thinking, and mutual respect, we empower our students to become compassionate leaders and active contributors to society.

Parents and carers who wish to access more information regarding these democratic principles and values for education at Ave Maria College are welcome to visit the Faith, Mission and Values section on our College website in the ‘About’ tab.

LFC International Academy Skill Development Clinics

As part of our partnership with LFC International Academy, Ave Maria College will be hosting our first round of skill development clinics in Term 2. Running from Wednesday 1 May to Wednesday 5 June, we will be extending an invitation to our broader community to come and join our weekly clinics that will provide students with the opportunity to 'learn to play the Liverpool way'.  For more information, please visit the LFC website, https://lfcacademy.com.au/vic/...

Easter Message and Prayer

As we approach the Easter season, I invite our Ave Maria College families to reflect on the profound significance of this sacred time in our Catholic faith. Easter reminds us of the transformative power of hope, renewal, and redemption. Let us embrace the spirit of Easter as we come together in prayer, gratitude, and solidarity with one another.

Dear Lord,

As we journey through the Easter season, we are reminded of the boundless love and mercy you have bestowed upon us. We humbly thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, whose resurrection brings hope and salvation to all.

During this time of reflection and renewal, may we be inspired by the selfless sacrifice of Jesus and strive to emulate his teachings of compassion, forgiveness, and love. Grant us the strength to overcome challenges, the courage to stand firm in our convictions, and the grace to extend kindness to all whom we encounter.

Bless our Ave Maria College community with unity, peace, and commitment. May we continue to grow in faith, wisdom, and love, guided by the light of your divine presence.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour.

Amen.

Wishing you all a blessed Easter filled with joy, peace, and the abundant blessings of the risen Christ.

May we continue to strive for truth through love.

God bless.