Term 2 has seen some planned changes become a reality in the Pastoral Care areas available for our students. Adjacent to the Pastoral office we have a new space for students to access especially at lunchtimes. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays if students would like to play board games they are welcome to drop in. This space is also available for student groups to meet, for students to work with Mrs Tania Chalker our College Welfare Officer or just to have some time out. Over the coming weeks, we will invite students to contribute to the artwork on display in this space through a competition. Our College Counsellor Naomi Bee has also relocated to a new office space that we hope will be more convenient for our students to access.

At the end of last term, with the assistance of the Senior Leadership Team, students were invited to participate in the Snapshot 2021 survey. This survey was part of our recognition of the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence. The data from this survey has been collated and the results are very encouraging. Our students indicated a strong knowledge of what bullying is and an understanding of the College policy. The majority of students feel safe here at the College and are comfortable speaking to our staff if they have concerns. Through the questions asked we have been offered suggestions on areas for improvement which we will take on board as we continue to educate and assist our students in their interactions with each other.

The College has a policy outlining the expectations of senior student drivers who opt to drive to school. It is very important that student drivers complete the required permission paperwork. If students intend on taking passengers, not only do the driver's parents have to give permission, but also the parents of each student passenger. Students need to visit the Front Office to collect and submit these forms. All parents are strongly advised to ensure that this happens.

Headspace Batemans Bay officially opened its office on Thursday 22 April. As members of the youth advisory committee Damia O’Laughlin, Madeline Handley and Makadde Ethell were present to help cut the ribbon. In front of the CEO for Headspace Australia, local health service providers and politicians, Damia spoke eloquently to the audience about what this service will mean to the youth of the Eurobodalla.

Last weekend saw students involved in community events across the region. On Saturday many of our students participated in the Youth week celebrations in Moruya and enjoyed the Battle of the Bands. Through their participation in the Eurobodalla Youth Advisory Committee, some students assisted the Council in the organisation whilst others performed on stage or enjoyed the event as an audience member. On Sunday, together with our staff, students represented the College at Anzac Services from Batemans Bay to Narooma from Dawn to Marches or the Dusk Service in the afternoon. Thank you to everyone involved.

Finally, please add 24 May to your calendars. We have organised an information session on Cyber safety here at the College from 5.30 to 6.30 pm.  Students and parents from St Mary’s and St Bernard’s as well as Carroll College are encouraged to attend to hear the latest on this important topic from our guest speakers.

As always if you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact the College either by phone or email.

Louse Ibbett
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care