Churchill Avenue News

Cultivating Character: Reflections on Virtue and Growth

As we return from our Year 12 Retreat, it’s fitting to pause and reflect on the values that underpin our journey as a Catholic secondary school community. At the heart of our mission lie the virtues of kindness, compassion, honesty, and integrity, which are not just lofty ideals but practical guides for daily living, essential for personal growth and development.

During our recent retreats, I was deeply moved by the exemplary behaviour and actions demonstrated by our students. Throughout the retreat, they exhibited remarkable kindness towards one another, showing compassion and support in moments of vulnerability and reflection. Their honesty in sharing their thoughts and feelings created an atmosphere of trust and openness, fostering deeper connections and understanding among peers. I am proud of our students for embodying these virtues and their actions serve as a testament to the character and integrity that we strive to instill in all our students here at the College. I would also like to thank all the dedicated staff who accompanied our students on this retreat. Your presence and involvement enriched the experience for our students and contributed to the overall success of the retreat.

As we continue to reflect on the values of kindness, compassion, honesty, and integrity, it is important to recognise that our journey of personal growth extends beyond experiences such as retreat. With upcoming subject selection on the horizon, students are presented with an opportunity to pursue their passions and are encouraged to approach subject selection with careful consideration and openness to new opportunities.

In the weeks ahead, I encourage all students to actively engage in the subject selection process, taking advantage of every opportunity to gather information and explore their options. Students should attend information sessions, seek advice from teachers, and reflect on their interests, strengths, and long-term goals.

Together, let us continue to uphold the values of character and virtue that define our Catholic school community, both in our interactions with one another and in our pursuit of academic excellence. May the virtues of kindness, compassion, honesty, and integrity guide us as we embark on this journey of subject selection and personal growth, ensuring that every choice we make reflects our commitment to becoming the best versions of ourselves.

- Laura Ruddick, Acting Principal