“When you awake in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive - to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”

Marcus Aurelius

As Term 2 draws to a close, it’s a timely opportunity to reflect on the importance of perspective and how gratitude can shape the way we approach both challenges and achievements. Last week during our Mentor Sessions, Year 8 students explored the concept of gratitude and paused to acknowledge we can be thankful for in our lives and how this can shift our mindset to improve our overall wellbeing. It’s normal for energy to wane and focus to drift. But by grounding ourselves in gratitude, we can rediscover motivation and a renewed sense of purpose. Encouraging our students to reflect on what they can do, rather than what feels difficult, empowers them to success; academically, socially, and emotionally. I invite you to continue these conversations at home. Ask your child: What’s one thing you’re grateful for today? Who made your day better? What made you smile? These simple questions can build powerful habits.

Reports will be released soon, I encourage both students and families to view them not just as a summary of marks, but as a personal profile, a snapshot of each student’s effort, attitude, and engagement throughout the term. While academic results are important, what matters just as much is a student’s willingness to try their best, seek feedback, and grow. This is a time for celebration, but also for honest reflection: What am I doing well? Where can I improve? I also want to remind our Year 8 students, the game is often won in the second half, meaning there is still so much opportunity ahead to reset, refocus, and finish the year with pride and purpose.

Year 8 Shout Outs:

• Congratulations to the Year 8 students involved in Dio Sounds and performed at the Civic Theatre.
• Bravo to Dante Spadari who made it to the final of the Diocesan Tennis Championships.
• Congratulations to Jensen Robinson who has been selected as a member of the New South Wales 13 and under Ice Hockey Team.
• Well done to Sophie Connell and Matilda Laffrey who both received Bronze Awards.

Any questions or queries please feel free to email me on Meredith.macdonald@mn.catholic.edu.au or call on 40147300.

Warm regards

Meredith MacDonald Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement