The Serious Business of Joy
This week, our community celebrated the power of joy, connection, and shared achievement. Through the extraordinary 2026 Arts Showcase, the Grand Final success of our Year 9 Debating Team, and Dazzle for Dolly, we witnessed creativity, courage, and collaboration in abundance. Such moments help build the connection, warmth and belonging that enable staff and students to feel valued, find their voices and flourish together.
 

The Joy of the Arts
This spirit was in magnificent abundance at our 2026 Arts Showcase: EMERGE on Thursday evening. Across the College, students shared an impressive range of dance, drama, and music performance, and visual art pieces proudly on display. Audiences were able to appreciate choirs, bands, ensembles and soloists as well as installations of ceramics, prints, paintings and interactive art, the evening celebrated creativity in its many forms.

Most importantly, the Showcase allowed our students to be seen. Every performance and artwork reflected imagination, courage, discipline, and growth. Families and our broader community were consumed with both awe and pride at the extraordinary talents and effort of our students. The evening was also a testament to our Arts staff and all who contributed their time, expertise, and generous collaboration to create such an expansive celebration of student learning.

Courage, Conviction, and a Grand Final
We also celebrate our remarkable Year 9 Debating Team, who finished as runners-up in the Queensland Debating Union Grand Final. Reaching the Grand Final was an extraordinary achievement, reflecting the students’ intellectual agility, courage, teamwork, and commitment.

While the official trophy may have gone elsewhere, we remain convinced that, had there been a percentage cup, our team would have been emphatically triumphant!

We congratulate our debaters and sincerely thank the staff who prepared, encouraged, and championed them throughout the competition. Our students represented the College with distinction and demonstrated the power of thinking deeply, speaking confidently, listening respectfully, and entering the contest of ideas with courage.

I recently attended the 2026 Association of Secondary Religious Education Assistant Principals (ASREAP) conference, entitled In the image and likeness: Right relationships through the Catholic lens. Keynote speakers and workshops explored philosophy, theology and practices of whole-person care, building cultures of right relationships and responses to emerging understandings of the human person. Through listening and dialogue at the conference, I was reminded of how Mary Aikenhead embraced the dignity of the human person and applied this principle in her own time and context. Like Mary, we are called to respond to the signs of our times by giving priority to the teaching of human dignity that is at the heart of the Church’s social doctrine and mission. Seeing each person, unreservedly, as the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27), and working to ensure that all may have life abundantly (John 10:10) must remain our focus as we engage with the challenges of being human in “not simply a time of change, but a change of epoch” (Pope Francis, 2013).

Educating young people to affirm, respect and protect the dignity of all is not solely the remit of our Wellbeing program, the College Service and Outreach program, nor is it confined to the HPE or RE curriculum. It is a whole-school endeavour that is made plain through countless everyday and milestone moments at MSM. The speeches of our prospective College Captains and the encouragement each received from the community; the respectful process of voting and acclamation of our 2027 Student Leadership Team; students’ generous sharing of their gifts at MSM’s Got Talent, and the joy and appreciation being expressed by the audience and judges; the smiles and generosity of students raising money for Project Safe Haven at EkkaCANza; the provocations to deeply think and feel presented at our Arts Showcase; and the enthusiasm with which students volunteer in the wider community all provide clear evidence of this commitment. MSM students, led and supported by staff, embody service of each other and the marginalised, centred on justice and dignity, every day.

Human dignity was certainly at the centre of the ‘Justice and Hope’ Staff Retreat held on 14 August. Through gentle encounter and meaningful service work, staff were drawn into deeper understanding of how the dignity of every person can be served in the Charity Way. Staff first participated in a Q&A forum with Tim Noonan and Roby Curtis of Emmanuel City Mission, led by Kate Simpson. During the middle part of the day, staff engaged in a small group activity of their choosing: First Nations Art or History walks; building flat pack furniture for families accessing the services of RizeUp; stitching felt hearts for St Vincent’s Health patients and families; or lunch service at Emmanuel City Mission. These experiences were shared, consolidated and woven into our College identity in a closing liturgy. 

Reflecting on the life and achievements of the late, great, Dolly Parton has also given us all cause to ponder what commitment to the human dignity of all can look like. Raised in the Pentecostal tradition, Parton drew on her Christian faith to impel her life’s work. Her generous philanthropy made a difference to the lives of ordinary people, as she fostered literacy, assisted those whose lives had been affected by natural disasters, and funded COVID-19 research. Throughout her career, Parton also used her platform to challenge superficial judgments (“Don’t judge me by the cover, ‘cause I’m a real good book!”), advocate for women, and proudly identify with her rural and impoverished roots. In her quiet work and public statements, Parton consistently affirmed the intrinsic worth of all people, regardless of their background or appearance. Her life demonstrates that recognising human dignity requires both holding respect for individuals and taking action to enable their flourishing. 

We pray that the whole Mt St Michael’s community continues to be inspired by the example of Mary Aikenhead, responding to the presence of Christ in every person through service, encounter and compassion, and helping to build a world where the dignity of all is recognised and upheld.

One of the highlights of the past fortnight has been the completion of the 2027 Student Leadership Team discernment process. It has been inspiring to witness the willingness of so many Year 11 students to step forward and serve the College community. Students nominated for a range of leadership positions, including College Captain, Academic Captain, Cultural Captain, Mission Captain, Sport Captain, House Captain and Wellbeing Ambassador.

The quality of applications submitted this year was exceptional. Students demonstrated a thoughtful understanding of leadership as service, a clear commitment to supporting their peers and a desire to contribute positively to the life of the College. We were particularly impressed by the care, reflection and vision evident throughout the application process.

A special congratulations to the students elected to the 2027 Student Leadership Team.

I would also like to acknowledge the students who were shortlisted for the role of College Captain. The quality of the speeches delivered to the College community was outstanding and reflected the courage, authenticity and commitment of these young women. Our students should be incredibly proud of the way they represented themselves throughout the discernment process.

Thank you to Acting Year 11 Pastoral Leader Mrs Madonna Kelly, the Year 11 team and all staff who supported students throughout this process. We look forward to working alongside our newly elected leaders as they prepare to lead the College community in 2027.

In Positive Education this fortnight our Year 7 and Year 11 students participated in buddy coaching sessions, further strengthening the connections that exist across year levels and providing opportunities for students to develop coaching, mentoring and relationship-building skills. These programs play an important role in supporting belonging and connection within our school community.

Students in Years 7 and 9 also participated in the Brainstorm Productions Cyberia presentation, which explored online safety, digital citizenship and the responsible use of technology. These sessions complement the broader wellbeing and digital safety initiatives that are delivered across the College and provide students with practical strategies for navigating an increasingly online world.

Earlier this month, students also contributed their perspectives through our Student Bullying Survey as part of the College's ongoing Anti-Bullying Rapid Review implementation work. The survey provided valuable insights into students' experiences and perceptions of bullying and school safety. Encouragingly, the data highlighted that students strongly value the support available through the Wellbeing Centre, College Counsellors, Pastoral Leaders and teachers, and recognise the important role that positive relationships play in creating a safe school environment. Students also identified the importance of peer connection, education and clear reporting pathways in preventing bullying and harmful behaviour. 

Following the survey, staff participated in professional learning focused on responding to bullying and harmful behaviour in line with the recommendations of the Anti-Bullying Rapid Review. The session explored evidence-based prevention, early intervention, trauma-informed responses and the importance of consistent school-wide practices. Staff reviewed student voice data and reflected on ways to further strengthen safety, belonging and positive relationships across the College.

As a College, we remain committed to partnering with students, staff and families to create a school environment where every young woman feels known, safe, supported and able to flourish. The leadership, engagement and thoughtful contributions of our students throughout the past fortnight provide a strong reminder of the many strengths that exist within our community.

Afterschool Tutoring (Trial) - Term 4 - Tuesday afternoons (Weeks 2-8) 
Mt St Michael's College is pleased to announce an optional after school tutoring opportunity for students in Years 7 to 12. The tutoring program, delivered by MindBridge Education, will run here at the College and will provide structured academic support in Year 7 to 12 subjects in a focused and supervised environment. Sessions will run on Tuesdays from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, in Weeks 2-8 in Term 4, 2026. 

Sessions are two hours in duration and follow the Pomodoro 50‑20‑50 study structure designed to maximise focus, strengthen understanding, and improve retention. Students are supported in small groups with a 1 to 4 or 1 to 5 tutor to student ratio, ensuring personalised guidance and meaningful academic support. The program is delivered by 99+ ATAR tutors and high performing university students with strong academic backgrounds and mentoring experience. Pricing is $50 per session when paid for the term or $60 per session with weekly payments.

To assist with MindBridge’s planning, families are invited to register their interest via the Expression of Interest Form: https://enrol-waitlist.mindbridgeedu.com.au/mt-st-michaels-college
If you have any questions about this after school tutoring opportunity, please do not hesitate to contact families@mindbridgeedu.com.au
 

Year 12 Holiday Boot Camp
MindBridge Education is running four mornings of Year 12 tutoring on campus in the September holidays, Monday 21 to Thursday 24 September, 9:30am to 11:30am. Sessions are small group. Students bring their own work and tutors circulate all morning. Every tutor is a recent QCAA graduate, most with an ATAR of 99 or above, and all hold a current Blue Card. $45 for a single morning (discount for the whole week). 

Choose the mornings, the subjects and book here:
https://enrol.mindbridgeedu.com.au/camp/mt-st-michaels-college

Exam Study 
As we approach the end of the term, students should now be turning their attention to their upcoming end-of-term examinations. To prepare effectively, it is important that they establish a study schedule that supports consistent revision and helps reduce last-minute stress. The first step in creating a study schedule is to identify exactly which examinations they need to prepare for. Students should map out when their examinations are scheduled, allocate dedicated study times, and consider other commitments that may impact their availability. There is no single “right” way to design a study schedule. A schedule should be personal and tailored to each student’s subjects and circumstances. The following tips may help in developing an effective plan:
 
📅 1. Evaluate current commitments
Use a calendar to record upcoming homework, co-curricular activities, and family commitments over the coming weeks. This will provide a clear picture of available study time. If the schedule is too crowded, it may need to be adjusted or a temporary reduction in some activities needed to prioritise revision.

📝 2. Develop a study schedule
Once the available time is known, add study sessions to the calendar just like any other commitment. Using the Assessment Calendar, plan which subjects will be studied on which days to ensure adequate time is devoted to each.

🚫 3. Remove distractions
Focus is key. Phones and other distractions should be removed during study sessions. Every interruption requires students to refocus, which can reduce efficiency and effectiveness.

✅ 4. Stick to the schedule
Consistency is essential. The schedule should be realistic, flexible, and reviewed weekly, adjusting as needed once subjects are completed. The greatest success comes from maintaining the habit of following the plan.

🤝 5. Maintain accountability
Some students benefit from studying with a peer, which can provide motivation and opportunities for collaboration. If your daughter chooses this approach, it’s important to work with someone who will stay on task. If studying with others becomes more social than productive, independent study may be the better option.

I wish all students every success in their upcoming examinations. With a well-planned study schedule and commitment to following it, they will be well placed to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

Year 5 Excursion – Eureka Excursions
The Year 5 staff and students participated in an engaging excursion at ‘Eureka Creek’ last week, an interactive learning program at Eureka Excursions. Students were immersed in Australia’s history and culture through role-plays, gold panning, tent-making and mapping activities.

The excursion provided a memorable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, and we were delighted by the students' enthusiasm, curiosity and engagement throughout the day.

Junior School Debating Program – Debate 1
Congratulations to our Year 6 debaters for participating in their first debate of the season last week! For many of the girls, this was their first experience of a formal debate, and they should be commended for the confidence, composure and courage they demonstrated. I would also like to extend a sincere thank you to the Year 5 students who attended to support the teams. Their enthusiasm and encouragement exemplified the wonderful MSM spirit that we value so highly.

Book Week Celebrations
This week, our community came together to celebrate the magic of reading during Book Week. One of the highlights was the annual Book Parade, where students across the College showcased their creativity by dressing as beloved book characters. It was wonderful to see so many Year 5 and Year 6 students get in the spirit of the event!

Book Week is a wonderful opportunity to inspire a lifelong love of reading and to remind students of the joy that books bring. We thank our wonderful Library staff, Ms Archard, Ms Copeman-Hill, Ms Byerlee and Ms Rose for their organisation of engaging Book Week activities throughout the week, including the session for our Junior School students. During this lesson, the Year 5 and 6 students competed in Fairy Tale and Nursery Rhyme Trivia/Kahoot in cross year level teams, and were able to access the Book Week Photo Booth and games.

We also extend our thanks to Ms Roberts, who transformed the Junior School with a wonderful nursery rhyme farm-themed display!

Junior School Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards
Congratulations to the following students for receiving Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards at our Junior School Assembly this week:

Zara F (5H) - Zara, you are a consistently happy and engaging member of our Year 5 classroom, bringing positivity and enthusiasm to each day. Your kindness, compassion and thoughtfulness shine through in the way you interact with your peers and school staff, always making others feel valued and included. Your warm and friendly nature helps create a supportive and welcoming environment for everyone around you. You should be very proud of the joy and encouragement you bring to our school community through your caring words and actions.

Matilda (5H) - Matilda, you demonstrated outstanding respect, kindness and leadership during Numeracy groups this week. You willingly supported your peers with their understanding of 3-digit by 2-digit multiplication, patiently explaining strategies and encouraging others to persevere with confidence. Your thoughtful assistance and positive attitude helped create a supportive learning environment where everyone felt valued. You should be incredibly proud of the caring and respectful way you contributed to the success of others, living out our MSM values throughout the lesson.

Rosie (5L) - Rosie has demonstrated wonderful resilience as she works towards her goal of slowing down when speaking in front of the class. She consistently puts her hand up to volunteer, showing courage and determination to practise this skill. Rosie listens carefully to teacher feedback and applies strategies, such as taking a deep breath before speaking, to help her communicate more clearly and confidently. Her willingness to persevere and keep improving is something to be very proud of.

Isabelle (5L) - Isabelle has shown outstanding resilience while managing an arm injury. Despite having her arm in a sling, she has approached school life with a positive attitude and determination. Isabelle has thoughtfully problem-solved ways to participate fully in classroom and playground activities, making adjustments when needed so she can continue to learn and play alongside her peers. She has also continued to show kindness and responsibility by offering to help with classroom jobs, such as cleaning the board. Isabelle's perseverance, adaptability and willingness to contribute to our classroom community are truly commendable.

Savannah (6C) - Savannah has shown wonderful focus and determination this term. She has worked diligently to prepare for assessments by staying organised, taking notes and asking thoughtful questions to deepen her understanding. Her commitment to learning demonstrates maturity, independence and a genuine desire to do her best. We are proud of the effort she consistently puts into her learning and the positive example she sets for others. Congratulations, Savannah.

Aria (6C) - For consistently bringing a positive attitude to your learning and contributing to a supportive classroom environment. Aria, you bring kindness and encouragement to your peers. It is great to see you offer responses to class discussions, and applying feedback to strengthen and expand your written responses. Keep up the super effort.

Emily (6J) - Congratulations, Emily, on your hard work and determination this semester. You have demonstrated the learning behaviour of resilience by asking thoughtful questions, seeking clarification when needed and embracing feedback more positively to strengthen your understanding and continue making progress. This has been particularly evident in Mathematics, where you have persevered through challenging problems and shown a willingness to keep trying, even when tasks have been difficult. Your resilience was also evident during our recent camp to Canberra, where you approached every experience with a positive attitude. Well done, Emily!

Neve (6J) - Congratulations, Neve, on your wonderful growth and achievements this semester. You have demonstrated growing confidence in the classroom by sharing your understanding in both small group and whole class settings, and it has been fantastic to see you contribute and express your ideas. You have also demonstrated the learning behaviour of resilience, particularly during camp, where you approached every challenge with a positive attitude, took everything in your stride and enthusiastically participated in all activities. It is wonderful to see you shine in all that you do, and we look forward to seeing your confidence and resilience continue to flourish.

Katie Jordan
Head of Junior School