Dear Parents/Caregivers,
At St Vincent's, we are committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity, respect, and reconciliation. Our curriculum incorporates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, histories, and cultures to promote awareness and understanding among our students. We believe in the power of education to challenge stereotypes, build empathy, and create a more inclusive society.
On Sorry Day, and during Reconciliation Week, our student Cultural Team continue to encourage us to engage in meaningful discussions about the Stolen Generations, participate in activities that promote understanding and empathy and explore resources that shed light on the experiences of Indigenous Australians.
Together, we continue to work towards reconciliation and strive for a future where all can live in harmony, equality, and mutual respect.
As we observe Sorry Day, we remember the strength, resilience, and cultural richness of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
May we all play our part in the healing process and contribute to a just and inclusive society.
As part of our ongoing commitment to Making Jesus Real in our daily lives, we have chosen TUP: Tolerance, Understanding, and Patience as our focus for the next two weeks. These virtues are essential in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Tolerance calls us to accept and embrace the diversity of individuals and cultures within our school community. It means recognizing and appreciating our differences, whether they be in backgrounds, beliefs, abilities, or perspectives. By promoting tolerance, we create a space where everyone feels included and celebrated for who they are.
Understanding goes hand in hand with tolerance. It involves actively seeking to learn about others, their experiences, and their stories. When we take the time to understand one another, we break down barriers and build bridges of empathy and compassion. Understanding helps us cultivate deeper connections and develop a genuine appreciation for the richness of our diverse community.
Patience is a virtue that allows us to extend grace and kindness to one another. It reminds us to be patient with ourselves and with those around us as we navigate challenges, differences of opinion, or moments of frustration. By exercising patience, we create an atmosphere of support and understanding, fostering growth and personal development for all.
Throughout the next two weeks, our students will engage in various activities, discussions, and reflections centered around tolerance, understanding, and patience. We encourage parents and guardians to continue these conversations at home, reinforcing the values we promote at school.
Together, we strive to make Jesus real in our interactions, embracing tolerance, understanding, and patience as guiding principles in our daily lives. By living out these virtues, we create a community that mirrors Christ's love, where everyone feels valued, respected, and accepted for who they are.
May we all seek to live the coming weeks in a beautiful way.
Anne, Lorralie and Creed
PS. Today I will begin five weeks of Long Service Leave. During my time away I will be walking the Spanish Camino, following the Way of St James and visiting important Vincentian sites in Paris. I leave, safe in the knowledge that our incredible Assistant Principals, Lorralie Owen and Creed Yorke, with the assistance of all our amazing staff, will care for our community beautifully and my absence will barely be noticed. I look forward to seeing you again at the start of Term Three. I will keep you all in my prayers. Anne
