Semester 1 at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs has now come to a close and it has certainly been filled with energy and enthusiasm. Enormous amounts of work go into preparing high quality learning and teaching experiences, as well as facilities such as classrooms, IT facilities, sporting facilities and the College grounds. I thank the teaching, administrative, support and maintenance staff involved in this important work as it contributes significantly to the comprehensive educational environment for our students.
As we reach the end of another semester, I am filled with gratitude for the achievements, growth, and spirit that have defined our community these past months. Our journey together, marked by learning, challenges, and triumphs, reflects the essence of our mission as a Catholic secondary school.
Our students have also embodied the teachings of Christ through their actions. The various social justice projects and initiatives undertaken by our students have demonstrated their commitment to living out the Gospel values. As Matthew 5:16 reminds us, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven". Indeed, the light of our students has shone brightly in our school and wider community, bringing hope and joy to many.
This semester, we have also been blessed with numerous opportunities to come together in worship and prayer. Our liturgical celebrations, retreat and reflection days, and daily moments of prayer have strengthened our faith and united us as a community.
To our parents and carers, thank you for your continuous support and partnership. Your involvement in your children's education and spiritual formation is invaluable. Proverbs 22:6 tells us, "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it". Your guidance at home, combined with our efforts here at school, lays a strong foundation for your children's futures.
As the first Semester draws to a conclusion I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs being a safe and supportive community.
Wishing everyone a safe and relaxing school holiday period.
Term 3 Co-curricular Clubs and Groups and Learning Support Programs
Participation in extra-curricular activities, including creative arts and sports, leadership and culture, has a significant impact on a student's learning growth in the cognitive, affective and physical domains of learning. Extra-curricular activities help build social, emotional and physical skills; they teach independence, resilience and teamwork; they build initiative and creativity; they teach persistence, problem-solving, communication and collaboration (Bloomfield & Barber, 2011; Eccies, Barber, Stone & Hunt, 2003; Durlak & Weissberg, 2007). Longitudinal research from Australia suggests that students who participate in a greater variety of activities have higher levels of academic and social self-concept, and general self-worth (Blomfield, Barber & Modecki, 2013).
We are proud that at Catholic Regional College we have an extensive range of Co-curricular Clubs and Groups as well as Learning Support Programs available to all students. I encourage parents to click on the links below and discuss with their child which co-curricular club or learning support program they would like to be part of in Semester 2.
Term 3 Learning Support Programs
Uganda Project
We continue to build on the very positive relationships that has been established between CRC Caroline Springs and St Luke’s parish as well as our sister school St Francis primary school in Kizinga Uganda.
"In a world where there is so much wealth, so many resources to feed everyone, it is incomprehensible how there can be so many hungry children, so many children without an education, so many poor".
Pope Francis
By reaching out in friendship and solidarity with the community of St Francis, Kizinga we have given hope to hundreds of children and their families who otherwise couldn’t access education. The support of our students has enabled the construction and furnishing of two brick classroom blocks; a food program; the refurbishment of the church with a concrete floor; and soon the installation of water tanks. Compassion, empathy and love for one another are the cornerstones of our teaching at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs and we are immensely proud of our community for continuing to embrace the Uganda Project.
In 2024, we remain steadfast in our commitment to driving meaningful change and addressing ongoing challenges. To this end, our focus turns towards several critical objectives:
- Further Developing a holistic and sustainable food program encompassing breakfast and lunch provisions
- Implementing sustainable water harvesting solutions, including the installation of advanced water tanks
- Establishing an outdoor kitchen/cooking area to enhance food preparation facilities
- Continuing our support for essential building projects and providing necessary furniture for future expansions
As we embark on this new chapter, our fundraising target for 2024 stands at $30,000. Building upon the spirit of solidarity and compassion that defines our community, we ask in kindness that each student contributes $20 towards this wonderful cause. Families with more than two children are asked to make a family donation of $50.
The collection process remains simple and efficient: students submit their contributions to their homeroom teacher, who will record their names on the class list.
The 2024 St. Francis Kizinga - Uganda Fundraiser will once again take centre stage, serving as a heartfelt reminder of our shared values and collective responsibility. It is an opportunity not only to uphold our Catholic faith but also to reflect on how we can actively embody our college motto in service to others.
In this project, we draw inspiration from the timeless words of Caritas: ‘for all future generations.’ Our commitment to creating a brighter future knows no bounds, and we eagerly anticipate your unconditional love and support as we continue to make a difference in the lives of countless children and families.
Construction is well underway of a new three classroom block and your on-going support and generosity of the Uganda program continues to impact the St. Francis Kizinga community.
Below is a recent video message of thanks to the Catholic Regional College Community from Fr. Emma Kiwinicha and the students from St Francis Catholic Primary school Kizinga, Uganda.
Should you have any queries or require further information regarding the 2024 St. Francis Kizinga - Uganda Fundraiser Project, please do not hesitate to contact the College.
Together, let us journey forward with compassion, purpose, and hope.
Read more about it or Donate here
Term 3 Student Free Day - Monday 15 July
Please note that Monday 15 July will be a staff Faith Development Day (student free day). Students will return to the college on Tuesday 16 July. Please place this student free day date into your calendar.