From the Principal

Student Leadership @ SICG

As a College we have commenced the process of selecting our student leaders for 2025. This is a significant process which includes interviews, speeches, staff voting and student voting. Student leadership at Saint Ignatius College is integral to the development of a vibrant, supportive, and mission-driven school community. Embedded in the Ignatian Charism, which emphasises forming "young people for and with others," student leadership at Saint Ignatius College goes beyond traditional roles of responsibility. It embodies the Jesuit ideals of service, reflection, and discernment, providing students with a framework to grow as leaders who are deeply committed to the common good.

When students take on leadership roles, they actively engage in shaping the school’s culture, ensuring it reflects the values of respect, inclusivity, and justice. This involvement benefits the entire student body by creating a more connected and empathetic community. Leadership opportunities at SICG allow students to practice key skills such as communication, problem-solving, and ethical decision-making, all while fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among their peers.

Furthermore, student leadership at Saint Ignatius College is a tangible expression of the Ignatian Charism, linking personal growth with service to others. It cultivates leaders who are not only academically and socially adept but also spiritually grounded, ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

I extend my best wishes to all students who have applied for a student leadership position. May you find every success in your endeavours.

Staff Professional Development Day

Friday 30 August will be a staff professional development day. This day will be utilised to support staff in the development of a Behaviour Curriculum and develop strategies to support staff wellbeing.

We feel developing a Behaviour Curriculum at Saint Ignatius College is essential to fostering a school environment that reflects our core values of conscience, competence and compassion. A well-structured Behaviour Curriculum provides clear expectations and consistent guidelines for students, helping them understand the importance of their actions and how they impact others. This proactive approach to behaviour management is not just about maintaining order within the school; it’s about instilling lifelong values aligned with the Ignatian principles of justice, empathy, and service to others.

By explicitly teaching positive behaviours and reinforcing them through regular practice, we create a culture where students are encouraged to make thoughtful, ethical decisions. This aligns with the Ignatian focus on reflection and discernment, guiding students to consider the consequences of their actions in light of the greater good. A Behaviour Curriculum also supports the development of emotional intelligence and resilience, equipping students with the tools they need to navigate challenges and conflicts in a constructive manner.

Our aim is the Behaviour Curriculum at Saint Ignatius College will contribute to a sense of belonging and safety within the school community. When students know what is expected of them and feel supported in meeting those expectations, they are more likely to thrive academically and socially, embodying the Ignatian ethos in all aspects of their lives.

Meg Durham: Staff Wellbeing Professional Development (PD) session, is a valuable initiative that focuses on enhancing the overall wellbeing of our educators. By addressing key areas such as mental health, stress management, and work-life balance, this PD equips staff with practical strategies to maintain their wellbeing in a demanding profession. The benefits of this program are significant, as it promotes a healthier, more positive work environment, leading to increased staff morale and effectiveness. Research suggests that when educators prioritise their own wellbeing, they are better equipped to support their students, fostering a more vibrant and productive school community.

Wear it Purple Day

The College celebrated 'Wear It Purple Day' on Thursday 30 August, 2024. As a College this is a powerful expression of the school's commitment to inclusivity, respect, and the dignity of every individual. This day promotes and aligns with core Catholic values of love, compassion, and social justice and emphasises the inherent worth of every person, made in the image and likeness of God. 'Wear It Purple Day' offers an opportunity for the school community to affirm this dignity, ensuring that all students feel valued and accepted for who they are.

At Saint Ignatius College, celebrating 'Wear It Purple Day' is about educating our community on the importance of empathy and understanding. It encourages dialogue, reduces stigma, and fosters a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone. This aligns with the Gospel's call to love one another and to stand in solidarity with those who may feel marginalised or excluded.

I would like to thank our Justice Coordinator, Ms Nicole Sadler, and all staff and students who supported the day.

Michael Timms | Acting College Principal