Dear members of the Mount Lilydale Mercy College community

Welcome to this newsletter as we approach the end of May and the end of autumn. Winter certainly fast approaches. I hope you enjoy the opportunity to rug up and enjoy the winter season. Although it might be cold, sometimes grey and wet, it is important that we enjoy some fresh air each day and marvel at the beauty that surrounds us. This Sunday we also enjoy the Feast of Pentecost which many prize as the birthday of our Church. I hope you find the time to attend your local Church to be a part of this Feast.

(1) Child Safety

Today I wish to draw your attention to the matter of Child Safety.

In an era where child safety is of paramount importance, our College takes great pride in being a Child Safe College. We are dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every child entrusted to our care. With the utmost commitment, we strive to create a nurturing environment that fosters growth, learning and protection. As part of our ongoing efforts, we encourage all students and parents to understand their rights and familiarise themselves with the measures we undertake to prevent child abuse.

Working in accordance with State Legislation
Our College operates in strict accordance with State and Federal Legislation, which establishes guidelines and frameworks to safeguard children from harm. By implementing and supporting The Child Safe Standards, we aim to create a safe and inclusive community that protects children from any form of abuse or neglect.

Know your rights
For students, it is essential to be aware of their rights within our Child Safe College. Each child has the right to feel safe, respected and valued. We encourage all students to understand that they have the right to:

  • be treated with dignity and respect by all members of the community
  • express their thoughts, opinions, and concerns without fear of retribution
  • seek support and report any form of abuse or unsafe situations to a trusted adult within the College
  • receive appropriate education and guidance on personal safety and wellbeing.

Promoting child safety
Our College employs a multi-faceted approach to promote the safety of children and prevent child abuse. Information about the specific measures we undertake can be found on our website. Some of the key initiatives include:

1. Stringent staff recruitment and training

    We ensure that all staff members undergo screening processes, including police checks and working with children clearances. Additionally, regular training programs are conducted to equip our staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to identify, prevent and respond to child safety concerns.

    2. Creating a culture of vigilance

      We encourage a culture of vigilance within our College community, where everyone plays an active role in keeping children safe. Students, staff and parents are encouraged to be observant and promptly report any concerns or incidents.

      3. Providing education on child safety

        Our curriculum includes age-appropriate education on personal safety, respectful relationships and understanding appropriate boundaries. Through these educational initiatives, we aim to empower children with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and seek help when needed.

        As a Child Safe College, the safety and wellbeing of every child are at the core of our values and practices. We are committed to implementing The Child Safe Standards and ensuring compliance with all Legislation. We encourage all students to familiarise themselves with their rights and actively participate in our efforts to maintain a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment. Together, we can create a community where children thrive and grow, protected from harm and empowered to reach their full potential. For more information on our child safety initiatives, please visit the College website.

        (2) Debutante Balls

        In a completely different vain, the Deb Ball season has started for 2023 with the first of these events being held last Saturday night. I must report that the venue has changed, and although this year we do not have the grandeur of the Melbourne Town hall or the Centre Ivanhoe built in the art deco period, we do have a magnificent formal ballroom at Cathie’s Lane Reception Centre.

        I must admit that it is an honour and a privilege to be guest of honour at all our Balls and the person to whom our students are presented. I also must admit how proud we can all be of them as they present each night to complete the formal dances they have been learning. The Debutante Ball is indeed a wonderful family occasion, hosted by the College Parents and Friends’ Association (P&F) and I look forward to two further Balls being held this weekend. I am grateful to all the staff and parents who work to ensure the success of these occasions which are important rites of passage in the lives of our young people as we guide and help them to find their way as they impact this world.

        In the Spirit of Catherine,
        May God bless each and every one of you

        Philip A Morison
        Principal