A Message from the Principal: A Strong Start to 2026

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

What an extremely positive and energetic start to the new year at Our Lady of Mercy College. I wish to extend a warm welcome to all students, staff and families. It has been genuinely heart‑warming to see our young people settling in so confidently, engaging in their learning, building connections and contributing to the strong sense of community that continues to grow across the College. Thank you for the support you show our school.

Our Year 12 students recently enjoyed a memorable and beautiful evening at the Mantra Lighthouse for their College Ball. It was a wonderful way for them to mark the beginning of their final‑year journey. I would like to thank the dedicated staff who generously gave their time to supervise the event and help make it such a special night for our students.

This week, we had multiple events for our Year 10, 11 and Student Leaders. The Year 10 and 11 Pastoral Days are important opportunities for our young people to pause, reflect and connect. We are grateful for the experienced external facilitators and our staff who guided these sessions and I commend the students on their positive engagement and willingness to participate fully. Our Year 11 students attended the RAC Road Ready Excursion and many told me that the day really opened their eyes to the responsibilities involved in having a motor vehicle licence. They clearly connected with the message of the program.

Our newest members, the Year 7 cohort, brought great enthusiasm to their Activity Days. They were fortunate to enjoy some cooler and very pleasant weather, which allowed them to fully immerse themselves in activities at Pelican Point and at the College. These days play a big role in helping students form friendships, build confidence and feel at home in their new environment. We are proud of how smoothly they have settled into college life.

We look forward to welcoming our all Year 7 parents and caregivers at the Year 7 Parent Night on Monday 23 February at 6:00 pm.

Thank you to all families who attended the Parent Information Nights for Years 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12. By your attendance, it recognised the importance in establishing a partnership together, highlighting your commitment to the wellbeing and success of our young people. We will ensure all information shared across these evenings is available to all families, and once the final evening concludes on Monday, we will gather feedback to help us continue improving these sessions.

I would like to gently remind families that students may only leave the College during the school day with parent or caregiver approval. All departures must occur through the Administration Office, where students are formally signed out. This ensures accurate records are maintained and that every student is accounted for at all times.

For student safety, I have asked teachers not to release students from class unless written confirmation from home has been received. If prior notice has not been provided, parents will need to speak with a staff member in administration who will organise for the student to be collected from their classroom. These procedures are in place to support the wellbeing of all students and I sincerely thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

Thank you to the families who have reached out regarding the recent changes to Parent to Student communication via Direct Message on SEQTA. All your feedback has been taken onboard and has been appreciated.

Our intention in adjusting these settings is simple: we want to ensure communication during school hours supports our students. When concerns arise throughout the day, it is important students access the appropriate support available onsite rather than trying to manage situations on their own through direct messaging.

To assist with this, we have clear processes:

• A dedicated student phone is available in the Administration Office for students who need to contact a parent or caregiver. Staff are always nearby to provide guidance and support.

• If a parent or family member needs to pass a message on to a student, the Administration Office will relay this promptly.

This approach allows staff to provide the right supervision and context where needed and ensures matters are addressed appropriately and in real time.

We have notified our students of these procedures over the last few days and will continue to do so, to ensure clarity for everyone.

We understand changes to communication practices may take some getting used to, especially when families are accustomed to a different system. Please know, every decision made has been with careful thought and with student welfare at the centre.

Thank you once again for your continued partnership and support. Our community thrives when we work together and I look forward to the many meaningful learning experiences the term ahead will bring.

Vince Bellini Principal