Dear Parents, Students, Staff and Friends of Chisholm Catholic College,

“In our reading, we are enriched by what we receive from the author and this allows us in turn to grow inwardly” (Pope Francis, 2024)

I felt very appreciative to be afforded a short period of leave over the past fortnight and would like to extend my gratitude to Mrs Flower, who undertook the role of College Principal during that time. I thank also, all other staff and members of the community who accommodated my absence.

It was delightful to return to our College Book Week events, an important opportunity for us to pause and celebrate one of the most powerful foundations of learning: reading.

While Book Week is often associated with colourful displays and special activities, its deeper purpose is to encourage young people to discover the enjoyment, the wonder and the lifelong benefits that come from reading. At Chisholm Catholic College, we want every student to experience reading not simply as an academic requirement, but as a source of knowledge, imagination and personal growth.

In an age where young people are presented with an increasing number of digital distractions, fostering strong reading habits is more important than ever. The ability to read deeply, think critically and engage thoughtfully with ideas, remains fundamental to success in school and beyond.

I would like to thank Mrs Hollingsworth and our e-Learning Team, and wider staff, for their ongoing commitment to promoting literacy and creating opportunities for students to engage with books throughout the year.

It was equally exciting to hear of the incredible success of the recent immersion for our STEAM students to the north, Walking In Both Worlds: The 2026 Kimberley Experience. Please read Mrs Pietropaolo’s report in this week’s Carolean to hear of the amazing experience and the incredible manner in which our students and staff contributed and engaged with our partners in Broome and beyond.

I confirm from last week’s Carolean in Mrs Flower’s report, that the College will very shortly publish our 2027 Term dates, with the exciting inclusion of the widely reported, three-week mid-year break.

As I conclude, may Book Week serve as a reminder to all of us of the transformative power of reading and the countless possibilities that begin with opening a book.

“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body” (Joseph Addison)

God bless.

Mr Simon Harvey
Principal