Message from the Principal

Farewell Message

As I write this final newsletter article as Principal of our wonderful Catholic learning, community I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude, great pride and a full heart. After 19 years of service to the Sacred Heart community, it is time for me to step aside and make room for the next chapter in the life of the College.

Sacred Heart has always been more than just a school. It is a place of faith, hope and purpose. It is a community where young women learn not only to excel academically, but also to lead with compassion, to speak with integrity, and to act with courage. To have been entrusted with the stewardship of this mission has been one of the greatest honours of my life.

The quality holistic education offered at Sacred Heart Girls’ College has always been one of our greatest strengths. Our students are nurtured not only academically but also spiritually, emotionally, physically and socially, allowing them to grow into confident, compassionate young women. Supported by an excellent learning environment—one that is inclusive, future-focused and grounded in our Catholic values—our students are encouraged to strive for personal excellence while developing a deep sense of responsibility and service to others.

To our students: thank you for your energy, your questions, your creativity, and your unwavering spirit. You are the heartbeat of the College. Watching you learn, grow and take your place as confident young women has been a daily reminder of why our work in education matters so deeply. I hope you continue to embrace challenges, celebrate your strengths and support one another with kindness.

To our families: thank you for your trust and partnership. Sacred Heart thrives because of the genuine collaboration between home and school. Your encouragement, your engagement and your belief in our vision have made all the difference. It has been a privilege to walk alongside you in the formation and education of your daughters.

To our staff—teachers, support personnel, leaders, and everyone who works behind the scenes: you are the soul of this College. Your professionalism, dedication and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our students have inspired me every day. Sacred Heart is strong because you give so much of yourselves to ensure that every student is known, supported and challenged. It has been an honour to lead such a remarkable team.

And finally, to the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions and the wider Sacred Heart community: thank you for grounding our work in a rich heritage of faith, justice and service. The legacy of Euphrasie Barbier continues to guide and shape us, calling each of us to “go forward with a courageous heart.” That call has accompanied me throughout my time here, and it will remain with me long after I leave.

As I retire, I carry with me countless memories—of liturgies and assemblies, celebrations and challenges, moments of shared joy and times when our community’s strength was tested. Through it all, one truth has remained constant: Sacred Heart Girls’ College is a place where faith and learning come together in extraordinary ways.

I leave confident in the future of the College and excited for the possibilities that lie ahead under the leadership of Julie Swanson. Sacred Heart is in good hands, and I know it will continue to flourish.

Thank you for the privilege of serving as your Principal. May God’s blessings be with each of you and may the spirit of Sacred Heart continue to inspire your journey as we always strive upwards.

May the peace and joy of Christ fill your hearts this Christmas, and may His light guide the Sacred Heart community into the New Year with hope, courage and gratitude.

As we celebrate the birth of Jesus and look to the year ahead, may God bless our students, families and staff with safety, renewal and the confidence to walk forward in faith.

May His love remain with us always and may the spirit of Christmas inspire generous and compassionate hearts throughout the year to come.