An unusual and challenging Term 2 has come to a close at Harkaway Hills College. The past 10-weeks looked very different to what we have envisaged for your children when we planned the school year, but despite the difficulties, these weeks were nonetheless filled with enriching experiences both within and outside the classroom for all our students.

There were not excursions or incursions this term. No sports’ days, no musical production rehearsals and no social gatherings. However, instead of reflecting on what we may have missed out on, as all of these events and gatherings will come later in the year, we can focus on what we have gained in Term 2, 2020.

While our student body was dispersed, either by undertaking social distancing within our restructured classrooms or by taking part in remote education at home, we have all gained resilience, hope, and a deeper understanding of what is truly important. We have gained a stronger school community that can persevere through anything.

Despite the limitations due to COVID-19 restrictions, the term was not short of fun. There were tea parties, soup days, celebrations, games, and countless fun activities to enrich the school day. Our May pilgrimages were particularly special as the students gathered to pray for the intentions of all our school families. We were given the gift of having Holy Mass at school throughout the whole term, a rare privilege that nourished the parents, staff and students during this uncertain time. All things considered; it really has been a wonderful Term 2.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our extremely dedicated staff for going above and beyond to keep the school running and your children learning this term. Their dedication and hard work have been exceptional. Ultimately, the wellbeing of your families was our priority throughout the term, and the fact that your children were able to learn, grow and flourish no matter where they were being educated, shows that this has been a successful 10-weeks.

My sincerest thanks to all of you, the parents of Harkaway Hills College, who had to make difficult and brave decisions for your families during this time. The strain on families during the COVID-19 crisis has been considerable, and it has been an honour to be able to support you through the care and education of your children, either face-to-face or remotely, this term.

Please join me in wishing all the best to Grace Hesse who will be leaving Harkaway Hills College at the end of the school holidays to begin preparing for her wedding and relocation to Sydney. Grace has been a wonderful asset to the school community, and we will miss her. An announcement regarding Grace’s replacement will be made as soon as possible.

May all your families have a safe and restful school break. Keep up the daily reading! I look forward to seeing everyone refreshed and ready for an exciting Term 3.

Mary Broadsmith

Principal