From The Principal: College News
As we approach the end of another remarkable school year, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the collective efforts that have defined 2023 at Servite College. Our students have demonstrated a sense of community, authentic Marian care and heartfelt service this year. As we reflect on the achievements and challenges of the year, I am reminded of the strength of our school community and the unwavering support that each member contributes. In this final iServi of the year, I am excited to celebrate the accomplishments of our students and express my appreciation for the tireless work of our entire Servite College family.
At yesterday’s Awards Night, I spoke about what it means to finish a school year well. The awards, grades, achievements, and accolades of students at the end of the year recognise not only test scores and grades, but more importantly they represent resilience, commitment, and hard work. They represent the successful balance between social life and schoolwork, sport and homework and family and friends. I congratulate all our students in finding success and accepting all the college has to offer them. Excellent achievements and results also represent good role modelling and outstanding family support, and therefore I congratulate the people at home, supporting the students who have achieved this year.
I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the incredible staff of Servite College for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout the year. Their tireless efforts have contributed significantly to the success and positive atmosphere that defines our college community. Whether in the classrooms, offices, or behind the scenes, each one of them plays a crucial role in shaping the educational experience for our students. It is through their collective commitment to excellence that Servite College continues to thrive as a centre of learning and personal growth. I thank them for their outstanding contributions and for making a lasting impact on the lives of our students.
I would also like to express profound gratitude to our amazing longstanding College Council Chair, Ms Gretchen Calder, who is stepping down at the end of 2023. Our College Council works very hard in the background to ensure our College is financially stable, well governed and responsible stewards for the Friars. Gretchen, your dedication, and leadership have been instrumental in guiding Servite College. Your contributions will be deeply missed, and we extend our sincere thanks for your years of service.
A special acknowledgment also to the Father Peter, Brother Stephen and the Servite Friars for entrusting us with the stewardship of the only Servite school in Australia. Your trust is an honour, and we are committed to upholding the values and mission that make Servite College exceptional. In a few days the inaugural staff Servite tour commences with 8 staff members walking the history of the Servite order in Italy to understand our history so we can better represent you. I wish these staff members all the best and safe travels.
Master Plan
I am thrilled to inform you of our Master Plan, a new chapter for Servite College commencing in 2024. Our aim is to increase student opportunity in engaging new learning environments. Our idealistic design, currently being drawn, encompasses a state-of-the-art new Montorsoli building – a hub of creativity and innovation, featuring dedicated spaces for food technology, woodwork, visual arts, music, textiles, engineering, and robotics. The master plan also envisions a new entrance to the College along Stoneham Street, joined by a new administration building; a serene and purposeful College chapel; an expanded gymnasium; and a revamped cafe – all designed to elevate the overall campus experience.
Excitingly, we will also be constructing a dynamic sporting complex on Morgans Street, complete with multipurpose zones catering to soccer, netball, basketball, volleyball, and various other activities. These developments underscore our commitment to providing a cutting-edge environment that provides the best facilities for our students and embraces their diverse talents. Together, we are shaping a future that reflects the excellence and innovation that defines Servite College.
I urge parents to become active members of the 2024 Servite Parents Association, known as SPA, as your involvement is vital to the continued success and growth of our community. Let us emulate the spirit of community for our students, to ensure they reach their full potential. More information will be published in 2024 – please consider joining us.
Staffing Updates
We also express gratitude to our long-standing staff members whose dedication has left a lasting mark on our college. Their service is invaluable, and we appreciate the passion you bring to the Servite family. I would like to farewell and thank:
- Franca Coutts
- Colin Roe
- Rick Williams
- Kris Moore
- Mary Gillooly
- Harry Klomp
- Nino D’Ettore
- Michael Fusco
- Annie Tubby
- Hayley Nankivell
- Megan Cantwell
- Joseph Riccardone
Going on leave for 2024:
- Alice Potter
- Kirsty Greenland
- Peter Jones
Uniform Shop
The Uniform Shop has now closed for 2023. Please note the following special opening hours for next year:
- Tuesday 23 January, 9.00am – 3.00pm
- Wednesday 24 January, 9.00am – 3.00pm
- Monday 29 January, 9.00am – 3.00pm
- Tuesday 30 January, 9.00am – 3.00pm
- Wednesday 31 January 8.00am – 4.30pm
- Thursday 1 February 8.00am – 4.30pm
Before I conclude my iServi I would like to inform our community that at the end of December there will be a 1 year Anniversary mass for Christian Caruso. The mass will be held at St. Kieran’s Church, 122 Waterloo Street, Tuart Hill at 10am on Saturday 30th December. All our community is welcome.
As we approach the holiday season, let us remember the true reason for the season, spreading joy and kindness. Christmas holds profound significance in our Catholic community, as it commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, the central figure of our faith. The season is a time for reflection, joy, and celebration, as we come together to honour the gift of love and salvation. Christmas is a time for prayer, gratitude, and coming together, confirming the core pillars of our faith, and spreading the message of goodwill to all.
I wish you all a very merry Christmas and safe holiday break. I look forward to welcoming you all back in 2024.
Silvana Vicoli, Principal
