On Tuesday 14th October 2025, Thornleigh Chapel was filled with joy and community spirit as new students, staff, and their families gathered for the Welcome and Commissioning Mass. The celebration marked the beginning of the new academic year and the commissioning of our student leaders for 2025 - 2026.

 The Mass was celebrated by Fr Gerry Briody, the Salesian Provincial, who encouraged the young leaders to take every opportunity within Thornleigh and beyond to grow into genuine leaders inspired by faith and service. During the ceremony, Mr Fitzsimons, Headteacher, together with Mr Whitehead and Mr Harwood, led the leaders in making their promise to uphold the Salesian ethos and to live out RUAH (Respect, Understanding, Affection, and Humour).

Each student leader received a leadership badge and a book on the life of St Carlo Acutis, a model of youthful holiness and leadership in today’s world.

The celebration concluded with a joyful gathering in the main hall, where families, staff, and students came together to share in fellowship and hope for the year ahead.