[Awards]

The HNMCS “M” Award 

Holy Name of Mary College School fosters the development of strong female Catholic leaders, who are guided by their core values to be active leaders in their community. 

The “M” Award, is a prestigious award that celebrates not only the academic achievement of students, but the overall contributions that a student makes to the betterment of student life and the larger school community at HNMCS throughout their Senior School years. 

Within the HNMCS daily programme students must fulfil the required components in three categories; service, academics, co-curricular involvement; in order to be considered for the “M” Award:

1-Actively engage in 100 hours of service at HNMCS. 

Must include a minimum:

95 hours of Outreach (in line with core values Respect & Compassion) 

5 hours of Environmental Stewardship (in line with core value of Justice)

*service is defined as any volunteer activity that directly supports the HNMCS community

2- Earn at least 26 credits at HNMCS. 

3- Participate in a minimum of 15 clubs, sports and activities

Full year clubs/ athletic teams= 3 points

Partial year clubs/athletic teams= 1 point

*Points are awarded at the discretion of the activity supervisor, regular attendance and commitment to the activity is necessary for the activity to be eligible

The Duke of Ed Award is an excellent opportunity for students to develop a variety of skills, have fun, develop leadership skills and participate in community service.  All this helps with their personal development as well rounded individuals and in preparation for their future applications to university programmes and employment. It is never too late to begin or finish the award (except beyond the age of 25).  There are entry levels at Bronze (age 14), Silver (age 15) and Gold (age 16) with escalating challenges at each level.  One of the most common response from students is that they are too busy to do this award.  The truth is that it is these very things the students are busy doing (skating, dancing, singing, musical theatre, piano, sports, volunteer work) make up the award.  The outdoor expedition for those who attend camp is generally accepted for the outdoor expedition, and there are many other opportunities for students to complete this section of the award.  The biggest challenge is writing it all down in the Record Book or tracking it online!

When students have completed the award, there are forms that must be submitted along with the online record book for assessment. 

At HNMCS we encourage those students who are enrolled in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to continue to focus on completing the requirements and recording their efforts in their Record Book.  Students who have completed their award over the course of the academic year receive the award at the end of school celebration in June.  Students in grade 12 receive their award at their graduation ceremony in June.

Junior Leadership Programme

The Junior Leadership Programme aims to assist young Catholic women in developing their sense of self and leadership capabilities.  Along with living in accordance with HNMCS Core Values each day, students participating in the Junior Leadership Programme will be challenged to actively immerse themselves in school activities and initiatives that help to develop their character and leadership skills. 

There are two levels, Pearl & Ivory, within the Junior Leadership Programme and both are self-directed leadership awards. Students must demonstrate independent initiative. Leadership and service opportunities are not tasks assigned by teachers, but are student initiated activities. 

By participating in this programme, students will become leaders in the HNMCS Middle School and will help to promote a positive and inviting school community for their peers.