From the Principal
![](https://media.naavi.com/macaroni/im-bcf0e40b-de2d-49a5-a3b0-4c24e2fd6953.jpg?deg=auto&w=2400&h=2400)
Dear Friends,
Congratulations to everyone on a wonderful finish to the semester. I love this job, particularly because I am able to share the joy of students whether competing in cross country running, playing in ensembles or just participating in the normal class activities of learning. Then there are the high fives from the Preppies on walkabout between buildings. The role of an educator is one that is deeply rewarding.
There are many reasons why I believe Oxley Christian College is a special place. However, the central story line comes back to the amazing students and staff among us. I am constantly in awe of the anecdotes that time and again reveal the caring, giving and mature way our students seek to look out for each other. They excel academically, reach great heights on the sporting field, and perform brilliantly and beautifully in the arts. We share these moments in pictures online and here in The Vine.
It is also my great privilege to work among dedicated staff across the board who have a passion to prepare young people for accomplishments beyond their time at school. Here, students are supported to progress substantially at school and are challenged to flourish in ways that will equip them to thrive in their life beyond the security of the College gates.
As Principal of Oxley, I am delighted to lead a Christ-focussed community that develops extraordinary learners in wisdom and virtue, and the obligation of responsibility for self and others. I have confidence that our Christian values of truth, goodness and beauty prepare our students well. We all know that a highly committed staff, engaged students and supportive families is a particularly effective combination in education.
Given our unified community, it has undoubtedly been a shock to learn of Greg Barker’s plans to leave us at the end of the year. He will be sorely missed. After 18 years of life among us, he has made a huge contribution to the College, and we wish him well in the completion of his time here. I know Greg will share some of his thoughts with our community in this edition of The Vine.
Meanwhile, our hope is that students have a refreshing and safe break with a view to a great start to Semester 2 on Monday 18 July.
Warm regards,
Dr Douglas Peck