From the Principal

‘It takes a village to raise a child’ ― African proverb

Welcome back to 2020! I commend the community on the very positive start made to Term 1 and most especially our student body’s inclusive approach towards our new students. I also acknowledge the staff's earnest preparation. 

A further update to my last communique around coronavirus.  Last Tuesday, Mr MacLean welcomed back our international students at Tullamarine Airport and his survey confirmed that no international student is from Wuhan City or the Hubei Province, nor have they, family or close friends, visit any affected area. We have every confidence that there is a very low risk of any outbreak of the virus in our community. 

Nevertheless, the College has taken further proactive steps to promptly contain any possibility.  Fifteen international students will remain on site, separate to the girls’ and boys’ boarding houses, until the period of incubation has passed.  Our other four international students are with their parents in self isolation.  This decision is an extra precaution taken to counter community concerns.  These measures go far beyond Victorian Health Department guidelines.  I am in regular contact with the boys’ and girls’ and they are in good spirits but saddened they cannot share their joy in being back at school with their friends for another 12 days.  Please spare a thought for them and their families over the next weeks.  Should you have any further inquiry, please call my assistant, Linda Archer, on 03 5572 1355.

Finally, to all our Year 9 families and students, please be aware that it is highly unlikely the Year 9 Experience will travel to China at the end of Term 1 given the current circumstances.  A final decision will be made in mid-February (Week 3 of Term). China preparations have been suspended until such time.

I thank everyone for their co-operation, understanding and support this past week.

Dr Andrew Hirst