From the Principal

At times we find ourselves in situations where we look at things from a ‘glass half empty’ perspective.  Stressful moments in our lives can sometimes feel that the weight of the world is on our shoulders.  Whether it be the stress of Year 12 exams, friendship issues at school, taking a class that did not go to plan, continually asking your child to clean their room or receiving another bill at the wrong time of the month, there is no doubt we retreat to the glass half empty mindset.  While there is no secret answer to how we personally navigate all these scenarios, it is important to know that there is so much good in our world, our local community, our homes, our school and in our own little bubble that we can be grateful for.

Last week was one of those experiences for me.  In a week where so much time was taken up with government agencies and governance matters (in which all ended very well, thankfully), I can truly be grateful and certainly hopeful for our future generation.  We don’t have to look too much further than our own school to know that we are in a great place.  Our Arts and Technology showcase demonstrated the creative talents of many of our students.  Students who made the night shine in a non academic or sporting landscape, were able to proudly display their work to our local community.  The thought and detail that went into these works were certainly to a standard that continues to grow each year.  Our students are truly blessed to have the staff, resources and specialist buildings to nurture their creative talents.

As is now tradition, the Principal selects a piece of art that is determined to be the most impressive of all pieces on display.  The artwork selected is then professionally framed and kept on display at the College for a 12 month period before being returned to the artist.  I will not confess to be a connoisseur of art, however, I do know what I like.  After 45 minutes of taking in all the art presented, I settled on a painting that grabbed my attention from the very start.  As I was on the night, I am proud to announce that Katrina Fitzgerald was the winner of the 2019 Principal’s Choice Award.  As you can see, her painting of the African woman contains such fine detail and precision.  Well done to Katrina and also all the other artists for displaying their artistic flair. 

I would like to thank all members of the Arts and Technology team for their dedication and effort to support such a great event.

And just when I could not be any prouder of our students, our community witnessed an act of courage, empathy and awareness by two students beyond their years.  This act was the head shave of Mia Clydesdale and Nate Schubach.  In only Years 2 and 3, Mia and Nate have been raising funds to support individuals and families in our local community who are impacted by cancer.  Cancer continues to impact our society on a scale that for many, seems to be overwhelming, yet Mia and Nate made a decision to put their best foot forward, a step that we can all be so very proud of.  Well done Mia and Nate!!!!

This week I was contacted by Dr Rob Forage (Head of Assessments - International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) who was excited to announce a prestigious academic award was won by one of our students.  We are proud to announce that Ella Reid has been awarded an ICAS Medal for receiving the highest score for all Year 10 students across Australasia in the field of writing.  Ella will be presented at an official medal presentation ceremony on Saturday 23rd November in Melbourne.  We congratulate Ella on this magnificent achievement.

Next Wednesday will mark a significant occasion for our Year 12 students as they come together to celebrate their Graduation.  Through the celebration of Mass and dinner, families and staff will be able to share in this special event with our Year 12 cohort.  May this night mark, the end of a special period of their lives, yet be the start of something very special.

Brayden Stone

Principal