From our Principal 

Dear Parents, Students and Friends,

The weather is turning, the blossoms are emerging and the sun is starting to be more prominently seen throughout the day. This week I have been intentional in wandering around the school grounds at lunch-time. I cannot help but reflect on the joy of calmness which is the pervading theme, that and the energy evidenced in the many groups kicking a footy, playing soccer, 4-square, basketball or volleyball. We are indeed fortunate to be nurturing an environment which presents this atmosphere on a very regular basis.

Lessons Learned

Over the past four years I have been fortunate to be a member of school review panels of both secondary and primary Catholic schools undergoing their cyclical review. I hope I offered much to these processes, importantly though it provided me with a great opportunity to reflect on and compare. Central to these reflections was and is the critical work of continuing to define what our mission, vision and strategic intent is. The School Improvement Plan (SIP) guides our work having been shaped through evidence-based research and practice. Importantly the SIP is informed by our mission, vision and strategic intent. We are currently in our third year of our School Improvement Plan and it is timely to remind all of the following key core frameworks that guide our work:

Vision: As a Catholic Community we:

• aspire to lead in faith
• guide with love and 
• inspire through learning.

We are inspired and strive to:

• Ensure St Peter’s College is the secondary school of choice for those residing in the local area 
• Develop the whole person, academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually to meet the challenges of being a global citizen. This can be witnessed and actioned through honouring our three pillars:
  • Faith
  • Service
  • Education

Our Core Values guide our work and are informed by our three pillars:

The core value of Hope derives naturally from our first pillar, Faith which clearly identify ourselves as Christ-centred in thought, word and deed.

The core value of Love displayed as an action where we commit ourselves to Service and to meet the needs of our community.

The core value of Courage, applied to our third pillar, Education is an invitation for all learners to be aspirational in pursuit of academic excellence.

The goals we are trying to achieve in relation to school improvement known as our Strategic Intent for this school review period inform our work. We, at St Peter’s are committed to a rigorous improvement agenda which takes into account our local needs and demographic. We will strive at all times to develop:

• All leaders to develop as instructional leaders 
• Every teacher to become an expert teacher 
• All students to experience an accelerated rate of progress in literacy and numeracy The strategic intent is to strive at all times to build the collective efficacy of all teachers, leading to improved learning outcomes

Our vision, core values and our Strategic Intent are central to our mission that all students work towards maximising their true potential.

Student Leadership

Last week all of our Year 11 students participated in a Leadership Day. The purpose of this day is firstly to explore the concept of leadership and leadership styles and secondly the day signals the beginning of the process to appoint the College student leadership executive committee for 2025.

At St Peter’s, we believe that the heart of our school’s culture is defined not just by our teachers and staff, but by the students who walk our corridors and inhabit our classrooms. The critical role our student leaders play in shaping the values, behaviours and overall atmosphere of our school cannot be under-estimated nor over-stated.

Why Student Leadership Matters

Student leadership is more than just holding a title, standing up on stage or being part of the student representative council. It’s about taking initiative, inspiring peers and leading by example. When students step into leadership roles, they become ambassadors and role models for others to aspire to. Whether through organizing events, leading committees, or mentoring younger students, they help create a positive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard.

Building a Sense of Ownership

One of the key aspects of student leadership is the sense of ownership it fosters. When students are given the opportunity to lead, they feel more connected to the school community. This connection drives them to contribute positively, knowing that their actions can influence others. As they engage in decision-making processes, they learn the importance of responsibility, collaboration, and ethical leadership—skills that will serve them well beyond their time at St Peter’s.

Promoting a Culture of Inclusivity

Student leaders play a vital role in promoting inclusivity. By representing diverse perspectives, they ensure that all voices are heard, and all students feel that they belong. This inclusive approach helps to create a culture where differences are celebrated, and mutual respect is a cornerstone. Student leaders help to bridge gaps and build a stronger, more unified school community.

Encouraging Academic and Personal Growth

Leadership opportunities also contribute to personal and academic growth. When students take on leadership roles, they develop essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and time management. These experiences not only enhance their academic performance but also prepare them for future challenges. Moreover, by setting high standards and encouraging others to do the same, student leaders contribute to a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.

Looking Ahead

The strength of our school lies in the collective efforts of our community. By nurturing and empowering our student leaders, we not only enhance their personal growth but also enrich the culture of St Peter’s College now and for the future.

I congratulate all students who have risen to the challenge and put their name forward for leadership positions in 2025. It speaks to who you are as individuals that you are prepared to put yourself forward in the service of others. Best of luck for the process ahead.

Enjoy the week ahead.

Mr Chris Black

Principal