From the Principal
The Power of Community
Mr Rob French, Principal
Welcome to the first edition of In The Know for the 2026 school year. We have enjoyed a wonderful start to the year, reconnecting with many families through our Welcome Back events and Information Evenings. It is always remarkable how quickly we return to the rhythm of school life once a new year begins. I hope the holiday period was a refreshing one for your family, and that you are looking forward to the year ahead.
Families who attended our Information Evenings heard me share a short holiday story that speaks to the importance of community. Over the January break, while holidaying with my family in Ocean Grove, I went for two very different swims at the same beach.
Why Community Matters
On the first day, the conditions were cold and grey, with a sharp chill in the air. The beach was largely deserted, apart from a few distant walkers. I was a reasonable distance from shore and, despite my love of the ocean, I felt a sense of vulnerability and isolation swimming alone.
The very next day, the contrast could not have been greater. The sun was shining, the beach was alive with families, games of cricket on the sand, and the joyful sound of children playing in the shallows. Out in the water, surfers, body boarders and swimmers shared the same stretch of ocean that had felt so empty the day before.
On this occasion, I loved my time in the water. The difference was not the conditions or the risks – they were much the same – but the feeling of belonging to something larger than myself. For that moment, I felt connected and supported. I felt part of a community.
This is the experience we want for every student at our school. When students feel safe, connected and known within their community, they are more willing to take risks, learn from mistakes and challenge themselves, knowing they are supported by both teachers and peers. Equally, we never want our students to feel as though they are “swimming alone”. From classrooms and playgrounds to co-curricular activities, our aim is simple: that every student experiences a sense of belonging, pride and connection within our school community.
A New Place to Connect
That sense of connection extends beyond our students to our wider community. We are very much looking forward to the opening of the new Omnibus Café in Term 2. This space will become a welcoming hub overlooking The Green, and we are excited for families to enjoy the opportunity to connect over a morning coffee after drop-off. Further details about the official launch will be shared in the coming weeks.
I wish all our families a happy and successful 2026, and I look forward to connecting with you at the many events planned throughout the year. Together, we will continue building a community where every student feels supported, known and confident to step forward; never feeling as though they are swimming alone.