A Visitor's Voice

A Visitor’s Voice…

Being back on Campus this week has been a delight. I have missed our wonderful community, and I am relishing the opportunity to catch up with students, staff and parents as a busy week ensues.

Importantly, I took great pride in introducing our new Principal, Dr Steven Middleton to the students in two Assemblies on Monday. First, our Junior School students, and then the Secondary School heard the all-important words of transition to the 4th Principal of Pittwater House. Dr Middleton has met with key Staff and with our Student Leaders as he takes in some of our story in preparation for all that awaits him from 12 January when he officially begins. 

Our story is a treasured one. Our history has seen great growth, exciting changes, and a myriad of opportunity for all who daily pass through our gates. And so, it will continue. With new voices and societal challenges, the new era will befit the expectations that you, as our community seek and expect. We are a strong force; we have a culture that manages tradition with renewal and hope. And we do this well. We are proud of who we are, how we look, and what we espouse. Long make that continue. 

I was delighted to attend the Vocal Evening on Monday. Our burgeoning choral tradition showed depth and delight from the participants. We are being superbly led by our Co-ordinator of Music, Mr Todd Hardy and supported last night by Ms Finlay, all the Music Staff, and external Tutors. Mrs Colless has long supported the vocalists, and it is wonderful to see the strength coming from her work with our younger students, in addition to her work across the Secondary School.

Given this is finals week, it was marvelous to attend a highly spirited game from the Years 5/6 mixed Nuggets who played their hearts out in a tight game right to the end. Well done to this, and all other Basketball teams hitting the court this week.

Whilst having this forum to share, I had a superb evening celebrating the Class of 2025 at their Valedictory Dinner two weeks ago. This is their time now as they enjoy the weeks prior to the publication of results, ATARs, and then tertiary placements. I wish to place on record my gratitude for all these students, and their families, have given to our School. In particular, I thank the two network parents, Mrs Peupion and Mrs Eksteen for their carriage of the role through the year that saw their children, Mirabelle, and Ruann, lead the student body as Head Prefects. Thank you too to Mr and Mrs Peupion for giving the Toast to the Students at our Valedictory Dinner. 

This week continues to offer new experiences for our students. The first assessments for the Class of 2026 are taking place, whilst the rest of the school have completed their examinations and formal assessments, all the annual Camps have concluded, Orientation Days for 2026 have taken place and next week we excitedly await the 2025 College Performing Arts Night. It is a highlight on the annual Calendar. I wish all College and Years 5 and 6 Junior College students, well as they make magic from the intense days of preparation, and then performance.

The gentlemen of the Grammar School and Years 5 and 6 Prep have their special events too, a day of community service activities at local beaches and an Amazing Race. I hope that all students have a memorable time competing, connecting and contributing to our local community.

I am very much looking forward to seeing many of you at the Farewell Party in my honour this Friday evening. I am enormously privileged to have led our School for 15 years and look forward to sharing with you in word and deed, on Friday.

With my warmest good wishes.