Deputy Principal

Firstly, I would like to start by thanking all the young men who have warmly welcomed me back this week. It has been great to chat with so many students who have been genuinely interested and checked in with me to ask about my travels. The footy supporters have certainly let me know how Carlton has been travelling, so it has been great to re-engage with that energy, which is evident within an all-boys setting—something I have missed.

Assess Your Rhythm

Something I often ask our teachers to reflect on in their practice is to assess their rhythm. When a lesson is underway, it is important to reflect on the tempo and rhythm of how things are going: how the students are engaging and whether the objectives are being fulfilled. This concept can also be applied to students in assessing their rhythm—how they engage, how they comprehend instructions, how they approach a difficult task, how they behave after lunch, and how much time they devote to others as opposed to their interests. It is incredibly important to be reflective and to think about how you are progressing. One of the things I love about working with young men is how honest they are. They know full well where they are excelling and where they could improve. Encouraging them to think about where they could increase that extra 10% could make the difference between a C and a B or moving from a B to an A. However, there needs to be a desire to improve. The next step is understanding what area or element requires a lift. Particularly with our older students, they will be their best judges. However, dialogue can never be underestimated. Chatting with mum, dad, grandparents, your PC teacher, or any member of staff as a sounding board could provide a lightbulb moment that puts you on the path to tweaking your own rhythm and, in turn, gaining further success.

Uniform Additions

It has been great to see our new uniform additions out in the yard. I have been keen to hear students' feedback, with warmth being the consistent theme; the students are very pleased with the level of warmth and comfort. The uniform shop is well stocked, so please enquire. A few reminders for those who have yet to purchase.

New Formal Jacket

• To be worn over the College blazer as part of the formal uniform. Waterproof and fleece-lined for warmth.
• Cost: $110
• Please note that the Formal Jacket does not replace the College blazer.

PE Jumper

• A ½ zip, fleece-lined. To be worn only with PE.
• Cost: $60

Grey Formal Jumper

• Now available in a cotton blend or the original full woollen option.
• Cost: $82

"Don’t shy away from the storm; learn to dance in the rain."

Far too often, our first response to a difficult, challenging, or unfamiliar task is to back away. We create within ourselves a belief that it simply cannot be done. This is often the case within the mentality of a teenage boy. Hard times and moments of difficulty are part of life, and we all experience them. They can shape us and influence our achievements and perspectives. Every one of our young men is gifted and talented in their own way. No one is seeking perfection in all forms of school but rather an approach or mindset that enables you to step into action and have a go—to take a chance and push yourself. Learning to cope with something uncomfortable is a healthy part of life. What I love most about our School is the supportive environment we provide. We do not expect our young men to do it on their own. We are here to walk with you and journey through together. All we ask is that you are open to this idea of stepping forward and learning to dance in the rain.