From the Principal

Dear Parents, Students and Friends of St Virgil’s College, 

As we approach the end of another busy term, I take this opportunity to take a moment to reflect on the range of events, remarkable achievements and profound growth that the College has seen over the past few months.

First and foremost, I wanted to extend my congratulations to our students who have embraced all the opportunities presented to them. From academic excellence to sporting triumphs and artistic endeavours, our young men have demonstrated the spirit of determination, resilience and passion that makes our College shine. The dedication to their studies, commitment to teamwork and unwavering support for each other are qualities I deeply admire.

I would also like to recognise the hard work and commitment of our exceptional teachers and staff. Their unwavering dedication to delivering a liberating education that nurtures the mind, body and spirit of every young man is commendable. Whether it is in the classroom, on the sporting field, or in the creative or performing arts, our staff members go above and beyond to ensure that every student has the opportunity to flourish and reach their potential and we are eternally grateful for their tireless efforts. 

Choomalaka Festival & Feast

A very big thank you to all who supported the Choomalaka Festival and Feast last Friday evening. Our students shone on stage, in showcasing their work and in serving on the night. Thank you to Ms Amelia Clark, Mr Jack Machin, Mrs Jill Norton and Mr Aaron Lucas for their efforts in preparing our students prior to and on the night and the many other staff who contributed behind the scenes. I think you would all agree that our students from Kindergarten all the way through to Year 11 performed very well and this reflected the long hours of dedicated practice they have undertaken with the support of many staff to ensure the night was a success. It was also wonderful to showcase our new Senior School precinct including the Doyle Wing, Callan Centre courtyard and Joyce Performance Centre amphitheatre. These contemporary learning spaces will serve us well for many years to come.

I also take this opportunity to thank the Parents & Friends Associations from both the Junior and Senior school who provided significant support leading up to and on the night which reflects our strong parent community who have a generous spirit. In particular, I acknowledge the following parents for their significant contribution:

Michelle Brown (Stall Coordinator and Food Ordering), Sally Feldmanis (Food Trucks and support for Stalls/Food Ordering), Sandra Hallsworth (Volunteers Coordinator), Abbey Doggett, Meg McLaren, Angela McManamey, Samm Harrington, Lupe Falcon, Jerry Falcon, Matt Gillie, Maria Bond, Selina Price, Julie Pepperell, Amy Nicholson, Dagmara Finlayson and Pep Turner.

Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group

The Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group consists of representatives of former Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and families, members of the Tasmanian Aboriginal community and College staff. The RAP Working Group met recently and developed the following statement in response to the upcoming Referendum on the Voice to Parliament.

On behalf of the members of St Virgil’s College Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group we ask that all members of our College community engage in personal reflection and respectful conversations leading up to this significant day. We remain hopeful that Australians will honour our democratic responsibilities and ensure that, when we enter the ballot box, we are as informed as we can be about our decision.

We encourage all Australians to extend genuine care for the wellbeing of Aboriginal friends, family, colleagues, and communities at this profoundly vulnerable and exhausting time, and to critically challenge statements and actions that are hurtful. 

Our identity as a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition calls us to work for a world in which all are invited to speak and to be heard, and so, as members of a faith community engaged in the practice of liberation, we commit ourselves to a renewed understanding of reconciliation based on truth, justice, and healing.

- Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group

Student Free Day 

Please be aware that following the public holiday on Thursday 26 October (Royal Hobart Show Day) the College will be having a student free day on Friday 27 October. In lieu of this day staff will be undertaking First Aid and Privacy training on two evenings from 3.30 pm – 6.30 pm to ensure they fulfill their annual compliance training.   

A reminder that the first day back for students next term is Monday 16 October. 

As we approach the term break, I encourage every member of the St Virgil’s College community to take some time for self-care and rejuvenation. It is important to reflect on our personal achievements, reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones, and recharge our spirits so that we may return to the College with renewed energy and enthusiasm. 

Best wishes and a safe journey for those travelling out of Hobart or abroad. 

Jon Franzin

PRINCIPAL