Deputy Principal

It is with great joy that I welcome you to another year at St Patrick’s College! 

This week, our teaching staff recommenced with two days of professional learning. These sessions served as a reminder that we are a community of learners, united by a shared commitment to continuous improvement and lifelong learning. Just as we encourage our students to strive for growth, we as educators aim to model that same dedication by refining our skills, expanding our knowledge, and collaborating with one another. Through ongoing reflection and innovation, we seek to enhance the way we deliver our lessons, inspire curiosity, and support the holistic development of our boys, ensuring that they are equipped for success both in and beyond the classroom.

At one of the sessions I delivered, I shared this vision with staff:

“…And what drives me, what I am passionate about, is supporting students who will go out into the world and make a difference—improving the lives of others, not just making life more comfortable for themselves.”

This vision reflects our core business: learning. However, learning at our College extends far beyond the classroom. It’s not confined to textbooks or exams; rather, it is woven into every experience, every challenge, and every moment of reflection. Whether through academic pursuits, co-curricular activities, or life’s unexpected hurdles, each opportunity helps students discover more about themselves and the world around them. As a community of learners, we are all committed to fostering this journey of growth, equipping our students to embrace change and contribute meaningfully to society.

Today at our welcome assembly, I shared a story with the boys about Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey, which illustrates this commitment to growth. In 2014, after winning the Oscar for Best Actor, McConaughey recounted a moment when someone asked him who his hero was. He answered that his hero was his future self, the person he would be ten years from now. Ten years later, when asked the same question, he again pointed to the version of himself another decade into the future. His message was clear: the journey to become a better version of ourselves never ends. We should always be chasing our future potential, striving to improve each and every day.

At St Pat’s, we expect this same mindset of our boys. We set high standards for them, because we believe in every student’s potential and their capacity to achieve greatness. We expect effort and preparation, but never perfection; simply a commitment to always give their best. Mistakes are not to be feared but welcomed as opportunities to learn and grow.

As parents and community members, your support is invaluable in fostering this culture of excellence. We ask you to encourage your sons to develop strong habits and routines early, removing distractions that could hinder their learning journey. Together, we can ensure that our boys are equipped to become the best version of themselves.

May this year be one of growth, discovery, and achievement for every member of our College community.