Principal's Report

One of the enduring memories I shall take with me of Armidale is the love and respect that so many of the community hold for the College. Ex-students from so many walks of life are happy to reflect on their own time as a student and share their stories with me. I believe this love and respect for the College comes not just from the acquisition of knowledge but from the culture they remember sharing. The way they were treated by others, and the expectations that they assumed as students.

Schools have a unique challenge in the present time. We live in a world of disharmony and conflict, we do not have to look far to see wars enacted on a daily basis, to hear doom and gloom about a myriad of issues from the inflation rate to youth crime and climate change. Yet amid all of this, we as teachers need to nurture and guide our students to envision an optimistic future.

Here at O’Connor, our home page clearly states a vision where we “are committed to providing the best possible environment for our students to succeed and grow academically, spiritually, socially and physically.” This responsibility is evident in what we do, what we declare and what we envisage.

We support an inclusive society, one where all individuals are valued. It is my hope and expectation that the values we uphold at the College support those at home and that together we work to equip our students to be the best that they can be.

As a Catholic College grounded in Lasallian and Ursaline traditions we are committed to our faith, academic excellence, a spirit of service and compassion, respect for all and the development of the whole person as a global citizen with a strong sense of social justice. I believe it is this positive attitude and culture that will continue to deliver a strong affirmative image of all students, past and present, of the College in the community at large.

Perhaps the advice offered by the poem ‘Desiderata’ says it best after all;

 Go placidly amid the noise and haste and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant, they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.

Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is perennial as the grass. Take kindly to the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.

Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.

Max Ehrmann c.1920

Robert Holstein

Interim Principal