From the Deputy Principal/Head of Senior School

Respect

At the student line-up assembly earlier in the week, I spoke to the students about another aspect of a theme that we have emphasised over successive weeks – respect. This week, I was able to link the focus of my words to coincide with International Peace Day which was held on Monday 21 September. The challenge put to all students was to recognise and celebrate the uniqueness and individuality of others. In the context of being members of the College community, this means being part of a safe and supportive environment where acceptance, tolerance and respect for one another are paramount. 

As a Catholic school in the Marist tradition, we are called to be faithful to and uphold the teachings of Jesus Christ. In Matthew’s Gospel, we hear Jesus teaching and summing up the Law and the Prophets with the Golden Rule "do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (Matthew 7:12). When we all rise to this challenge and treat others in a way we want to be treated, we are surely showing great respect and recognising the dignity in each human being. If we can all work hard to do this, we create a better College, a better neighbourhood, nation and world.

For the celebration of the 2020 Day of Peace, Pope Francis has written the following:

In our Christian experience, we constantly remember Jesus Christ, who gave his life to reconcile us to one another (cf. Romans 5:6-11). The Church shares fully in the search for a just social order; she continues to serve the common good and to nourish the hope for peace by transmitting Christian values and moral teaching and be her social and educational works.

May the God of peace bless us and come to our aid. May Mary, Mother of the Prince of Peace and Mary, Our Good Mother and the Mother of all peoples of the earth, accompany and sustain us at every step of our journey of reconciliation. And may all men and women who come into this world experience a life of peace and develop fully the promise of life and love dwelling in their heart. 

Excerpts from His Holiness Pope Francis for the celebration of the 2020 Day of Peace. 

Year 12 Farewell

Although the final week of the term has been celebrated in some different ways, it is hoped that it has nonetheless been a special week for our Year 12 boys who completed their formal education at St Gregory’s College. I wish to thank each of the boys from the graduating class for the commitment and contribution to the College. We thank the Year 12 boys and their families, especially those who are finishing their direct association with the College. We wish our boys all the very best for the upcoming HSC examinations and God’s blessing on them as they move beyond St Greg’s. 

Term 4 Uniform

A reminder that students return to Term 4 in their summer uniform. In the Senior School, this consists of:

• College short-sleeved crested shirt.
• College tailored grey shorts or long trousers.
• Black leather belt.
• Plain black socks (if trousers are worn) or long grey socks (if shorts are worn).
• Maroon woollen jumper, if necessary.
• Black leather school or dress shoes with black laces.
• College cap with emblem, to be worn when outdoors.

The trial with PDHPE and PASS classes in Years 9 & 10 wearing their sports uniform on days when they have practical lessons will continue for the first two weeks of Term 4.

I take this opportunity to wish each member of the College community a safe, restful and enjoyable break from school and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday 12 October. 

Mr Paul Brooks

College Deputy Principal / Head of Senior School