Principal's Message

Being Fully Committed

Today marks the end of the formal WACE Examinations. As always, we pray that our senior students have done well and importantly, we trust that they gain rewards commensurate with their effort. Our Year 11 students are currently completing the last of their Semester 2 Examinations and, after a holiday break, will turn their sights to the busyness that will accompany their final year of studies at Trinity College. Similarly, in the coming weeks our Year 8, 9 and 10 boys will commence examinations that seek to validate class work and other assessments completed throughout the year. They also provide invaluable experience and practice in preparing for and sitting formal examination conditions that will be part of their journey through school. 

With exams and results come the inevitable questions about setting goals, possible career pathways and a deeper assessment of the commitment required to find success in academic studies. All boys are encouraged to think about how committed they are to their studies and to being the best they can be. All boys are encouraged to set realistic, but aspirational life goals (both short and long term) and to commit wholeheartedly to such goals. Learning from such commitment and being resilient to the inevitable bumps in the road is an important life lesson and a vital part in the formation of our young men.

In recent weeks, at a variety of significant College events, I have had the pleasure of speaking with recent graduates who have certainly displayed total commitment and helped illustrate a Spirit of Excellence. In completing his extensive application for a scholarship to study abroad next year, one student outlined his long list of school achievements that emerged from his dedicated approach to study and revision over the past few years. His drive and commitment was very obvious. Another student, returning to assist and mentor at the Rowing Shed, described his gruelling training schedule and shared his aspirations to achieve national selection. At the recent graduation celebrations, another Year 12 student shared his often, difficult journey with a chronic medical condition. He explained he needed to change out of his ATAR pathway because of his extensive treatment demands. However, inspired and encouraged by some of his teachers, he had recommitted to the College music program and enjoyed great success, comradery and intrinsic satisfaction. 

In very different contexts, all three young men shared the value and reward that comes at the end of the well-worn path of hard work and commitment. Aristotle once said; “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Of course, this notion is certainly not new. Through our parents or grandparents, I am sure most have heard phrases such as ‘If you are going to do a job, do it right’; ‘A job isn’t worth doing unless it is done well’; and ‘Near enough is not good enough if it can be done better’. Somewhat old-fashioned values that are still very relevant today. 

In forming good young men, it is important that we instil in them a deep understanding of the intrinsic importance of fully committing to something they value. We pray that all boys commit to their end of year exams!

Live Jesus in our hearts