Associate Principal, Operations Report

Last weekend, I read an article in “The Sunday Age” by Julie Szego.  Whilst much of the article was about the broader issues of the effect of the coronavirus on Australia’s trade and university sectors, it noted the changing circumstances and the conflicting advice which has been issued at times.  My attention was particularly drawn to her concluding comments about students from overseas which I think are pertinent to us as we approach the conclusion of the isolation of our international students:

“First we need to change how we think and talk about them.  They are individuals with hopes, fears and contradictions.  Collectively, they will help shape Australia’s future in a volatile region in which we are still struggling to find our place. The time has come for Australia to be truly “open” to our young guests from China” (and elsewhere – my addition).

During these first weeks of term, I have been impressed by the approach of our international group.  They have responded well to the demands of confinement; there have been no complaints or grizzles.  They have made good efforts to complete schoolwork, although the internet outage early this week did cause some difficulties.  They are a fine group of young people and they are looking forward to getting back to classes, one student telling me that missing friends in the year level has been the worst part of the experience.

This is where I trust the spirit of our school community can rise to embrace these young people on their return.  I know they valued the messages received from students on the Year 12 Retreat but they are likely to feel awkward and out-of-touch initially.  How they are welcomed and included will say much about our community and I am confident we will not let them down.

Mr Neil MacLean