Sacred Heart Kew

Weekes' Weekly News

Learning, growing and celebrating together...

Dear Sacred Heart Kew Families,

 

It’s good to be back! 

 

I returned back to Sacred Heart Kew last week, and it’s now been 5 weeks since my bike tumble and subsequent surgery. I am progressing slowly and seeing small improvements each day. It was lovely to see everybody at Grandparents and Special Friends Day and catch up on all the news (and I look forward to continuing to chat with everyone, when the opportunity presents).  

 

I was TOTALLY blown away and quite overwhelmed this afternoon when I was presented with a VERY special 'get well' gift by the Parents Association. I cannot believe the generosity shown to me and all the thought that has gone into this present - my very own Melbourne Football Club jumper, personally signed by all the players!

Words cannot express my gratitude at this kind gesture.  Thank you so much to the Parent's Association, particularly Jackie Cade who organised this. I am so very chuffed and humbled!! 

 

 

 

I extend a BIG thank you to Danielle Gerecke for her outstanding support and leadership during my time of absence. The school community has been most fortunate to have had Danielle leading and looking after them. I cannot express my gratitude enough for all Danielle’s extra work completed (in addition to her usual roles and responsibilities) here at school.  

 

Thank you to all the staff, students and parents for your kindness, compassion and understanding as I continue my recovery. Thanks for your patience with my one handed email replies and shorter than normal responses and information (perhaps I really do waffle). Enough about me…Hasn’t it been fun watching the Olympics and cheering on all our ‘magnifique’ Australian athletes? Our country’s representatives have certainly made us proud so far. What a start! 

 

The Olympics are so special. They have fascinated me ever since the first one I saw way back in 1988 (Seoul). I probably recall more events and images from 1992 (Barcelona). 

I mostly remember the mascots, Hodori the amicable amur Tiger and Cobi the Pyrenean mountain dog from those two Olympic Games. 

 

But, why? What makes the Olympics so special? The Olympics have a unique blend of qualities that make them stand out and capture people's imaginations:

 

Here are some thoughts. You may have some of your very own. 

  • Global Unity: They bring together athletes from around the world, fostering a sense of global unity and friendly competition. This can help transcend cultural and political differences, creating a shared experience for billions of people.
  • Diverse Sports: The Games feature a wide range of sports, from popular ones like soccer and basketball to less well-known events like synchronised swimming and modern pentathlon. This diversity means there's something for everyone to enjoy.
  • Inspiring Athletes: The stories of athletes overcoming personal and professional obstacles to compete at the highest level are incredibly motivating. Their dedication, hard work, and perseverance are often deeply moving.
  • Historical Tradition: The Olympics have a rich history that dates back to ancient Greece, adding a layer of tradition and continuity that resonates with people. The rituals and ceremonies connect the modern Games with their historical roots.
  • Spectacular Events: The opening and closing ceremonies are often grand, visually stunning, showcasing the host country's culture and creativity. These ceremonies are a highlight for many viewers.
  • Records and Achievements: The pursuit of breaking records and achieving personal bests adds excitement. Watching records being shattered and witnessing history in the making is a thrilling experience.
  • Cultural Exchange: The Olympics provide a platform for cultural exchange, allowing people to learn about and appreciate the traditions, languages, and customs of other nations.
  • Community and National Pride: For many, the Games are a source of national pride, as people come together to support their athletes and celebrate their country's achievements.

All these factors combine to make the Olympics a unique and compelling spectacle that resonates with people all over the world and, depending on the country and time zone, keeps us glued to the television screen or chosen device, at all hours of the night and day, for two weeks. 

 

The Olympic Games also reminds me a lot of school. Everybody tries their best, but not everyone can be the winner.

 

'The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win

but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not

the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have

conquered but to have fought well' (Olympic Creed)

 

Pierre de Coubertin

  • Competition and Achievement: Both environments focus on achieving personal goals and competing. In school, students strive for academic success, while in the Olympics, athletes aim for medals and personal bests.
  • Preparation and Training: Just as students prepare through studying and homework, Olympic athletes undergo rigorous training and practice. Both require dedication, effort, and discipline to excel.
  • Support Systems: Schools often provide support through teachers, mentors, and resources, similar to how Olympic athletes have coaches, trainers, and support staff to help them perform their best.
  • Evaluation and Feedback: In school, students receive grades and feedback on their work, helping them understand their progress. In the Olympics, athletes are judged based on their performance, and results provide feedback on their training and preparation.
  • Sense of Community: Both schools and the Olympics foster a sense of community. Schools build a community through classmates, teachers, and school events, while the Olympics bring together athletes, fans, and nations in a shared experience.
  • Personal Growth: Both environments contribute to personal growth. School helps students develop knowledge, skills, and social abilities, while the Olympics help athletes grow in their discipline, resilience, and teamwork.
  • Ceremonies and Recognition: Schools often have ceremonies for achievements like graduation or awards, similar to how the Olympics feature opening and closing ceremonies, and medals are awarded for top performances.
  • Diverse Participants: Schools and the Olympics both involve a wide range of participants with different backgrounds and talents, contributing to a rich and diverse environment.

In essence, both school and the Olympics are about striving for personal and collective excellence, and they share a framework of preparation, evaluation, and community support. Today we held our Olympics Day. What colour, energy and enthusiasm we witnessed. It was jolly good fun. We also celebrated 100 days of school for our Prep children. They (and their incredible teachers) will sleep very well tonight! 

 

Once again, it’s good to be back amongst the Sacred Heart Kew Olympic family and team. I look forward to sharing many more Olympic moments together this term (just not any which involve two wheels or tram tracks). 

 

Wishing everyone a lovely GOLDEN weekend. 

 

Kind Regards,

 

Ed Weekes 

 

School Principal