Principal's Post

Life in full flight 

As I write this, it is difficult to believe we are three weeks into Term Three – time flies when you are having fun! The term has commenced at a remarkable pace, filled with opportunity, achievement and the unmistakable energy that makes St George's such a special place to learn and work.

One of the joys of school life is that no two days are ever the same. While classrooms remain at the heart of all we do, it is often the rich tapestry of experiences outside of the classroom that helps shape young people into the confident, capable and compassionate young people whom we interact with each day. Schools should be busy places - full of curiosity, creativity, friendship, challenge and celebration. The excitement generated by a thriving school community is not only beneficial for students; it inspires and energises staff as well.

We commenced the term with our Year 10 Parent Information Evening, expertly led by Mr Anthony Bochrinis and Mrs Sharan Tagore. The evening provided students and families with valuable guidance regarding subject selections, and the many different pathways open to them for Senior School. Following this event, students participated in their course counselling interviews, and we now have a strong foundation for the subject choices of the Class of 2028. This important process marks an exciting milestone as students begin to consider the many possibilities that lie ahead.

At the end of week one, we held our Semester One Academic Awards Assembly, held at the Murray Street Campus due to the St George’s Cathedral Art Exhibition taking place at the cathedral. It was wonderful to celebrate the many academic, sporting, service and creative achievements of our students across Semester One. 

Our Year 7 students enjoyed a memorable excursion to Perth Zoo in Week Two, accompanied by Father Rhys. The day offered a fabulous opportunity for our youngest students to spend time with our new School Chaplain in an informal setting, building relationships and getting to know Father Rhys. An amazing day was had by all! 

Interhouse Athletics transformed Perth HPC into a sea of colour, enthusiasm and House spirit – our first Interhouse Athletics Carnival with Cowan House. Blessed with excellent weather, students embraced the day with determination, good humour and outstanding sportsmanship. The camaraderie displayed across all year levels was particularly pleasing to witness, reminding us that while competition is important, community is paramount. Congratulations to Gandhi House on being crowned this year's champions which makes the race for the annual House Cup and House Week next week an interesting one. 

This week, the historic Regal Theatre has been buzzing with the talent, dedication and creativity of our students as preparations for the school production reached their final stages. Behind every performance lies countless hours of rehearsals, set construction, costume preparation, direction and technical expertise. I am looking forward to attending the performance and joining our community tonight in celebrating what promises to be a truly memorable production of Mamma Mia! Congratulations to every cast member, musician, crew member and staff mentor involved in bringing this spectacular event to life. Chookas!

And if that were not enough, we have also welcomed visiting Japanese students, hosted our Samoa Tour information meeting, held the Growth Hunting Parent Evening and enjoyed a magnificent performance by the WAASA All Schools Choir as part of the ASA Conference. Each event reflects the breadth of opportunities available at St George's and the commitment of our staff to ensuring students experience learning in its broadest sense.

The educationalist John Dewey famously observed, "Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself." Those words resonate strongly when I reflect on the opening weeks of this term. The experiences our students engage in each day, whether academic, cultural, sporting, spiritual or service-oriented, help to shape their character and broaden their horizons.

I am often asked what I enjoy most about being Principal of St George's. The answer is simple: the people. It is a privilege to witness students discovering new passions, overcoming challenges, welcoming new students and achieving goals they may once have thought impossible. Equally inspiring is the dedication of our staff, who consistently go above and beyond to create opportunities that allow every student to flourish. We have such amazing staff here. 

Rita Pierson once said, "Every child deserves a champion." At St George's, I see countless champions each day: teachers, support staff, coaches, musicians, guest speakers, parents and peers, all working together to support our young people achieve to their very best.

I remain deeply grateful for the privilege of leading this remarkable school. The opening weeks of Term Three have showcased the very best of St George's: enthusiasm, excellence, compassion, camaraderie and connection. 

I look forward to all that the remainder of the term will bring and to celebrating many more achievements together.

Mrs Tina Campbell

Principal