From our Principal
Dear Parents, Students and Friends,
As I write this the Premier, the Hon Daniel Andrews has just announced that students will not be back at school this term other than Year 12s for essential assessments. Our hearts go out to all suffering from the effects of COVID-19, for those who have contracted the virus and for those who feel disconnected whether from family, friends, or in our case, school. It is a tough time. We must find ways to make connections even if this is in the virtual world we increasingly find ourselves in.
Student Leadership
This week we have witnessed the Student Leadership nomination and election process for 2022 begin in earnest. Listening to the speeches for both the College Captain and Student Executive committee with portfolios of responsibility one could not help but be inspired. Students spoke with passion regarding their love for the school, what it has given them to date and what they wish to offer as a legacy in 2022. As one student eloquently put it St Peter’s College is a place of growth. Our students were impressive and I would have loved for the community to be witness to some outstanding student leaders. Some of the statements that struck particular resonance are presented below:
- Leadership is about the three “I’s” – Inspiration, Influence and Impact
- We have a duty to keep our community happy and maintain our school’s greatness
- Leadership provides an opportunity to make a difference
- Servant Leadership is what I aspire to
- As leaders we have the opportunity to enrich and foster community
- St. Peter’s College has always been a safe haven – it is the role of leader to maintain this
- Leadership is not about the duty or the badge its about be a presence
Interviews continue this week and into next week with announcements of the Student College Leaders for 2022 due to be announced on Tuesday. The best of luck to all the candidates.
Child Safety Week
September 5th-12th marks Child Safety Week with the theme in 2021, “Every Child Needs a Fair Chance”. This is a national week of awareness-raising regarding the importance of keeping every child safe. There is no doubt that our young people face challenges that are different to those that we as parents experienced growing up. Challenges such as those experienced as a result of technology advancements, the disconnect experienced as a consequence of the pandemic, image-based abuse and young people being exposed to family violence to name just a few. Our young people deserve the best opportunities available, this begins with a supportive family and home, is significantly influenced by peers and can be shaped by connection and success at school.
St. Peter’s College has an ongoing commitment to ensure the safety of every child is maintained at the highest levels possible.
If you are interested in exploring webinars on such themes as: Building communities that keep children safe from domestic and family violence or eSafety’s guide to online sexual harassment and image-based abuse for Parents, the link below will provide you with that opportunity to engage
St. Peter’s College is proud to be registered as an e-Smart school.
High Achievers
Congratulations to Sage Kelly of Year 8 who recently entered a radio talent search and won song of the month, receiving $500. Her song is called ‘Screens’. Well done Sage and we look forward to hearing whether you win song of the year.
Father’s Day
Wishing all those Fathers or those who carry out fatherly duties special Father’s Day wishes this Sunday, 5 September 2021. W e pray especially for those fathers who are no longer with us in body but are with us in spirit and I’m sure have left an indelible mark on you and your family.
A Prayer for Fathers
Fathers in Our Lives
We give our thanks, Creator God, for the fathers in our lives.
Fatherhood does not come with a manual, and reality teaches us that some fathers excel while others fail.
We ask for Your blessings for them all and forgiveness where it is needed.
This Father's Day we remember the many sacrifices fathers make for their children and families, and the ways--both big and small--they lift children to achieve dreams thought beyond reach.
So too, we remember all those who have helped fill the void when fathers pass early or are absent; grandfathers and uncles, brothers and cousins, teachers and coaches.
For those who are fathers, we ask for wisdom and humility in the face of the task of parenting. Give them the strength to do well by their children and by You.
In Your Holy name, O God, we pray.
Amen.
Enjoy the week ahead
Mr Chris Black
Principal