Deputy Principal, Wellbeing 

Farewell Dr Hirst

Tomorrow marks the final day for Dr Andrew Hirst and it was an absolute privilege to be a part of the student led farewell assembly yesterday. There is no doubt that Dr Hirst has touched the hearts of our student population and I am happy to include some extracts written by students. 

When Year 7’s first stepped into the grounds of this school, terrified by the idea of high school - we were welcomed into the loving care of Dr Hirst. Our fears of settling into a new environment were calmed as we have been introduced to this comfortable and safe environment lead by a Principal who genuinely cares about us.

Cairo Cullinane: Year 7 

How lucky are we to have a Principal who knows every student by name, even students that are new to the school. Throughout my time here at College, you have supported me and helped me grow academically and as a person. I could stand up here and tell you that you have taught me the five values of the school, which you have, but the most important thing you have taught me is the importance of a firm handshake and looking at someone in the eye because it’s by doing this that we will always be our true self and that’s more important than any maths equation.

Archie Prosser: Year 8 

Hamilton College is losing a fantastic human and we will be sad to see you go but it wouldn’t be fair to hide you from the rest of the world for others to experience your theatrical teaching. Thank you for being our History teacher, our Principal, and an all-round jolly person.

Abby Lazzari: Year 9

I would like to thank you Dr Hirst for your service and dedication to the College over the past seven years. Thank you for your passion and enthusiasm, your encouragement, your leadership and above all your friendship. I wish you and your family all the very best in your new endeavours. 

George Austin: Year 10

When I was a new Year 6 student it was scary coming up to a big school but then I met our incredibly kind, compassionate, enthusiastic Principle who makes everyone feel at home and welcome.

Arbella Little: Year 10

Dr Hirst is the kind of person who’s larger than life personality, and booming voice, can fill the room, however I have always been amazed at how down to earth, and welcoming Dr Hirst is. From my first day at College until now, I have marvelled at how Dr Hirst always goes above and beyond to make students and the wider College community feel welcome and valued. 

Katie Richardson: Year 11

Dr Hirst has taught me that passion, is the key ingredient in the recipe to success. I was fortunate enough to have Dr Hirst as my Year 9 History teacher and was able to experience his true love for Australian history. Whilst many of our lessons would include energetic singing performances, my favourite being Dr Hirst’s rendition of Amazing Grace, his passion for teaching the history of Australia made him both an inspirational and extraordinary teacher.

Grace Macpherson: Year 11

Above all the most important lesson you taught me was what it meant to be proud; proud of small achievements, of milestones, of a collective, of the school community. Your enthusiasm and constant drive for the best in people was never questioned. You placed the school and the individual people within its needs above your own, something that doesn’t go unrecognised. This school is privileged to be able to have called you the leader of our school a title which you so proudly represented. You will be dearly missed but will forever be a part of the school’s history, thank you sincerely Dr Hirst and best of wishes with your future endeavours.

Madeleine Green: Year 12 

Kristen Waldron

Deputy Principal Wellbeing