Deputy Principal
Gratitude
Over the last week, it has been so nice to walk around and speak with the Class of 2025 as they prepared to walk out of the gates for the final time after graduating today. So many of the young men I have come across have been genuinely appreciative of the relationships they have built with staff throughout their years at SPC. They have thanked us for teaching them, thanked us for caring for them and thanked us for helping them grow from young boys in blue caps to young men in black ties. They have carried themselves with humility and dignity and their words and actions speak volumes for not only them but also their families and the way they have been raised.
I have been reflecting on how thankful they have been, and it made me think how grateful I am to have been able to be a small part of their journey. Gratitude goes both ways. I will be forever grateful for this year’s group for a number of reasons; my experiences with them include:
The way they have supported each other when they have experienced loss.
Games of handball in the Senior Yard, even though I do not understand how the use of one’s head and rolling the ball along the ground are acceptable rules these days. They certainly were competitive games!
Lunchtimes – just getting to know our young men and seeing the interesting food that they had for lunch.
Being present at their performances for the Year 12 Drama Showcase and Music Soirees.
The way they embraced the new Founder’s Day format.
Seeing them excel in their sporting and cultural co-curricular activities.
Teaching Year 12 Economics – this is an absolute passion of mine and I was blessed to teach young men who were equally as enthusiastic.
Their leadership at College events like the Swimming and Athletics carnivals
Japan Rugby Tour and Italian Language Tour.
Bus duty – times where you could just get to know them better.
Manners - they are impeccable.
Listening to them in singing practice as I write this article.
Academic pursuits – they continued to push each other right to the end and are now embracing working together to achieve results as a cohort.
As a College, we have provided them a lot over the years. However, it is important to acknowledge how much they have not only offered us but how much they have given back to the community. I cannot thank them enough for all that they have done and wish them well in their future endeavours.
As you walk out of the College today, Class of 2025, I am eternally grateful to you for allowing me to be a part of your journey at St Patrick’s College.
Luceat Lux Vestra.
Adrian Byrne
Deputy Principal