Deputy Principal

Positive Affirmation

Much can be said in society about the negative and what we are not happy with. People will quite often tell you about the goals you missed as opposed to the ones you scored. It is a particular mindset which sees the world through a glass half full. This mentality and outlook can be applied the little things in life. The things which come our way in which, initially we might not be a great fan of, however upon reflection are not the end of the world. Learning to adapt and being resilient - we have all heard this before - are powerful traits to have. What helps to bring this mindset and skill about is acknowledging the positive whenever you see it. We are far too quick to highlight the aspects we are not happy with and need to adopt this mentality to acknowledge the positive. Within the classroom context celebrating and acknowledging those students who have showed great desire, maturity and enthusiasm helps to spread the message of what we want to be the norm. Schools, by nature, are very busy places but as a collective we are mindful of never losing sight of those positive examples of what a true Virgilian means to our community. 

“There are only two options regarding commitment; you’re either in or you’re out.”

Commitment to our work is central to achieve any form of success. Without consistent training and preparation, you won’t be prepared to achieve the results you strive for. Again, we come back to the required mindset. This is true in all forms of school life. If you aren’t all in the result is easily predetermined. Applying yourself to a topic which you find difficult or is not your favourite is what often decides our fate. We work with our young men each and every day to achieve their best, their commitment to this cause is second to none. Too often the teenage mentality can be too concerned with the views and opinions of their friends and in this process their own outcomes become tarnished. Being mindful of your own pathway, your own areas of interest, your own challenges and being prepared to commit yourself to improve should be at the forefront. 

Get Involved!

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge our dedicated staff who go above and beyond to provide opportunities for our boys. There has certainly been much to speak of in terms of events/opportunities going on. I also commend those young men who are always willing and apply themselves to a high standard. Some of the most recent examples include:

• Year 11 Overland Track expedition
• Year 9 Mass at St Bernard’s
• Old Virgilians sessions with Year 9s
• Bell Shakespeare Workshop
• Year 9-10 Recreation Leadership Sessions
• Upcoming Cyber Safety Workshops
• Year 5 Primary School Visits
• Year 10 and 11 Course Counselling
• Year 8 and 9 elective subject presentations and Evening this week
• Extended Pastoral Sessions: Student Wellbeing Program for Year 7-11
• STEM Club
• Chess Competitions