Principal's Message

Thoughts and Prayers for Dr Helen Haines — Member for Indi

It was with genuine shock that I saw the news of the alleged attack on Dr Helen Haines in Wangaratta this week. With a strong personal connection to both Wangaratta and to Helen, I was devastated to learn of the injuries she has sustained and of the critical condition she remains in. Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen, her family and friends, and the whole north-east Victorian community at this sad time.

Unfortunately, we continue to see incidents of violence across Australia that are deeply troubling. At times, it feels as though we have lost some of our ability to disagree respectfully and to acknowledge difference peacefully. Several explanations have been offered for this; including negativity on social media, the behaviour of certain political leaders around the world, and the declining state of mental health in our communities. The truth is likely to be complex, and I don't pretend to have the answer.

What I do know is how hard it is for our young people to make sense of events like these and the effect they can have on their sense of safety. They look to the adults in their world for reassurance and security and this is a responsibility we need to take seriously.

It is important that we remind our young people that Australia, and our local community, remains a safe place to live. In an age-appropriate way, we need to talk with them about what they are seeing and what they are feeling. We should reassure them that most people share the values of kindness, respect and care that underpin strong communities. When we see behaviour that does not reflect those values, we should name it calmly and honestly and show our children that the right response is not fear but steady, decent action. At All Saints’ College, we ensure that our values (ERIC – empathy, respect, integrity and courage) guide our daily interactions with each other and how we respond when things around us feel challenging or uncertain.   

Please also look after yourselves. If your child has questions you would like help with, or if this week's news has affected your family, our wellbeing team is here for you. Please don't hesitate to be in touch.

Farewell, Class of 2026

In much more positive news, I have thoroughly enjoyed the celebrations as we send off our Year 12 students this week. The Class of 2026 have been extremely respectful and have shown a sense of fun and of pride as they bid farewell to All Saints' College. The traditional Colonnade was a very emotional moment, with students and staff expressing their gratitude and thanks for the many years of working side by side. There was certainly a large supply of tissues on hand for our students and staff!  For those sitting ATAR examinations in the coming weeks, I wish you all the very best and I look forward to hearing where your paths take you next. Our graduating class of 2026 leave with our thanks, our congratulations, and our genuine affection.

All the best.

Nick Jones

Principal