From the Principal

Our Values Reflect Who We Are and What We Do

As we approach the end of another year, we reflect on the core values that guide our community—Grace, Service, Love, Compassion, and Excellence. These values are not just words but principles we live by every day. They shape our interactions, our growth, and the way we serve one another and the world around us. In this edition of the newsletter, I would like to reflect upon and highlight how these values come together to create a nurturing environment for our students.

Grace: A Gift We Share

At Lakeside College, grace is central to everything we do. It is the unearned love and favour of God, a gift that we receive and in turn, share with others. Grace teaches us patience, forgiveness and kindness, encouraging us to lift one another up. For our students, grace is not just a theological concept—it is a practical way of being. From the youngest in Prep to the eldest in Year 12, we see grace in action through thoughtful gestures, the kindness extended to peers and the supportive environment created by teachers and staff.

Service: Living Out Our Faith

Service is an integral part of our Lutheran identity. It is through service that we live out our faith and reflect the love of Christ. At Lakeside, students engage in service projects both big and small, learning that service is not just about giving; it’s about making a difference and showing God's love to others. Whether it’s through our Year 11 service program, charity fundraisers, or volunteering, our students are learning the profound impact of selfless acts of kindness every day. We are called to serve the world in love and every day acts of kindness enable us to reflect our values to each other. 

Love: The Foundation of All We Do

Love is at the heart of our Lutheran faith and is the foundation of all our relationships. It is through love that we build trust, foster friendship and create a community where everyone feels valued and supported. At Lakeside, we are committed to teaching our students that love is not just an emotion but a choice—a choice to care for one another, to show empathy, and to extend kindness even in the most challenging situations. In classrooms, playgrounds, and chapels, our students experience the power of love and are encouraged to share that love in everything they do.

Compassion: Walking in Each Other’s Shoes

Compassion is the ability to empathise with others and respond with care. It is a key value that helps our students understand the struggles of others and act with kindness. We emphasise that compassion is not only about feeling for someone but also about doing something to help. Through compassion, our students learn to walk alongside those in need, to listen with an open heart, and to act in ways that bring healing and support.

In every year group, our students engage in compassionate acts—whether it’s comforting a friend, helping a classmate in need, or participating in community outreach programs. These experiences help our students develop a deep understanding of what it means to love and care for others.

Excellence: Striving for the Best in All We Do

At Lakeside, excellence is more than just achieving high academic standards; it is about striving to do our best in all areas of life—spiritually, socially, and intellectually. Excellence means putting our best foot forward, continuously improving, and giving our full effort in everything we pursue. It is about setting high standards and challenging ourselves to grow in faith, knowledge and character.

Our students are encouraged to pursue excellence in their academic studies, artistic endeavours, sports, and leadership roles. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the playing field, or in the service of others, we encourage every student to strive for excellence, not for personal glory, but to bring glory to God and serve others well. We instil in our students the desire to always be the best version of themselves and to always take time to reflect and grow in their understanding of themselves and the world in which they will play an active role. 

Grace, Service, and Our Core Values in Action

As we move forward, we encourage our students, families and staff to continue to live out these values—Grace, Service, Love, Compassion and Excellence—in all that we do. Together, we are working to create a community that embodies these principles, where each person is valued, supported and empowered to make a difference.

At Lakeside College, our core values are not just words we say—they are the foundation of how we live, work and grow together. Through Grace, Service, Love, Compassion and Excellence, we nurture a community where every student can thrive spiritually, academically and personally. We are grateful for the role each family plays in shaping this community and look forward to all that we will continue to accomplish together.

A Christmas Blessing for Our Staff, Students, and Families

As we celebrate the joy of Christmas, we reflect on the many blessings God has given us throughout this year. It has been a year of growth, learning and community, and we are deeply grateful for the support and dedication of our students, staff and families. As we remember the birth of our Saviour, may we be reminded of His gift of peace, hope and love.

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:14)

We pray that this Christmas season brings you peace, joy, and an overwhelming sense of God’s love. May you find rest and reflection in the presence of your loved ones and may the light of Christ, born in the manger, shine brightly in your hearts. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

To our staff, we thank you for your unwavering commitment to nurturing, teaching, and inspiring our students. Your passion, care and dedication make our school a place of learning and love. As the apostle Paul reminds us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23) May you experience the peace and rest you deserve this holiday season, knowing that your work is done in His service.

To our students, we are proud of the growth and achievements you have shown this year. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, remember His words: “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:14) May you continue to grow in wisdom, kindness and love. May this Christmas season fill your hearts with the joy of Christ’s love and may you carry that joy into the new year with faith and hope.

To our families, we thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in the life of our school. As we come together to celebrate the birth of our Saviour, we are reminded of the deep love and care you bring to our community. “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24) We pray that you experience God’s abundant blessings this Christmas and that your hearts are filled with hope and gratitude for the year ahead.

As we reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, let us all remember the gift of "Immanuel", which means "God with us." (Matthew 1:23) May the love and grace of Christ fill your hearts this season and guide you in the coming year.

Merry Christmas and God’s Blessings to You All!

With love and gratitude,

Mr Robert Tassoni

Principal