From our Principal
Dear Parents, Students and Friends,
Welcome back to Term 3! I trust our young people are refreshed, re-charged and ready to meet the challenges of the learning experiences ahead. For our Year 12 students you enter into the final phase of “heavy lifting” ahead of the final celebrations and then for many onto an exam period. So it is a time to put heads down and leave no stone unturned as you strive to gain maximum outcomes in the assessments to come.
Northern Territory Experience
Over the holiday period forty year ten to twelve students travelled to Central Australia and the Northern Territory. This learning and enrichment experience has given students the chance to visit a number of important environmental, cultural and spiritual landmarks in the Australian Outback. They have walked among great canyons and rock formations, seen vast landscapes, visited spiritually important sites, spoken with Aboriginal elders, and interacted with native wildlife and sampled bush tucker. Some of the places visited included Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Simpson’s Gap, Standley Chasm, Karlu Karlu (The Devil’s Marbles), Daly Waters, Bitter Springs, Katherine, Edith Falls, Jabiru, Ubirr Rock & Darwin.
From a learning perspective this experience has provided:
An immersion experience with our Indigenous peoples
An awareness and social justice experience of the challenges of our indigenous peoples. This provides strong connections with Catholic Social Teaching
An awareness raising opportunity to discover the effects and impact on climate change and the critical importance on conserving our natural wonders and bring these learnings back to the school community for action
I take this opportunity to sincerely thank the five staff who supported our students along their journey and congratulate the students for the manner in which they approached and participated in the experience. From all reports they were exceptional ambassadors.
School Production – West Side Story
As this newsletter goes to print, we are in the middle of an exciting time, it’s production time. This year the cast presents a classic, West Side Story. A school production is so much more than lights, costumes, and applause. It is a powerful experience that enriches our school community and provides valuable opportunities for student growth and connection.
For students, participating in a production builds confidence, resilience, and teamwork. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, students learn the importance of commitment, time management, and creative expression. It’s a chance for many to shine in new ways, discover hidden talents, and experience the joy of collaboration. For the College, a production brings people together. It strengthens community spirit, showcases our students’ gifts, and creates a shared sense of pride. Parents, staff, and peers come together to support and celebrate the hard work of all involved.
Ultimately, a school production reflects the vibrant life of our school — a place where learning extends beyond the classroom and every student has a chance to belong, contribute, and thrive.
I take this opportunity to congratulate all that have been involved.
Japanese Immersion Experience
We welcome our visitors from Waiko Kokusai High school who are currently on an immersion experience with us. Waiko Kokusai is one of two sister school partnerships we have. The value associated with having such a relationship is immeasurable. Our partnership with a Japanese sister school is a unique and enriching opportunity that extends far beyond cultural exchange. It reflects our commitment to global learning, mutual respect, and building bridges across cultures.
For students, this connection offers first-hand insight into Japanese language, traditions, and daily life. It brings their classroom learning to life, deepening their understanding of global citizenship and at the same time enhancing their language development. Hosting or visiting students fosters real friendships and lasting memories that broaden perspectives and build confidence.
For our school community, the sister school relationship strengthens international ties, enhances language programs, and promotes a culture of inclusion and respect. It reminds us that education is not limited by borders — it is enriched by them. I thank in particular our host families who have so generously agreed to host one or two of our visiting Japanese students.
The Term Ahead
Finally, just to ensure all parents and students are fully aware of some of the critical events which occur in Term 3 below is a list of some of the key moments:
Futures Expo – July 29 – an essential event for parents and students to ensure informed decisions are made about future pathways.
Subject selection interviews (Year 9-10) – commence July 30 – a time for parents and students to come together with a staff member to discuss a suitable subject selection plan.
Subject selection interviews (Year 10-11) – commence August 4 – a time for parents and students to come together with a staff member to discuss a suitable subject selection plan
Student Leadership Process – commences August 19 with the Year 11 Leadership Day
Student Learning Conversations – September 4
Year 12 Practice Exams – commence September 8
Congratulations
On behalf of St Peter’s College we would like to extend our sincerest congratulations to Mrs Julie Banda on her appointment as Principal of St Francis Xavier College from 2026. Her contribution to St Peter’s College, particularly in her current role as the Deputy Principal – Head of Campus, Clyde North, has been significant in shaping the lives of so many young people. We are indebted to Julie for inspiring so many staff and students of St Peter’s College to strive to be the best version of themselves in all they undertake. Lost to the St Peter’s College community but thankfully not to the Diocese.
Congratulations Julie from all at St Peter’s College.
Enjoy the week (and the term ahead).
Mr Chris Black
Principal