Editorial

School life is so busy that it can be challenging to know what to focus on in these newsletter articles. Among my own highlights of this term were the opportunities to spend time with the Year 10 students at PGL Adventure Camp in Tylden, and engaging more with the Year 9s, during their City Cite week. 

Despite the chilly conditions in the Macedon Ranges, it was wonderful to participate in the outdoor adventure activities camp with the Year 10s. It was encouraging to witness them working together in small groups throughout our time away and representing the College with maturity. Likewise, there is much to appreciate about the Year 9 City Cite week. The Middle School Leadership Team is to be congratulated for their collaborative efforts in shaping this week as part of an emphasis in Year 9 on citizenship, with a particular emphasis on justice. Followers of Christ are called to both love God and neighbour. The Year 9 program, particularly City Cite, is a great opportunity for students to better understand their neighbours, to listen to their stories, and learn from people whom they may not usually encounter.

Much of the past few weeks has been spent in preparation for 2026. As I write this, together with Mr Kearney and Mr Siatskas, I am in the midst of interviewing Year 11 students who have expressed interest in being involved in student leadership. That is, interviewing students who have applied to be a School Captain or a member of our broader Secondary Student Leadership Team, the Senate.  Additionally, again alongside other staff, we are currently interviewing staff members for positions of responsibility within the Secondary school.  It is encouraging to talk to these staff members and catch their vision for how they would like to serve our school community in these roles.

As the term comes to an end it is good to reflect on the blessing it has been to witness the students taking on new challenges, whether it be via the camps, city cite or by stepping forward into leadership roles.  It is hoped that these experiences will build character and resilience, but more importantly, motivate our students to live out the Christian values of justice and service.  It is especially encouraging to see students and staff alike seeking to serve our college through leadership. 

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms 1 Peter 4:10.

Chris Prior

Secondary Principal