Principal's Post

A community reconnected

There was a wonderful sense of energy and connection around the School this week as we welcomed everyone back together following the conclusion of the Year 11 and 12 examinations and the many adventures of the Year 8 Camp. Having our entire community reunited again serves as a timely reminder of the importance of belonging, shared experiences, and the relationships that underpin a thriving school culture which we all enjoy at St George’s.

As we move towards the final three weeks of Term Two, it is worth reflecting on the significance of connection and camaraderie within our community. Schools are about far more than test scores, exam marks and academic achievement The friendships formed, the challenges overcome together, and the support shown to one another are often the experiences that leave the most lasting impact. As author and educator Rita Pierson famously stated, 

“Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them and understands the power of connection.”

St George’s students have plenty of these champions in their classes and cocurricular experiences to support them. Equally, it is through connection with peers that young people develop confidence, resilience, empathy, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Our Year 8 Camp provided a wonderful example of this in action. Despite some challenging weather conditions, students embraced the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, and strengthen relationships with both their peers and staff. Camps offer experiences that simply cannot be replicated in the classroom. They encourage teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and trust while creating memories that students will carry with them for years to come. When Grammarians head back into the School or cross paths with me in the city, it is these experiences that they talk about. 

One of the great strengths of our School community is the willingness of students and staff alike to support one another. Whether navigating the fear of abseiling or the climbing wall, working together to solve a challenge, or simply sharing stories around the campsite, our Year 8 students demonstrated the value of encouragement, cooperation, and friendship. As Helen Keller once observed, 

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

Well Done Year 8 Campers!

My sincere thanks go to all staff who attended the camp and contributed to its overall success, particularly Miss Sadie Yoxall in her role as Head of Camps & Service Learning and Mr Thomas Dempers as Head of Year 7 & 8. Their leadership, organisation, genuine enthusiasm and commitment ensured that students were able to enjoy a safe, engaging, and rewarding camp experience. Combined with the positive attitude of our Year 8 students, the camp has undoubtedly been one of the highlights of the year thus far. Congratulations to all involved.

While there is much to celebrate in the June edition of The Dragon, the term is certainly not over. The coming weeks remain busy and purposeful as students continue to pursue their academic and co-curricular goals.

Next week, our Year 10 students commence their examination period before turning their attention to subject selection conversations for their senior years. These important discussions will help shape future pathways and opportunities before students conclude the term with their Work Experience placements, an invaluable opportunity to explore

 potential careers and develop workplace skills. Thanks to Mrs Chris Collins who manages our Pathways and Work Experience Placements – a huge task each year.

Our community also looks forward to a number of exciting events that will bring us together in celebration. The Senior Vocal Night on Tuesday 16 June promises to showcase the remarkable talent, dedication, and passion of many of our outstanding vocalists. I encourage families to support this special evening and enjoy the performances of our students.

Year 9 students will have the opportunity to strengthen friendships and enjoy some healthy competition at their Escape Room Social on Thursday 18 June, while Lincoln House's Charity Day on Friday 26 June will provide a wonderful chance for students to contribute to causes beyond themselves and demonstrate the spirit of service that is such an important part of our School values.

As we approach the end of Term Two, let us continue to make the most of the opportunities before us—not only to achieve our personal best, but also to strengthen the connections that make our community such a special place. As Simon Sinek reminds us, 

“A team is not a group of people who work together. A team is a group of people who trust each other.”

The trust, friendship, and camaraderie we build today will continue to support and inspire us long after the term concludes. With winter now upon us, I wish you all a wonderful weekend.

Mrs Tina Campbell

Principal