Wellbeing - Middle School

The Importance of Finishing Well

I hope all students and families enjoyed a restful and enjoyable break. It is a pleasure to welcome everyone back for Term 4. While it is a short eight-week term, there is certainly no shortage of exciting opportunities, events and learning experiences ahead across the Middle School.

Like many Australians, I spent some time during the holidays watching the AFL Grand Final. Although I had no allegiance to either team, I found myself firmly on the Fremantle bandwagon, hoping to see the Dockers secure their first premiership. This was due, in no small part, to the influence of our own Year 5 teacher, Mr Jeffery, who hails from Perth and made sure to wear something purple during much of the final week of Term 3.

As the match entered its final stages, Fremantle held a commanding lead. When AC/DC's Hells Bells echoed around the MCG, it seemed the premiership was almost theirs. Yet, with just four minutes remaining, the Brisbane Lions produced a remarkable finish, kicking four late goals to snatch victory in dramatic fashion.

There is a valuable lesson in this for all of us: never celebrate too early. While Term 4 may be brief, we cannot afford to take our foot off the pedal. The finish line may be in sight, but there is still important work to be done. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, in co-curricular activities or through service to others, our challenge is to maintain our commitment and standards right through to the final day of term.

I encourage all students to return ready to Shine the St Patrick's Way and to demonstrate this every day throughout the term. There is much to look forward to across the Middle School, and I look forward to supporting our students as they continue to grow, learn and contribute positively to our community.

Here's to a focused, productive and rewarding Term 4 for all.

Sarah Tatola

Acting Director of Middle School