Wellbeing - Middle School

Don’t Always Go Where the Common Path May Lead

Last Friday during our Middle School Assembly, we had the opportunity to hear from Francesco Mazza during his first address as College Captain. Francesco spoke honestly and personally, reflecting of his schooling journey and learnings thus far. Below is part of the script:

“Today, I want to start with my motto, one that’s stuck with me through my ups and downs at SPC. It actually came to me in Year 6, when I was Junior School Captain. I remember sitting where you are now, watching the older boys give speeches. I remember thinking: How do these guys speak in front of 1500 people and with so much confidence? They read clearly, barely made a mistake. But it wasn’t just how they spoke – it was what they said. One line that has stuck with me was “Don’t always go where the common path may lead.” Instead, go where there is no path and leave a trail.”

 

Think about that. It’s easy to follow the crowd and blend in. But real leaders go first. They take risks. They leave something behind that others want to follow. That’s my challenge to you today: Start leaving a trail.

 

The dictionary definition of brotherhood is “a community linked by a common interest, religion or trade.” Not saying that I am any wiser or smarter than Google, but to me, it’s more than that. Brotherhood is about coming together across differences – cultural, religious, academic, physical. It’s about helping each other and making sure no boy is left behind. On the field, in class, or just walking around the yard, look at the boys next to you. These are your brothers, You’re a team. You will never see a soccer team with only one player. And this closely relates to school. The truth is you can’t get through school alone either. You need your mates, and they need you. In the senior years, we look back and realise how far we’ve come, together. As brothers”.

Francesco continued on to wish our Year 7 students well as they embark on camp this week and also had some wise words for the rest of our Middle School who are going through various transition points leading into the end of the year and into next. 

As we move swiftly through the remainder of the term, I took the opportunity to encourage our Middle School students to continue striving for excellence in every aspect of school life. I also reminded them of the importance of upholding our high standards when representing the College in the wider community. Our reputation is outstanding, and it is through the conduct and character of our boys that this proud tradition continues.

Alexandros Sinadinos

Director of Middle School