Co-Curricular

Altius – The Call to Aim Higher

Last week, I reflected on the Olympic motto, particularly the meaning of Citius – the spirit of readiness – and how the example of the Holy Mother calls us to act with trust, attentiveness, and commitment in college life. This week, I wanted to continue this reflection on the motto and why it resonates with our crest and our co-curricular pursuits.

Altius – to aim higher.

Altius is not merely the challenge to jump, throw, lift, or score higher. It isn’t just about results or recognition. It is about lifting our sights toward purpose and meaning. In the crest of St Patrick’s College, gold represents generosity, the giving of self for others, and the pursuit of God’s wisdom and truth. It reminds us that excellence is not built on talent alone but through sacrifice and dedication.

What is often overlooked in the achievement of high performance and the rewards that follow is the depth of skill, knowledge, commitment, consistency, and resilience that have laid the foundation for success. Just like a tree must deepen its roots the higher it climbs, so too must we deepen our purpose and wisdom as we reach for the heights that our talents and passions might offer us.

The Altius spirit could be seen in our community this week. Many of our Football teams competed in grand finals, not just for premierships but as a reflection of the unity and resilience formed through the season. The Performing Arts Showcase highlighted the fine skills and collaboration of our musicians, and the courage they possess to push themselves in daily practice. In Debating and Public Speaking, students received awards and recognition for their clarity and poise in an activity that requires a willingness to be vulnerable and challenged publicly. It is no surprise that so many are also stepping into leadership roles for 2026.

Altius calls us to lift, to raise our standards, to encourage one another, and to give of ourselves generously. May the gold of our crest and the spirit of Altius remind our students to aim higher in every endeavour, not for status, but for truth, goodness, and God.

Adam Watson

Director of Co-Curricular

In the midst of an ordinary training day, I try to remind myself that I am preparing for the extraordinary." - Shalane Flanagan, American long-distance runner and Olympic medalist