School Update

In Nelson's absence, visiting family in Philadelphia, I am pleased to provide an update within this edition of the Rose & Waratah.

As usual, Term 3 has seen the School buzzing with activity and events as students and staff across the School have been preparing for the sprint to the end of the year. 

We welcomed Quaker in Residence, Lydia Maier, Assistant Head of Waynflete School in Portland, Maine for the first week of Term 3. Lydia spoke with students and staff on a variety of topics, participated in student and staff gatherings, as well as in a number of different classes around the School. In her report about her time with us, Lydia said:

"I also witnessed many moments of playful joy in classrooms between students and teachers which underscored a deeper message that every student is valued but that lasting learning happens in relationship. As James Comer, a famous African-American educator, once said, “No significant learning happens without a significant relationship.” At Friends', it is clear that teachers and students value these relationships not only with one another but also with the exceptionally beautiful natural world of Tasmania."

We thank Lydia for her time with us. 

This year has seen a number of long-serving staff announce their intention to retire. While we are sad to say goodbye to these valued members of the School community, it also means that we will be welcoming some new and familiar faces into these vacant roles. We have been fortunate to appoint current staff members Mark Febey and Adam Chambers into the roles of Head of Morris and Head of Clemes respectively, who will both begin their new positions in 2019.  The School will also be welcoming Shaun O'Rourke into the role of Deputy Principal in 2019. Shaun and his family will be returning to Tasmania after 17 years of living and working overseas.

Thank you to our students, families and staff for supporting one another through a busy learning and co-curricular term.  I am always amazed at the constant hive of activity and excitement - even through these winter months.

I trust you will enjoy this edition of the Rose & Waratah.

Warm regards,

Ina Johnson

Acting Principal