From the Principal

Did you have fun?

A good mate of mine has a son who is a star AFL footballer. Years ago, when he was first drafted, the club conducted a family day and invited parents and siblings to watch a practice match and then have lunch with the team.

The AFL coach asked my friend how he thought his boy had played. The proud Dad gave his analysis and the coach listened politely. The coach’s response was enlightening:

‘You are spot on. However, from now on your job is to leave the feedback to us and you can just make sure he is happy and having fun.’

I had some good conversations with parents at our rowing regatta last weekend. They were explaining that their day involved driving their children between the regatta and the music camp at New Norcia. Other families were taking their children from rowing to netball. Others had club sporting commitments unrelated to the College. They were not complaining; it is great that our students are fully engaged in an assortment of activities. 

This week, Mrs Murphy, conducted a pilgrimage information evening for our current Year 11s. They will miss our customary pilgrimage experience, but Mrs Murphy has been resourceful and is making plans for Year 12. Our Magis Public speakers were in fine voice on Tuesday evening. Our Primary School had its first assembly with parental attendance for over a term and conducted its House Cross-Country event. Our secondary students enjoyed the annual Athletics Carnival.

There is an element of competition in all these events. Of far more importance is the sense of enjoyment, friendship, and community that is created. It is great watching the excellent interaction between our students and the positive engagement with our staff and the proud support of families. 

The Tokyo Olympics may have been postponed but our College has its own beautiful opening ceremony tradition to commence its athletics’ carnival. Watching our Year 12s dance and sing their way to the start of the carnival is an indelible memory. It is always great to watch and plenty of fun was had my all. Learning at school comes in many guises. 

Robert Henderson

Principal