Message from 

the Principal

I have been delighted to observe the positive and enthusiastic manner that so many of our students are showing as they approach the ‘new normal’ of our everyday School routines. Their patience and cooperation has been marvellous. Fortunately, due to the careful management of the pandemic across the country we are beginning to witness an ease in restrictions that will enable us at School to slowly resume some of the activities and practices that have been on hold. More details about this will be communicated shortly.

Last Friday we conducted a ‘drill’ to rehearse our procedures in response to a positive case of COVID-19 on campus. Our students must be commended for their support and cooperation for what was a most smooth and orderly operation which also importantly highlighted a few areas for refinement – the purpose for holding the drill. 

Our Boarders have also engaged most positively in the activities organised for them that range from enjoying a pizza Master Chef class conducted by one of our Chefs, other cooking activities, woodwork, leather work and a great variety of outdoor recreational activities. 

“Every time we turn our heads the other way when we see the law flouted, when we tolerate what we know to be wrong, when we close our eye and ears to the corrupt because we are too busy or too frightened, when we fail to speak up and speak out, we strike a blow against freedom and decency and justice.”  Robert F. Kennedy

It has certainly been a year we will not forget and one that continues to see much unrest and division across the globe. The pandemic has seen an incredible loss of life, sickness, evaporation of livelihoods and many shattered economies. Now we are witnessing dreadful political and social tensions that have erupted in response to the shocking mistreatment of citizens and abuse of power, sparking the ‘Black Lives Matter’ protests around the world.

It is impossible not to be affected by the tragic death of George Floyd in America. The systemic racism and injustice of this event has given rise to the understandable anger and rage, uncertainty and sadness, around the globe. Tragically, there is a long history of such events.

Many people have determined that now is the time to stand up for their beliefs. Proposing a more understanding and empathetic society that supports all individuals is central to the life we all want to live. It is important therefore, to voice our support for those who choose to protest against abuse of power and injustice in a peaceful way.

Such times should encourage us as a School community to reflect upon our values and how we view such events. We need to be courageous and to speak up against injustice when we see it. Through strength of character and determination we need to actively embrace and initiate positive change. We strive to be inclusive at KWS and we recognise that the world is a rich and diverse place. We strive to embrace a collaborative spirit and to make a daily commitment to be compassionate and considerate in our behaviour. We believe diversity should be celebrated and that our School should always provide a safe and welcoming environment for all to enjoy.

No community is perfect and we must always continue to work to make our School, and our communities better places. It is helpful to reflect upon our School values and the wonderful examples of so many around the globe who have peacefully stood against injustice and oppression as we strive to be an inclusive, respectful and considerate School.

Captain Tom Moore – the centarian who captured the hearts of a nation

It is important we think of others before ourselves, and that we express gratitude to those who contribute positively to the welfare of the community. Amid all the turmoil of the past weeks and months there have been many examples of those who have done precisely this. One such story that captured my interest and the interest and support of hundreds of thousands around the world was that of Englishman, Captain Tom Moore, who recently turned 100 years of age and during the pandemic raised over $70 million dollars for the British Health Service. Captain Tom wished to express his gratitude to the Health Workers who had recently cared for him following a broken hip and other health ailments. He was enormously appreciative of the care he received and of great work of the National Health Service during the pandemic. 

The war veteran set up a modest goal of raising 1000 pounds for NHS Charities by walking up and down his garden with the assistance of his walking frame, 100 times before his 100th birthday. Little did he know what an overwhelming response he would receive. In less than six weeks, Captain Tom’s campaign caught the imagination of Britain and raised over 35 million pounds (70 million Australian dollars) for the British Health Service and he became a national hero. He did it “for the sake of the nurses and the NHS because they are doing such a magnificent job.”

In recognition for his incredibly successful fund-raising campaign he received special congratulations from the Queen and the British Prime Minister. The centarian also received a special nomination from the PM for a Knighthood for his support of the National Health Service. Boris Johnson said “Your heroic efforts have lifted the spirits of the entire nation, you’ve created a channel to enable millions to say a heartfelt thank you to the remarkable men and women in our NHS who have been doing the most outstanding job." Captain Tom was also informed of his promotion to Honorary Colonel by the British Army Chief of General Staff.

These accolades were all accepted with great humility and with a good dose of humour. His response on hearing being made a Knight of the realm was “I hope the Queen is not very heavy handed with the sword, as I am a rather poor old weak soul.”

A much needed heart warming story of generosity and gratitude. Captain Tom sets us all a magnificent example of continuing to strive to contribute to our community and being grateful for those around us who make our world a better place. 

Uniform Review

A photo has been circulating among the school community purporting to be of our new School uniform. As it has circulated widely and is quite misleading, I would like to address this matter with you. 

Our future uniform is still in the development stage and the committee is still testing and refining a range of options.  Our Uniform Review Committee, which has been chosen carefully to represent parents of boys and girls across a full range of school years, as well as alumni and the School Executive, continues to work closely with designer, Jonathan Ward on development.  

Jonathan Ward has designed and delivered more than 20 uniforms for Australia’s leading independent schools and brings decades of knowledge and experience to this process, ensuring that we will produce a uniform of which our students and community can be proud. 

The information being shared on social media is not correct and it is disappointing to see the speculation that has been taking place. 

I urge our School community to rely on formal School channels for their information on our uniform and assure you that we will share our plans with you as soon as we can. 

Staff Appointment

Mrs Kate Anderson – TAS Maternity Leave cover

It is with pleasure that I advise that Mrs Kate Anderson will join the KWS teaching staff to cover Mrs Mel Meek whilst Mel is on Maternity Leave. 

Kate has a Bachelor of Education (Physical and Health Education) from the University of Wollongong and has worked in New Zealand, United States of America, Alice Springs and more recently at Orange Anglican Grammar School and Canobolas Rural Technology High School. 

Kate comes to us with significant experience and has fulfilled many roles, including Head of House, Vocational Education and Training Coordinator, School-Based Apprenticeship Manager and Careers Advisor. She has also managed and led Round Square International Service projects and outdoor education experiences.

We welcome Kate to the KWS community.

Staff Congratulations

Mrs Mel Meek – baby boy

A healthy baby boy, Jack Randall Meek, was delivered by Mel Meek, only a few days after recently going on Maternity Leave. Congratulations to proud parents, Taylor and Mel Meek.

Dr Andrew Parry 

Principal - KWS