Deputy Principal

A Working Relationship Built on the Foundations of Being a Virgilian

As we progress through each school day and as the weeks role on, it is important to note the working relationships we have with all members of our community. Maintaining a positive and respectful relationship at all times is crucial and we naturally hold our boys to a high standard in this regard. The manner in which we communicate must always embody the values of a Virgilian. Many boys upon reflection will note how they were perceived or came across, and at times did not represent their best versions. Young men need to be conscious of the intention behind any request from a St Virgil’s College staff member. In all instances it can be inclusive of getting our young men to be the best versions of themselves and reinforcing the true spirit of what it means to be a Virgilian. 

A Planned Approach

As we commence Week 7, boys would be well aware of the demands and expectations associated with class work and assessments. I encourage parents to be actively checking Simon Dashboards for current and upcoming tasks and PAM accounts for results and teacher feedback. The calendar on SIMON provides a great mechanism to plan and coordinate when tasks are due and when you plan to tackle them. Routine and structure are significant in the life of a teenage boy. Boys have a structured timetable here at school and I encourage parents to sit down with their sons to discern a structured and planned approach to study. It is important to include family and mealtime, sporting and or work commitments, leisure time. The inclusion of a designated study time and space is essential is creating good study habits as boys progress through their subject requirements. 

As is part of our practise focusing on how we apply ourselves to our learning and how we live out the Virgilian Way will inevitably have an impact on outcomes;

Being the Best Version of You

As Virgilians we aim to challenge ourselves and live up to example of Blessed Edmund, People will see our values in our deeds.

“It’s not about perfect. It’s about effort.”

“Excellence is not a skill. It is an attitude.”

“You don’t get what you wish for. You get what you work for.”

Successful learners…

1. …are leaders in their own learning.
2. …engage with the world around them.
3. …question everything.
4. …think for themselves.
5. …are driven by their interests.
6. …push through challenges.
7. …are determined to succeed.
8. …have inner motivation and self-discipline.
9. …exercise their minds and their bodies.
10. …cultivate good habits.
11. …know how and when to ask for help.
12. …are willing to take risks, fail, and learn from their mistakes.

In finishing, I would like to reinforce the benefits of communicating when things are not going to plan. I cannot encourage boys enough to seek assistance from their subject teacher if they are unsure or concerned. Likewise with the dialogue with PC teachers, we genuinely want to know if there are concerns so we can work through them.