From the Principal

This has been a great week for the Year 12s who left the School for the final time this morning after their traditional Fancy Dress Breakfast and viewing of the Leavers' DVD. Our Leavers thoroughly enjoyed the various celebratory events which culminated yesterday with a farewell from the whole school at the morning Gift of a Candle Service, and the evening Valedictory and Prize Giving where the students were joined by their families, the Secondary staff, Executive and special guest Mrs Irene Clarke, Chief Financial Officer of the Anglican Schools Commission. As we have come to expect, the Head Prefects, Ashlee King and Tom Ayres spoke with confidence and poise expressing  gratitude for their time at John Wollaston and leaving valuable advice for their successors. Equally polished were Primary Head Girl, Mia Wall and Primary Service Prefect, Arthlay Matibhiri who delivered the Primary School Goodbye at the morning service. Head of Year 7, Jaquie Fisher delivered the farewell address from the staff. Having taught many of the students, her message was well received adding to the spirit of the occasion.

The evening event is continuing to build an important tradition of "shared success". Each student is presented to the Principal and academic and special prizes are awarded. It is wonderful to see the students warmly acknowledging the success of their peers. Congratulations to all recipients of prizes and awards, they are richly deserved. The entertainment featured a vocal performance by Martha Dodge which was "ambushed" by singing students and staff flash mobs. Supper, a delicious variety of Spanish paella dishes and desserts, was held in the Upper Primary building.

Nine Veterans finished their schooling this week. A Veteran student is one who completes his/her entire schooling at John Wollaston and this year's group comprised three boys and six girls who had commenced in Kindergarten, Pre-Primary or Year 1. Interestingly, our Head Prefects, Ashlee King and Tom Ayres are both Veterans, having joined the School in Kindergarten. To acknowledge the Veterans, I host a morning tea during Valedictory Week which is also attended by the Executive. This is a special time when the students reflect informally on their school journey and share plans for their future. The students were unanimously positive about their school experience, noting the contribution of friends, teachers and parents. To families who have committed to the School for the duration of their children's education, I thank you for the significant emotional and financial investment you have made.

Thank you to parents for supporting the events of this important week; your sons and daughters, the staff and I greatly appreciate your involvement. The Class of 2018 has left with our best wishes for the future.

Anne Ford

Principal