From the Principal

A Touch Of Humility

At last week’s primary and secondary assemblies, we recognised students for outstanding achievements across academic, sporting and cultural activities. Over the past few weeks I have also been receiving regular updates on excellent musical performances by our students in the Catholic Performing Arts’ competitions and our Year 4s are busily preparing for next week’s production. It is terrific that so many of our students are receiving commendation.

During the secondary assembly, I acknowledged the demeanour of award winners and the generous praise of the student and staff audience. I related the following story on the importance of humility.

‘On the first day of Term Three I arrived at school a few hours’ late. The reason for my tardiness was that I had been invited to attend another Catholic school’s assembly. A friend and former colleague, Simon Harvey, was being commissioned as the new Principal of St Norbert College in Queens Park. It was an important occasion for that school and even more significant given that Mr Harvey is a former student.

‘During his first address to the school community, Mr Harvey acknowledged his parents whom were in attendance. He spoke lovingly of the huge sacrifices his Mum and Dad had made to enable their four sons to receive a Catholic education. He talked of his upbringing in Armadale and how difficult it would have been for his parents to send their sons to school via a long train ride every morning. Mr Harvey spoke of the privilege of working at St Norbert and how much he looked forward to the days and weeks ahead. His words were very much about service leadership which echoes the St Norbert motto of ‘Ad Omnia Paratus’ (Prepared for all good works).’

It was a delightful example of humble yet inspiring leadership.  I see many similar examples every week at John XXIII College.

Jesuit And Companion Schools Principals’ Meeting

Each term there is a Jesuit Principals’ meeting (our St Louis heritage) and a Loreto Principals’ meeting (our Loreto heritage) scheduled around the country. Where possible I try to attend but clearly eight annual interstate meetings are not feasible given I do not wish to be away from school for extended periods.

However, this term it is a little easier because it was John XXIII College’s turn to host a gathering (see photo above). As well as a productive meeting, it was also an opportunity for me to introduce the Principals and Rectors (Jesuit Priests) to our staff.

Together, let us seek justice.

Yours sincerely

Robert Henderson

Principal