From the Principal 

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” Nelson Mandela

In my mind, the biggest challenge our young people face today is whether they have the courage to do the right thing, at the right time, in the face of enormous social pressure to do otherwise. ‘Character’, a great mentor once told me, is ‘doing the right thing when no one else is looking’.  Our children know what is right but it takes courage to follow through.  The good news is that courage can be contagious and when a student stands up for what is right, they often give permission to others to do the same.  At last week’s Year 12 Retreat, I emphasised the same theme and how it takes real courage to be honest with oneself and be accountable for the goals we set and the actions we take. 

However, the responsibility to demonstrate courage applies not only to our youth.  Staff, parents and Old Collegians alike must be prepared to participate in courageous conversations and, just as importantly, take courageous action that will enable our students to learn life. 

I am now pleased to share some more fabulous news. Last Friday, the Board approved refurbishing the Year 12 Common Room at a cost of $180,000.  We will expand and update this space and I especially thank the P&F for their generous donation of $50,000.  Every child will benefit from this important investment in our leaders’ future and building will commence later this term.  Plans will be posted on the College website.

We have had a fabulous start to 2021 in the Boarding House, on the Year 11 and 12 Retreats, in the classroom and on the sports field. I do hope you will join me for the Board’s Welcome Drinks this Friday 5 February at the Hamilton Showgrounds from 6pm. I look forward to catching up in person; noting that COVID-19 regulations insist we are limited to 200 guests. 

Scholars’ Assembly will be held on Monday at 12noon.  Unfortunately, numbers are restricted in the Simons Auditorium. If you would like to watch this celebration of the 2020 Academic Achievements, please click on the link SCHOLARS ASSEMBLY 2021. 

Similarly, can I ask all parents to ensure they ‘scan’ in on arrival at the Junior and Senior School and safely socially distance at all sports carnivals this term.

Best wishes 

Dr Andrew Hirst