Deputy Principal, Wellbeing 

At a time of the year where celebrations of excellence and achievement come to the fore, let me share a reflection by an African person that was read by a past Principal of the College at Speech Day. 

In Australia, we greet one another with gidday or how are you. In Africa, a common greeting is I see you. It is a delightful way for one person to say they have noticed the person they are greeting. What makes the College unique and special is the connection between students, and the connection between students and staff. 

Our annual Scholars’ Assembly is a time of certificates, recognition, awards, prizes and 'seeing' of high achievement. It is wonderful to see the young men and women who shine at this time of year and they deserve heartfelt recognition and congratulations. 

But this message is for the child that didn't get called up for any of the above... 

I SEE YOU. 

To the child that conquered their fear of heights, or sleeping in the dark, or riding without training wheels, or sleeping out for the night for the first time or learned to swim last year … I SEE YOU.

To the child who tries their absolute best in everything they do, even though success isn’t always seen or recognised…I SEE YOU.

To the child that managed to resolve more conflict than they started last year, to the child that learnt to say the impossible; "I'm sorry", and to the child who walked away from conflict instead of getting involved… I SEE YOU.

To the child for whom school is a huge struggle, yet you get up every day and you come to school… I SEE YOU.

To the child that battled all last year with maths, or reading, or concentration, or speaking out in class or not speaking out enough, or learning your words, but you persevered anyway… I SEE YOU. 

To the child that found the kindness in their heart to reach out in any way to another person or to an animal in need or in pain… I SEE YOU. 

To the child that learnt to give and to share for the first time this year and even found joy in doing so… I SEE YOU.

To the child that battled to make friends last year and to be social; you made new friends this year and for that… I SEE YOU. 

To the child who wanted so much to please, but was just out of sight of an adult who perhaps was too busy or too distracted… I SEE YOU. 

To the child who lost a friend or a loved one or a pet last year, but carried on every day bravely even though their heart ached… I SEE YOU. 

To our brave and committed parents who try every day to do the best for your children… I SEE YOU.

To notice, to care and to see what children achieve, whatever their ability, is all important, just as it is important to celebrate their successes. 

Wishing our College community a most wonderful 2021. 

Kristen Waldron

Deputy Principal Wellbeing