Principal's Message

Dear Parents & Carers,

Overall, it’s been a fantastic semester and it was wonderful to present students with their awards during the Academic Assembly on Wednesday. A big congratulations to those students who worked consistently throughout the semester to achieve the top place in their class. I also want to acknowledge the families who have supported them in their studies – I know this is crucial to their success.

The camp season is progressing with the Year 11s returning from Aspire this week. I had the chance to visit a group last weekend after they had come out of the gorge, and before they went on their solo. Their sense of accomplishment in completing the abseil and canyon swim was palatable and the camaraderie amongst the group demonstrated the lifelong memories they have forged together. These types of experiences cannot be replicated in a classroom, and I applaud these students for being courageous enough to step well beyond their comfort zone. It’s always disappointing to me when other students don’t participate in unique opportunities that the College offers – a missed opportunity to grow their friendship circle, challenge their character and realize Kurt Hahn’s famous saying, “Plus est en vous! (There’s more in you than you think).”

Many of you will be aware that an unfortunate incident occurred last Friday afternoon at the pickup zone in front of the school. Our Heads of House have spent many hours investigating the event by reviewing the extensive footage and speaking to identified students who were clearly involved. 

I’ve asked two students to voluntarily leave the college as a result of this incident. I am dedicated to making St Philip’s a safe environment for staff and students. Students who incite violence, participate in violent activity, video and share images should expect severe consequences. We’ve held parent meetings, made numerous phones calls and sent letters to everyone involved. Consequences have included asking students to leave, external and internal suspensions, and an emphasis on repairing the harm through our restorative practices. I want the community to know we are taking bullying and fighting very seriously and I’m ensuring a clear message is getting out to students and families.

On a sad note, this week we are farewelling long-term staff members, Geoff Leedham as well as Sue Herbert and William Phelps.

Geoff has been with the College for over 30 years and was one of our original teaching staff when the day school commenced in 1989, and he has witnessed the development and growth of our College first hand. Geoff has also been responsible for some wonderful initiatives, such as growing our Applied Tech department. At one time this included St Philip’s as being the only high school in Australia which had a senior boat building course (ironic considering our location), and he was also responsible for establishing our bee hives and honey production. We thank him sincerely for his dedicated contribution over so many years and wish him all the best for the future. 

We also thank Sue Herbert for her 7 years of commitment and enthusiasm which included Sue taking on many roles of responsibility. Her experience and enthusiasm will be missed by all; and to Will, thank you for your contribution in the day school and the boarding house. 

I wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday, and we look forward to seeing you all on Monday 24 July.

Kind regards,

~ Leslie Tilbrook

Principal